Therapists in Kern County, CA

Photo of Erika M Melendez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Erika M Melendez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Waitlist for new clients
Are you looking for someone to work with your infant, toddler, kid, teen or young adult? I would be honored to work with your child to manage day to day stressors or more severe issues like sexual assault, dating violence, bullying, or grief. I also love to work with parents or other caretakers/support people to provide education and work collaboratively to help the child feel whole and able to thrive! Regardless if your child is 1 or 25 I want to help them reach their goals to heal and feel empowered!
Are you looking for someone to work with your infant, toddler, kid, teen or young adult? I would be honored to work with your child to manage day to day stressors or more severe issues like sexual assault, dating violence, bullying, or grief. I also love to work with parents or other caretakers/support people to provide education and work collaboratively to help the child feel whole and able to thrive! Regardless if your child is 1 or 25 I want to help them reach their goals to heal and feel empowered!
(661) 760-2731 View (661) 760-2731
Photo of Glenda G. Love, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Glenda G. Love
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW, PhD, in, Progres
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561
I hold an M.S. in Sociology with a Certificate in Criminology and Corrections, an M.S.W. in Social Work, and am finishing a Ph.D. in Social Work. I am the past President of the Domestic Violence Advisory Council 2014 (and 2008), with expertise in domestic abuse, sexual assault and children exposed to domestic abuse. I volunteer with the American Red Cross as a Mental Health Clinician, deploying to Moore, Oklahoma in May 2013 for the Spring Tornadoes, Austin, TX in October for the Halloween Flood and the Volcano eruptions in Hilo, Hawaii 2018. Along with individual counseling, I offer relationship, family, children, and teens.
I hold an M.S. in Sociology with a Certificate in Criminology and Corrections, an M.S.W. in Social Work, and am finishing a Ph.D. in Social Work. I am the past President of the Domestic Violence Advisory Council 2014 (and 2008), with expertise in domestic abuse, sexual assault and children exposed to domestic abuse. I volunteer with the American Red Cross as a Mental Health Clinician, deploying to Moore, Oklahoma in May 2013 for the Spring Tornadoes, Austin, TX in October for the Halloween Flood and the Volcano eruptions in Hilo, Hawaii 2018. Along with individual counseling, I offer relationship, family, children, and teens.
(661) 689-4098 View (661) 689-4098
Photo of Quinsea Pratt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Quinsea Pratt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215
Hello! I’m Quinsea, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker focusing on you, the individual and all things that make us human. I enjoy indoor rock climbing, lifting weights and my mini wiener dog, Gizmo. I have an extensive background in working with clients affected by trauma including sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse as well as formerly incarcerated folks, LGBTQIA+ and homeless individuals. I also work directly with folks experiencing chronic stress, anxiety and depression along with other serious mental health diagnosis.
Hello! I’m Quinsea, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker focusing on you, the individual and all things that make us human. I enjoy indoor rock climbing, lifting weights and my mini wiener dog, Gizmo. I have an extensive background in working with clients affected by trauma including sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse as well as formerly incarcerated folks, LGBTQIA+ and homeless individuals. I also work directly with folks experiencing chronic stress, anxiety and depression along with other serious mental health diagnosis.
(661) 459-6077 View (661) 459-6077
Photo of Ana Isela An, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Ana Isela An
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
I have worked with survivors and victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and rape.
I am a bilingual, Licenced Clinical Social Worker with a passion and commitment for serving and helping others achieve their goals of recovery. My goal is to create a safe setting where you feel comfortable talking about your feelings, emotions, and traumatic experiences.
I have worked with survivors and victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and rape.
I am a bilingual, Licenced Clinical Social Worker with a passion and commitment for serving and helping others achieve their goals of recovery. My goal is to create a safe setting where you feel comfortable talking about your feelings, emotions, and traumatic experiences.
(661) 463-8939 View (661) 463-8939
Photo of Vicki Underwood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Vicki Underwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
I have worked with various populations and issues, including forensics, sexual abuse, domestic violence, trauma, transgender, gay & lesbian, adolescents, crisis, self-harming behaviors, couples & families.
We all struggle at times and our struggles are our own, do not compare what may feel catastrophic to you to what others are dealing with. I have been practicing for 12 years and revolve my practice around person-centered therapy; non-judgment, genuineness & positive regard. I will accept you for who you are and we will start where you are. My goal is to help you reach your goals. I find that humor, compassion, and authenticity allow my clients to feel comfortable and progress at the same time. Since 2010, I have provided intensive therapy at institutional, residential, and outpatient levels of care for adults and adolescents.
I have worked with various populations and issues, including forensics, sexual abuse, domestic violence, trauma, transgender, gay & lesbian, adolescents, crisis, self-harming behaviors, couples & families.
We all struggle at times and our struggles are our own, do not compare what may feel catastrophic to you to what others are dealing with. I have been practicing for 12 years and revolve my practice around person-centered therapy; non-judgment, genuineness & positive regard. I will accept you for who you are and we will start where you are. My goal is to help you reach your goals. I find that humor, compassion, and authenticity allow my clients to feel comfortable and progress at the same time. Since 2010, I have provided intensive therapy at institutional, residential, and outpatient levels of care for adults and adolescents.
(661) 215-6319 View (661) 215-6319
Photo of Amanda Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Amanda Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rosamond, CA 93560  (Online Only)
Hi there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Trauma Provider. My background is a combination of trauma and community-based mental health and I work with clients with an array of diverse backgrounds. My work with clients involves finding out how to address the concerns that stop you from living a fulfilling life. Finding answers to question such as: How can we move from surviving to thriving, becoming the best version of what we want for ourselves? Prior to becoming a psychotherapist I spent seven years in crisis work, working with individuals experiencing domestic violence and sexual assault.
Hi there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Trauma Provider. My background is a combination of trauma and community-based mental health and I work with clients with an array of diverse backgrounds. My work with clients involves finding out how to address the concerns that stop you from living a fulfilling life. Finding answers to question such as: How can we move from surviving to thriving, becoming the best version of what we want for ourselves? Prior to becoming a psychotherapist I spent seven years in crisis work, working with individuals experiencing domestic violence and sexual assault.
(661) 449-9284 View (661) 449-9284
Photo of Andrea Burt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Andrea Burt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561
Life is full of ups and downs. At times we need help getting through the downs. I have 23 years of experience working with individuals and families suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse, and relational difficulties. I believe in building a trusting relationship with my clients so that we can work together to improve their lives. My techniques include exploring and validating feelings—gentle confrontation, problem-solving, and teaching coping strategies. I am noted for my compassion and sense of humor!
Life is full of ups and downs. At times we need help getting through the downs. I have 23 years of experience working with individuals and families suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse, and relational difficulties. I believe in building a trusting relationship with my clients so that we can work together to improve their lives. My techniques include exploring and validating feelings—gentle confrontation, problem-solving, and teaching coping strategies. I am noted for my compassion and sense of humor!
(661) 269-7608 View (661) 269-7608
Photo of Rhonda Ince, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Kern County, CA
Rhonda Ince
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93313
My specialties are faith based and include trauma, domestic violence, sexual abuse and assault, suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, life transition, separation and divorce.
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
My specialties are faith based and include trauma, domestic violence, sexual abuse and assault, suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, life transition, separation and divorce.
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 Joanna Charnas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Joanna Charnas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
I have extensive experience working with people experiencing depression, anxiety, sexual assault, phase of life issues, LBGTQIA issues, and geriatrics.
I have been a clinical social worker for over thirty years, and have fifteen years specifically working in mental health. My specialties include helping people with chronic illness, anxiety, depression, LBGTQIA issues, and geriatrics. I work collaboratively with my clients to increase their well-being, using evidenced based treatments to improve their mental health and quality of life. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Activation, Psychodynamic Therapy, as well as tools from Dialectical Behavioral Therapsy, EMDR, and Rational Emotive Therapy.
I have extensive experience working with people experiencing depression, anxiety, sexual assault, phase of life issues, LBGTQIA issues, and geriatrics.
I have been a clinical social worker for over thirty years, and have fifteen years specifically working in mental health. My specialties include helping people with chronic illness, anxiety, depression, LBGTQIA issues, and geriatrics. I work collaboratively with my clients to increase their well-being, using evidenced based treatments to improve their mental health and quality of life. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Activation, Psychodynamic Therapy, as well as tools from Dialectical Behavioral Therapsy, EMDR, and Rational Emotive Therapy.
(760) 615-3034 View (760) 615-3034
Photo of Danielle Duran MA, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Danielle Duran MA
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93302
Hello and welcome. You have taken the first step in an exciting and rewarding journey to understand and heal from issues which can keep you from your fullest happiness. Together we will embark on a partnership to explore who you are, and why you make the choices you do. Although I treat many different issues, my biggest passions are healing wounds from childhood sexual abuse, working with mood disorders, and helping find a healthy balance in daily life.
Hello and welcome. You have taken the first step in an exciting and rewarding journey to understand and heal from issues which can keep you from your fullest happiness. Together we will embark on a partnership to explore who you are, and why you make the choices you do. Although I treat many different issues, my biggest passions are healing wounds from childhood sexual abuse, working with mood disorders, and helping find a healthy balance in daily life.
(559) 517-3716 View (559) 517-3716
Photo of Meghan Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Meghan Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
Facing difficult emotional and interpersonal challenges in our lives can be terrifying but can also be a time for growth and healing. Talking with someone who listens without judgment, understands your concerns, and helps you clarify issues can be invaluable. I am a culturally competent therapist with experience working with various populations including, the LGBTQ community, patients struggling with chronic/serious/life threatening illness (Palliative Care) adolescents, adults, couples, veterans, anxiety and depression.
Facing difficult emotional and interpersonal challenges in our lives can be terrifying but can also be a time for growth and healing. Talking with someone who listens without judgment, understands your concerns, and helps you clarify issues can be invaluable. I am a culturally competent therapist with experience working with various populations including, the LGBTQ community, patients struggling with chronic/serious/life threatening illness (Palliative Care) adolescents, adults, couples, veterans, anxiety and depression.
(661) 491-5209 View (661) 491-5209
Photo of Maria N Reyes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Maria N Reyes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561  (Online Only)
I’d like to begin by acknowledging the courage that it takes to seek out therapy. The reality is that life is hard! Yes, there are beautiful moments but the difficult times are very real. I am a BILINGUAL (Spanish speaking) LMFT providing counseling to individuals and families addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, parenting issues, DCFS, and much more.
I’d like to begin by acknowledging the courage that it takes to seek out therapy. The reality is that life is hard! Yes, there are beautiful moments but the difficult times are very real. I am a BILINGUAL (Spanish speaking) LMFT providing counseling to individuals and families addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, parenting issues, DCFS, and much more.
(661) 215-2801 View (661) 215-2801
Photo of Kingdom Community Ministries, Pastoral Counselor in Kern County, CA
Kingdom Community Ministries
Pastoral Counselor, DMin
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Michael knows first-hand the trials of life-when he was just two years old, his father died suddenly leaving him, his mother and seven older siblings in a state of shock and horror. As a means of coping, Michael's mother turned to alcohol, and for fifteen years she attempted to drown her sorrows. But God is so much bigger than our circumstances! For more than two and a half decades, through Christ, Michael has lived life as an over-comer to the crippling effects of sin and guilt.
Michael knows first-hand the trials of life-when he was just two years old, his father died suddenly leaving him, his mother and seven older siblings in a state of shock and horror. As a means of coping, Michael's mother turned to alcohol, and for fifteen years she attempted to drown her sorrows. But God is so much bigger than our circumstances! For more than two and a half decades, through Christ, Michael has lived life as an over-comer to the crippling effects of sin and guilt.
(661) 441-3263 x302 View (661) 441-3263 x302
Photo of Jennifer De La Cruz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Jennifer De La Cruz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
Hi, my name is Jennifer De La Cruz, LMFT and I am Certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I use a trauma-informed approach to therapy and am passionate about utilizing EMDR to resolve past memories and experiences that are still causing distress in the present. My goal is to walk alongside my clients throughout their journey toward healing and freedom.
Hi, my name is Jennifer De La Cruz, LMFT and I am Certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I use a trauma-informed approach to therapy and am passionate about utilizing EMDR to resolve past memories and experiences that are still causing distress in the present. My goal is to walk alongside my clients throughout their journey toward healing and freedom.
(661) 403-0203 View (661) 403-0203
Photo of Social Therapy Services , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Social Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with people to find the peace they desire in their life. Being a human is complicated, and if we have a poor support system or do not wish to burden our loved ones, we hire a therapist. I tell people I don't find problems, and we only work on what we feel comfortable with at the time. I love to help you reduce the side effects of trauma affecting your life. I can help you love yourself while creating boundaries needed to be happier. I can hold your hand, and we can find your best solutions, or I can cut to the chase and move forward to help you deal with the uncomfortable problems in your life.
I enjoy working with people to find the peace they desire in their life. Being a human is complicated, and if we have a poor support system or do not wish to burden our loved ones, we hire a therapist. I tell people I don't find problems, and we only work on what we feel comfortable with at the time. I love to help you reduce the side effects of trauma affecting your life. I can help you love yourself while creating boundaries needed to be happier. I can hold your hand, and we can find your best solutions, or I can cut to the chase and move forward to help you deal with the uncomfortable problems in your life.
(760) 254-0776 View (760) 254-0776
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 Stephanie H Espinosa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Stephanie H Espinosa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
Welcome, my name is Stephanie H. Espinosa and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Congratulations on taking the first step towards a better you! Often times, the pressures of life, our core beliefs and societal influences can significantly impact our lives in an adverse way. As a result, we often get stuck in self-destructive cycles and lose hope that our lives can be different. We habitually self-medicate with food, alcohol, drugs, work and/or sex to seek a moment of escape and even happiness.
Welcome, my name is Stephanie H. Espinosa and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Congratulations on taking the first step towards a better you! Often times, the pressures of life, our core beliefs and societal influences can significantly impact our lives in an adverse way. As a result, we often get stuck in self-destructive cycles and lose hope that our lives can be different. We habitually self-medicate with food, alcohol, drugs, work and/or sex to seek a moment of escape and even happiness.
(661) 426-2572 View (661) 426-2572
Photo of Kristin Kyle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Kristin Kyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
My passion is to help people face their trauma, hurts, fears or whatever is holding them from reaching their full potential. It's important to focus on the whole person and all aspects of wellness. It is my honor to help individuals, couples and families. I will provide a safe space, free of judgement, to work through whatever issues are holding you back.
My passion is to help people face their trauma, hurts, fears or whatever is holding them from reaching their full potential. It's important to focus on the whole person and all aspects of wellness. It is my honor to help individuals, couples and families. I will provide a safe space, free of judgement, to work through whatever issues are holding you back.
View
Photo of Marsinah Ramirez Buchan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Marsinah Ramirez Buchan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
Difficulty Finding A Therapist? Sessions Now Available In Person or Online. When we are stuck in the midst of problems, it is often difficult to have hope. It may feel like things will never change. Being stuck prevents us from seeing our choices, so we may try to resolve a problem by doing something that we have already tried. This is normal, but sometimes normal stops working. So when life gets chaotic - or just plain crazy - and what we have tried has failed, consider therapy to become unstuck. I am here to help you untangle yourself from difficult situations, self-sabotaging behaviors or emotional angst that makes life hard.
Difficulty Finding A Therapist? Sessions Now Available In Person or Online. When we are stuck in the midst of problems, it is often difficult to have hope. It may feel like things will never change. Being stuck prevents us from seeing our choices, so we may try to resolve a problem by doing something that we have already tried. This is normal, but sometimes normal stops working. So when life gets chaotic - or just plain crazy - and what we have tried has failed, consider therapy to become unstuck. I am here to help you untangle yourself from difficult situations, self-sabotaging behaviors or emotional angst that makes life hard.
(760) 492-6662 View (760) 492-6662
Photo of Janette Delina Rodriguez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Janette Delina Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93304  (Online Only)
Are you an adult 18+ struggling to enjoy life in the present moment, after experiencing a traumatic event(s)? Are symptoms creating barriers in your ability to enjoy your life? These symptoms are signals that the body is sending to make one aware that now is the time to take those steps to process and heal. I understand that unraveling the most delicate parts of your past can seem overwhelming. I am here to guide you and support you through your journey. As your Therapist, I will meet you where you are. I will continuously make sure you are comfortable in treatment by always making sure you feel we are working together.
Are you an adult 18+ struggling to enjoy life in the present moment, after experiencing a traumatic event(s)? Are symptoms creating barriers in your ability to enjoy your life? These symptoms are signals that the body is sending to make one aware that now is the time to take those steps to process and heal. I understand that unraveling the most delicate parts of your past can seem overwhelming. I am here to guide you and support you through your journey. As your Therapist, I will meet you where you are. I will continuously make sure you are comfortable in treatment by always making sure you feel we are working together.
(661) 451-6410 View (661) 451-6410

Female Therapists

Does it matter what gender my therapist is?

In general, this is not an important factor, as there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or ingrained beliefs about how people of different genders think and behave. Exploring the roots of such preferences and considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender truly matters to them.

Should I see a female therapist?

Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist, either because they believe that a woman will be able to relate to their specific challenges (for example, sexism in the workplace) or because they imagine feeling more comfortable disclosing sensitive information to a woman. Such beliefs may not turn out to be accurate, however, and adhering too rigidly to a gender preference can at times hinder a client from finding the best therapeutic match.

Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?

Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists—both men and women—may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?

It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.