Photo of Kristina Holt-Reber, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
Kristina Holt-Reber
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
Hi, my name is Dr. Kristina Holt-Reber, and I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist. I value and put collaboration with YOU first and use a person-centered, humanistic, and trauma-informed approach to therapy. I have spent a lot of my education focusing on Trauma and Anxiety related disorders and have a passion for serving the LGBTQIA+ community. I typically work with clients struggling with anxiety, mood or trauma-related concerns and feel very comfortable treating those conditions.
Hi, my name is Dr. Kristina Holt-Reber, and I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist. I value and put collaboration with YOU first and use a person-centered, humanistic, and trauma-informed approach to therapy. I have spent a lot of my education focusing on Trauma and Anxiety related disorders and have a passion for serving the LGBTQIA+ community. I typically work with clients struggling with anxiety, mood or trauma-related concerns and feel very comfortable treating those conditions.
(661) 765-8109 View (661) 765-8109
Photo of Rosmarie Stevens-Witt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Rosmarie Stevens-Witt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561  (Online Only)
Counseling is for normal people who get stuck; we all get stuck. Most of lifes ups and downs produce loss or adjustment. We all want to be happy and feel loved. I am experienced in life losses; not only as a therapist of 24 years but also as an older human being. We all have things we can learn and change within ourselves. I would feel honored to walk with you as you grow and move forward. Areas I enjoy working with include; life transitions/challenges, codependence and boundaries, depression, menopause, women at midlife, self esteem, stress reduction, and spiritual direction.
Counseling is for normal people who get stuck; we all get stuck. Most of lifes ups and downs produce loss or adjustment. We all want to be happy and feel loved. I am experienced in life losses; not only as a therapist of 24 years but also as an older human being. We all have things we can learn and change within ourselves. I would feel honored to walk with you as you grow and move forward. Areas I enjoy working with include; life transitions/challenges, codependence and boundaries, depression, menopause, women at midlife, self esteem, stress reduction, and spiritual direction.
(661) 505-1658 View (661) 505-1658
Photo of Dr. Heidi Nicole Wolfson, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
Dr. Heidi Nicole Wolfson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
When suffering strikes, it can be helpful to find a framework through which we may understand it, rather than seeing suffering as a random or meaningless event in one’s life. Our suffering may come from the unseen, unfelt parts of our psyche, and/or from an unconscious perspective which only serves to keep us trapped in an outdated narrative. Meaningless suffering is extremely difficult to bear, while on the other hand, it is often astounding to witness how much a person can endure when we begin to make meaning of our suffering, and learn to transform anguish into wisdom and injury into healing.
When suffering strikes, it can be helpful to find a framework through which we may understand it, rather than seeing suffering as a random or meaningless event in one’s life. Our suffering may come from the unseen, unfelt parts of our psyche, and/or from an unconscious perspective which only serves to keep us trapped in an outdated narrative. Meaningless suffering is extremely difficult to bear, while on the other hand, it is often astounding to witness how much a person can endure when we begin to make meaning of our suffering, and learn to transform anguish into wisdom and injury into healing.
(661) 485-3697 View (661) 485-3697
Photo of Natalie Rhyne, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Natalie Rhyne
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
My name is Natalie Rhyne, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 97859. I believe the therapeutic space should provide both containment and flexibility, and best serves its clients in a context of honoring the unique needs with which each individual presents. I work with children, adolescents, and adults - in individual, conjoint, and family settings. I support a range of conditions including mood disorders, trauma, and intrapersonal and interpersonal conflicts.
My name is Natalie Rhyne, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 97859. I believe the therapeutic space should provide both containment and flexibility, and best serves its clients in a context of honoring the unique needs with which each individual presents. I work with children, adolescents, and adults - in individual, conjoint, and family settings. I support a range of conditions including mood disorders, trauma, and intrapersonal and interpersonal conflicts.
(661) 320-8976 View (661) 320-8976
Photo of Porsche Terry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Porsche Terry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
I am well rounded, hold a high level of cultural competency, and understand the unique struggles of immigration, victims of crime, racism, discrimination, systemic barriers, lack of resources, and the impact of economic hardships on mental health functioning. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and joining with my clients to help them achieve their goals. Fairly stable clients with desires to prevent potential distress. College students, first-generation graduates, the transition of life worries and bridging the gap of knowledge and rapidly shifting social norms in a highly technological society during the pandemic.
I am well rounded, hold a high level of cultural competency, and understand the unique struggles of immigration, victims of crime, racism, discrimination, systemic barriers, lack of resources, and the impact of economic hardships on mental health functioning. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and joining with my clients to help them achieve their goals. Fairly stable clients with desires to prevent potential distress. College students, first-generation graduates, the transition of life worries and bridging the gap of knowledge and rapidly shifting social norms in a highly technological society during the pandemic.
(661) 768-1511 View (661) 768-1511
Photo of Candice Omar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Candice Omar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
My name is Candice Givens Omar, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing virtual therapy for those in California and North Carolina. My main focus areas are with adults experiencing navigating mood disorders, life transitions, and/or navigating through past trauma. I use an electric and collaborative approach to therapy using both evidence-based practices and non-traditional treatment methods. My client focus ranges from younger to older adults who are navigating life transitions or are dealing with the impacts of mood disorders, generational trauma, and workplace stress.
My name is Candice Givens Omar, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing virtual therapy for those in California and North Carolina. My main focus areas are with adults experiencing navigating mood disorders, life transitions, and/or navigating through past trauma. I use an electric and collaborative approach to therapy using both evidence-based practices and non-traditional treatment methods. My client focus ranges from younger to older adults who are navigating life transitions or are dealing with the impacts of mood disorders, generational trauma, and workplace stress.
(661) 449-2112 View (661) 449-2112
Photo of Tiffany Sheppard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Tiffany Sheppard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Processing and healing from traumatic events, grief, and life transitions are some of my specialties. I also have experience working with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, anger, etc. I have enjoyed working with children and young adults for the past 10 years.
Processing and healing from traumatic events, grief, and life transitions are some of my specialties. I also have experience working with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, anger, etc. I have enjoyed working with children and young adults for the past 10 years.
(661) 215-6335 View (661) 215-6335
Photo of Rachelle Salerno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Rachelle Salerno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, 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) 368-0899 View (661) 368-0899
Photo of Abigail Morse, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Abigail Morse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
Hi there, I'm Abby Morse! As a licensed clinical social worker, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating through stressful life changes, addressing self-esteem concerns, and managing anxiety. With a dedicated focus on action and solution-oriented strategies, I approach therapy with empathy, compassion, and a non-judgmental stance. My primary objective is to meet you wherever you are on your therapeutic journey, forming a strong alliance to ensure that your unique needs, well-being, and individuality are at the forefront of our collaborative work.
Hi there, I'm Abby Morse! As a licensed clinical social worker, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating through stressful life changes, addressing self-esteem concerns, and managing anxiety. With a dedicated focus on action and solution-oriented strategies, I approach therapy with empathy, compassion, and a non-judgmental stance. My primary objective is to meet you wherever you are on your therapeutic journey, forming a strong alliance to ensure that your unique needs, well-being, and individuality are at the forefront of our collaborative work.
(661) 690-1891 View (661) 690-1891
Photo of Kelisha LaGrone, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
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.
(661) 927-4644 View (661) 927-4644
Photo of Millicent Pitts, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Millicent Pitts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312
I understand how difficult sharing life altering memories can be for people. Just ignoring unresolved issues will not make the pain any less. Addressing old hurt, anger, fears, and other emotions will assist in gaining a better sense of self. My goal is to help people with the thoughts that keep them up at night. We can’t change the past, but we can change how we process old grief and allow past trauma to impact our lives.
I understand how difficult sharing life altering memories can be for people. Just ignoring unresolved issues will not make the pain any less. Addressing old hurt, anger, fears, and other emotions will assist in gaining a better sense of self. My goal is to help people with the thoughts that keep them up at night. We can’t change the past, but we can change how we process old grief and allow past trauma to impact our lives.
(661) 215-5927 View (661) 215-5927
Photo of Marcela Lopez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Marcela Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Hello there! I’m a licensed clinical social worker in California, and a certified anger management counselor, CAMS-ll, under the National Anger Management Association. I have vast experience working with children, teenagers, and adults within an outpatient and inpatient hospital setting. My best interest for clients is to help them achieve personal self-development and awareness, cope with life transitions, emotions, stressors, and develop healthier relationships. I believe we are capable of self-resiliency and I aim to be a guide for you to achieve it.
Hello there! I’m a licensed clinical social worker in California, and a certified anger management counselor, CAMS-ll, under the National Anger Management Association. I have vast experience working with children, teenagers, and adults within an outpatient and inpatient hospital setting. My best interest for clients is to help them achieve personal self-development and awareness, cope with life transitions, emotions, stressors, and develop healthier relationships. I believe we are capable of self-resiliency and I aim to be a guide for you to achieve it.
(661) 215-6540 View (661) 215-6540
Photo of Lorena Martin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Lorena Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
Hi there, I'm Lorena! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Inland Empire, California, and working with new clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, grief and loss, trauma, parenting, and life events, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focus Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help clients begin to feel better.
Hi there, I'm Lorena! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Inland Empire, California, and working with new clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, grief and loss, trauma, parenting, and life events, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focus Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help clients begin to feel better.
(661) 493-8708 View (661) 493-8708
Photo of Diamante Maya, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Diamante Maya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301  (Online Only)
Greetings, I'm Diamante! I am a bilingual Spanish/English licensed clinical social worker in both New York and Texas having worked in the mental health field since 2008. Over the years I've gained experience with people from ages 4 to 70+ from diverse backgrounds and with a variety of mental, emotional, and social challenges. I earned my Bachelors in Sociology from the University of Texas at San Antonio and my Master's in Social Work at Baylor University. I've worked in variety of schools and mental health agencies.
Greetings, I'm Diamante! I am a bilingual Spanish/English licensed clinical social worker in both New York and Texas having worked in the mental health field since 2008. Over the years I've gained experience with people from ages 4 to 70+ from diverse backgrounds and with a variety of mental, emotional, and social challenges. I earned my Bachelors in Sociology from the University of Texas at San Antonio and my Master's in Social Work at Baylor University. I've worked in variety of schools and mental health agencies.
(904) 906-2876 View (904) 906-2876
Photo of Jennifer Drewno, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Jennifer Drewno
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
It is an honor to guide you on your journey. My passion is to support my clients in becoming more self-aware and increase peace of mind, and overall well-being. I have been so privileged to hear the stories and witness the deep transformations of my clients. You deserve a space where you are seen, heard, and validated. My therapeutic style is warm, nonjudgmental, and friendly. I create a safe space for you to explore challenging issues/events and my clinical approaches – Gestalt, Cognitive Behavior, Solution-focused, and Mindfulness therapy will support our work together.
It is an honor to guide you on your journey. My passion is to support my clients in becoming more self-aware and increase peace of mind, and overall well-being. I have been so privileged to hear the stories and witness the deep transformations of my clients. You deserve a space where you are seen, heard, and validated. My therapeutic style is warm, nonjudgmental, and friendly. I create a safe space for you to explore challenging issues/events and my clinical approaches – Gestalt, Cognitive Behavior, Solution-focused, and Mindfulness therapy will support our work together.
(661) 443-5407 View (661) 443-5407
Photo of Rinee Mitchell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Rinee Mitchell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Life can be overwhelming at times. Balancing your needs and the needs of those around you can be challenging. Ever feel stuck? Wondering when things will get better? In today’s fast paced environment, it can be difficult to catch your breath and have a sense of peace that everything will work out. I invite you to take that first step. Let’s talk about it. If you are out there struggling and need a hand, you have found the right person who can help navigate your way. We all need encouragement and a non judgmental listening ear. Allow me to be that person for you.
Life can be overwhelming at times. Balancing your needs and the needs of those around you can be challenging. Ever feel stuck? Wondering when things will get better? In today’s fast paced environment, it can be difficult to catch your breath and have a sense of peace that everything will work out. I invite you to take that first step. Let’s talk about it. If you are out there struggling and need a hand, you have found the right person who can help navigate your way. We all need encouragement and a non judgmental listening ear. Allow me to be that person for you.
(661) 367-8290 View (661) 367-8290
Photo of Daniel Banaitis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Daniel Banaitis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
My name is Dan Banaitis, LMFT specializing in the treatment of anxiety and depression as well as treating adolescents and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. I also work with couples, families and provide pre-marital counseling. I work with anxious and depressed clients that are highly motivated to make positive changes in their lives by engaging fully in the therapeutic process. I work with adult clients with ASD experiencing challenges with the social and emotional aspects of life. I am also pursuing certification as a Sex Addiction Specialist (CSAT) and can help clients suffering from sexual addictions.
My name is Dan Banaitis, LMFT specializing in the treatment of anxiety and depression as well as treating adolescents and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. I also work with couples, families and provide pre-marital counseling. I work with anxious and depressed clients that are highly motivated to make positive changes in their lives by engaging fully in the therapeutic process. I work with adult clients with ASD experiencing challenges with the social and emotional aspects of life. I am also pursuing certification as a Sex Addiction Specialist (CSAT) and can help clients suffering from sexual addictions.
(760) 760-2208 View (760) 760-2208
Photo of Courtney Samari Rayne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Courtney Samari Rayne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93313
Accepting New In-Person and Tele-health Patients! It is my passion to work with people who are interested in a holistic approach to self healing and empowerment. It is important to me that I offer clients a sacred space to share, authentic connection, and honest & direct communication. It is my goal to support people in their personal exploration and growth through therapeutic counseling, breath work, relaxation training, the practice of somatic awareness and meditation. The methods I use also have very strong response to treatment for individuals with a history of trauma.
Accepting New In-Person and Tele-health Patients! It is my passion to work with people who are interested in a holistic approach to self healing and empowerment. It is important to me that I offer clients a sacred space to share, authentic connection, and honest & direct communication. It is my goal to support people in their personal exploration and growth through therapeutic counseling, breath work, relaxation training, the practice of somatic awareness and meditation. The methods I use also have very strong response to treatment for individuals with a history of trauma.
(661) 367-8493 View (661) 367-8493
Photo of Kendall Wood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Kendall Wood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Accepting new patients! Therapy is a wonderful opportunity for individuals to gain a new life perspective, work through challenges, and foster desired change. My job is to unite with you to help clarify your needs and enhance your skills to better tackle life’s challenges. I utilize an integration of evidenced based practices and psychodynamic principles, with a strong emphasis on mindfulness and resilience. Whether a life adjustment or major crisis, the therapeutic process will enhance your ability to move towards greater self-awareness, acceptance and happiness.
Accepting new patients! Therapy is a wonderful opportunity for individuals to gain a new life perspective, work through challenges, and foster desired change. My job is to unite with you to help clarify your needs and enhance your skills to better tackle life’s challenges. I utilize an integration of evidenced based practices and psychodynamic principles, with a strong emphasis on mindfulness and resilience. Whether a life adjustment or major crisis, the therapeutic process will enhance your ability to move towards greater self-awareness, acceptance and happiness.
(661) 490-9336 View (661) 490-9336
Photo of Kathleen Taylor, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
Kathleen Taylor
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
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

Compassion Focused Therapists

How does compassion-focused therapy work?

Compassion-Focused Therapy is based on the idea that humans have at least three emotion regulation systems, including one that responds to threats and another that allows us to self-soothe. Those who experienced serious childhood adversity, the theory goes, have a hyperactive threat system and an underperforming self-soothing system, leaving them vulnerable to shame and a hypercritical mindset. CFT focuses on bringing these systems back into balance, helping the client be kinder to themselves and better able to accept kindness from others.

Is compassion-focused therapy a type of CBT?

Compassion-focused therapy is closely related to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and employs many of its techniques. In addition to CBT, CFT also draws from the fields of biology, evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, developmental psychology, and Buddhism. It also has similarities to some types of trauma-focused therapies.

Is compassion-focused therapy evidence based?

Evidence suggests that CFT can be helpful in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, and other mental illnesses. It has also been shown to be beneficial for individuals who may not have diagnosable psychiatric disorders but who still struggle with persistent self-criticism and feelings of shame.

What are the limitations of compassion-focused therapy?

Compassion-focused therapy is still a relatively new therapy, and research on its efficacy is still in its early stages; while some studies have found positive results, many have suffered from quality issues or small sample sizes. And while most CFT clients find it difficult to practice self-compassion at first, some—especially those who actively fear compassion or are deeply uncomfortable being cared for—may not be fully open to the tenets of CFT, potentially limiting the therapy’s long-term effectiveness.