Therapists in Kern County, CA
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.
Andrea Espinoza
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215
My name is Andrea Espinoza, LMFT. I help individuals and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, parenting issues, LGBTQIA issues, and more. My AASECT training helps me in my work with individuals and couples seeking to improve intimacy and sexual wellness, including sex education and empowerment. I prefer a Narrative approach in the work that I do, which allows me to help others in considering perspectives in their stories which could help alleviate problems experienced and contribute to a more preferred existence, or story. My role is to help guide you on your journey and empower people to live their most authentic lives.
My name is Andrea Espinoza, LMFT. I help individuals and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, parenting issues, LGBTQIA issues, and more. My AASECT training helps me in my work with individuals and couples seeking to improve intimacy and sexual wellness, including sex education and empowerment. I prefer a Narrative approach in the work that I do, which allows me to help others in considering perspectives in their stories which could help alleviate problems experienced and contribute to a more preferred existence, or story. My role is to help guide you on your journey and empower people to live their most authentic lives.
Lillian Fox
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93304 (Online Only)
In a world full of noise and expectation, are you feeling stuck? My passion lies in supporting Queer young adults as they actively seek identities, lifestyles, career paths & relationships that truly reflect their authentic selves. Along this journey of self-discovery, we also work on rejecting what doesn’t fit—whether it's the weight of parental expectations, the influence of religion, or the burden of internalized societal norms. Therapy with me is a space where you can find confidence in the life path that resonates with you, overcoming the anxiety, attachments, trauma & grief that may have characterized your life until now.
In a world full of noise and expectation, are you feeling stuck? My passion lies in supporting Queer young adults as they actively seek identities, lifestyles, career paths & relationships that truly reflect their authentic selves. Along this journey of self-discovery, we also work on rejecting what doesn’t fit—whether it's the weight of parental expectations, the influence of religion, or the burden of internalized societal norms. Therapy with me is a space where you can find confidence in the life path that resonates with you, overcoming the anxiety, attachments, trauma & grief that may have characterized your life until now.
Andrea Stocker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561
I also specialize in the LGBTQ+ population and ethical non-monogamy.
The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance -Alan Watts I am here to help you, this is your time. Whether you need someone to vent to, someone to help you set goals, or coping skills, I am here to help you. I have a very easy going approach that makes me easy to talk to and open up to. I also have a variety of lived experience that helps me connect with you. I want you to be comfortable and I cater my sessions to you.
I also specialize in the LGBTQ+ population and ethical non-monogamy.
The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance -Alan Watts I am here to help you, this is your time. Whether you need someone to vent to, someone to help you set goals, or coping skills, I am here to help you. I have a very easy going approach that makes me easy to talk to and open up to. I also have a variety of lived experience that helps me connect with you. I want you to be comfortable and I cater my sessions to you.
Kristina Holt-Reber
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
Hi, my name is Dr. Kristina Holt-Reber, and I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist. I value and put collaboration with YOU first and use a person-centered, humanistic, and trauma-informed approach to therapy. I have spent a lot of my education focusing on Trauma and Anxiety related disorders and have a passion for serving the LGBTQIA+ community. I typically work with clients struggling with anxiety, mood or trauma-related concerns and feel very comfortable treating those conditions.
Hi, my name is Dr. Kristina Holt-Reber, and I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist. I value and put collaboration with YOU first and use a person-centered, humanistic, and trauma-informed approach to therapy. I have spent a lot of my education focusing on Trauma and Anxiety related disorders and have a passion for serving the LGBTQIA+ community. I typically work with clients struggling with anxiety, mood or trauma-related concerns and feel very comfortable treating those conditions.
Lisa Gavin-Cruse
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93308
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.
Jessica Gilligan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Hello, I'm Jessica Gilligan, and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have 10 years of experience providing therapy to children, teens, young adults (18-25 yrs. old), and their parents/family members. I value holding a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients, so they can process whatever they need to, and find solutions that work for them. I have the most experience treating teens and young adults with Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Low Self-Esteem, LGBTQIA+ topics, Anger Management, and Communication/Social Skill development. I'm comfortable providing individual and/or group therapy.
Hello, I'm Jessica Gilligan, and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have 10 years of experience providing therapy to children, teens, young adults (18-25 yrs. old), and their parents/family members. I value holding a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients, so they can process whatever they need to, and find solutions that work for them. I have the most experience treating teens and young adults with Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Low Self-Esteem, LGBTQIA+ topics, Anger Management, and Communication/Social Skill development. I'm comfortable providing individual and/or group therapy.
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.
Emily Campbell
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MACC, APCC, CDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93314 (Online Only)
My clients seek support for overcoming trauma and PTSD, grappling with codependency, and enhancing coping skills. They navigate life transitions, manage anxiety and depression, and may be dealing with relationship or self-esteem issues. They may be individuals with ADHD or OCD who are looking for strategies to manage their symptoms. Seniors and those with intellectual disabilities can seek deeper understanding. LGBTQ+ clients may explore identity and acceptance. Each person, regardless of their challenge, desires to find inner peace, resilience, and joy. My goal is to provide a safe space for clients to come as they are.
My clients seek support for overcoming trauma and PTSD, grappling with codependency, and enhancing coping skills. They navigate life transitions, manage anxiety and depression, and may be dealing with relationship or self-esteem issues. They may be individuals with ADHD or OCD who are looking for strategies to manage their symptoms. Seniors and those with intellectual disabilities can seek deeper understanding. LGBTQ+ clients may explore identity and acceptance. Each person, regardless of their challenge, desires to find inner peace, resilience, and joy. My goal is to provide a safe space for clients to come as they are.
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.
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.
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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.
Kelly Lloyd
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215
My name is Kelly Lloyd, and I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California. I have experience working with a variety of diagnoses and issues, including depression, anxiety, substance use, PTSD, domestic violence, life transitions, LGBTQIA+ issues, and gender identity. I have worked with diverse populations, including homeless and low-income adults, survivors of domestic violence, adolescents, and families. My approach is psychodynamic, strengths-based, and client-centered. I also like to incorporate practical tools to help my clients improve their daily lives.
My name is Kelly Lloyd, and I’m a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California. I have experience working with a variety of diagnoses and issues, including depression, anxiety, substance use, PTSD, domestic violence, life transitions, LGBTQIA+ issues, and gender identity. I have worked with diverse populations, including homeless and low-income adults, survivors of domestic violence, adolescents, and families. My approach is psychodynamic, strengths-based, and client-centered. I also like to incorporate practical tools to help my clients improve their daily lives.
Jacqueline Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215
In addition, I have participated in a wide range of training that has enhanced my therapeutic skills, such as; Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, LGBTQ+ training, Motivational Interviewing, and solutions Focused.
Hello, my name is Jacqueline. One of my primary goals is to provide a comfortable, safe space for my clients to share and work towards wellness/healing. As a therapist, I am a passionate person and client-centered, and I strive to meet my clients where they are. I find great joy in being an aid in the healing process with my clients & witnessing their growth/healing journey. The road to personal growth is within your hands, you are the driver of your car, and I look forward to being in the passenger seat helping you get to your desired place in life.
In addition, I have participated in a wide range of training that has enhanced my therapeutic skills, such as; Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, LGBTQ+ training, Motivational Interviewing, and solutions Focused.
Hello, my name is Jacqueline. One of my primary goals is to provide a comfortable, safe space for my clients to share and work towards wellness/healing. As a therapist, I am a passionate person and client-centered, and I strive to meet my clients where they are. I find great joy in being an aid in the healing process with my clients & witnessing their growth/healing journey. The road to personal growth is within your hands, you are the driver of your car, and I look forward to being in the passenger seat helping you get to your desired place in life.
Anne Brace
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215
Hello, my name is Anne Brace. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I've had many years of experience helping diverse clients create safe and fulfilling lives. I look forward to collaborating with new clients on their unique challenges. I have worked most often with adult women and have also provided mental health services to adult men, teenagers, children, and families. I am currently most interested in working with adults, on issues of anxiety, self-confidence/assertiveness, mood challenges, trauma histories, attachment/parenting, LGBTQ+ concerns, and culture-based stresses.
Hello, my name is Anne Brace. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I've had many years of experience helping diverse clients create safe and fulfilling lives. I look forward to collaborating with new clients on their unique challenges. I have worked most often with adult women and have also provided mental health services to adult men, teenagers, children, and families. I am currently most interested in working with adults, on issues of anxiety, self-confidence/assertiveness, mood challenges, trauma histories, attachment/parenting, LGBTQ+ concerns, and culture-based stresses.
William Shearer
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93304 (Online Only)
I am a California licensed psychologist with over four decades of experience. I specialize in anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and relationship issues. Most of my work is with couples and I have had extensive education, training and experience. To date I have worked with over a thousand couples. My work is with relationships that I work with couples, individuals, all ethnicities and cultures, and couples gay and straight. I work with premarital counseling, infidelity, divorce prevention, and couples who simply want more satisfaction in their relationship.
I am a California licensed psychologist with over four decades of experience. I specialize in anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and relationship issues. Most of my work is with couples and I have had extensive education, training and experience. To date I have worked with over a thousand couples. My work is with relationships that I work with couples, individuals, all ethnicities and cultures, and couples gay and straight. I work with premarital counseling, infidelity, divorce prevention, and couples who simply want more satisfaction in their relationship.
Nasrin Farr
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
Hello, my name is Nasrin. For over a decade, I have had the privilege of working with adults, children/ adolescents, families, couples, LGBTQ, and Military/Veterans from a diverse population. What contributes to my work is the skill to utilize evidence-based therapies with the compassion and empathy needed to provide a therapeutic alliance.
Hello, my name is Nasrin. For over a decade, I have had the privilege of working with adults, children/ adolescents, families, couples, LGBTQ, and Military/Veterans from a diverse population. What contributes to my work is the skill to utilize evidence-based therapies with the compassion and empathy needed to provide a therapeutic alliance.
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 93309
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.
Bridges Therapy Group of CA
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, AMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311 (Online Only)
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we’re dedicated to matching you with the perfect therapist for you and ensuring that your insurance will truly pay for your sessions. We are contracted, in-network providers with all the insurers listed below. We verify your benefits before you start so there are no surprises to you.
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we’re dedicated to matching you with the perfect therapist for you and ensuring that your insurance will truly pay for your sessions. We are contracted, in-network providers with all the insurers listed below. We verify your benefits before you start so there are no surprises to you.
See more therapy options for Kern County
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.