Therapists in Bakersfield, CA
Gabriel Ruiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93313 (Online Only)
Hi there, my name is Gabriel Ruiz. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I completed both my bachelor's in psychology and my Master of Social Work (MSW) at California State University, Bakersfield. I am currently working on obtaining my Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) at Simmons University in Boston, Massachusetts. Our time together isn’t necessarily to rid ourselves of “bad” feelings but to gain the ability to experience a wider range of emotions. I work with children, adolescents, and adults who have various mental health needs. My approach to therapy is focused on creating a safe, brave, and affirming space.
Hi there, my name is Gabriel Ruiz. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I completed both my bachelor's in psychology and my Master of Social Work (MSW) at California State University, Bakersfield. I am currently working on obtaining my Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) at Simmons University in Boston, Massachusetts. Our time together isn’t necessarily to rid ourselves of “bad” feelings but to gain the ability to experience a wider range of emotions. I work with children, adolescents, and adults who have various mental health needs. My approach to therapy is focused on creating a safe, brave, and affirming space.
Brad Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311 (Online Only)
This is my third decade providing mental health services and interventions. My approach is genuine and authentic, warm and welcoming. I hope to help others appreciate what is sometimes the absurdity and incongruity of life's situations.
This is my third decade providing mental health services and interventions. My approach is genuine and authentic, warm and welcoming. I hope to help others appreciate what is sometimes the absurdity and incongruity of life's situations.
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.
Maria L Aleman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
*Spanish* My goal is focused around helping families and individuals who may feel trapped with work stress, family problems, lack of motivation, and anything that may be hindering a sense of happiness and self-worth.
*Spanish* My goal is focused around helping families and individuals who may feel trapped with work stress, family problems, lack of motivation, and anything that may be hindering a sense of happiness and self-worth.
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.
Dusty McLeod
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
My therapeutic approach is nonjudgmental and client-centered. I want my clients to feel respected and supported, and by using an integrative method of various strategies and treatment modalities, I help you further develop your sense of choice and empowerment to improve your current situation and overall well-being.
My therapeutic approach is nonjudgmental and client-centered. I want my clients to feel respected and supported, and by using an integrative method of various strategies and treatment modalities, I help you further develop your sense of choice and empowerment to improve your current situation and overall well-being.
Melinda Ann Herndon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
I love working with seniors and women to assist in overcoming obstacles that are keeping them stuck and feeling isolated or burnt out. If you are feeling lost, frustrated, isolated, and overwhelmed please feel free to reach out so we can discuss how to get you back on track.
I love working with seniors and women to assist in overcoming obstacles that are keeping them stuck and feeling isolated or burnt out. If you are feeling lost, frustrated, isolated, and overwhelmed please feel free to reach out so we can discuss how to get you back on track.
Daisy Alcala
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Everyone’s story is different and filled with ups and downs. Life can become difficult and overwhelming at times. We may feel we need additional support, a safe space, and someone to speak to. My hope is to be able to provide that for my clients through a non-judgemental lens. I work alongside clients and help them navigate through emotions utilizing a person-centered approach. Creating trust and safety to allow clients to be as they are.
Everyone’s story is different and filled with ups and downs. Life can become difficult and overwhelming at times. We may feel we need additional support, a safe space, and someone to speak to. My hope is to be able to provide that for my clients through a non-judgemental lens. I work alongside clients and help them navigate through emotions utilizing a person-centered approach. Creating trust and safety to allow clients to be as they are.
Stephanie H Espinosa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309 (Online Only)
Welcome, my name is Stephanie H. Espinosa and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Congratulations on taking the first step towards a better you! Often times, the pressures of life, our core beliefs and societal influences can significantly impact our lives in an adverse way. As a result, we often get stuck in self-destructive cycles and lose hope that our lives can be different. We habitually self-medicate with food, alcohol, drugs, work and/or sex to seek a moment of escape and even happiness.
Welcome, my name is Stephanie H. Espinosa and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Congratulations on taking the first step towards a better you! Often times, the pressures of life, our core beliefs and societal influences can significantly impact our lives in an adverse way. As a result, we often get stuck in self-destructive cycles and lose hope that our lives can be different. We habitually self-medicate with food, alcohol, drugs, work and/or sex to seek a moment of escape and even happiness.
Angeli Fernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309 (Online Only)
It takes a lot of courage to ask for help, and it is an honor to be trusted with your healing journey. I provide a compassionate and supportive therapeutic environment for my clients. Together, we will work on identifying what is no longer serving you, develop goals and a plan that work for you to make changes to reduce, and even eliminate, these feelings and behaviors causing pain and distress in your life today. My style is warm, open, engaging, occasionally humorous, and at all times respectful. My approach to counseling is caring, supportive, and genuine.
It takes a lot of courage to ask for help, and it is an honor to be trusted with your healing journey. I provide a compassionate and supportive therapeutic environment for my clients. Together, we will work on identifying what is no longer serving you, develop goals and a plan that work for you to make changes to reduce, and even eliminate, these feelings and behaviors causing pain and distress in your life today. My style is warm, open, engaging, occasionally humorous, and at all times respectful. My approach to counseling is caring, supportive, and genuine.
Ana Rivera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93313 (Online Only)
Life can get difficult and throw various obstacles our way. At times, we may need a nonjudgmental and understanding person to help us through obstacles. Things may become blurry through the lens of depression, anxiety, and/or trauma. Nevertheless, we are all capable of growth and deserving of a life with meaning, hope, and a sense of belonging.
Life can get difficult and throw various obstacles our way. At times, we may need a nonjudgmental and understanding person to help us through obstacles. Things may become blurry through the lens of depression, anxiety, and/or trauma. Nevertheless, we are all capable of growth and deserving of a life with meaning, hope, and a sense of belonging.
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Kelisha LaGrone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
My name is Kelisha LaGrone and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both CA and TX. My approach to therapy includes meeting my clients where they are at and co- creating and collaborating with my clients to tailor a treatment plan that meets their individual and very unique needs. My focus area includes, anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity integration and consolidation, family or relationship conflict, and trauma.
My name is Kelisha LaGrone and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both CA and TX. My approach to therapy includes meeting my clients where they are at and co- creating and collaborating with my clients to tailor a treatment plan that meets their individual and very unique needs. My focus area includes, anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity integration and consolidation, family or relationship conflict, and trauma.
Blake Kerr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
Over human history, people have mostly lived in close-knit communities. This has eroded with the advances in transportation and technology. Most people have lost much of the social support our forebearers enjoyed.
Over human history, people have mostly lived in close-knit communities. This has eroded with the advances in transportation and technology. Most people have lost much of the social support our forebearers enjoyed.
Jessica Gilligan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Hello, I'm Jessica Gilligan, and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have 10 years of experience providing therapy to children, teens, young adults (18-25 yrs. old), and their parents/family members. I value holding a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients, so they can process whatever they need to, and find solutions that work for them. I have the most experience treating teens and young adults with Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Low Self-Esteem, LGBTQIA+ topics, Anger Management, and Communication/Social Skill development. I'm comfortable providing individual and/or group therapy.
Hello, I'm Jessica Gilligan, and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have 10 years of experience providing therapy to children, teens, young adults (18-25 yrs. old), and their parents/family members. I value holding a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients, so they can process whatever they need to, and find solutions that work for them. I have the most experience treating teens and young adults with Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Low Self-Esteem, LGBTQIA+ topics, Anger Management, and Communication/Social Skill development. I'm comfortable providing individual and/or group therapy.
Kanule Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Emotional pain can be overwhelming at times...even crippling. It can isolate you, making you feel different from everyone you know. Perhaps you have recently experienced a life altering encounter. Maybe vestiges of the past, keep showing up and are attempting to choke out your present life. Or maybe you just need to talk so you can "figure things out" or make sense of it all. Sound familiar? If so, I am here for you. Life hurts and I want to help you heal. You don't have to carry this all by yourself.
Emotional pain can be overwhelming at times...even crippling. It can isolate you, making you feel different from everyone you know. Perhaps you have recently experienced a life altering encounter. Maybe vestiges of the past, keep showing up and are attempting to choke out your present life. Or maybe you just need to talk so you can "figure things out" or make sense of it all. Sound familiar? If so, I am here for you. Life hurts and I want to help you heal. You don't have to carry this all by yourself.
Jeanette Shin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
My name is Jeanette Shin, LCSW - I believe we are capable of healing ourselves and can develop the ability to find self-compassion and the potential to thrive. I have worked mostly with adults, especially older adults, and feel able to work with clients dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, aging, grief, and bereavement. I approach clients on a mindfulness and client centered focus, with elements of CBT, DBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, and spirituality as needed.
My name is Jeanette Shin, LCSW - I believe we are capable of healing ourselves and can develop the ability to find self-compassion and the potential to thrive. I have worked mostly with adults, especially older adults, and feel able to work with clients dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, aging, grief, and bereavement. I approach clients on a mindfulness and client centered focus, with elements of CBT, DBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, and spirituality as needed.
Ryan Briscoe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
I have several years of experience working with children, teens and adults. Clients I typically see are those who want to address both their mental health and their spiritual health. As a Christian, I believe in treating the whole person: psychological, physical, relational, and spiritual. My approach to counseling is collaborative and utilizes research-based feedback tools to customize our approach which helps you reach your goals quicker.
I have several years of experience working with children, teens and adults. Clients I typically see are those who want to address both their mental health and their spiritual health. As a Christian, I believe in treating the whole person: psychological, physical, relational, and spiritual. My approach to counseling is collaborative and utilizes research-based feedback tools to customize our approach which helps you reach your goals quicker.
Thomas Cagle
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in the State of California. I have over 24 years of experience working with clients with various issues, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, substance abuse, anxiety, bereavement/grief, and relationship issues. I've also helped many individuals who have experienced emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, as well as those who are experiencing divorce and family custody issues.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in the State of California. I have over 24 years of experience working with clients with various issues, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, substance abuse, anxiety, bereavement/grief, and relationship issues. I've also helped many individuals who have experienced emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, as well as those who are experiencing divorce and family custody issues.
Tessa Palmer Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93389
Life has its ups and downs. Sometimes we have a hard time figuring out which direction to go or which door to open. I certainly do not have all the answers, but I would like to help you find your own solutions. I would like to help you turn your struggles into positive lessons and to look at the world with a better view. I will provide an honest and open atmosphere for you to express your feelings and emotions.
Life has its ups and downs. Sometimes we have a hard time figuring out which direction to go or which door to open. I certainly do not have all the answers, but I would like to help you find your own solutions. I would like to help you turn your struggles into positive lessons and to look at the world with a better view. I will provide an honest and open atmosphere for you to express your feelings and emotions.
Pamela Shakir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93301 (Online Only)
We all have a story. Some of our stories leave footprints that triggers us to not be our best selves leaving us in a sunken place for various reasons. Let us admit it, life happens. In order to be a better you, I believe that healing and happiness begins within ourselves. All that means is telling your own story when you are ready is the most effective way to heal. I provide a warm and nurturing environment that will allow you to work on your innermost deep concerns and surface concerns. My approach is down to earth, non-judgmental, supportive, and honest.
We all have a story. Some of our stories leave footprints that triggers us to not be our best selves leaving us in a sunken place for various reasons. Let us admit it, life happens. In order to be a better you, I believe that healing and happiness begins within ourselves. All that means is telling your own story when you are ready is the most effective way to heal. I provide a warm and nurturing environment that will allow you to work on your innermost deep concerns and surface concerns. My approach is down to earth, non-judgmental, supportive, and honest.
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Nearby Searches for Bakersfield
See More TherapistsHow does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Bakersfield, CA
500+
Average cost per session
$140
Therapists in Bakersfield, CA who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
77% | Coping Skills |
72% | Self Esteem |
67% | Relationship Issues |
67% | Stress |
60% | Grief |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
87% | Aetna |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
83% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Bakersfield, CA see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Bakersfield?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.