LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 93312
Drew Wiggins
Limited Licensed Psychologist, TLLP
Not Verified Not Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
My clinical interests and specialties include childhood/adult trauma, childhood sexual abuse, LGBTQ+ affirmative care, couples/relationship issues, identity and intersectionality, gender and sexuality, and grief/loss.
Seeking therapy for yourself can be complex and multi-layered. Finding a therapist you connect with is essential. I work interactively and collaboratively to support you at your pace while helping you move toward the fullest expression of the life you wish to lead. I value and utilize a trauma-informed lens wherein I aim to co-create a safe holding environment where the changes you hope for can occur. The therapeutic relationship is the backdrop for investigation, integration, and healing with openness, curiosity, self-compassion, and tenderness. I aim to embody authenticity, humor, and generosity throughout my work with clients.
My clinical interests and specialties include childhood/adult trauma, childhood sexual abuse, LGBTQ+ affirmative care, couples/relationship issues, identity and intersectionality, gender and sexuality, and grief/loss.
Seeking therapy for yourself can be complex and multi-layered. Finding a therapist you connect with is essential. I work interactively and collaboratively to support you at your pace while helping you move toward the fullest expression of the life you wish to lead. I value and utilize a trauma-informed lens wherein I aim to co-create a safe holding environment where the changes you hope for can occur. The therapeutic relationship is the backdrop for investigation, integration, and healing with openness, curiosity, self-compassion, and tenderness. I aim to embody authenticity, humor, and generosity throughout my work with clients.
Reshana Watson | Relationship And Individuals Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312 (Online Only)
I enjoy creating a safe space for working professionals, athletes, performers, artists, queer, straight, interracial, monog & ENM couples & individuals struggling w/ physical/emotional affairs, lack of sexual desire/intimacy, boundaries, identity, communication, connection, co-parenting, or maybe you’re feeling stuck & you want to get back to “normal”.
Are you looking for a therapist who understands Boundaries can be Terrifying to set & defend, Change can feel Debilitating but Necessary, & Conversations even the most well-intentioned ones can sometimes still turn into Conflict in no time? A therapist who can be frank with you when needs be? Or maybe you're just looking for a therapist who will finally understand your pop culture references & can find a tv show or movie to better convey pretty much any life occurrence.lol On a serious note, therapy can be hard but necessary maintenance of the mind, & though it’s it shouldn’t be taken lightly, it doesn’t have to be daunting either.
I enjoy creating a safe space for working professionals, athletes, performers, artists, queer, straight, interracial, monog & ENM couples & individuals struggling w/ physical/emotional affairs, lack of sexual desire/intimacy, boundaries, identity, communication, connection, co-parenting, or maybe you’re feeling stuck & you want to get back to “normal”.
Are you looking for a therapist who understands Boundaries can be Terrifying to set & defend, Change can feel Debilitating but Necessary, & Conversations even the most well-intentioned ones can sometimes still turn into Conflict in no time? A therapist who can be frank with you when needs be? Or maybe you're just looking for a therapist who will finally understand your pop culture references & can find a tv show or movie to better convey pretty much any life occurrence.lol On a serious note, therapy can be hard but necessary maintenance of the mind, & though it’s it shouldn’t be taken lightly, it doesn’t have to be daunting either.
Lisa Gavin-Cruse
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312
Accepting NEW adult Clients! It is hard to call and ask anyone for help. I am an experienced therapist that knows the courage it takes to make the call. I help people with distant marriages, personal growth, and difficult life transitions. I want you to find your Joy! I am gay friendly. Searching for more meaning in your life? I can help you discover meaning, and expand your life.
Accepting NEW adult Clients! It is hard to call and ask anyone for help. I am an experienced therapist that knows the courage it takes to make the call. I help people with distant marriages, personal growth, and difficult life transitions. I want you to find your Joy! I am gay friendly. Searching for more meaning in your life? I can help you discover meaning, and expand your life.
Sara Fierro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
My name is Sara Fierro, I am dually licensed in California as a Marriage and Family Therapist and a Professional Clinical Counselor. My focus areas include, but are not limited to, anxiety, trauma and resilience, depression, LGBTQIA+, life transitions, spirituality, interpersonal relationships/relational conflict, women's issues, dual diagnosis, ADHD, parenting, and self-esteem. I have an eclectic approach to therapy because I utilize interventions and skills from many theoretical orientations, including Client-Centered, Narrative, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused, Strength-Based, Holistic, and Interpersonal
My name is Sara Fierro, I am dually licensed in California as a Marriage and Family Therapist and a Professional Clinical Counselor. My focus areas include, but are not limited to, anxiety, trauma and resilience, depression, LGBTQIA+, life transitions, spirituality, interpersonal relationships/relational conflict, women's issues, dual diagnosis, ADHD, parenting, and self-esteem. I have an eclectic approach to therapy because I utilize interventions and skills from many theoretical orientations, including Client-Centered, Narrative, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused, Strength-Based, Holistic, and Interpersonal
Blake Kerr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
Over human history, people have mostly lived in close-knit communities. This has eroded with the advances in transportation and technology. Most people have lost much of the social support our forebearers enjoyed.
Over human history, people have mostly lived in close-knit communities. This has eroded with the advances in transportation and technology. Most people have lost much of the social support our forebearers enjoyed.
Coleen Keiser
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
I have always found people to be fabulously interesting. I believe that your story matters … together, using science-based theories and interventions, we can sort through feelings and behaviors that may seem destructive, confusing, or just too overwhelming to sort out alone. To be curious, with an openness to self-discovery, we can evolve and heal, and our capacity for love and growth ripples throughout our life.
I have always found people to be fabulously interesting. I believe that your story matters … together, using science-based theories and interventions, we can sort through feelings and behaviors that may seem destructive, confusing, or just too overwhelming to sort out alone. To be curious, with an openness to self-discovery, we can evolve and heal, and our capacity for love and growth ripples throughout our life.
Alexander A Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFTI
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with individuals providing treatment for mood disorders, irrational core beliefs, and behavioral difficulties. I have also worked with couples on issues related to relational repair, attachment enhancement, and conflict resolution. My work in family systems focus on increasing attachment bonds within the family system, help with re-orienting established norms, and conflict resolution.
I have experience working with individuals providing treatment for mood disorders, irrational core beliefs, and behavioral difficulties. I have also worked with couples on issues related to relational repair, attachment enhancement, and conflict resolution. My work in family systems focus on increasing attachment bonds within the family system, help with re-orienting established norms, and conflict resolution.
Shahzad K Chaudhry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312
While I approach therapy from a Cognitive Behavioral perspective, focusing on challenging thoughts and changing behaviors, I do so with the primary focus on respect for my patients and their individual issues. I want you to feel supported in session but also know that you will be challenged and tasked with completing goals in between sessions. I greatly enjoy helping my patients reach their own goals to be successful in their life, especially in the areas of social relationships, academics, employment, and self-care.
While I approach therapy from a Cognitive Behavioral perspective, focusing on challenging thoughts and changing behaviors, I do so with the primary focus on respect for my patients and their individual issues. I want you to feel supported in session but also know that you will be challenged and tasked with completing goals in between sessions. I greatly enjoy helping my patients reach their own goals to be successful in their life, especially in the areas of social relationships, academics, employment, and self-care.
Brittanie Robledo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
Nothing changes if nothing changes is a quote that I have lived my life by for years. Are you ready to make changes? Even just a small one? Seeking out therapy is already a change that can improve your overall well-being. I specialize in treating adults or adolescents struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and family conflict in residential and outpatient settings. I am passionate about helping those who are ready to learn and implement positive habits into their lives. I am passionate about supporting your growth in relationships, work, school, etc.
Nothing changes if nothing changes is a quote that I have lived my life by for years. Are you ready to make changes? Even just a small one? Seeking out therapy is already a change that can improve your overall well-being. I specialize in treating adults or adolescents struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and family conflict in residential and outpatient settings. I am passionate about helping those who are ready to learn and implement positive habits into their lives. I am passionate about supporting your growth in relationships, work, school, etc.
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.
Daniel S. Rubiaco
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312
Welcome! My practice includes supporting adolescents, young adults, and adult professionals who are stressed, experiencing anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and major conflict. I also have significant experience working with victims of violent crimes of all ages, which includes the challenges of navigating the criminal court process. I work with clients of various racial, ethnic, cultural, sexual, and religious identities both in inpatient and outpatient settings. My commitment is to cultivate an accepting and confidential environment to promote emotional support and safety in difficult times.
Welcome! My practice includes supporting adolescents, young adults, and adult professionals who are stressed, experiencing anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and major conflict. I also have significant experience working with victims of violent crimes of all ages, which includes the challenges of navigating the criminal court process. I work with clients of various racial, ethnic, cultural, sexual, and religious identities both in inpatient and outpatient settings. My commitment is to cultivate an accepting and confidential environment to promote emotional support and safety in difficult times.
Yessica Avancena
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MBA, CMT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312
The ideal client is one who is ready for change and open to healing. I work with individuals with a variety of mental health issues, emergent spirituality concerns or finding oneself through life purpose utilizing Mindfulness-based practices, energy work among other techniques to help decrease stress and promote happiness.
The ideal client is one who is ready for change and open to healing. I work with individuals with a variety of mental health issues, emergent spirituality concerns or finding oneself through life purpose utilizing Mindfulness-based practices, energy work among other techniques to help decrease stress and promote happiness.
Meagan Marino
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312
Maternity Leave - I will update my account upon return around May 2024. If you are struggling with relationships, depression, anxiety, grief, and tired of patterns keeping you from moving forward, then I'm here to walk with you. I can help you understand how to shift your perspective, learn more about your past, how to cope with stressors, how to communicate more effectively, and more. You have it in you, and I can help introduce new skills and awareness in your life. I am also trained as an art therapist and can use artmaking as a tool in or out of session. I have experience in intensive outpatient therapy with teens and adults.
Maternity Leave - I will update my account upon return around May 2024. If you are struggling with relationships, depression, anxiety, grief, and tired of patterns keeping you from moving forward, then I'm here to walk with you. I can help you understand how to shift your perspective, learn more about your past, how to cope with stressors, how to communicate more effectively, and more. You have it in you, and I can help introduce new skills and awareness in your life. I am also trained as an art therapist and can use artmaking as a tool in or out of session. I have experience in intensive outpatient therapy with teens and adults.
Harjeet Kaur
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312
Mission: To provide clients throughout the So-Cal region with high-quality teletherapy at affordable prices so you can change your life, overcome the challenges you face, and become the person you want to be. I incorporates various services and specialties tailored for individuals and couples appointments. Services offered include (but are not limited to): Adolescence, Trauma, Depression and Anxiety, Academic and other school problems, Relationship problems, Personal growth in the workplace, & Grief counseling.
Mission: To provide clients throughout the So-Cal region with high-quality teletherapy at affordable prices so you can change your life, overcome the challenges you face, and become the person you want to be. I incorporates various services and specialties tailored for individuals and couples appointments. Services offered include (but are not limited to): Adolescence, Trauma, Depression and Anxiety, Academic and other school problems, Relationship problems, Personal growth in the workplace, & Grief counseling.
Genevieve M. Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
Anger. Guilt. Resentment. These are the common themes we all struggle with, today. Sadness is all too real when we hurt, and when we do not cope well, or do not know how to cope with our anger, guilt, and/or resentment, we can become depressed. What you will see, is a vicious cycle; a depressed person then becomes angry, and resentful, and can start to feel guilt. We are all able and capable of making better decisions for ourselves and for our loved ones. There is no shame in asking for help...only regret in never trying. I can help you.
Anger. Guilt. Resentment. These are the common themes we all struggle with, today. Sadness is all too real when we hurt, and when we do not cope well, or do not know how to cope with our anger, guilt, and/or resentment, we can become depressed. What you will see, is a vicious cycle; a depressed person then becomes angry, and resentful, and can start to feel guilt. We are all able and capable of making better decisions for ourselves and for our loved ones. There is no shame in asking for help...only regret in never trying. I can help you.
Michael H Bean
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFTT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
Is the arguing getting unbearable? Or just the silence? Distrust? Disconnection? Let's quickly focus on the most serious issues you face. Get ready for a compassionate, yet very "problem-solving" approach as you and I work together to untangle the knots that keep you stuck. If you are prepared for your life to get better, give me a call.
Is the arguing getting unbearable? Or just the silence? Distrust? Disconnection? Let's quickly focus on the most serious issues you face. Get ready for a compassionate, yet very "problem-solving" approach as you and I work together to untangle the knots that keep you stuck. If you are prepared for your life to get better, give me a call.
Courtney Samari Rayne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
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.
Ming Pokey Mariscal
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist (PsyD. from Biola University) with previous training as a Marriage & Family Therapist (MFT from Fuller Theological Seminary). I have a passion for providing professional Psychological services as well as Christian counseling to those who are suffering. I completed a total of six years of graduate training at two of the six American Psychological Association (APA) approved Christian clinical psychology programs. Both of these institutions are committed to the development of practitioners adept in the integration of Psychology and Christian theology in clinical practice and research.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist (PsyD. from Biola University) with previous training as a Marriage & Family Therapist (MFT from Fuller Theological Seminary). I have a passion for providing professional Psychological services as well as Christian counseling to those who are suffering. I completed a total of six years of graduate training at two of the six American Psychological Association (APA) approved Christian clinical psychology programs. Both of these institutions are committed to the development of practitioners adept in the integration of Psychology and Christian theology in clinical practice and research.
Lee Anne Adler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312
Relationships, communication, work, school, marriage, child-rearing, illness, and all stages of life can be very challenging at times. I am dedicated to providing a highly supportive atmosphere where solutions to these challenges can be explored and found with compassion and respect. I enjoy working with adults, couples, teens, and families to build stronger relationships and deeper self-understanding to make life's journey more enjoyable. I have many years of experience working with families as a registered nurse, and as a therapist, I have a deep understanding of how health related issues can impact individuals and families.
Relationships, communication, work, school, marriage, child-rearing, illness, and all stages of life can be very challenging at times. I am dedicated to providing a highly supportive atmosphere where solutions to these challenges can be explored and found with compassion and respect. I enjoy working with adults, couples, teens, and families to build stronger relationships and deeper self-understanding to make life's journey more enjoyable. I have many years of experience working with families as a registered nurse, and as a therapist, I have a deep understanding of how health related issues can impact individuals and families.
Becca Ferguson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312
I enjoy helping individuals and couples from 18 y/o through late adulthood. If you need help improving your life & your relationships, I can give you the tools you need! My clients tell me I am genuine and easy to talk to, and they feel they leave each session with realistic tools to improve their day to day lives. I like to work with a variety of individuals, couples, and families, on trauma, anxiety, depression and other issues, and I specialize in working with individuals with all types of sexual problems such as porn and sex addiction. I also love working with people with intellectual disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I enjoy helping individuals and couples from 18 y/o through late adulthood. If you need help improving your life & your relationships, I can give you the tools you need! My clients tell me I am genuine and easy to talk to, and they feel they leave each session with realistic tools to improve their day to day lives. I like to work with a variety of individuals, couples, and families, on trauma, anxiety, depression and other issues, and I specialize in working with individuals with all types of sexual problems such as porn and sex addiction. I also love working with people with intellectual disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
See more therapy options for 93312
LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.