Therapists in Kern County, CA
Cal Care Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
LGBTQ+ affirming.
Do you feel as if you are emotionally stuck and need a helping hand? Are you feeling overwhelmed, lost, and tired? You may be going through a life transition, relationship difficulty, or problems managing daily life. Most people go through times in their lives when they need some guidance. You don't have to go through this hardship alone. Reach out and let's get through this together. I am offering free consultations over the phone, at this time, to assess your comfort level before we have a full session. I am able to see individuals with a residence in the state of California and Nevada.
LGBTQ+ affirming.
Do you feel as if you are emotionally stuck and need a helping hand? Are you feeling overwhelmed, lost, and tired? You may be going through a life transition, relationship difficulty, or problems managing daily life. Most people go through times in their lives when they need some guidance. You don't have to go through this hardship alone. Reach out and let's get through this together. I am offering free consultations over the phone, at this time, to assess your comfort level before we have a full session. I am able to see individuals with a residence in the state of California and Nevada.
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.
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.
Sanjeshni Sen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
My name is Sanjeshni Sen. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 105067). I utilize a person centered/humanistic approach to therapy. My areas of practice include depression, anxiety, grief, stage of life transitions, interpersonal relationships/conflicts, PTSD, women's issues, coping skills, and addiction/ relapse prevention. I have worked with individuals from varies paths of life. This includes working with individuals with mood disorders, comorbidity, life transitions, self-esteem, family conflict, peer/ romantic relationships, grief, perinatal (pregnancy, postpartum), LGBTQ+ and racial identity.
My name is Sanjeshni Sen. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 105067). I utilize a person centered/humanistic approach to therapy. My areas of practice include depression, anxiety, grief, stage of life transitions, interpersonal relationships/conflicts, PTSD, women's issues, coping skills, and addiction/ relapse prevention. I have worked with individuals from varies paths of life. This includes working with individuals with mood disorders, comorbidity, life transitions, self-esteem, family conflict, peer/ romantic relationships, grief, perinatal (pregnancy, postpartum), LGBTQ+ and racial identity.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Stacey Rydell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
Hi! I am Stacey Rydell, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has a passion for helping those on their healing journey to find more meaning in life. I focus primarily on working with LGBTQ+, women-identifying adults ages 18-40 years old. Much of my experience is treating anxiety, depression, Bipolar, gender identity, and disordered eating. Working with adults of all ages, I guide my clients toward their inner knowing that we are all born with but have lost contact with due to trauma, societal pressures, family dynamics, and much more.
Hi! I am Stacey Rydell, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has a passion for helping those on their healing journey to find more meaning in life. I focus primarily on working with LGBTQ+, women-identifying adults ages 18-40 years old. Much of my experience is treating anxiety, depression, Bipolar, gender identity, and disordered eating. Working with adults of all ages, I guide my clients toward their inner knowing that we are all born with but have lost contact with due to trauma, societal pressures, family dynamics, and much more.
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.
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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.
Karen Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
Hi there, I'm Karen Olson, a licensed clinical social worker. I have been a social worker for over 20 years. I help people with issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic pain, divorce, and LGBTQIA+ issues. My approach is direct and frank and I enjoy helping individuals and couples identify their strengths and overcome challenges. I take an eclectic approach that includes a variety of narrative/motivational interviewing. My ideal client is amenable to my direct approach and is as invested as I am in achieving their goals. I like feedback from clients on how they are doing and how our sessions are going.
Hi there, I'm Karen Olson, a licensed clinical social worker. I have been a social worker for over 20 years. I help people with issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic pain, divorce, and LGBTQIA+ issues. My approach is direct and frank and I enjoy helping individuals and couples identify their strengths and overcome challenges. I take an eclectic approach that includes a variety of narrative/motivational interviewing. My ideal client is amenable to my direct approach and is as invested as I am in achieving their goals. I like feedback from clients on how they are doing and how our sessions are going.
Christie Chu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
Hello, my name is Christie Chu. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist in California and a licensed professional counselor in Texas. I'm a mother of 11-year-old twins, and have a great deal of life experience dealing with many of the issues my patients face. I work with clients with mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I work with couples dealing with infertility, relational violence, Child Abuse, and LGBTQ issues. In addition, I I work with school issues and I am a credentialed school counselor.
Hello, my name is Christie Chu. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist in California and a licensed professional counselor in Texas. I'm a mother of 11-year-old twins, and have a great deal of life experience dealing with many of the issues my patients face. I work with clients with mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I work with couples dealing with infertility, relational violence, Child Abuse, and LGBTQ issues. In addition, I I work with school issues and I am a credentialed school counselor.
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.
Nancy Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93304
Seeking support isn't always the easiest thing to do, and my intention is to stand beside you and empower you through your journey. I have an eclectic background in therapy training to more easily assist my clients in working through the issues at hand in the way most comfortable for them. I enjoy working with couples and families and specialize in children from 11-18, women facing a turning point or transition in their lives, folks from the LGBTQIA+ community, and individual adults. Sometimes it takes a team, and I would love to have the chance to partner with you in seeking mental wellness.
Seeking support isn't always the easiest thing to do, and my intention is to stand beside you and empower you through your journey. I have an eclectic background in therapy training to more easily assist my clients in working through the issues at hand in the way most comfortable for them. I enjoy working with couples and families and specialize in children from 11-18, women facing a turning point or transition in their lives, folks from the LGBTQIA+ community, and individual adults. Sometimes it takes a team, and I would love to have the chance to partner with you in seeking mental wellness.
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
Lisa Wolfe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
I have found that my style and experience are a good fit for teens and young adults who may be facing pressures and challenges in various areas of their lives. These challenges may present as stress, anxiety, or depression. I look forward to supporting you in creating positive change in your life.
I have found that my style and experience are a good fit for teens and young adults who may be facing pressures and challenges in various areas of their lives. These challenges may present as stress, anxiety, or depression. I look forward to supporting you in creating positive change in your life.
Howard Acosta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93390 (Online Only)
HELLO! Feeling stuck? Managing moods better for relief can be faster! I've been there and I know what works. My job is to ensure you learn what works by teaching up-front, fast, coping methods and strategies that work to rapidly move you towards more relaxation, self-control and relief—usually in 5-10 sessions. In fact I've written a book about it titled "UCoping: Interactive Edition" available on Amazon. This all comes through an active faith, being state-licensed and through the academics of clinical psychotherapy. Book now at www.waysofcoping.clientsecure.me, or click “Website" or "MyWebsite" on this page.
HELLO! Feeling stuck? Managing moods better for relief can be faster! I've been there and I know what works. My job is to ensure you learn what works by teaching up-front, fast, coping methods and strategies that work to rapidly move you towards more relaxation, self-control and relief—usually in 5-10 sessions. In fact I've written a book about it titled "UCoping: Interactive Edition" available on Amazon. This all comes through an active faith, being state-licensed and through the academics of clinical psychotherapy. Book now at www.waysofcoping.clientsecure.me, or click “Website" or "MyWebsite" on this page.
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.