Therapists in Kern County, CA

Photo of Teresamaria Zavala, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Teresamaria Zavala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561
Hi there, I'm Teresamaria Zavala, but prefer to be called Teresa. I am a licensed clinical social worker, I like to say as a therapist "I want to work myself out of a job," I am a huge believer that therapy has its place in a person's life but ultimately has an end date. My goal is to get you to the point you can continue on in your life with new skills and hope. I have a specialized interest in gender-specific therapy, people struggling with addiction, transitional-aged youth, and the needs of LGBTQIA+ community.
Hi there, I'm Teresamaria Zavala, but prefer to be called Teresa. I am a licensed clinical social worker, I like to say as a therapist "I want to work myself out of a job," I am a huge believer that therapy has its place in a person's life but ultimately has an end date. My goal is to get you to the point you can continue on in your life with new skills and hope. I have a specialized interest in gender-specific therapy, people struggling with addiction, transitional-aged youth, and the needs of LGBTQIA+ community.
(661) 417-0674 View (661) 417-0674
Photo of Jefferson Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Jefferson Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
Jefferson Young is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience providing exceptional care and assisting clients and their families to improve their emotional health. Jefferson came to Los Angeles from Virginia and became a trained and licensed therapist assisting in the development of a Dual Diagnosis program for a local area non-profit. He has lent that experience in assisting the development of Medication Assisted Therapy program for clients with substance use disorders.
Jefferson Young is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience providing exceptional care and assisting clients and their families to improve their emotional health. Jefferson came to Los Angeles from Virginia and became a trained and licensed therapist assisting in the development of a Dual Diagnosis program for a local area non-profit. He has lent that experience in assisting the development of Medication Assisted Therapy program for clients with substance use disorders.
(661) 443-3039 View (661) 443-3039
Photo of Michael Brollini, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Michael Brollini
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
My Name is Michael Bollini, I am Licensed in California as a marriage and family therapist, with 6 years of experience working with co-occurring mental health disorders and non-mental health disorders. It is my goal to help with learning alternative self-care activities, utilizing coping skills, and grounding techniques that could help us to function in the present moment. These are the basic fundamentals that are important through the healing process which could help improve your personal growth.
My Name is Michael Bollini, I am Licensed in California as a marriage and family therapist, with 6 years of experience working with co-occurring mental health disorders and non-mental health disorders. It is my goal to help with learning alternative self-care activities, utilizing coping skills, and grounding techniques that could help us to function in the present moment. These are the basic fundamentals that are important through the healing process which could help improve your personal growth.
(661) 689-5598 View (661) 689-5598
Photo of Mesha Muwanga, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
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 Rhonda Ince, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Kern County, CA
Rhonda Ince
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93313
In-person and virtual services available, I have a passion for helping others, and take pleasure in helping people learn to manage their circumstances and live a happy and healthy life. I use holistic healing strategies in therapy and addresses each client through the lens of mind, body, and spirit. I enjoy expanding the mind with new ideas and practices by being an active learner in this regard which allows me to continue bringing fresh perspectives and healing strategies into sessions. I am fascinated with the brain and body working in unison, which can lead to swift healing and rapid achievement of the therapy goals of her cli
In-person and virtual services available, I have a passion for helping others, and take pleasure in helping people learn to manage their circumstances and live a happy and healthy life. I use holistic healing strategies in therapy and addresses each client through the lens of mind, body, and spirit. I enjoy expanding the mind with new ideas and practices by being an active learner in this regard which allows me to continue bringing fresh perspectives and healing strategies into sessions. I am fascinated with the brain and body working in unison, which can lead to swift healing and rapid achievement of the therapy goals of her cli
(661) 463-9101 View (661) 463-9101
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 Brice Hildreth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Brice Hildreth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561
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.
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 STONE Mental Health Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
STONE Mental Health Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, Ed D, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93306
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 Rhonda Carol Van Cleve, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Rhonda Carol Van Cleve
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Recovery is not for people who need it, it is for people who want it! I want to be along this journey with you! I will walk along side you each step of the way, encouraging you to be your best self. Children and teens are my passion, adults suffering from depression, anxiety, self-injurious behavior, and or trauma. I have extensive training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Perspectives.
Recovery is not for people who need it, it is for people who want it! I want to be along this journey with you! I will walk along side you each step of the way, encouraging you to be your best self. Children and teens are my passion, adults suffering from depression, anxiety, self-injurious behavior, and or trauma. I have extensive training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Perspectives.
(661) 490-9491 x1 View (661) 490-9491 x1
Photo of Mindful Path Counseling LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Mindful Path Counseling LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
Depression is overwhelming sadness that has an impact in living your best life. Depression can be accompanied by different symptoms of anxiety, panic and loss of energy/motivation. Overcoming depression can be challenging if you are doing it alone. Negative life experiences can and do have an impact on who you are and your happiness. Awareness and understanding of what is going on inside of yourself is powerful in helping yourself to overcome negative or irrational thoughts that are keeping you from being your true self.
Depression is overwhelming sadness that has an impact in living your best life. Depression can be accompanied by different symptoms of anxiety, panic and loss of energy/motivation. Overcoming depression can be challenging if you are doing it alone. Negative life experiences can and do have an impact on who you are and your happiness. Awareness and understanding of what is going on inside of yourself is powerful in helping yourself to overcome negative or irrational thoughts that are keeping you from being your true self.
(661) 220-5161 View (661) 220-5161
Photo of John R Navejas, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Kern County, CA
John R Navejas
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
John Navejas is registered as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist providing services in both substance abuse and mental health treatment modalities. John’s career experience began while volunteering with the Homeless Collaborative. John has worked with many populations including adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger, relationship issues, and identifying/controlling emotions and thoughts. He has led groups such as Anger Replacement Training, Strengthening Families, CBT interventions for substance abuse and created the first trauma informed yoga group at a juvenile detention facility.
John Navejas is registered as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist providing services in both substance abuse and mental health treatment modalities. John’s career experience began while volunteering with the Homeless Collaborative. John has worked with many populations including adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger, relationship issues, and identifying/controlling emotions and thoughts. He has led groups such as Anger Replacement Training, Strengthening Families, CBT interventions for substance abuse and created the first trauma informed yoga group at a juvenile detention facility.
(661) 233-9744 View (661) 233-9744
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
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.
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 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 Veronica Colwin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Veronica Colwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301  (Online Only)
I am an empathetic therapist with a passion to create a space where clients can be heard and seen. I have experience in leading clients to self-empowerment and awareness to overcome challenges in their life. I also assist clients in developing skills in bettering their life and managing their symptoms of anxiety and depression. Through clinical, life experience, and compassion I value working to assist those willing to make a positive difference in their lives.
I am an empathetic therapist with a passion to create a space where clients can be heard and seen. I have experience in leading clients to self-empowerment and awareness to overcome challenges in their life. I also assist clients in developing skills in bettering their life and managing their symptoms of anxiety and depression. Through clinical, life experience, and compassion I value working to assist those willing to make a positive difference in their lives.
(385) 263-2025 View (385) 263-2025
Photo of Victor Alcantar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Victor Alcantar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
Hello, My name is Victor Alcantar, LMFT and I have over 21 years of experience as a mental health professional. I have experience in working with acute and chronic mental health disorders. Not only do I believe that the relationship between your thoughts, feelings and actions are essential to your mental health and daily functioning, but I am certain that they are the foundation to healthy relationships with friends, family and intimate partners in your personal life at home, work and social network.
Hello, My name is Victor Alcantar, LMFT and I have over 21 years of experience as a mental health professional. I have experience in working with acute and chronic mental health disorders. Not only do I believe that the relationship between your thoughts, feelings and actions are essential to your mental health and daily functioning, but I am certain that they are the foundation to healthy relationships with friends, family and intimate partners in your personal life at home, work and social network.
(661) 449-2213 View (661) 449-2213
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 Denny Ray Moss, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Denny Ray Moss
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, CBIS, CHT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
Congratulations on taking the first step towards healing! I believe that our primary purpose in life is to strive to be the best version of ourselves that we can possibly be - regardless of our starting point. But finding our path cannot happen without taking the courageous first steps of self-examination and exploration. I provide individual and family therapy, as well as marriage and couples counseling, specializing in conflict management and treating clients with chemical dependency and other addictive patterns of behavior. People experiencing problems with stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss and other life struggles also seek my help.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards healing! I believe that our primary purpose in life is to strive to be the best version of ourselves that we can possibly be - regardless of our starting point. But finding our path cannot happen without taking the courageous first steps of self-examination and exploration. I provide individual and family therapy, as well as marriage and couples counseling, specializing in conflict management and treating clients with chemical dependency and other addictive patterns of behavior. People experiencing problems with stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss and other life struggles also seek my help.
(661) 384-6362 View (661) 384-6362
Photo of Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(805) 232-7458 View (805) 232-7458
Photo of Luiza Pinaud, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Luiza Pinaud
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
I provide client-centered, strength-based, and evidence-based treatment to people from all backgrounds. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, stress, and addiction disorders. I like to integrate different approaches into my practice, such as CBT, DBT, attachment theory and mindfulness practices. I work with individuals and couples and speak Portuguese and Spanish. I am most comfortable treating patients with mild to moderate symptoms struggling with depression, anxiety, stress or substance use disorders.
I provide client-centered, strength-based, and evidence-based treatment to people from all backgrounds. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, stress, and addiction disorders. I like to integrate different approaches into my practice, such as CBT, DBT, attachment theory and mindfulness practices. I work with individuals and couples and speak Portuguese and Spanish. I am most comfortable treating patients with mild to moderate symptoms struggling with depression, anxiety, stress or substance use disorders.
(510) 380-7422 View (510) 380-7422
Photo of Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(831) 208-3271 View (831) 208-3271

Drug Abuse Therapists

How do substance and drug recovery or rehabilitation programs work?

In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other clients in recovery; in outpatient programs, individuals reside at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counselors, and psychotherapists. Staff often also includes people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other methods.

How do 12-step programs combined with psychotherapy work?

Members of 12-step programs help each other reach abstinence and work to maintain it. These programs promote complete change in the individual’s emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual perspectives. Some programs require that new members attend 90 meetings in 90 days. Many people do attend these programs in conjunction with their work in psychotherapy; the combination of therapy along with 12-step can be extremely effective.

How does harm reduction combined with psychotherapy work?

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, harm reduction prevents death, injury, disease, overdose, and substance misuse. People who choose harm reduction for substance use reduce the amount of drugs they consume. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.

Are there specific medications for substance and drug use?

There are medications approved to treat substance use disorder—such as buprenorphine, methadone, naltrexone, and acamprosate. These medications do help people cope with substance use as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone can help reduce cravings, methadone is an opioid medication used to treat severe pain, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.