Therapists in Kern County, CA

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Photo of Melinda Ann Herndon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Melinda Ann Herndon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
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.
(661) 491-8158 View (661) 491-8158
Photo of Carmela Duarte, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Carmela Duarte
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience of helping people who have symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, attachment disorders, adjustment disorder, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, eating disorders, oppositional defiance.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience of helping people who have symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, attachment disorders, adjustment disorder, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, eating disorders, oppositional defiance.
(661) 486-4517 View (661) 486-4517
Photo of Milka Lara-Rincon, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Milka Lara-Rincon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Therapy is a safe space that can bring about self-discovery and healing. I take an inclusive approach in my work, where I understand how intersections of culture, sexuality, gender, spirituality, family, environment, and relationships shape our identity and how we experience the world. In therapy, you have a space to let your guard down and explore how various factors at play affect your mental health. You will learn skills necessary to embrace the full range of your thoughts and emotions, and also incorporate changes that align with your values.
Therapy is a safe space that can bring about self-discovery and healing. I take an inclusive approach in my work, where I understand how intersections of culture, sexuality, gender, spirituality, family, environment, and relationships shape our identity and how we experience the world. In therapy, you have a space to let your guard down and explore how various factors at play affect your mental health. You will learn skills necessary to embrace the full range of your thoughts and emotions, and also incorporate changes that align with your values.
(661) 402-3439 View (661) 402-3439
Photo of Marni Haggstrom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Marni Haggstrom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello. Welcome to Rua. I’m Marni Haggstrom, a California Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been a therapist for almost 30 years! In order to join with you in helping you achieve your goals, I will utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities, with a plan specifically molded to you, and what you bring into the session. Interventions may come from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and any others that will make sense for your needs. With a focus on depression and anxiety, my practice currently embraces all adults, but especially older adults.
Hello. Welcome to Rua. I’m Marni Haggstrom, a California Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been a therapist for almost 30 years! In order to join with you in helping you achieve your goals, I will utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities, with a plan specifically molded to you, and what you bring into the session. Interventions may come from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and any others that will make sense for your needs. With a focus on depression and anxiety, my practice currently embraces all adults, but especially older adults.
(661) 760-7928 View (661) 760-7928
Photo of Veronica Cardona, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Veronica Cardona
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The journey through infertility and motherhood can be stressful and lonely. It often requires patience, perseverance, but above all HOPE. I want to empower and support you during this journey. Are you suspecting a problem because you have been trying to get pregnant without success? Have you been diagnosed with "infertility"? Are you considering IVF? Are you struggling with sustaining a pregnancy? Does your heart feel heavy with grief and sorrow over your loss and are ready for relief? Did you recently have a baby and are struggling with postpartum anxiety, depression or simply feeling overwhelmed? Reach out today. I can help you.
The journey through infertility and motherhood can be stressful and lonely. It often requires patience, perseverance, but above all HOPE. I want to empower and support you during this journey. Are you suspecting a problem because you have been trying to get pregnant without success? Have you been diagnosed with "infertility"? Are you considering IVF? Are you struggling with sustaining a pregnancy? Does your heart feel heavy with grief and sorrow over your loss and are ready for relief? Did you recently have a baby and are struggling with postpartum anxiety, depression or simply feeling overwhelmed? Reach out today. I can help you.
(661) 689-7682 View (661) 689-7682
Photo of Alisa Michelle Swenson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Alisa Michelle Swenson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I love working with both kids and adults. I have experience working with all ages from 2 years old to adults through my work at a non-profit organization that serves low income families and foster kids. I have also worked in the hospital setting and in foster care agencies. I am generally laid back in my approach and want our work together to be conversational and focused on what you see your goals as being instead of what I think that they should be. Therapy should be collaborative and I appreciate feedback on whether you think something is working or not.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I love working with both kids and adults. I have experience working with all ages from 2 years old to adults through my work at a non-profit organization that serves low income families and foster kids. I have also worked in the hospital setting and in foster care agencies. I am generally laid back in my approach and want our work together to be conversational and focused on what you see your goals as being instead of what I think that they should be. Therapy should be collaborative and I appreciate feedback on whether you think something is working or not.
(661) 485-4309 View (661) 485-4309
Photo of Rhonda Okonkwo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Rhonda Okonkwo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hey there, I’m Rhonda Stephanie! Do you have trouble managing anxiety and feelings of depression? Do you need assistance in processing a very difficult situation that you experienced?
Hey there, I’m Rhonda Stephanie! Do you have trouble managing anxiety and feelings of depression? Do you need assistance in processing a very difficult situation that you experienced?
(562) 685-9187 View (562) 685-9187
Photo of Michelle Koehler, Psychologist, PYSD
Michelle Koehler
Psychologist, PYSD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Sometimes life knocks you down and you need help getting back on your feet. Let’s do this together! Hi, my name is Dr. Koehler. I could talk about my degrees and experience, but what is most important for you to know is that I’m here to listen and help you get through tough times. I use a client-centered approach, meaning that I tailor our sessions to be what you need. I believe that the therapist-client bond is vital to be successful in therapy. If we are a good fit, that’s great and I can’t wait to work with you!
Sometimes life knocks you down and you need help getting back on your feet. Let’s do this together! Hi, my name is Dr. Koehler. I could talk about my degrees and experience, but what is most important for you to know is that I’m here to listen and help you get through tough times. I use a client-centered approach, meaning that I tailor our sessions to be what you need. I believe that the therapist-client bond is vital to be successful in therapy. If we are a good fit, that’s great and I can’t wait to work with you!
(661) 490-9061 View (661) 490-9061
Photo of Kathleen C Fenn, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Kathleen C Fenn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes life can throw us a curve ball when we least expect it. It could be the death of a loved one, the loss of a dream, illness or the break up of a longtime relationship, which momentarily makes us lose our footing. Together we can explore both the pain and the strength that it takes to get back on track. One of my passions is working with people who are searching to believe in themselves again.
Sometimes life can throw us a curve ball when we least expect it. It could be the death of a loved one, the loss of a dream, illness or the break up of a longtime relationship, which momentarily makes us lose our footing. Together we can explore both the pain and the strength that it takes to get back on track. One of my passions is working with people who are searching to believe in themselves again.
(661) 426-2750 View (661) 426-2750
Photo of Stephanie Heintz - Christian Counseling with Stephanie, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Christian Counseling with Stephanie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
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 Meghan Holland, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BCBA
Meghan Holland
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BCBA
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Hi, I'm Meghan Holland. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Board-Certified Behavioral Analyst. My approach to therapy is centered around the needs of the client. I provide a supportive, compassionate, empathic approach by listening to the client and providing feedback that can help the client improve their quality of life.
Hi, I'm Meghan Holland. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Board-Certified Behavioral Analyst. My approach to therapy is centered around the needs of the client. I provide a supportive, compassionate, empathic approach by listening to the client and providing feedback that can help the client improve their quality of life.
(661) 218-1501 View (661) 218-1501
Photo of Dr. Fernando Garcia III - STONE Mental Health Services, Marriage & Family Therapist, Ed D, LMFT
STONE Mental Health Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, Ed D, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Waitlist for new clients
Clients' needs may vary but most share the same theme of wanting to work toward positive change. My experience with working with such a diverse client population and education in sport & performance psychology has provided me with an approach that I am confident can help almost anyone in need. Therapy has the potential to be a space where clients' can explore their concerns and issues with professional guidance with the focus to achieve their individual goals. Getting symptoms under control, exploring mental blockage, and so many more obstacles can be effectively addressed with the right support.
Clients' needs may vary but most share the same theme of wanting to work toward positive change. My experience with working with such a diverse client population and education in sport & performance psychology has provided me with an approach that I am confident can help almost anyone in need. Therapy has the potential to be a space where clients' can explore their concerns and issues with professional guidance with the focus to achieve their individual goals. Getting symptoms under control, exploring mental blockage, and so many more obstacles can be effectively addressed with the right support.
(661) 459-5209 View (661) 459-5209
Photo of Lauren Dean - Lauren Dean, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Lauren Dean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You’re the strong one—but who supports you? You’re high-achieving, successful, and constantly showing up for others. But inside, you’re running on fumes—exhausted, anxious, and emotionally burned out. You don’t need more productivity hacks. You need peace. If you’re a high-performing BIPOC woman battling burnout and stress, you’re in the right place. I help ambitious women finally unlearn survival mode and reconnect with rest, joy, and self-worth. My clients are often in tech, law, medicine, or entrepreneurship—and they’re tired of holding it all together alone. You don’t have to explain everything. I get it.
You’re the strong one—but who supports you? You’re high-achieving, successful, and constantly showing up for others. But inside, you’re running on fumes—exhausted, anxious, and emotionally burned out. You don’t need more productivity hacks. You need peace. If you’re a high-performing BIPOC woman battling burnout and stress, you’re in the right place. I help ambitious women finally unlearn survival mode and reconnect with rest, joy, and self-worth. My clients are often in tech, law, medicine, or entrepreneurship—and they’re tired of holding it all together alone. You don’t have to explain everything. I get it.
(661) 768-1757 View (661) 768-1757
Michelle Scoggins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi I am Dr. Michelle Scoggins (CA29566) and I'm your compassionate guide on a journey of self-discovery and resilience. My approach is all about empowering you to navigate life's challenges, fostering authentic connections, and ensuring you leave each session with tools to enhance your emotional well-being. In my work with clients grappling with anxiety and depression, we often uncover it is all about not authentically living. I create a safe space for exploration and self-discovery. Together, we navigate the layers of self-expression, aiming to unveil and embrace their authentic selves.
Hi I am Dr. Michelle Scoggins (CA29566) and I'm your compassionate guide on a journey of self-discovery and resilience. My approach is all about empowering you to navigate life's challenges, fostering authentic connections, and ensuring you leave each session with tools to enhance your emotional well-being. In my work with clients grappling with anxiety and depression, we often uncover it is all about not authentically living. I create a safe space for exploration and self-discovery. Together, we navigate the layers of self-expression, aiming to unveil and embrace their authentic selves.
(661) 464-7531 View (661) 464-7531
Photo of Renee Pair, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Renee Pair
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Seeking counsel outside your circle of family and friends is often a difficult decision to make. I feel therapy begins with a genuine connection between the therapist and client. Within this relationship I offer a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate environment in which clients find their inner strength, healing, and personal growth. My goal is to assist clients find skills needed to work through the difficulties that have prevented them from moving forward. Whether you are struggling with personal growth, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, or just need constructive feedback, therapy can be a life enriching experience.
Seeking counsel outside your circle of family and friends is often a difficult decision to make. I feel therapy begins with a genuine connection between the therapist and client. Within this relationship I offer a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate environment in which clients find their inner strength, healing, and personal growth. My goal is to assist clients find skills needed to work through the difficulties that have prevented them from moving forward. Whether you are struggling with personal growth, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, or just need constructive feedback, therapy can be a life enriching experience.
(805) 429-4207 View (805) 429-4207
Photo of Kathleen Taylor, Psychologist, LCP
Kathleen Taylor
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Kathy Taylor and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist working with clients statewide in California via telehealth. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples specializing in trauma, anxiety, and depression. I utilize a psychodynamic approach which means that symptoms such as anxiety and depression, typically are indicators of underlying emotional suffering that may require attention. My role is to empathically pay attention and tend to those difficult experiences as one tells their story.
My name is Kathy Taylor and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist working with clients statewide in California via telehealth. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples specializing in trauma, anxiety, and depression. I utilize a psychodynamic approach which means that symptoms such as anxiety and depression, typically are indicators of underlying emotional suffering that may require attention. My role is to empathically pay attention and tend to those difficult experiences as one tells their story.
(661) 403-5271 View (661) 403-5271
Photo of Mesha Muwanga, Marriage & Family Therapist, LFMT
Mesha Muwanga
Marriage & Family Therapist, LFMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
I help clients find their freedom. I believe that there is hope in every situation and I am skilled in working with client's who have a hard time believing that they can overcome. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, communication, and relationships. As a Christian therapist I believe in a holistic approach to treatment and focus on the physical, spiritual, and emotional needs of a client.
I help clients find their freedom. I believe that there is hope in every situation and I am skilled in working with client's who have a hard time believing that they can overcome. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, communication, and relationships. As a Christian therapist I believe in a holistic approach to treatment and focus on the physical, spiritual, and emotional needs of a client.
(661) 218-1635 View (661) 218-1635
Photo of Joyce Siler, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Joyce Siler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561
Every day you find yourself wondering if you will ever be able to find a cure for your anxiety. You struggle just to show up in your personal and professional life. You smile on the outside but have a constant worry tape running in the background. You find yourself feeling alone. You've made the decision that something needs to change, but you wonder who could help you get to the other side so you can truly enjoy your relationships, your work and your life again.
Every day you find yourself wondering if you will ever be able to find a cure for your anxiety. You struggle just to show up in your personal and professional life. You smile on the outside but have a constant worry tape running in the background. You find yourself feeling alone. You've made the decision that something needs to change, but you wonder who could help you get to the other side so you can truly enjoy your relationships, your work and your life again.
(661) 370-2675 View (661) 370-2675
Photo of Scarlett R Aguilar, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Scarlett R Aguilar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with clarity and confidence. Whether you're exploring self-discovery, working through relationship struggles, or managing significant life transitions, I provide a supportive space where you can feel heard and understood. My goal is to help you build resilience, develop healthy coping strategies, and strengthen your connections with yourself and others.
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with clarity and confidence. Whether you're exploring self-discovery, working through relationship struggles, or managing significant life transitions, I provide a supportive space where you can feel heard and understood. My goal is to help you build resilience, develop healthy coping strategies, and strengthen your connections with yourself and others.
(661) 475-8854 View (661) 475-8854
Photo of Rachelle Salerno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Rachelle Salerno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
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) 368-0899 View (661) 368-0899
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See more therapy options for Kern County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Kern County, CA

900+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Kern County, CA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
87% Depression
76% Coping Skills
70% Self Esteem
60% Trauma and PTSD
60% Stress
58% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
79% Cigna and Evernorth
68% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Kern County, CA see their clients

74% Online Only
26% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Kern County?

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

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.

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.

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.