Photo of Michelle Watson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Michelle Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
My name is Michelle Watson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I specialize in the treatment of addiction and help people recover from depression, anxiety, co-dependency, trauma, and dysfunctional behavior that results from trauma. I especially enjoy working with Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA) and dysfunctional families. I take a strength-based and client-centered approach to therapy with a focus on skill-building. I'm trained in motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and cognitive processing therapy.
My name is Michelle Watson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I specialize in the treatment of addiction and help people recover from depression, anxiety, co-dependency, trauma, and dysfunctional behavior that results from trauma. I especially enjoy working with Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA) and dysfunctional families. I take a strength-based and client-centered approach to therapy with a focus on skill-building. I'm trained in motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and cognitive processing therapy.
(661) 410-7476 View (661) 410-7476
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
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.
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 Luiza Pinaud, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Luiza Pinaud
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
I provide client-centered, strength-based, and evidence-based treatment to people from all backgrounds. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, stress, and addiction disorders. I like to integrate different approaches into my practice, such as CBT, DBT, attachment theory and mindfulness practices. I work with individuals and couples and speak Portuguese and Spanish. I am most comfortable treating patients with mild to moderate symptoms struggling with depression, anxiety, stress or substance use disorders.
I provide client-centered, strength-based, and evidence-based treatment to people from all backgrounds. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, stress, and addiction disorders. I like to integrate different approaches into my practice, such as CBT, DBT, attachment theory and mindfulness practices. I work with individuals and couples and speak Portuguese and Spanish. I am most comfortable treating patients with mild to moderate symptoms struggling with depression, anxiety, stress or substance use disorders.
(510) 380-7422 View (510) 380-7422
Photo of Alysia Wong, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Alysia Wong
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
My name is Alysia Wong and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I primarily work with adults who need support with mood disorders, trauma, domestic violence, life transitions, or anxiety. I approach treatment with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and I may incorporate Person-Centered, Strength-Based, Trauma Informed, and Applied Behavioral Analysis modalities as well. I have been working in the mental health system of care since 2013 in various settings (inpatient, outpatient, private practice, court-mandated).
My name is Alysia Wong and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I primarily work with adults who need support with mood disorders, trauma, domestic violence, life transitions, or anxiety. I approach treatment with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and I may incorporate Person-Centered, Strength-Based, Trauma Informed, and Applied Behavioral Analysis modalities as well. I have been working in the mental health system of care since 2013 in various settings (inpatient, outpatient, private practice, court-mandated).
(858) 422-3282 View (858) 422-3282
Photo of Jefferson Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Jefferson Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
Jefferson Young is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience providing exceptional care and assisting clients and their families to improve their emotional health. Jefferson came to Los Angeles from Virginia and became a trained and licensed therapist assisting in the development of a Dual Diagnosis program for a local area non-profit. He has lent that experience in assisting the development of Medication Assisted Therapy program for clients with substance use disorders.
Jefferson Young is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience providing exceptional care and assisting clients and their families to improve their emotional health. Jefferson came to Los Angeles from Virginia and became a trained and licensed therapist assisting in the development of a Dual Diagnosis program for a local area non-profit. He has lent that experience in assisting the development of Medication Assisted Therapy program for clients with substance use disorders.
(661) 443-3039 View (661) 443-3039
Photo of Tiffany Bell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Tiffany Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Having a hard time navigating life? Feel as though you keep falling back into the same old patterns which don't produce what you intended? Having difficulty with your child, spouse, family or loved ones? Have the thought that addressing your innermost pain means there is "something wrong with you?" Let me help! In my practice I strive to help people access their best selves, lives, and potential. I assist you in navigating through your life. My goal is to spread the word that everyone will need an impartial confidant and that seeking help is normal. I would be honored to assist you on your journey of transformation.
Having a hard time navigating life? Feel as though you keep falling back into the same old patterns which don't produce what you intended? Having difficulty with your child, spouse, family or loved ones? Have the thought that addressing your innermost pain means there is "something wrong with you?" Let me help! In my practice I strive to help people access their best selves, lives, and potential. I assist you in navigating through your life. My goal is to spread the word that everyone will need an impartial confidant and that seeking help is normal. I would be honored to assist you on your journey of transformation.
(661) 765-8731 View (661) 765-8731
Photo of Monica M Morovich Certified Emdr Therapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Monica M Morovich Certified Emdr Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PPSC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Waitlist for new clients
I believe building a genuine connection between the therapist and client is a very important first step. Within this relationship I offer a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate environment. My goal is to meet you where you are; whether you are struggling with trauma, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, or stress, counseling can be a life-enriching experience. I will be walking with you on your journey to facing life's challenges.
I believe building a genuine connection between the therapist and client is a very important first step. Within this relationship I offer a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate environment. My goal is to meet you where you are; whether you are struggling with trauma, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, or stress, counseling can be a life-enriching experience. I will be walking with you on your journey to facing life's challenges.
(661) 768-1130 View (661) 768-1130
Photo of Stacey Tisler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Stacey Tisler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312
Hello, my name is Stacey. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Bakersfield, California. I am passionate about my work and providing an opportunity to help individuals and families cope with life's challenges and work towards healing and creating a life worth living. I work well with children, adolescents, and young adults; however, I have the ability to engage with and work with any age group. I also have the ability to engage with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and ethnicities.
Hello, my name is Stacey. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Bakersfield, California. I am passionate about my work and providing an opportunity to help individuals and families cope with life's challenges and work towards healing and creating a life worth living. I work well with children, adolescents, and young adults; however, I have the ability to engage with and work with any age group. I also have the ability to engage with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and ethnicities.
(661) 903-8622 View (661) 903-8622
Photo of Flower J Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Flower J Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93301  (Online Only)
Therapy can be a way to get us back on track. I offer support and guidance with compassion. I believe in building a non-judgmental relationship with clients in order to reach autonomy, self-awareness, and empowerment.
Therapy can be a way to get us back on track. I offer support and guidance with compassion. I believe in building a non-judgmental relationship with clients in order to reach autonomy, self-awareness, and empowerment.
(661) 526-0640 View (661) 526-0640
Photo of Victor Alcantar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Victor Alcantar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
Hello, My name is Victor Alcantar, LMFT and I have over 21 years of experience as a mental health professional. I have experience in working with acute and chronic mental health disorders. Not only do I believe that the relationship between your thoughts, feelings and actions are essential to your mental health and daily functioning, but I am certain that they are the foundation to healthy relationships with friends, family and intimate partners in your personal life at home, work and social network.
Hello, My name is Victor Alcantar, LMFT and I have over 21 years of experience as a mental health professional. I have experience in working with acute and chronic mental health disorders. Not only do I believe that the relationship between your thoughts, feelings and actions are essential to your mental health and daily functioning, but I am certain that they are the foundation to healthy relationships with friends, family and intimate partners in your personal life at home, work and social network.
(661) 449-2213 View (661) 449-2213
Photo of Lauren Rutledge, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Lauren Rutledge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
My name is Lauren, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Calistoga, California where I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I specialize in anxiety, grief, life transitions, trauma, PTSD, and addiction. Depending on the needs of each client, I like to explore cognitive, affective, and somatic approaches to support them in experiencing well-being.
My name is Lauren, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Calistoga, California where I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I specialize in anxiety, grief, life transitions, trauma, PTSD, and addiction. Depending on the needs of each client, I like to explore cognitive, affective, and somatic approaches to support them in experiencing well-being.
(661) 485-4657 View (661) 485-4657
Photo of Dena Barnes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Dena Barnes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, ATR, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Sometimes, it's hard to know how to change things without the help of someone you trust. Perhaps you are ready to make a change in your life...ready to finally close the gap between the way your life is and the way you would like it to be? I'd like to help you along that journey. My goal is to help each client develop a pathway to achieve inner health, resolve conflicts, and find happiness and wholeness in their lives. Here, you will find an open, safe and empathic space for transformation.
Sometimes, it's hard to know how to change things without the help of someone you trust. Perhaps you are ready to make a change in your life...ready to finally close the gap between the way your life is and the way you would like it to be? I'd like to help you along that journey. My goal is to help each client develop a pathway to achieve inner health, resolve conflicts, and find happiness and wholeness in their lives. Here, you will find an open, safe and empathic space for transformation.
(661) 460-5123 View (661) 460-5123
Photo of Leah L Lopeteguy-Hoffman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Leah L Lopeteguy-Hoffman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93389  (Online Only)
Some days are good, while others are something to be reckoned with. On the reckoning days, typical daily activity can seem overwhelming and sometimes the anxiety, stress, or sadness can feel painful, both physically and emotionally. Even taking a deep breath during these times can be a struggle. And, to add to the overwhelm, you've been looking at these profiles hoping that one would jump out and spell out the answer to the million dollar question…what comes next? The struggle is real, and the vulnerability that comes with looking for answers can be equally overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Because you're not alone.
Some days are good, while others are something to be reckoned with. On the reckoning days, typical daily activity can seem overwhelming and sometimes the anxiety, stress, or sadness can feel painful, both physically and emotionally. Even taking a deep breath during these times can be a struggle. And, to add to the overwhelm, you've been looking at these profiles hoping that one would jump out and spell out the answer to the million dollar question…what comes next? The struggle is real, and the vulnerability that comes with looking for answers can be equally overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Because you're not alone.
(661) 493-8053 View (661) 493-8053
Photo of Howard Acosta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
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.
(661) 347-2811 View (661) 347-2811
Photo of Kara Meeks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Kara Meeks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
Close your eyes, take a deep breath in and exhale. What comes to mind...broken relationships? Feelings of shame and guilt? Depression or anxiety? Intrusive memories? Addiction? Lack of goals or motivation? Welcome to a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your life experiences, determine how they helped form who you are today, and gain insight to heal core issues. A space to discover your authentic self, living genuinely and with purpose. I would be honored to support you on your journey to healing past wounds and transforming those experiences into empowerment and authenticity.
Close your eyes, take a deep breath in and exhale. What comes to mind...broken relationships? Feelings of shame and guilt? Depression or anxiety? Intrusive memories? Addiction? Lack of goals or motivation? Welcome to a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your life experiences, determine how they helped form who you are today, and gain insight to heal core issues. A space to discover your authentic self, living genuinely and with purpose. I would be honored to support you on your journey to healing past wounds and transforming those experiences into empowerment and authenticity.
(661) 463-3986 View (661) 463-3986
Photo of Millicent Pitts, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Millicent Pitts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312
I understand how difficult sharing life altering memories can be for people. Just ignoring unresolved issues will not make the pain any less. Addressing old hurt, anger, fears, and other emotions will assist in gaining a better sense of self. My goal is to help people with the thoughts that keep them up at night. We can’t change the past, but we can change how we process old grief and allow past trauma to impact our lives.
I understand how difficult sharing life altering memories can be for people. Just ignoring unresolved issues will not make the pain any less. Addressing old hurt, anger, fears, and other emotions will assist in gaining a better sense of self. My goal is to help people with the thoughts that keep them up at night. We can’t change the past, but we can change how we process old grief and allow past trauma to impact our lives.
(661) 215-5927 View (661) 215-5927
Photo of Ana Isela An, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Ana Isela An
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual, Licenced Clinical Social Worker with a passion and commitment for serving and helping others achieve their goals of recovery. My goal is to create a safe setting where you feel comfortable talking about your feelings, emotions, and traumatic experiences.
I am a bilingual, Licenced Clinical Social Worker with a passion and commitment for serving and helping others achieve their goals of recovery. My goal is to create a safe setting where you feel comfortable talking about your feelings, emotions, and traumatic experiences.
(661) 463-8939 View (661) 463-8939
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 Becca Ferguson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Becca Ferguson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93301
I enjoy helping individuals and couples from 18 y/o through late adulthood. If you need help improving your life & your relationships, I can give you the tools you need! My clients tell me I am genuine and easy to talk to, and they feel they leave each session with realistic tools to improve their day to day lives. I like to work with a variety of individuals, couples, and families, on trauma, anxiety, depression and other issues, and I specialize in working with individuals with all types of sexual problems such as porn and sex addiction. I also love working with people with intellectual disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I enjoy helping individuals and couples from 18 y/o through late adulthood. If you need help improving your life & your relationships, I can give you the tools you need! My clients tell me I am genuine and easy to talk to, and they feel they leave each session with realistic tools to improve their day to day lives. I like to work with a variety of individuals, couples, and families, on trauma, anxiety, depression and other issues, and I specialize in working with individuals with all types of sexual problems such as porn and sex addiction. I also love working with people with intellectual disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(661) 347-2041 View (661) 347-2041
Photo of Mindful Path Counseling LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Mindful Path Counseling LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
Depression is overwhelming sadness that has an impact in living your best life. Depression can be accompanied by different symptoms of anxiety, panic and loss of energy/motivation. Overcoming depression can be challenging if you are doing it alone. Negative life experiences can and do have an impact on who you are and your happiness. Awareness and understanding of what is going on inside of yourself is powerful in helping yourself to overcome negative or irrational thoughts that are keeping you from being your true self.
Depression is overwhelming sadness that has an impact in living your best life. Depression can be accompanied by different symptoms of anxiety, panic and loss of energy/motivation. Overcoming depression can be challenging if you are doing it alone. Negative life experiences can and do have an impact on who you are and your happiness. Awareness and understanding of what is going on inside of yourself is powerful in helping yourself to overcome negative or irrational thoughts that are keeping you from being your true self.
(661) 220-5161 View (661) 220-5161

Strength-Based Therapists

How does strength-based therapy work?

During strength-based therapy sessions, the therapist will ask about an individual’s experiences of stress, pain, or trauma with the goal of orienting the client to view themselves as a survivor rather than a victim, and focusing on their strengths rather than on their weaknesses. In framing a client’s personal narrative along these lines, the therapist and client work together to identify existing skills that can be harnessed.

Is strength-based therapy evidence-based?

Strength-based therapy is an evidence-based treatment that has been studied extensively and shown to be effective across domains. The treatment has been found to be particularly effective in helping individuals who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns. Strength-based therapy has been used by therapists to help clients for more than 60 years.

How long does strength-based therapy last?

There’s no precise timeline for strength-based therapy. The duration of treatment depends on the individual’s specific needs and goals and the severity of their concerns. Some individuals may find they achieve their therapeutic goals quickly, while others might benefit from ongoing support and guidance in order to continue progressing.

How effective is strength-based therapy?

Clinical research and decades of practice have shown strength-based therapy to be an effective treatment to improve mental health and well-being for many conditions. The treatment can engender a sense of connection and collaboration between the therapist and the individual, fostering a positive therapeutic relationship. For individuals with narcissistic tendencies, strength-based therapy may be less effective, as the focus on the individual’s strengths may undermine the work needed to honestly assess the challenges the individual faces.