Photo of Afsheen Izadi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Afsheen Izadi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rosamond, CA 93560
I have extensive experience working with couples, veterans, parolees, and the formerly transient population.
Hello, I am Afsheen Izadi, but I go by Bruce. I have been working as a Marriage and Family Therapist since 2013 and have worked with many different populations. My most common approach is DBT, the SPIRE model, and Motivational Interviewing, but I like to use different approaches based on (1) the client's needs and (2) the stage of therapy. I believe it's best to start off with Motivational Interviewing to develop a rapport and assess the client's preferences or goals. From there I can use DBT, the SPIRE model, CBT, or Solution Focused.
I have extensive experience working with couples, veterans, parolees, and the formerly transient population.
Hello, I am Afsheen Izadi, but I go by Bruce. I have been working as a Marriage and Family Therapist since 2013 and have worked with many different populations. My most common approach is DBT, the SPIRE model, and Motivational Interviewing, but I like to use different approaches based on (1) the client's needs and (2) the stage of therapy. I believe it's best to start off with Motivational Interviewing to develop a rapport and assess the client's preferences or goals. From there I can use DBT, the SPIRE model, CBT, or Solution Focused.
(310) 947-8260 View (310) 947-8260
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 Kristina Holt-Reber, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
Kristina Holt-Reber
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
I believe in tailoring the therapeutic approaches to each client/clients which starts by forming a strong therapeutic relationship.
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.
I believe in tailoring the therapeutic approaches to each client/clients which starts by forming a strong therapeutic relationship.
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 Elizabeth Wise, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Elizabeth Wise
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pine Mountain Club, CA 93222  (Online Only)
Dr. Elizabeth Wise graduated with a Masters of Social Work with a concentration in Mental Health from the USC. She completed her licensure hours while also obtaining her PsyD from Cal Southern University. Elizabeth's work as a therapist at Happier Living, Ananda Rayne, STEPS, Aspire Behavioral Health, Clinica Sierra Vista, and Sovereign Health has helped her gain a great deal of knowledge about behavioral health and addiction. She's worked with children, teens, individuals, couples, and families providing psycho-ed and psychotherapy, and uses a wide range of modalities.
Dr. Elizabeth Wise graduated with a Masters of Social Work with a concentration in Mental Health from the USC. She completed her licensure hours while also obtaining her PsyD from Cal Southern University. Elizabeth's work as a therapist at Happier Living, Ananda Rayne, STEPS, Aspire Behavioral Health, Clinica Sierra Vista, and Sovereign Health has helped her gain a great deal of knowledge about behavioral health and addiction. She's worked with children, teens, individuals, couples, and families providing psycho-ed and psychotherapy, and uses a wide range of modalities.
(661) 215-8657 View (661) 215-8657
Photo of Brice Hildreth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Brice Hildreth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561
I believe the relationship we build together is one of the biggest determining factors in being successful in therapy.
Hello, my name is Brice Hildreth and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Every individual is unique and complex and I am adaptable to your needs in therapy. I greatly empathize with how your mental health can affect your overall well-being and ability to have satisfying and reciprocal relationships. I focus on building a strong therapeutic alliance using my wide range of experience and practice with you taking the lead in your journey to the outcomes and goals you seek. One of my passions is helping individuals understand the processes, thought patterns, and underlying causes of what is causing them distress in their life.
I believe the relationship we build together is one of the biggest determining factors in being successful in therapy.
Hello, my name is Brice Hildreth and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Every individual is unique and complex and I am adaptable to your needs in therapy. I greatly empathize with how your mental health can affect your overall well-being and ability to have satisfying and reciprocal relationships. I focus on building a strong therapeutic alliance using my wide range of experience and practice with you taking the lead in your journey to the outcomes and goals you seek. One of my passions is helping individuals understand the processes, thought patterns, and underlying causes of what is causing them distress in their life.
(661) 449-2962 View (661) 449-2962
Photo of Ashley Anchordoquy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Ashley Anchordoquy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
I specialize in therapy focusing on helping individuals, couples, children and families cope with the everyday challenges of life. I strive to facilitate personal growth and alleviation of pain. I have a successful background in helping clients learn to establish what they want to be different in their lives and seek out strengths for accomplishing those changes. Through a relaxing, safe and confidential environment, clients can feel that their hopes are being heard and their strengths recognized.
I specialize in therapy focusing on helping individuals, couples, children and families cope with the everyday challenges of life. I strive to facilitate personal growth and alleviation of pain. I have a successful background in helping clients learn to establish what they want to be different in their lives and seek out strengths for accomplishing those changes. Through a relaxing, safe and confidential environment, clients can feel that their hopes are being heard and their strengths recognized.
(805) 623-4112 View (805) 623-4112
Photo of Krissy Bynum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Krissy Bynum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
I strongly believe a therapeutic relationship is essential when making a change.
We all struggle with life challenges, and it is never too late to make positive changes. I believe in creating a therapeutic environment, which is essential for an individual to be able to express their concerns without judgement. This allows the individual the opportunity to come to an inviting place where one can speak openly and freely about concerns and/or struggles. As a therapist, I assist clients with developing their individualized goals and offer tools that can be implemented in their lives. My goal is to offer guidance and support, so clients can take steps to become the heathiest version of themselves.
I strongly believe a therapeutic relationship is essential when making a change.
We all struggle with life challenges, and it is never too late to make positive changes. I believe in creating a therapeutic environment, which is essential for an individual to be able to express their concerns without judgement. This allows the individual the opportunity to come to an inviting place where one can speak openly and freely about concerns and/or struggles. As a therapist, I assist clients with developing their individualized goals and offer tools that can be implemented in their lives. My goal is to offer guidance and support, so clients can take steps to become the heathiest version of themselves.
(661) 215-8728 View (661) 215-8728
Photo of Christy Stubblefield, LPC Intern in Kern County, CA
Christy Stubblefield
LPC Intern, LPC Int, MS, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Taft, CA 93268  (Online Only)
I provide an empathetic and collaborative environment for children, adults, couples, and families that are looking for ways to experience positive and healthy changes in how they approach emotional and relational challenges.
Life can be challenging at times, but having someone you can talk to can guide you through those changes we experience. I am an associate professional counselor, and if you desire change and healing in specific areas of your life, I would like to be there for you so we can work together on how to manage a new path for your life. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate, and understanding space for you to be heard where new strategies and skills are learned to help navigate inner peace, resolve conflicts, and start on a new journey towards wholeness and happiness.
I provide an empathetic and collaborative environment for children, adults, couples, and families that are looking for ways to experience positive and healthy changes in how they approach emotional and relational challenges.
Life can be challenging at times, but having someone you can talk to can guide you through those changes we experience. I am an associate professional counselor, and if you desire change and healing in specific areas of your life, I would like to be there for you so we can work together on how to manage a new path for your life. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate, and understanding space for you to be heard where new strategies and skills are learned to help navigate inner peace, resolve conflicts, and start on a new journey towards wholeness and happiness.
Photo of Nicole Brown, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
Nicole Brown
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
**Virtual sessions available** " Do you have a problem (or relationship) that you have spent countless hours thinking about, trying to solve, and maybe even seeking the advice of friends? Yet somehow you are still struggling to find a solution that works for you. Does your anxiety take over at the worst possible moment? Perhaps you wish life with your partner could be as fulfilling as it was when you first got together. Your current situation may leave you feeling stuck, but there is hope!
**Virtual sessions available** " Do you have a problem (or relationship) that you have spent countless hours thinking about, trying to solve, and maybe even seeking the advice of friends? Yet somehow you are still struggling to find a solution that works for you. Does your anxiety take over at the worst possible moment? Perhaps you wish life with your partner could be as fulfilling as it was when you first got together. Your current situation may leave you feeling stuck, but there is hope!
(424) 383-7258 View (424) 383-7258
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 Erika Miranda, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Erika Miranda
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Waitlist for new clients
I have a wide range of experience working with child welfare system, county mental health agencies, trauma, depression, anxiety, children, families, couples and OB woman during the prenatal- peripartum period.
Welcome to my profile. I believe it's important to find the Therapist that is right for you. I am passionate about diminishing the stigma surrounding mental health issues within my community.
I have a wide range of experience working with child welfare system, county mental health agencies, trauma, depression, anxiety, children, families, couples and OB woman during the prenatal- peripartum period.
Welcome to my profile. I believe it's important to find the Therapist that is right for you. I am passionate about diminishing the stigma surrounding mental health issues within my community.
(661) 529-2114 View (661) 529-2114
Photo of Rose M. Lester, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Rose M. Lester
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Waitlist for new clients
I also help couples increase intimacy by developing effective communication skills.
"It's never to late to have a happy childhood" This quote embodies the core belief and hope that I bring into my practice. Most people bring wounds from childhood into their adulthood. These wounds show up in their lives as depression, anxiety, low-self-esteem and unhealthy relationships. In therapy, you can become aware of those wound and how they limit your life today, grieve your losses and learn healthier ways to get those childhood needs met. As this healing occurs, we can explore ways to live life more fully and joyfully and to thrive rather than just survive.
I also help couples increase intimacy by developing effective communication skills.
"It's never to late to have a happy childhood" This quote embodies the core belief and hope that I bring into my practice. Most people bring wounds from childhood into their adulthood. These wounds show up in their lives as depression, anxiety, low-self-esteem and unhealthy relationships. In therapy, you can become aware of those wound and how they limit your life today, grieve your losses and learn healthier ways to get those childhood needs met. As this healing occurs, we can explore ways to live life more fully and joyfully and to thrive rather than just survive.
(661) 903-8559 View (661) 903-8559
Photo of Sandy Hagan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Sandy Hagan
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) 486-4995 View (661) 486-4995
Photo of Artisa M Moten, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Artisa M Moten
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
My specializations include systematic oriented therapeutic theories for individuals, couples, and families.
“You don’t lose if you get knocked down, you lose if you stay down (Ali)” I understand that as we experience life we will inevitably encounter obstacles and stressors that challenge us to change. I also believe these moments present opportunities for transformation. Together, we can build an excellent foundation in achieving your needs, wants, and desires. Having over 10 years experience, Certified Trauma Specialist, Grief Specialist, and trainer for the workplace has allowed me to successfully work with various cultures, social economic backgrounds, and community organizations.
My specializations include systematic oriented therapeutic theories for individuals, couples, and families.
“You don’t lose if you get knocked down, you lose if you stay down (Ali)” I understand that as we experience life we will inevitably encounter obstacles and stressors that challenge us to change. I also believe these moments present opportunities for transformation. Together, we can build an excellent foundation in achieving your needs, wants, and desires. Having over 10 years experience, Certified Trauma Specialist, Grief Specialist, and trainer for the workplace has allowed me to successfully work with various cultures, social economic backgrounds, and community organizations.
(661) 426-8068 View (661) 426-8068
Photo of Marina Alexander, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Marina Alexander
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
My name is Marina Alexander, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Los Angeles, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I was born in Ukraine and speak Russian fluently. I work with adults and couples and specialize in anxiety and stress management, alleviating trauma and PTSD, managing life transitions, issues related to aging, and of course - challenges in interpersonal relationships. I am also a Transformational Life coach, trained and certified by the Brave Thinking Institute.
My name is Marina Alexander, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Los Angeles, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I was born in Ukraine and speak Russian fluently. I work with adults and couples and specialize in anxiety and stress management, alleviating trauma and PTSD, managing life transitions, issues related to aging, and of course - challenges in interpersonal relationships. I am also a Transformational Life coach, trained and certified by the Brave Thinking Institute.
(661) 766-0725 View (661) 766-0725
InspireMe Counseling and Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
If you are experiencing any mental health challenges, uncertainties in life, life transitions, relationship issues, work stress, family dynamics, peer-pressure, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, or anything that seems too overwhelming; we at InspireMe Counseling and Wellness Center are here and ready to walk with you thru your journey and provide support.
'Servicios disponibles en español.' We all need someone who gives us the courage, strength, guidance, and support to get through challenges in life. Someone who we can connect with that we can trust who can identify with our needs, in a safe place with no judgment, to help improve our overall quality of life. Our goal at InspireMe Counseling and Wellness Center is to work on improving your overall well-being through mental health and wellness. We strive to meet our clients where they are and work with helping them move from a place of surviving to thriving. We work with with individuals, families, couples, and groups,
If you are experiencing any mental health challenges, uncertainties in life, life transitions, relationship issues, work stress, family dynamics, peer-pressure, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, or anything that seems too overwhelming; we at InspireMe Counseling and Wellness Center are here and ready to walk with you thru your journey and provide support.
'Servicios disponibles en español.' We all need someone who gives us the courage, strength, guidance, and support to get through challenges in life. Someone who we can connect with that we can trust who can identify with our needs, in a safe place with no judgment, to help improve our overall quality of life. Our goal at InspireMe Counseling and Wellness Center is to work on improving your overall well-being through mental health and wellness. We strive to meet our clients where they are and work with helping them move from a place of surviving to thriving. We work with with individuals, families, couples, and groups,
(661) 215-8827 View (661) 215-8827
Photo of Kristi Price, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Kristi Price
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Trying to keep up with everything that life demands can leave you feeling like you are drowning and can’t catch your breath. Relationships with friends, family and partners can start to feel disconnected. You want to feel better, you’ve tried to feel better, but nothing seems to work. Don't let another day go by where you are just a bystander in your own life. Together, let's work through your anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship issues or anything else holding you back from living your best life!
Trying to keep up with everything that life demands can leave you feeling like you are drowning and can’t catch your breath. Relationships with friends, family and partners can start to feel disconnected. You want to feel better, you’ve tried to feel better, but nothing seems to work. Don't let another day go by where you are just a bystander in your own life. Together, let's work through your anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship issues or anything else holding you back from living your best life!
(661) 218-2537 View (661) 218-2537
Photo of Felix Cruz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Felix Cruz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
In the same way I devoted time to pass all my classes and my exams now I have the privilege to dedicate time to the individuals, couples, and families that I assist.
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.
In the same way I devoted time to pass all my classes and my exams now I have the privilege to dedicate time to the individuals, couples, and families that I assist.
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 Dr. Jeffrey W Cheney, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Dr. Jeffrey W Cheney
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Areas of expertise include: Crisis Management, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Gottman Communication Skills, CBT therapy to reduce anger and address addictive behaviors, Love & Logic Parenting, ADHD testing, and extensive experience working with loss/trauma.
You're hurt and angry and thinking, 'Why do we argue about the same things over and over again I am so tired of fighting! What happened to the way we used to be?' I know you're frustrated. Couples tell me how lonely they feel. You and your partner can be happy again, you can learn to turn towards eachother, reconnect emotionally, and create a more caring and fulfilling relationship. For more than 20 years I've worked with couples and families helping them find a better way to live and love and work together.
Areas of expertise include: Crisis Management, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Gottman Communication Skills, CBT therapy to reduce anger and address addictive behaviors, Love & Logic Parenting, ADHD testing, and extensive experience working with loss/trauma.
You're hurt and angry and thinking, 'Why do we argue about the same things over and over again I am so tired of fighting! What happened to the way we used to be?' I know you're frustrated. Couples tell me how lonely they feel. You and your partner can be happy again, you can learn to turn towards eachother, reconnect emotionally, and create a more caring and fulfilling relationship. For more than 20 years I've worked with couples and families helping them find a better way to live and love and work together.
(661) 731-3925 View (661) 731-3925
Photo of Susan L Holley Phd, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
Susan L Holley Phd
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561  (Online Only)
Soon I will be uploading parts of my book: "Horse-Sense for Couples: Using the Equine Equation to Improve Our Human Relationships" (A Communication Handbook).
Hello. Welcome to my section. I have enjoyed helping individuals and families for many years in the sunny Antelope Valley. I work with people who are struggling with mood swings, anxieties or who are just feeling stuck. I use many treatment modalities such as assessment testing, relaxation techniques (and hypnotherapy), family systems, behavioral strategies and cognitive behavioral therapies (based on each client's need). To find your "out-of-pocket" share please contact your insurance company.
Soon I will be uploading parts of my book: "Horse-Sense for Couples: Using the Equine Equation to Improve Our Human Relationships" (A Communication Handbook).
Hello. Welcome to my section. I have enjoyed helping individuals and families for many years in the sunny Antelope Valley. I work with people who are struggling with mood swings, anxieties or who are just feeling stuck. I use many treatment modalities such as assessment testing, relaxation techniques (and hypnotherapy), family systems, behavioral strategies and cognitive behavioral therapies (based on each client's need). To find your "out-of-pocket" share please contact your insurance company.
(661) 418-5965 View (661) 418-5965

Couples Counseling Therapists

Does couples counseling work?

Research shows that couples counseling is effective; it can reduce relationship distress and improve emotional awareness, communication, empathy, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction. For example, emotionally focused therapy was found to be effective for about 75 percent of couples, and those benefits lasted at least two years.

When should a couple seek counseling?

Couples can benefit from counseling if they consistently struggle in their relationship. They may have lost the ability to communicate effectively, become entrenched in harmful patterns, begun to fight more than usual, broken the other’s trust, suffered from a mental or physical illness, or faced any number of other challenges. Many therapists offer free consultations, so if a couple isn’t sure whether therapy is necessary, asking directly can provide clarity.

How can I get my partner to go to couples therapy?

The decision to seek couples therapy is often driven by one partner, who then convinces the other to participate. When discussing the idea, the initiator should be direct and assertive. They can state the problems they see and explain how the relationship would benefit from therapy. In more serious cases, they can also explain how their relationship may suffer without making any changes or seeking professional help.

How does a couple prepare for couples counseling?

The anticipation of beginning couples counseling can be difficult—sometimes more difficult than the first session itself. Taking a few moments to reflect can allay those concerns: What are the current challenges? When and how did they begin? What do they want the relationship to look like in the future? Reflecting on these questions can help individuals or couples articulate their goals. Of course, the therapist will also ask questions and guide couples through the process.