Photo of Ran Ren, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Ran Ren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
My name is Rena, a licensed clinical therapist. I am a multicultural client-centered therapist fluent in English and Mandarin who has worked in the mental health field for 7 years. I have worked with adults, seniors, children, families, and veterans, and have helped people with depression, anxiety, life coaching, behavioral issues, coping skills, divorce, relationship issues, trauma, PTSD, women's issues, and more. I tailor my approach based on individual needs. My goal is to equip you with a set of tools to increase self-awareness, face difficult emotions, develop healthy relationships and make more mindful choices.
My name is Rena, a licensed clinical therapist. I am a multicultural client-centered therapist fluent in English and Mandarin who has worked in the mental health field for 7 years. I have worked with adults, seniors, children, families, and veterans, and have helped people with depression, anxiety, life coaching, behavioral issues, coping skills, divorce, relationship issues, trauma, PTSD, women's issues, and more. I tailor my approach based on individual needs. My goal is to equip you with a set of tools to increase self-awareness, face difficult emotions, develop healthy relationships and make more mindful choices.
(619) 489-6265 View (619) 489-6265
Photo of Elizabeth Maria Domingos-Shepard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Elizabeth Maria Domingos-Shepard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93313
I work with clients from various backgrounds, including those who are multicultural, immigrants, and those who have experienced social injustices.
Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience in the field of mental health. I work with clients experiencing various issues, such as anxiety, relationship concerns, and self-esteem issues. However, I specialize in trauma and attachment, including trauma related to experiences of social injustices and generational trauma.
I work with clients from various backgrounds, including those who are multicultural, immigrants, and those who have experienced social injustices.
Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience in the field of mental health. I work with clients experiencing various issues, such as anxiety, relationship concerns, and self-esteem issues. However, I specialize in trauma and attachment, including trauma related to experiences of social injustices and generational trauma.
(916) 301-4294 View (916) 301-4294
Photo of Cherie Chavez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Cherie Chavez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
My name is Cherie Chavez, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing integrative psychotherapy via telehealth statewide in California. In 2009 I began counseling adults coping with severe mental illness and complex trauma, to help provide symptom relief and improve their quality of life. Having a diagnosis can feel stigmatizing; reaching out for help so you don't go it alone can be empowering. I am very comfortable and most experienced in working with adults diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety and depression.
My name is Cherie Chavez, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing integrative psychotherapy via telehealth statewide in California. In 2009 I began counseling adults coping with severe mental illness and complex trauma, to help provide symptom relief and improve their quality of life. Having a diagnosis can feel stigmatizing; reaching out for help so you don't go it alone can be empowering. I am very comfortable and most experienced in working with adults diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety and depression.
(661) 724-8431 View (661) 724-8431
Photo of Paulina Gutierrez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Paulina Gutierrez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301  (Online Only)
Life's journey can be both remarkable and challenging, often presenting us with twists and turns we didn't anticipate. If you're feeling stuck in the midst of these complexities, seeking a way forward, I'm here to extend my hand and walk alongside you. Navigating through the highs and lows, I've dedicated myself to helping individuals like you discover their inner strength and resilience. Whether you're wrestling with the weight of anxiety, seeking solace from depression, or striving to mend relationships, I offer a safe haven where your thoughts and emotions can find expression.
Life's journey can be both remarkable and challenging, often presenting us with twists and turns we didn't anticipate. If you're feeling stuck in the midst of these complexities, seeking a way forward, I'm here to extend my hand and walk alongside you. Navigating through the highs and lows, I've dedicated myself to helping individuals like you discover their inner strength and resilience. Whether you're wrestling with the weight of anxiety, seeking solace from depression, or striving to mend relationships, I offer a safe haven where your thoughts and emotions can find expression.
(661) 927-4605 View (661) 927-4605
Photo of Theresa (Lynette) Harris, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Theresa (Lynette) Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
The past 3 years have taken a toll on the human population. So many of us have been isolated with and without support for our mental well-being. Many of our relationships with our family, friends, and coworkers have suffered during this time. Also, self-care became a challenge during this period of isolation. As a seasoned psychotherapist/counselor, I would like to support you in working through any fears or struggles that might impede your full participation in the relationships and activities that add happiness and peace to your life.
The past 3 years have taken a toll on the human population. So many of us have been isolated with and without support for our mental well-being. Many of our relationships with our family, friends, and coworkers have suffered during this time. Also, self-care became a challenge during this period of isolation. As a seasoned psychotherapist/counselor, I would like to support you in working through any fears or struggles that might impede your full participation in the relationships and activities that add happiness and peace to your life.
(661) 407-8262 View (661) 407-8262
Photo of Jennifer Drewno, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Jennifer Drewno
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
It is an honor to guide you on your journey. My passion is to support my clients in becoming more self-aware and increase peace of mind, and overall well-being. I have been so privileged to hear the stories and witness the deep transformations of my clients. You deserve a space where you are seen, heard, and validated. My therapeutic style is warm, nonjudgmental, and friendly. I create a safe space for you to explore challenging issues/events and my clinical approaches – Gestalt, Cognitive Behavior, Solution-focused, and Mindfulness therapy will support our work together.
It is an honor to guide you on your journey. My passion is to support my clients in becoming more self-aware and increase peace of mind, and overall well-being. I have been so privileged to hear the stories and witness the deep transformations of my clients. You deserve a space where you are seen, heard, and validated. My therapeutic style is warm, nonjudgmental, and friendly. I create a safe space for you to explore challenging issues/events and my clinical approaches – Gestalt, Cognitive Behavior, Solution-focused, and Mindfulness therapy will support our work together.
(661) 443-5407 View (661) 443-5407
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
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.
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 Teresamaria Zavala, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Teresamaria Zavala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561
Hi there, I'm Teresamaria Zavala, but prefer to be called Teresa. I am a licensed clinical social worker, I like to say as a therapist "I want to work myself out of a job," I am a huge believer that therapy has its place in a person's life but ultimately has an end date. My goal is to get you to the point you can continue on in your life with new skills and hope. I have a specialized interest in gender-specific therapy, people struggling with addiction, transitional-aged youth, and the needs of LGBTQIA+ community.
Hi there, I'm Teresamaria Zavala, but prefer to be called Teresa. I am a licensed clinical social worker, I like to say as a therapist "I want to work myself out of a job," I am a huge believer that therapy has its place in a person's life but ultimately has an end date. My goal is to get you to the point you can continue on in your life with new skills and hope. I have a specialized interest in gender-specific therapy, people struggling with addiction, transitional-aged youth, and the needs of LGBTQIA+ community.
(661) 417-0674 View (661) 417-0674
Photo of Andrea Espinoza, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
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.
(661) 271-5873 View (661) 271-5873
Photo of Marcela Lopez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Marcela Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Hello there! I’m a licensed clinical social worker in California, and a certified anger management counselor, CAMS-ll, under the National Anger Management Association. I have vast experience working with children, teenagers, and adults within an outpatient and inpatient hospital setting. My best interest for clients is to help them achieve personal self-development and awareness, cope with life transitions, emotions, stressors, and develop healthier relationships. I believe we are capable of self-resiliency and I aim to be a guide for you to achieve it.
Hello there! I’m a licensed clinical social worker in California, and a certified anger management counselor, CAMS-ll, under the National Anger Management Association. I have vast experience working with children, teenagers, and adults within an outpatient and inpatient hospital setting. My best interest for clients is to help them achieve personal self-development and awareness, cope with life transitions, emotions, stressors, and develop healthier relationships. I believe we are capable of self-resiliency and I aim to be a guide for you to achieve it.
(661) 215-6540 View (661) 215-6540
Photo of Patricia Gomez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Patricia Gomez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
Hi, my name is Patricia Gomez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California and have been practicing in the field of mental health since 2001. I understand that therapy is about you and what you need, so I often refer to clients as the driver and myself as the passenger, sitting alongside my clients through their own personal journey! My role is to facilitate discussion and prompt new ways of thinking in order to inspire fresh perspectives.
Hi, my name is Patricia Gomez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California and have been practicing in the field of mental health since 2001. I understand that therapy is about you and what you need, so I often refer to clients as the driver and myself as the passenger, sitting alongside my clients through their own personal journey! My role is to facilitate discussion and prompt new ways of thinking in order to inspire fresh perspectives.
(661) 449-9207 View (661) 449-9207
Photo of Erica Garay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Erica Garay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Erica Garay. I didn't choose the therapist life; rather, it chose me. My journey toward becoming an LCSW is deeply rooted in my experiences growing up in an immigrant household. From a young age, I naturally assumed the helping role, inspired by the cultural nuances and challenges faced in my own family. Through the challenging terrain of my own experiences, the support I received from compassionate helping professionals during my formative years illuminated my potential and fueled my desire to pay it forward. I wish to share the light I found with those currently facing the darkness of their own mental health challenges.
Hi! I'm Erica Garay. I didn't choose the therapist life; rather, it chose me. My journey toward becoming an LCSW is deeply rooted in my experiences growing up in an immigrant household. From a young age, I naturally assumed the helping role, inspired by the cultural nuances and challenges faced in my own family. Through the challenging terrain of my own experiences, the support I received from compassionate helping professionals during my formative years illuminated my potential and fueled my desire to pay it forward. I wish to share the light I found with those currently facing the darkness of their own mental health challenges.
(661) 463-3983 View (661) 463-3983
Photo of Porsche Terry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Porsche Terry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
I am well rounded, hold a high level of cultural competency, and understand the unique struggles of immigration, victims of crime, racism, discrimination, systemic barriers, lack of resources, and the impact of economic hardships on mental health functioning. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and joining with my clients to help them achieve their goals. Fairly stable clients with desires to prevent potential distress. College students, first-generation graduates, the transition of life worries and bridging the gap of knowledge and rapidly shifting social norms in a highly technological society during the pandemic.
I am well rounded, hold a high level of cultural competency, and understand the unique struggles of immigration, victims of crime, racism, discrimination, systemic barriers, lack of resources, and the impact of economic hardships on mental health functioning. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and joining with my clients to help them achieve their goals. Fairly stable clients with desires to prevent potential distress. College students, first-generation graduates, the transition of life worries and bridging the gap of knowledge and rapidly shifting social norms in a highly technological society during the pandemic.
(661) 768-1511 View (661) 768-1511
Photo of Artisa M Moten, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Artisa M Moten
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
“You don’t lose if you get knocked down, you lose if you stay down (Ali)” I understand that as we experience life we will inevitably encounter obstacles and stressors that challenge us to change. I also believe these moments present opportunities for transformation. Together, we can build an excellent foundation in achieving your needs, wants, and desires. Having over 10 years experience, Certified Trauma Specialist, Grief Specialist, and trainer for the workplace has allowed me to successfully work with various cultures, social economic backgrounds, and community organizations.
“You don’t lose if you get knocked down, you lose if you stay down (Ali)” I understand that as we experience life we will inevitably encounter obstacles and stressors that challenge us to change. I also believe these moments present opportunities for transformation. Together, we can build an excellent foundation in achieving your needs, wants, and desires. Having over 10 years experience, Certified Trauma Specialist, Grief Specialist, and trainer for the workplace has allowed me to successfully work with various cultures, social economic backgrounds, and community organizations.
(661) 426-8068 View (661) 426-8068
Photo of James Earl Holland Jr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
James Earl Holland Jr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I SEE YOU! YES YOU! Great job on taking your first step! Have you ever felt anger, sadness, anxiety, been through trauma, suffered depression, addicted to something, annoyed with people or, just stuck in your everyday life? Well it’s time for you! Life throws us many obstacles and challenges that we overcome. We have all made mistakes, struggled with life and wondered if we made the right decisions. Sometimes we need advice, an ear to listen or just someone to tell us “Great Job”! I am here to work with you on whatever goal/issue that you want to focus on. I am a firm believer that we are the doctors of our own mind, body and soul.
I SEE YOU! YES YOU! Great job on taking your first step! Have you ever felt anger, sadness, anxiety, been through trauma, suffered depression, addicted to something, annoyed with people or, just stuck in your everyday life? Well it’s time for you! Life throws us many obstacles and challenges that we overcome. We have all made mistakes, struggled with life and wondered if we made the right decisions. Sometimes we need advice, an ear to listen or just someone to tell us “Great Job”! I am here to work with you on whatever goal/issue that you want to focus on. I am a firm believer that we are the doctors of our own mind, body and soul.
(661) 459-5828 View (661) 459-5828
Photo of Elva Lopez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Elva Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93313
My name is Elva Lopez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Ventura, California and working with clients statewide via tele health. I am passionate about supporting all of my clients through challenges to experience healing and growth in their lives. I found that my style and approach are a good fit for adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, grief, and stress.
My name is Elva Lopez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Ventura, California and working with clients statewide via tele health. I am passionate about supporting all of my clients through challenges to experience healing and growth in their lives. I found that my style and approach are a good fit for adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures. This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, grief, and stress.
(661) 485-3742 View (661) 485-3742
Photo of Steven Frausto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Steven Frausto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
My name is Steven Frausto, LCSW and I have over 10 years of experience working with adults, parents, families, grandparents, teenagers, and children. I work to empower my clients to identify, process, and overcome problem areas in their lives. I utilize a psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapy approach to help identify current difficulties and their root cause. Using pragmatic approaches to overcome impairments and then working on the root cause of the presenting difficulties to avoid them resurfacing.
My name is Steven Frausto, LCSW and I have over 10 years of experience working with adults, parents, families, grandparents, teenagers, and children. I work to empower my clients to identify, process, and overcome problem areas in their lives. I utilize a psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapy approach to help identify current difficulties and their root cause. Using pragmatic approaches to overcome impairments and then working on the root cause of the presenting difficulties to avoid them resurfacing.
(661) 463-9644 View (661) 463-9644
Photo of Kristina Holt-Reber, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
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.
(661) 765-8109 View (661) 765-8109
Photo of Mesha Muwanga, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Mesha Muwanga
Marriage & Family Therapist, LFMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
I help clients find their freedom. I believe that there is hope in every situation and I am skilled in working with client's who have a hard time believing that they can overcome. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, communication, and relationships. As a Christian therapist I believe in a holistic approach to treatment and focus on the physical, spiritual, and emotional needs of a client.
I help clients find their freedom. I believe that there is hope in every situation and I am skilled in working with client's who have a hard time believing that they can overcome. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, communication, and relationships. As a Christian therapist I believe in a holistic approach to treatment and focus on the physical, spiritual, and emotional needs of a client.
(661) 218-1635 View (661) 218-1635
Photo of John R Navejas, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Kern County, CA
John R Navejas
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
John Navejas is registered as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist providing services in both substance abuse and mental health treatment modalities. John’s career experience began while volunteering with the Homeless Collaborative. John has worked with many populations including adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger, relationship issues, and identifying/controlling emotions and thoughts. He has led groups such as Anger Replacement Training, Strengthening Families, CBT interventions for substance abuse and created the first trauma informed yoga group at a juvenile detention facility.
John Navejas is registered as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist providing services in both substance abuse and mental health treatment modalities. John’s career experience began while volunteering with the Homeless Collaborative. John has worked with many populations including adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger, relationship issues, and identifying/controlling emotions and thoughts. He has led groups such as Anger Replacement Training, Strengthening Families, CBT interventions for substance abuse and created the first trauma informed yoga group at a juvenile detention facility.
(661) 233-9744 View (661) 233-9744


Multicultural Therapists

What type of therapy is multicultural therapy?

Multicultural therapy is not tied to any specific therapy; rather, it is an overarching approach to therapy that aims to acknowledge and address the influence that factors like race, gender identity, and cultural background can have on someone’s life. Multicultural approaches can be applied to CBT, psychodynamic therapy, and others, and can be practiced with individuals, couples, families, or groups.

What can I expect from multicultural therapy?

Multicultural counseling should be tailored to the client’s unique identity and cultural needs. Such approaches often prioritize the building of trust so that the client feels comfortable exploring various aspects of their identity and any challenges caused by mismatches between their identity and the dominant culture. Beyond that, the format and timeline of therapy will be heavily influenced by the therapist’s preferred therapy approach and the specific problems for which the client sought therapy.

Can multicultural therapy help treat trauma?

Yes. Cultural factors such as racial background, gender identity and or sexuality, and immigration or refugee status can influence both whether someone experiences trauma and how they cope afterward. Multicultural approaches to trauma-informed care will be aware of these influences, helping the client recognize how their response to trauma may be shaped by their cultural background and identify coping mechanisms that take their identity into account.

What are the benefits of seeing a multicultural therapist?

Members of minority groups who seek therapy are sometimes frustrated by providers who don’t understand their cultural background or dismiss the ways in which race, gender, or other facets of their identity influence their lived experience. Seeing a multicultural therapist can help these clients feel seen, understood, and able to develop solutions to life challenges that take their upbringing, beliefs, and past experiences into account.