Photo of Jessica Mohan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Jessica Mohan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
My practice began as a member of the DBT team as a therapist and skills group leader working with adults with high emotional sensitivity, including borderline personality disorder.
Hi! I'm Jessica Mohan, LCSW. Over the 8 years I've been in practice, I have developed an allied approach to therapy. I believe that progress toward mental health goals is most effective when the client and therapist are equal partners throughout the process, including goal setting, information sharing, and treatment evaluation. I find that being open to change, transparent about thoughts and feelings, and accountable for actions supports an allied approach best. When these factors are in place, I have found success in addressing anxiety, depression, and emotion dysregulation with clients.
My practice began as a member of the DBT team as a therapist and skills group leader working with adults with high emotional sensitivity, including borderline personality disorder.
Hi! I'm Jessica Mohan, LCSW. Over the 8 years I've been in practice, I have developed an allied approach to therapy. I believe that progress toward mental health goals is most effective when the client and therapist are equal partners throughout the process, including goal setting, information sharing, and treatment evaluation. I find that being open to change, transparent about thoughts and feelings, and accountable for actions supports an allied approach best. When these factors are in place, I have found success in addressing anxiety, depression, and emotion dysregulation with clients.
(661) 486-4853 View (661) 486-4853
Photo of Sharon L Stroup, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Sharon L Stroup
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561  (Online Only)
How are you functioning in your life? In your relationships? Are you joyful, confident, optimistic? Or are you feeling stuck, sad, frustrated, or lonely? Relationships are the primary force in our lives; without healthy relationships our lives suffer. Because relationships are so important, the way we attach to others is within those relationships, and how we create healthy attachments is extremely important. What I work toward is healthier relationships for my clients; relationship with self as well as with others. In our work together it will be our relationship that provides a safe place from which to explore change.
How are you functioning in your life? In your relationships? Are you joyful, confident, optimistic? Or are you feeling stuck, sad, frustrated, or lonely? Relationships are the primary force in our lives; without healthy relationships our lives suffer. Because relationships are so important, the way we attach to others is within those relationships, and how we create healthy attachments is extremely important. What I work toward is healthier relationships for my clients; relationship with self as well as with others. In our work together it will be our relationship that provides a safe place from which to explore change.
(661) 218-2223 View (661) 218-2223
Photo of Christian Counseling with Stephanie, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Christian Counseling with Stephanie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
Ever feel like all you do in therapy is talk about problems, but never get to the really important part of making concrete changes? I know many individuals have expressed these concerns to me. So, you may ask, "How can I change that?" Enter Evidence-Based Practice! Research shows us how to do it! It shows us what works and what doesn’t work. I can take those findings and translate them into the changes you are seeking to make in your life. It takes the guesswork out of getting from Point A to Point B. You’ll spend less time in therapy as your goals will be focused and tracked so we know we are moving in the right direction.
Ever feel like all you do in therapy is talk about problems, but never get to the really important part of making concrete changes? I know many individuals have expressed these concerns to me. So, you may ask, "How can I change that?" Enter Evidence-Based Practice! Research shows us how to do it! It shows us what works and what doesn’t work. I can take those findings and translate them into the changes you are seeking to make in your life. It takes the guesswork out of getting from Point A to Point B. You’ll spend less time in therapy as your goals will be focused and tracked so we know we are moving in the right direction.
(661) 402-6526 View (661) 402-6526
Photo of Rhonda Carol Van Cleve, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Rhonda Carol Van Cleve
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Recovery is not for people who need it, it is for people who want it! I want to be along this journey with you! I will walk along side you each step of the way, encouraging you to be your best self. Children and teens are my passion, adults suffering from depression, anxiety, self-injurious behavior, and or trauma. I have extensive training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Perspectives.
Recovery is not for people who need it, it is for people who want it! I want to be along this journey with you! I will walk along side you each step of the way, encouraging you to be your best self. Children and teens are my passion, adults suffering from depression, anxiety, self-injurious behavior, and or trauma. I have extensive training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Perspectives.
(661) 490-9491 x1 View (661) 490-9491 x1
Photo of Janice Nichols, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Janice Nichols
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
(661) 218-1547 View (661) 218-1547
Photo of Danielle Buckland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Danielle Buckland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
My name is Danielle and I am a Licensed Clinical Social passionate about helping others. I consider it an honor and privilege to support my clients through difficult times. When setting goals in therapy I like to help my clients identify what they would like to get out of therapy. I believe it is important to visualize where you would like to be in the near and distant future.
My name is Danielle and I am a Licensed Clinical Social passionate about helping others. I consider it an honor and privilege to support my clients through difficult times. When setting goals in therapy I like to help my clients identify what they would like to get out of therapy. I believe it is important to visualize where you would like to be in the near and distant future.
(661) 213-9618 View (661) 213-9618
Photo of Ana Isela An, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Ana Isela An
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual, Licenced Clinical Social Worker with a passion and commitment for serving and helping others achieve their goals of recovery. My goal is to create a safe setting where you feel comfortable talking about your feelings, emotions, and traumatic experiences.
I am a bilingual, Licenced Clinical Social Worker with a passion and commitment for serving and helping others achieve their goals of recovery. My goal is to create a safe setting where you feel comfortable talking about your feelings, emotions, and traumatic experiences.
(661) 463-8939 View (661) 463-8939
Photo of Dena Barnes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Dena Barnes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, ATR, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Sometimes, it's hard to know how to change things without the help of someone you trust. Perhaps you are ready to make a change in your life...ready to finally close the gap between the way your life is and the way you would like it to be? I'd like to help you along that journey. My goal is to help each client develop a pathway to achieve inner health, resolve conflicts, and find happiness and wholeness in their lives. Here, you will find an open, safe and empathic space for transformation.
Sometimes, it's hard to know how to change things without the help of someone you trust. Perhaps you are ready to make a change in your life...ready to finally close the gap between the way your life is and the way you would like it to be? I'd like to help you along that journey. My goal is to help each client develop a pathway to achieve inner health, resolve conflicts, and find happiness and wholeness in their lives. Here, you will find an open, safe and empathic space for transformation.
(661) 460-5123 View (661) 460-5123
Photo of Teresamaria Zavala, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Teresamaria Zavala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561
Hi there, I'm Teresamaria Zavala, but prefer to be called Teresa. I am a licensed clinical social worker, I like to say as a therapist "I want to work myself out of a job," I am a huge believer that therapy has its place in a person's life but ultimately has an end date. My goal is to get you to the point you can continue on in your life with new skills and hope. I have a specialized interest in gender-specific therapy, people struggling with addiction, transitional-aged youth, and the needs of LGBTQIA+ community.
Hi there, I'm Teresamaria Zavala, but prefer to be called Teresa. I am a licensed clinical social worker, I like to say as a therapist "I want to work myself out of a job," I am a huge believer that therapy has its place in a person's life but ultimately has an end date. My goal is to get you to the point you can continue on in your life with new skills and hope. I have a specialized interest in gender-specific therapy, people struggling with addiction, transitional-aged youth, and the needs of LGBTQIA+ community.
(661) 417-0674 View (661) 417-0674
Photo of Tina Healy, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
Tina Healy
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Dr. Healy recognizes the value of psychological assessment, as an essential application in clarifying psychological diagnoses and informing mental health treatment. Dr. Healy enjoys working with individuals of all ages, including children, teenagers, and adults. She has specific training in the area of autism assessment, as well as years of experience evaluating older adults presenting with neurocognitive disorders (dementia). Dr. Healy finds the field of neuropsychological assessment particularly rewarding, as she is able to assist patients in the diagnostic process so they can focus their time and energy on treatment and recovery.
Dr. Healy recognizes the value of psychological assessment, as an essential application in clarifying psychological diagnoses and informing mental health treatment. Dr. Healy enjoys working with individuals of all ages, including children, teenagers, and adults. She has specific training in the area of autism assessment, as well as years of experience evaluating older adults presenting with neurocognitive disorders (dementia). Dr. Healy finds the field of neuropsychological assessment particularly rewarding, as she is able to assist patients in the diagnostic process so they can focus their time and energy on treatment and recovery.
(661) 443-6884 x1 View (661) 443-6884 x1
Photo of Jennifer Ray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Jennifer Ray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215
Hi, I’m Jennifer Ray. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from Southern California. I describe my approach to therapy as present, caring, and warm. I treat patients with depression, anxiety, stress, and grief. I am open to working with patients from all walks of life. I’m most comfortable working with patients who have been diagnosed with or have symptoms of Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety, and panic disorder. I am confident working with patients who are experiencing stress from work, relationships, caregiving, and parenting. I also work with grief and loss.
Hi, I’m Jennifer Ray. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from Southern California. I describe my approach to therapy as present, caring, and warm. I treat patients with depression, anxiety, stress, and grief. I am open to working with patients from all walks of life. I’m most comfortable working with patients who have been diagnosed with or have symptoms of Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety, and panic disorder. I am confident working with patients who are experiencing stress from work, relationships, caregiving, and parenting. I also work with grief and loss.
(661) 403-5639 View (661) 403-5639
Photo of Coleen Keiser, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Kern County, CA
Coleen Keiser
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
I have always found people to be fabulously interesting. I believe that your story matters … together, using science-based theories and interventions, we can sort through feelings and behaviors that may seem destructive, confusing, or just too overwhelming to sort out alone. To be curious, with an openness to self-discovery, we can evolve and heal, and our capacity for love and growth ripples throughout our life.
I have always found people to be fabulously interesting. I believe that your story matters … together, using science-based theories and interventions, we can sort through feelings and behaviors that may seem destructive, confusing, or just too overwhelming to sort out alone. To be curious, with an openness to self-discovery, we can evolve and heal, and our capacity for love and growth ripples throughout our life.
(661) 403-5308 View (661) 403-5308
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 Patricia Gomez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Patricia Gomez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
Hi, my name is Patricia Gomez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California and have been practicing in the field of mental health since 2001. I understand that therapy is about you and what you need, so I often refer to clients as the driver and myself as the passenger, sitting alongside my clients through their own personal journey! My role is to facilitate discussion and prompt new ways of thinking in order to inspire fresh perspectives.
Hi, my name is Patricia Gomez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California and have been practicing in the field of mental health since 2001. I understand that therapy is about you and what you need, so I often refer to clients as the driver and myself as the passenger, sitting alongside my clients through their own personal journey! My role is to facilitate discussion and prompt new ways of thinking in order to inspire fresh perspectives.
(661) 449-9207 View (661) 449-9207
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 Felix Cruz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Felix Cruz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
More than 20 years of experience assisting the Mexican/Latino families in their own language has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. It has been a privilege for me to help families not only from Bakersfield, but from all cities of Kern County and its surroundings. Entender la cultura Mexicana/Latina y respetar todos sus valores, ya que estan basados en una etica de Honestidad, Respeto y Prosperidad, son factores importantes para comprender y saber como ayudar a estas personas y familias cuando estan pasando por momentos dificiles que les impide amar en su totalidad y lograr sus metas.
More than 20 years of experience assisting the Mexican/Latino families in their own language has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. It has been a privilege for me to help families not only from Bakersfield, but from all cities of Kern County and its surroundings. Entender la cultura Mexicana/Latina y respetar todos sus valores, ya que estan basados en una etica de Honestidad, Respeto y Prosperidad, son factores importantes para comprender y saber como ayudar a estas personas y familias cuando estan pasando por momentos dificiles que les impide amar en su totalidad y lograr sus metas.
(661) 446-7591 View (661) 446-7591
Photo of Ana Zalles, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Ana Zalles
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
I am Ana Zalles, LMFT 137168. I am a multi-dynamic and integrative therapist. I have a background in Trauma, CBT, DBT and multiple other EBP approaches to range ages 3-65+ . I enjoy expanding my treatment expertise and currently training on EMDR and Psychedelic Assisted Treatment. I feel comfortable with clients from all ages and cultural back grounds. I have an extensive training and treatment focus with survivors of trauma, anxiety and depression.
I am Ana Zalles, LMFT 137168. I am a multi-dynamic and integrative therapist. I have a background in Trauma, CBT, DBT and multiple other EBP approaches to range ages 3-65+ . I enjoy expanding my treatment expertise and currently training on EMDR and Psychedelic Assisted Treatment. I feel comfortable with clients from all ages and cultural back grounds. I have an extensive training and treatment focus with survivors of trauma, anxiety and depression.
(661) 768-0903 View (661) 768-0903
Photo of Mindful Path Counseling LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Mindful Path Counseling LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
Depression is overwhelming sadness that has an impact in living your best life. Depression can be accompanied by different symptoms of anxiety, panic and loss of energy/motivation. Overcoming depression can be challenging if you are doing it alone. Negative life experiences can and do have an impact on who you are and your happiness. Awareness and understanding of what is going on inside of yourself is powerful in helping yourself to overcome negative or irrational thoughts that are keeping you from being your true self.
Depression is overwhelming sadness that has an impact in living your best life. Depression can be accompanied by different symptoms of anxiety, panic and loss of energy/motivation. Overcoming depression can be challenging if you are doing it alone. Negative life experiences can and do have an impact on who you are and your happiness. Awareness and understanding of what is going on inside of yourself is powerful in helping yourself to overcome negative or irrational thoughts that are keeping you from being your true self.
(661) 220-5161 View (661) 220-5161
Photo of Yessica Avancena, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Yessica Avancena
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MBA, CMT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312
The ideal client is one who is ready for change and open to healing. I work with individuals with a variety of mental health issues, emergent spirituality concerns or finding oneself through life purpose utilizing Mindfulness-based practices, energy work among other techniques to help decrease stress and promote happiness.
The ideal client is one who is ready for change and open to healing. I work with individuals with a variety of mental health issues, emergent spirituality concerns or finding oneself through life purpose utilizing Mindfulness-based practices, energy work among other techniques to help decrease stress and promote happiness.
(661) 218-1760 View (661) 218-1760
Photo of Tiffany Bell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Tiffany Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Having a hard time navigating life? Feel as though you keep falling back into the same old patterns which don't produce what you intended? Having difficulty with your child, spouse, family or loved ones? Have the thought that addressing your innermost pain means there is "something wrong with you?" Let me help! In my practice I strive to help people access their best selves, lives, and potential. I assist you in navigating through your life. My goal is to spread the word that everyone will need an impartial confidant and that seeking help is normal. I would be honored to assist you on your journey of transformation.
Having a hard time navigating life? Feel as though you keep falling back into the same old patterns which don't produce what you intended? Having difficulty with your child, spouse, family or loved ones? Have the thought that addressing your innermost pain means there is "something wrong with you?" Let me help! In my practice I strive to help people access their best selves, lives, and potential. I assist you in navigating through your life. My goal is to spread the word that everyone will need an impartial confidant and that seeking help is normal. I would be honored to assist you on your journey of transformation.
(661) 765-8731 View (661) 765-8731

Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists

What is the most successful approach to treating borderline personality disorder?

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is considered the gold standard of treatment for borderline personality disorder. An evidence-based treatment, it addresses the extreme emotional reactivity, the relationship difficulties, and the acts of self-harm that create so much distress for BPD patients. DBT is a comprehensive program that includes both regular individual psychotherapy sessions and weekly group sessions of skills training.

What happens in treatment of borderline personality disorder?

Treatment typically consists of weekly individual therapy sessions that last an hour and group skill-focused instructional sessions that may last up to two hours. Patients are typically given homework “assignments” in which they are asked to practice in their daily life the skills they acquire in therapy. Patients also keep a diary tracking their emotions and impulses as a way to know which situations are most problematic and to help them gain control over their own behavior. Difficult situations and feelings are typically reviewed in therapy sessions and more constructive solutions found.

What kinds of problems does BPD treatment help with?

DBT was initially developed to dampen the self-destructive impulses of chronically suicidal patients. It is now the treatment of choice for borderline personality disorder, a serious condition marked by extreme emotional reactivity, relationship instability, and self-injurious behaviors. Treatment of BPD helps patients tolerate the flux of emotions without acting on them, often with a specific focus on tolerating negative emotions. DBT addresses the core problems of BPD—fear of abandonment, low self-esteem, and impulsivity.

What is the goal of treatment in borderline personality disorder?

The goal of treatment for borderline personality disorder (BPD) is to relieve the extreme emotional distress that patients experience—to curb their emotional reactivity, to minimize their inclination to self-harm, and to reduce their impulsivity. Toward these ends, patients are not only taught an array of new coping skills and techniques for emotional regulation, they are given opportunities to practice them. Another major goal of treatment is interpersonal effectiveness; patients learn and problem-solve ways to effectively communicate in relationships, especially how to ask for what they need as a way to minimize hurt feelings.