Photo of Margaret Effinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Margaret Effinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215
Hi there, I'm Margaret Effinger, LCSW 113220. My approach to therapy is warm, calm and compassionate. My focus areas of focus are anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and trauma. I typically work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and loss, and trauma.
Hi there, I'm Margaret Effinger, LCSW 113220. My approach to therapy is warm, calm and compassionate. My focus areas of focus are anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and trauma. I typically work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and loss, and trauma.
(661) 927-0807 View (661) 927-0807
Photo of Melissa Kadel, Counselor in Kern County, CA
Melissa Kadel
Counselor, MS, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93301
I am an associate professional clinical counselor. I provide therapy to children, adults, couples and families experiencing emotional and relational challenges. While cognitive behavior therapy is most widely used, I focus on the individual needs of each client to meet their needs. I will work with you to strengthen inner health, resolve conflicts and promote positive growth in an open, safe, empathetic environment.
I am an associate professional clinical counselor. I provide therapy to children, adults, couples and families experiencing emotional and relational challenges. While cognitive behavior therapy is most widely used, I focus on the individual needs of each client to meet their needs. I will work with you to strengthen inner health, resolve conflicts and promote positive growth in an open, safe, empathetic environment.
(661) 493-8551 View (661) 493-8551
Photo of Steven Hopper, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Steven Hopper
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215
I am a Licensed Marriage and family therapist who is committed to helping my clients navigate the issues arising in their lives through the use of therapy. I have nearly 20 years of experience and in my career, I have treated many types of disorders and about 60% of my career has been working with families and children. I feel comfortable treating most challenges from depression, anxiety, depression, bipolar, to psychotic disorders.
I am a Licensed Marriage and family therapist who is committed to helping my clients navigate the issues arising in their lives through the use of therapy. I have nearly 20 years of experience and in my career, I have treated many types of disorders and about 60% of my career has been working with families and children. I feel comfortable treating most challenges from depression, anxiety, depression, bipolar, to psychotic disorders.
(661) 724-4588 View (661) 724-4588
Photo of Melizza Esperanza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Melizza Esperanza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215
I'm Melizza Esperanza, a licensed clinical social worker based in San Diego. With a compassionate and strengths-based approach, I specialize in supporting adults navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, complex family dynamics, difficult transitions, terminal illness, and caregiver stress. I draw from modalities like mindfulness practices, EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to promote healing and self-awareness. With 15 years of social work experience, I have worked with adults from age 18 - 114.
I'm Melizza Esperanza, a licensed clinical social worker based in San Diego. With a compassionate and strengths-based approach, I specialize in supporting adults navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, complex family dynamics, difficult transitions, terminal illness, and caregiver stress. I draw from modalities like mindfulness practices, EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to promote healing and self-awareness. With 15 years of social work experience, I have worked with adults from age 18 - 114.
(626) 507-6720 View (626) 507-6720
Photo of Lunda Gill-Desbrow, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Lunda Gill-Desbrow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93304
Hello, thank you for your time. I have always been curious about what motivates a person. I have had my license for over 30 years and have worked in psychology, education, and business. I am a widow with two teenagers and love working on puzzles and being around animals. Feel free to contact me or leave me a message. I look forward to working with you soon!
Hello, thank you for your time. I have always been curious about what motivates a person. I have had my license for over 30 years and have worked in psychology, education, and business. I am a widow with two teenagers and love working on puzzles and being around animals. Feel free to contact me or leave me a message. I look forward to working with you soon!
(951) 450-0181 View (951) 450-0181

Online Therapists

Photo of Kevin Brody, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Kern County, CA
Kevin Brody
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, GC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042  (Online Only)
My specialties/clinical interests include: depression, self-compassion, trauma, grief, identity, adult ADHD, relationship difficultes, Alzheimer's/dementia, and existential issues.
Modern life is complex. While our shared world buzzes with relentless motion and change, oppressive systems often feel fixed and difficult to budge. Working towards healing and growth can feel daunting, if not sometimes impossible. I believe a supportive therapeutic relationship can be massively empowering while navigating life's seemingly endless sorrows, joys, and complications. If you’re looking for a therapist who shows up as authentically, provides heartfelt warmth and empathy, and who doesn’t mind using humor or the occasional curse word when appropriate, I hope you'll reach out!
My specialties/clinical interests include: depression, self-compassion, trauma, grief, identity, adult ADHD, relationship difficultes, Alzheimer's/dementia, and existential issues.
Modern life is complex. While our shared world buzzes with relentless motion and change, oppressive systems often feel fixed and difficult to budge. Working towards healing and growth can feel daunting, if not sometimes impossible. I believe a supportive therapeutic relationship can be massively empowering while navigating life's seemingly endless sorrows, joys, and complications. If you’re looking for a therapist who shows up as authentically, provides heartfelt warmth and empathy, and who doesn’t mind using humor or the occasional curse word when appropriate, I hope you'll reach out!
(310) 776-6087 View (310) 776-6087
Photo of Erika Carter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Erika Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or just feel alone carrying the weight of your trauma, I am here to help you begin your journey towards healing. I provide treatment for children and their families that experience depression, anxiety, disruptive behaviors, trauma, low self-esteem, grief, autism spectrum, parenting skills, and other mental health issues. I approach each of my clients with a kind, compassionate, and caring approach to form a genuine therapeutic bond where you will feel comfortable, be understood, and have hope knowing you do not have to carry the burden alone.
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or just feel alone carrying the weight of your trauma, I am here to help you begin your journey towards healing. I provide treatment for children and their families that experience depression, anxiety, disruptive behaviors, trauma, low self-esteem, grief, autism spectrum, parenting skills, and other mental health issues. I approach each of my clients with a kind, compassionate, and caring approach to form a genuine therapeutic bond where you will feel comfortable, be understood, and have hope knowing you do not have to carry the burden alone.
(424) 381-0277 View (424) 381-0277
Photo of Dr. Vicki D. Coleman, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Kern County, CA
Dr. Vicki D. Coleman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, EdD, LCPC, CCMHC, MAC/DAC, SAP
Verified Verified
TELEHEALTH OFFERED! WHY ARE YOU SO ANGRY? In the 21st century global economy, Anger is a major challenge! Although a valid emotion, unmonitored, it can lead to stress, inappropriate behavior, and violence. A former Tenured Professor at Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN, I earned a Doctorate in Psychology from Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Publications include books (Amazon Bestsellers), 9 chapters, and refereed journal articles. Anger is frequently the antecedent to a myriad of issues. My goal is to facilitate the identification of viable solutions. I have 6 Full Clinical Licenses in 5 States-CA, IL, IN, MI, & NV.
TELEHEALTH OFFERED! WHY ARE YOU SO ANGRY? In the 21st century global economy, Anger is a major challenge! Although a valid emotion, unmonitored, it can lead to stress, inappropriate behavior, and violence. A former Tenured Professor at Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN, I earned a Doctorate in Psychology from Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Publications include books (Amazon Bestsellers), 9 chapters, and refereed journal articles. Anger is frequently the antecedent to a myriad of issues. My goal is to facilitate the identification of viable solutions. I have 6 Full Clinical Licenses in 5 States-CA, IL, IN, MI, & NV.
(310) 591-8249 View (310) 591-8249
Photo of Myra Stevenson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Myra Stevenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90004  (Online Only)
I am interested in learning what you would like to see happening differently in your life. I believe you have the potential to live your preferred experiences, and I feel passionate about uncovering new ways of relating to problems that at times gain control. Our collaboration will allow you to discover freedom from the problem story, and provide a safe foundation to build an existence that is in line with your own unique values and preferences. I am committed to joining you in challenging unhelpful beliefs placed upon you by societies' expectations, thereby creating your own distinct voice and direction.
I am interested in learning what you would like to see happening differently in your life. I believe you have the potential to live your preferred experiences, and I feel passionate about uncovering new ways of relating to problems that at times gain control. Our collaboration will allow you to discover freedom from the problem story, and provide a safe foundation to build an existence that is in line with your own unique values and preferences. I am committed to joining you in challenging unhelpful beliefs placed upon you by societies' expectations, thereby creating your own distinct voice and direction.
(323) 894-7951 View (323) 894-7951
Photo of Colleen O'Brien, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Colleen O'Brien
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. My practice focuses on trauma, addiction & recovery, mood disorders, life transitions, and relationships. I work with adult women and men. In addition to traditional talk therapy, I have been practicing Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) for over 4 years with an emphasis on treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, and trauma. I trained as a KAP therapist at the Ketamine Training Center in San Rafael, California with Phil Wolfson. I also studied under the direction of Jeffrey Becker, MD. I am trained by MAPS in MDMA Assisted Psychotherapy and by Fluence in Psychedelic Therapy.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. My practice focuses on trauma, addiction & recovery, mood disorders, life transitions, and relationships. I work with adult women and men. In addition to traditional talk therapy, I have been practicing Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) for over 4 years with an emphasis on treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, and trauma. I trained as a KAP therapist at the Ketamine Training Center in San Rafael, California with Phil Wolfson. I also studied under the direction of Jeffrey Becker, MD. I am trained by MAPS in MDMA Assisted Psychotherapy and by Fluence in Psychedelic Therapy.
(805) 608-5593 View (805) 608-5593
Photo of Jin Yi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Jin Yi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Van Nuys, CA 91401  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California. I have worked with people experiencing opioid addiction and helped those who struggled with substance use and their maladaptive coping strategies. In addition, I have had rich experiences working with older adults for many years. In life’s journey, people face many barriers facing mountains to climb and oceans to cross. I wish to help people to break those barriers and develop healthy coping skills to live a successful life. I'm fluent in Korean. 한국어 상담 가능합니다.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California. I have worked with people experiencing opioid addiction and helped those who struggled with substance use and their maladaptive coping strategies. In addition, I have had rich experiences working with older adults for many years. In life’s journey, people face many barriers facing mountains to climb and oceans to cross. I wish to help people to break those barriers and develop healthy coping skills to live a successful life. I'm fluent in Korean. 한국어 상담 가능합니다.
(626) 790-7448 View (626) 790-7448
Photo of Jenna Van Wagner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Jenna Van Wagner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90041
We live in a fast paced, stressful, and achievement-oriented culture where we are expected to move through our lives checking off our endless to-do lists. Many of us have accepted this as the norm and we inevitably begin to see the impact of a life filled with days lived at a frantic pace. Without building in time to pause and reflect, so many of us find ourselves experiencing the painful effects of depression and anxiety. I am committed to helping people embrace mindfulness and taking time to process their past and present in a safe space.
We live in a fast paced, stressful, and achievement-oriented culture where we are expected to move through our lives checking off our endless to-do lists. Many of us have accepted this as the norm and we inevitably begin to see the impact of a life filled with days lived at a frantic pace. Without building in time to pause and reflect, so many of us find ourselves experiencing the painful effects of depression and anxiety. I am committed to helping people embrace mindfulness and taking time to process their past and present in a safe space.
(213) 799-5568 View (213) 799-5568
Photo of Jaime Carrillo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Jaime Carrillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404  (Online Only)
Hi there, my name is Jaime Carrillo and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I believe having someone to talk to is incredibly important. I try to offer a warm and collaborative approach with my clients, and provide a safe and non judgmental space to work through whatever struggles you are facing.
Hi there, my name is Jaime Carrillo and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I believe having someone to talk to is incredibly important. I try to offer a warm and collaborative approach with my clients, and provide a safe and non judgmental space to work through whatever struggles you are facing.
(424) 378-5481 View (424) 378-5481
Photo of Francesca Libutti, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
Francesca Libutti
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Dr. Francesca Libutti is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with specialized training in neuropsychology, behavioral medicine, and rehabilitation psychology. She has obtained experience working with diverse populations and presenting concerns, yet takes special interest in sport performance, grief/loss, and behavioral sleep medicine. Dr. Libutti typically utilizes humanistic, ACT, and CBT therapies.
Dr. Francesca Libutti is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with specialized training in neuropsychology, behavioral medicine, and rehabilitation psychology. She has obtained experience working with diverse populations and presenting concerns, yet takes special interest in sport performance, grief/loss, and behavioral sleep medicine. Dr. Libutti typically utilizes humanistic, ACT, and CBT therapies.
(310) 388-4413 View (310) 388-4413
Photo of Michelle Pow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Michelle Pow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90019  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Michelle! I am a second-generation Asian American mental health therapist and most importantly Human. As an Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe providing a trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and social justice-oriented environment is critically important to doing this brave work. My goal is to support you on your journey to understanding yourself, healing from the past, and creating the life you want to live. My specialties include: First/Second Generation Asian American Mental Health, Intergenerational Trauma/Conflict, Relationships, Postpartum Mental Health, Racial Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, and Self-Esteem
Hi, I’m Michelle! I am a second-generation Asian American mental health therapist and most importantly Human. As an Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe providing a trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and social justice-oriented environment is critically important to doing this brave work. My goal is to support you on your journey to understanding yourself, healing from the past, and creating the life you want to live. My specialties include: First/Second Generation Asian American Mental Health, Intergenerational Trauma/Conflict, Relationships, Postpartum Mental Health, Racial Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, and Self-Esteem
(213) 375-1763 View (213) 375-1763
Photo of Mayra Calatayud-Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Mayra Calatayud-Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dinuba, CA 93618
Hello, my name is Mayra Calatayud-Garcia. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I work with adults from ages 18 to 65+ living in the state of California. I specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, grief, and trauma, using Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Somatic therapy to guide my clients in their mental and wellness journey. My approach to therapy varies depending on the needs, challenges, and goals of each client. Each client is unique and has an important story to tell. I start where the client is and strive to cultivate a safe space based on compassion and acceptance.
Hello, my name is Mayra Calatayud-Garcia. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I work with adults from ages 18 to 65+ living in the state of California. I specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, grief, and trauma, using Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Somatic therapy to guide my clients in their mental and wellness journey. My approach to therapy varies depending on the needs, challenges, and goals of each client. Each client is unique and has an important story to tell. I start where the client is and strive to cultivate a safe space based on compassion and acceptance.
(559) 780-8339 View (559) 780-8339
Photo of Larry Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Larry Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91104
Thank you for taking the time to read my bio. I bring over 25 years of experience in mental health, ranging from addiction to trauma. I believe in a strength-based approach in providing clients support because everyone has skills, talents, and abilities to tap into to assist them in overcoming life's challenges. I am a firm believer in a nonjudgmental approach to therapy so you, the client, feel safe, accepted, and empowered. I use a broad array of therapy techniques such as trauma-informed care, strength-based, systems solution-focused or brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, grief therapy, and much more.
Thank you for taking the time to read my bio. I bring over 25 years of experience in mental health, ranging from addiction to trauma. I believe in a strength-based approach in providing clients support because everyone has skills, talents, and abilities to tap into to assist them in overcoming life's challenges. I am a firm believer in a nonjudgmental approach to therapy so you, the client, feel safe, accepted, and empowered. I use a broad array of therapy techniques such as trauma-informed care, strength-based, systems solution-focused or brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, grief therapy, and much more.
(323) 940-5971 View (323) 940-5971
Photo of Anne Gimbel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Anne Gimbel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Victorville, CA 92392
I am Anne Gimbel, a licensed marriage and family therapist in CA. I begin by meeting you at your place of growth or healing, and whether trauma, abuse, grieving, recovery of life issues, we work together to overcome them. Let me help you reach the goals and connections you deserve. With sensitivity and compassion, we work to determine what might be blocking your full potential and your feelings. I work with teens to adults, individuals, couples, and families.
I am Anne Gimbel, a licensed marriage and family therapist in CA. I begin by meeting you at your place of growth or healing, and whether trauma, abuse, grieving, recovery of life issues, we work together to overcome them. Let me help you reach the goals and connections you deserve. With sensitivity and compassion, we work to determine what might be blocking your full potential and your feelings. I work with teens to adults, individuals, couples, and families.
(408) 617-9125 View (408) 617-9125
Photo of Holly Pearlman, Counselor in Kern County, CA
Holly Pearlman
Counselor, LCPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91401  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals and families heal from traumatic and stressful experiences, including adults abused as children, family relationships, narcissistic abuse, hoarding disorder, and family estrangement. You may not know what to expect from therapy, but you know you need to make some changes in your life so you can move forward. Stress, anxiety, and traumatic experiences are highly prevalent in our lives, and sometimes people need help and support in dealing with difficult/stressful situations. I am a trauma therapist specializing in family relationships that involve conflict, abuse, and a cycle of dysfunction.
I specialize in helping individuals and families heal from traumatic and stressful experiences, including adults abused as children, family relationships, narcissistic abuse, hoarding disorder, and family estrangement. You may not know what to expect from therapy, but you know you need to make some changes in your life so you can move forward. Stress, anxiety, and traumatic experiences are highly prevalent in our lives, and sometimes people need help and support in dealing with difficult/stressful situations. I am a trauma therapist specializing in family relationships that involve conflict, abuse, and a cycle of dysfunction.
(818) 650-3372 View (818) 650-3372
Photo of Rachelle Clayton Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Kern County, CA
Rachelle Clayton Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041
As human beings we are constantly evolving and changing depending on our life experiences. My main objective as a therapist is to assist clients in whatever phase of life that they might be in, as well as whatever obstacles in life that they may be having challenges with. My job is truly to be a witness and a sense of safe support as we collaboratively decipher what resources and forms of support that clients need. No matter what situations, obstacles or challenges that you may be facing you have the ability to evolve, and gradually change to live the life that will give you the greatest. Allow me to be apart of that process.
As human beings we are constantly evolving and changing depending on our life experiences. My main objective as a therapist is to assist clients in whatever phase of life that they might be in, as well as whatever obstacles in life that they may be having challenges with. My job is truly to be a witness and a sense of safe support as we collaboratively decipher what resources and forms of support that clients need. No matter what situations, obstacles or challenges that you may be facing you have the ability to evolve, and gradually change to live the life that will give you the greatest. Allow me to be apart of that process.
(323) 709-8804 View (323) 709-8804

Alzheimer's Therapists

What are the first-line treatment options for Alzheimer’s disease?

The first-line treatment for Alzheimer’s disease is often medication, which may be prescribed based on the severity of the disease. These include cholinesterase inhibitors, memantine, or a combination of the two. Behavioral treatments can help people cope with emotional distress, such as anxiety or anger, and explore lifestyle changes related to housing, caregiving, sleep, and finances.

When to seek treatment for Alzheimer’s?

It’s best to seek treatment at the first signs of dementia. Early warning signs of Alzheimer’s include memory problems, such as forgetting appointments or directions, as well as trouble concentrating, paying attention, retrieving words, and carrying out daily household tasks. An early diagnosis can help people slow the progression of the disease with treatment and plan for the future in terms of housing, support, finances, and legality.

Are there specific medications to treat Alzheimer’s?

Medications approved by the FDA to manage symptoms of Alzheimer’s include galantamine, rivastigmine, and donepezil for mild to moderate Alzheimer’s, and memantine, donepezil, and the rivastigmine patch for moderate to severe Alzheimer’s. These drugs can help manage the disease, but no drug currently cures the disease. Medications recently approved by the FDA, such aducanumab and lecanemab may slow the disease course, but aspects of their effectiveness are still debated.

Are there natural treatments for Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s disease cannot be cured via natural remedies (nor via medication), but some lifestyle habits can help forestall it or slow its progression. Lifestyle activities that can help prevent Alzheimer’s disease include regular exercise, a healthy, well-rounded diet, stimulating cognitive activity, time spent socializing, adequate sleep, and stress management as needed.