Photo of Janice Valdez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Janice Valdez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215
As a therapist my approach is electic with a touch of narrative, solution focused, cognitive behavioral, DBT, and trauma focused.
Hi, I’m Janice Valdez and I am a Licensed Marriage Family therapist. My career began providing services to individuals who suffer from addiction. For the last three years I have provided individual therapy to clients of all ages with an array of different issues including depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, abuse, and more.
As a therapist my approach is electic with a touch of narrative, solution focused, cognitive behavioral, DBT, and trauma focused.
Hi, I’m Janice Valdez and I am a Licensed Marriage Family therapist. My career began providing services to individuals who suffer from addiction. For the last three years I have provided individual therapy to clients of all ages with an array of different issues including depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, abuse, and more.
(661) 464-1984 View (661) 464-1984
Photo of Rachel Page, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Rachel Page
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
Hi! My name is Rachel, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have been practicing therapy since 2010 and am passionate about helping others. I help people with adolescent/teen issues, grief, self esteem, trauma and PTSD, job stress, and more. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient settings, including drug and alcohol rehabilitation, with adolescents in schools, and with domestic violence services. I practice Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution-focused therapy. Using mindfulness and ACT skills, I explore the thoughts and beliefs that create stagnation.
Hi! My name is Rachel, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have been practicing therapy since 2010 and am passionate about helping others. I help people with adolescent/teen issues, grief, self esteem, trauma and PTSD, job stress, and more. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient settings, including drug and alcohol rehabilitation, with adolescents in schools, and with domestic violence services. I practice Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution-focused therapy. Using mindfulness and ACT skills, I explore the thoughts and beliefs that create stagnation.
(661) 732-2011 View (661) 732-2011
Photo of Lindsay Parkinson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Lindsay Parkinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Traditional talk therapy combined with art therapy is the primary focus of my work, using Narrative, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Problem-Solution Focused, and Family Systems theories.
My name is Lindsay Kay Parkinson, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Art Therapist, and Artist. My work is dedicated to creating trusting relationships and space for you to be yourself, knowing you can show up without fear of judgment. I will assist you in a process of self-discovery and growth that will help you feel better, more focused on your path and allow for increased self-compassion and acceptance.
Traditional talk therapy combined with art therapy is the primary focus of my work, using Narrative, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Problem-Solution Focused, and Family Systems theories.
My name is Lindsay Kay Parkinson, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Art Therapist, and Artist. My work is dedicated to creating trusting relationships and space for you to be yourself, knowing you can show up without fear of judgment. I will assist you in a process of self-discovery and growth that will help you feel better, more focused on your path and allow for increased self-compassion and acceptance.
(707) 881-8039 View (707) 881-8039
Photo of Central Valley Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Central Valley Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Your experience is unique and your narrative will be told from your point of view.
Central Valley Family Therapy is a group practice whose sole focus is providing individuals, couples and families support through all walks of life. Our clinicians recognize the importance of quality treatment for each and every client that walks through our doors. We welcome clients with culturally diverse identities, backgrounds, socio-economic statuses, and experiences. We believe that every person who seeks support should have access to quality mental health services. Our focus is not only on your unique therapeutic goals, but in providing our clients with a warm, friendly and nurturing environment.
Your experience is unique and your narrative will be told from your point of view.
Central Valley Family Therapy is a group practice whose sole focus is providing individuals, couples and families support through all walks of life. Our clinicians recognize the importance of quality treatment for each and every client that walks through our doors. We welcome clients with culturally diverse identities, backgrounds, socio-economic statuses, and experiences. We believe that every person who seeks support should have access to quality mental health services. Our focus is not only on your unique therapeutic goals, but in providing our clients with a warm, friendly and nurturing environment.
(661) 857-7068 View (661) 857-7068
Photo of Sara Fierro, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
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
(559) 342-2573 View (559) 342-2573
Photo of Meagan Marino, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
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.
(657) 215-7504 View (657) 215-7504
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 Gianna Heatherly, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Gianna Heatherly
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
Hi there, I'm Gianna! My goal as a therapist is to create a therapeutic foundation to work collaboratively with my client(s) to assist them in reaching their personal goals for change, growth, and healing. I use many skills to promote a safe environment to allow individuals to reach their potential self-worth. It is my hope to guide each client to reach their full potential so that they can overcome any challenge they may be experiencing.
Hi there, I'm Gianna! My goal as a therapist is to create a therapeutic foundation to work collaboratively with my client(s) to assist them in reaching their personal goals for change, growth, and healing. I use many skills to promote a safe environment to allow individuals to reach their potential self-worth. It is my hope to guide each client to reach their full potential so that they can overcome any challenge they may be experiencing.
(661) 927-0873 View (661) 927-0873
Photo of Kelisha LaGrone, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Kelisha LaGrone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
My name is Kelisha LaGrone and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both CA and TX. My approach to therapy includes meeting my clients where they are at and co- creating and collaborating with my clients to tailor a treatment plan that meets their individual and very unique needs. My focus area includes, anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity integration and consolidation, family or relationship conflict, and trauma.
My name is Kelisha LaGrone and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both CA and TX. My approach to therapy includes meeting my clients where they are at and co- creating and collaborating with my clients to tailor a treatment plan that meets their individual and very unique needs. My focus area includes, anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity integration and consolidation, family or relationship conflict, and trauma.
(661) 927-4644 View (661) 927-4644
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
Photo of Debra L Shelton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Debra L Shelton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
I prefer to work with adults and children that are motivated to improve their relationships with family, friends, and others. I also work on issues of grief and loss. One area where I specialize, is working with parents who have experienced the loss of a child.
I prefer to work with adults and children that are motivated to improve their relationships with family, friends, and others. I also work on issues of grief and loss. One area where I specialize, is working with parents who have experienced the loss of a child.
(661) 430-6033 View (661) 430-6033
Photo of Omar De La Cruz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Omar De La Cruz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
Hi! My name is Omar de la Cruz, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have an extensive amount of experiencing working with individuals having difficulties with substance use and mental health. I have worked with children, youth, and adults experiencing difficulties in different areas, such as anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship difficulties, and trauma. My goal is to meet clients where they are at and through my expertise be able to work on the therapeutic goals that individuals have.
Hi! My name is Omar de la Cruz, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have an extensive amount of experiencing working with individuals having difficulties with substance use and mental health. I have worked with children, youth, and adults experiencing difficulties in different areas, such as anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship difficulties, and trauma. My goal is to meet clients where they are at and through my expertise be able to work on the therapeutic goals that individuals have.
(661) 370-2857 View (661) 370-2857
Photo of Natalie Poulson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Natalie Poulson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312
SESSIONS IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH, IN-PERSON AND ONLINE AVAILABILITY FOR THERAPY AND DIVORCE MEDIATION. Are your struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or anger? Did you recently experience life changes and do not know how to cope? Are you or your children struggling after separation or divorce from your significant other?
SESSIONS IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH, IN-PERSON AND ONLINE AVAILABILITY FOR THERAPY AND DIVORCE MEDIATION. Are your struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or anger? Did you recently experience life changes and do not know how to cope? Are you or your children struggling after separation or divorce from your significant other?
(661) 215-8926 View (661) 215-8926
Photo of Krissy Bynum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Krissy Bynum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
We all struggle with life challenges, and it is never too late to make positive changes. I believe in creating a therapeutic environment, which is essential for an individual to be able to express their concerns without judgement. This allows the individual the opportunity to come to an inviting place where one can speak openly and freely about concerns and/or struggles. As a therapist, I assist clients with developing their individualized goals and offer tools that can be implemented in their lives. My goal is to offer guidance and support, so clients can take steps to become the heathiest version of themselves.
We all struggle with life challenges, and it is never too late to make positive changes. I believe in creating a therapeutic environment, which is essential for an individual to be able to express their concerns without judgement. This allows the individual the opportunity to come to an inviting place where one can speak openly and freely about concerns and/or struggles. As a therapist, I assist clients with developing their individualized goals and offer tools that can be implemented in their lives. My goal is to offer guidance and support, so clients can take steps to become the heathiest version of themselves.
(661) 215-8728 View (661) 215-8728
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 Brittanie Robledo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
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.
(661) 583-0183 View (661) 583-0183
Photo of Jessica Gilligan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
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.
(661) 338-5312 View (661) 338-5312
Photo of Margaret Hunter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Margaret Hunter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Registered Art Therapist and Certified Eating Disorder Creative Arts Therapist. I provide services to individuals, couples, families and groups in the Central Valley. As a LMFT I have worked with: at risk youth and their families, teens and families facing challenges associated with eating disorders, men and women exploring body image concerns, college students (at all ages and stages of life), couples, people of all ages dealing with anxiety, depression and other mental health concerns.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Registered Art Therapist and Certified Eating Disorder Creative Arts Therapist. I provide services to individuals, couples, families and groups in the Central Valley. As a LMFT I have worked with: at risk youth and their families, teens and families facing challenges associated with eating disorders, men and women exploring body image concerns, college students (at all ages and stages of life), couples, people of all ages dealing with anxiety, depression and other mental health concerns.
(323) 205-7088 View (323) 205-7088
Photo of Maxwell Sleep-Frankel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Maxwell Sleep-Frankel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
My name is Max Sleep-Frankel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); I am also certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Grief Informed Professional (CGP). I have extensive experience working with older adults and adults with disabilities as they navigate the many life transitions that beset them during this time period. My approach to therapy is to serve as a guide to accomplishing your personal goals and living a more enriched life.
My name is Max Sleep-Frankel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); I am also certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Grief Informed Professional (CGP). I have extensive experience working with older adults and adults with disabilities as they navigate the many life transitions that beset them during this time period. My approach to therapy is to serve as a guide to accomplishing your personal goals and living a more enriched life.
(805) 510-7694 View (805) 510-7694
Photo of Sharon Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Sharon Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
Sharon Jones was born in the city of Shreveport, Louisiana and raised in the rural area of Coushatta, Louisiana. Her early life was shaped by humble beginnings. Sharon traveled to San Francisco on the bus with a hand full of change looking for a better life. Sharon resides in California and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Sharon has work experience of over 30 years in behavioral healthcare serving others.
Sharon Jones was born in the city of Shreveport, Louisiana and raised in the rural area of Coushatta, Louisiana. Her early life was shaped by humble beginnings. Sharon traveled to San Francisco on the bus with a hand full of change looking for a better life. Sharon resides in California and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Sharon has work experience of over 30 years in behavioral healthcare serving others.
(562) 561-1608 View (562) 561-1608

Narrative Therapists

Is narrative therapy evidence-based?

Narrative therapy is not well-studied, and it may not be as effective in treating mental health conditions when compared with evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy. Some small studies do show that depressed and anxious individuals who were treated with narrative therapy reported improvement in anxiety and depression symptoms.

How long does narrative therapy last?

Narrative therapy is less structured when compared with psychoanalysis, for example. Narrative therapy is more open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a few months, and sometimes a year or longer. Patients see their therapist one to two times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a person’s challenges and progress. Individuals can also practice the principles of narrative therapy after treatment has ended.

Does narrative therapy work?

Narrative therapy can help a person manage or reduce symptoms of conditions like depression or anxiety. This type of therapy encourages a person to reflect on the moments of their life when their particular problem was not at the forefront of their minds—perhaps life celebrations, achievements, and other successes. The individual is encouraged to rewrite their storyline as if their particular problem was not part of their life. This therapy may offer benefits that are hard to measure.

What are the possible limitations of narrative therapy?

Narrative therapy is person-centered or client-centered, and the health professional pays more attention to the subjective narratives that are constructed by the client, as opposed to other objective measures. The therapist privileges the individual’s perspective over all others. This open form may feel frustrating for individuals seeking a more structured approach; certainly, no one therapy type will work for every individual.