Bakersfield, CA, is sometimes called “Nashville West” thanks to its contributions to country music. While Bakersfield has certainly influenced the genre, it did it in its own way. The electric-guitar-driven sound of Merle Haggard and Dwight Yoakum that dominated country music in the 1950s and early 1960s was known as the Bakersfield Sound. Are you looking to do something a little bit differently? Talking to a therapist Bakersfield CA can help you figure out how to do things your own way.


There are many types of therapy that may work for you: individual and group therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and Christian counseling, just to name a few. If you’re interested in a client centered approach to mental health services that you can access from your own home, consider signing up for counseling services with BetterHelp.

BetterHelp therapists in Bakersfield CA are qualified and licensed to practice therapy and have at least 2,000 hours of clinical practice. If you’re interested in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, or are unsure what’s the best appraoch for you, a BetterHelp therapist can help. And, if you’re worried about therapy costs, subscriptions cost between $65 to $90 per week (billed every four weeks), which my be more affordable than many in-person treatment.

Working with a professional in the mental health field can help you learn how to manage difficult life transitions, trauma related issues, or any other challenges. Speak to a Bakersfield-based counselor below to get started.

 

This is Jennifer Baumgardner's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Baumgardner

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepression
14 years of experience

Life can be full of challenges, and there are times when working with an understanding counselor can really help you through those tough times. I want to be here to help you if you are going through one of those times right now. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 10 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds, with a wide range of ages, and with many different concerns. I have experience with teens, veterans, and adults in all stages of life. I have worked with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, life transitions, grief, infertility and pregnancy loss, and maternal mental health. My counseling style is warm, supportive, and client-centered. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach largely combines cognitive-behavioral and humanistic counseling, but I also pull from other theoretical models as needed. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am here to help you get what you want out of the counseling experience. It takes courage to reach out for help and to make changes in your life. If you are ready to take the first step and start that journey, I am here to help. I look forward to working with you!

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Sana Akhtar Ramay

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
6 years of experience

My name is Sana Akhtar Ramay and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I always knew I wanted to work in a helping profession. After graduating with my Bachelors in Science in Psychology with an emphasis in Biology from University of California, Davis, I started working with children diagnosed with Autism, probably the most challenging job I have had but also equally rewarding. A few months in I was promoted to a leadership position; I started to realize how natural it was for me to be successful in that field further leading me to enroll in my Master’s program. I received my Master’s from National University in Counseling and began my career working in an agency in the Behavioral and Community Services Department as well as the Children’s’ department. During my time in the behavioral and community services department I worked predominantly with adults as well as couples, families and children. During my time working in the children’s department I worked with children aged 2-21. One client stands out in particular is one of my success stories. This client was a young lady that struggled with anxiety from a young age and had been on a cocktail of medication from the age of 3. I spent about 1 year providing individual counseling, family services, and services with parents whom were separated and consulting with psychiatrist. With everyone’s support this client was able to be taken off of all of her medication and graduate from counseling. In my last session with this student she made me card with the following quote on the front “A smooth sea never made a skillful sailor”. I have her card pinned to my wall as a reminder that the challenges that we encounter and overcome make us better at what we do. Throughout my journey in working with children I have gotten many trainings and certifications. I am a Certified Nurtured Heart Trainer, certified in Parent Child Interactive Therapy (PCIT), have taken a 26 week Dialectical Behavior Therapy training (DBT), various trainings on Grief, Trauma and Cognitive Therapy. My counseling style is warm and interactive, I believe it is important to treat anyone with respect and dignity, to empower them and instill confidence in a compassionate manner. My therapeutic approach is a combination of Cognitive Behavioral, Narrative, Humanistic, Psychodynamic, and a combination of others. I believe in being client-centered and supporting client’s where they are at. It is important for me to include the client in the treatment planning process and help monitoring success. It takes courage and bravery to take that first step towards change, if you are ready to take that first step I am happy to help guide, support and encourage along the way. I look forward to working with you and helping you create a life full of happiness.

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This is Henry Ostendorf 's avatar and link to their profile

Henry Ostendorf

Offering therapy in CA
License: LPCC
LGBTGriefCareer difficultiesDepression
20 years of experience

I am Henry William Ostendorf. My gender pronouns are He/Him/His. I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in San Francisco, California with over twenty years of experience counseling others to better cope with psychological and social distress. I'm a helper by nature. I consider myself to be respectful, kind, empathetic and resourceful. I limit my practice to male-identified clients. Cisgender and Transgender males of any sexual orientation. Please note my schedule is often more open than just the slots shown. If you wish a specific day or time just ask. I will book you anytime if my schedule (and life) allow. Unfortunately the platform sometimes makes an error and a female subscriber will be matched with me. If you notice this has happened it is easily rectified by clicking on the "change counselor " link where you will see other available counselors to choose from. I practice Client Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy sometimes known as CBT. This type of counseling has been clinically proven to provide positive therapeutic outcomes. With CBT you may feel better, quicker, and with less financial investment than from other types of talk therapy. There is also evidence that CBT may be as effective as medication in treating anxiety and depression problems, Psychotherapy is used to facilitate optimal adjustment, either to situations of ongoing stress, such as chronic mental or physical illness or in acutely stressful situations as, for example, following the death of a spouse or loved pet. Such supportive therapy may consist of a number of regular weekly contacts. These sessions may be frequent and brief, or more structured up to 30-45 minutes over a period of time chosen by the participant. It is my sincere goal is to assist you to become self-sufficient and independent as possible. Our work starts with our identification of your goals, examining and understanding the barriers you face (which may be physical, social and/or psychological) and developing a realistic plan to move forward. This often requires changing old patterns of behavior that no longer works for you and reevaluation of our plan as new information comes forward. An action-oriented focus does not, however, preclude us from taking the smallest of steps -- especially as we begin our work together. Psychotherapy involves the use of many and varied psychological techniques including: • Empathy • Sympathetic Listening • Confiding Relationship • Ventilation and Expression of Emotional Material • Encouragement • Opportunities for Corrections • Explanation and Education • Appropriate Reassurance • Guidance • Practical Help • Behavior Modification I also specialize in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling and Pet Loss Grief. Vocational rehabilitation is a process which enables persons with functional, psychological, developmental, cognitive and emotional impairments or health conditions to overcome barriers to accessing, maintaining or returning to employment or other useful occupation. As a Senior Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor with the California Department of Rehabilitation I've assisted over 800 disabled job seekers on their path to employment. My clients have included those with mood disorders, depression, anxiety, alcohol and other drug issues, traumatic brain injury, autism spectrum disorders, learning disorders, carpal tunnel and other repetitive strain disorders, and developmental issues. Many of my clients have come from the LGBT+ community. For over two years I've facilitated a monthly pet loss support group for the Peninsula Humane Society in Burlingame, CA. Loss of a pet is disenfranchised grief. Family, friends and coworkers often don't understand the depth of loss experienced when a pet dies. The inability for others to hear and understand one's grief can prolong or stunt the healing process. I understand and work to provide space to ventilate this sorrow and express the deep love one has for their lost friend.

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Rhonda Robertson

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Josie Dameyer

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

Hello, I am licensed in California and have 10 years of professional work experience. I am experienced in helping clients who are coping with addiction, family conflicts, low motivation, self esteem, confidence, and depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, intelligence, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and often leads to greater awareness and agency in our own lives. I look forward to meeting you!

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Armando Rodriguez

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

Hi! I am Armando Rodriguez. I am a Latino Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 3 years of professional work experience. I am bilingual and speak both English and Spanish fluently. I have experience helping clients cope with addictions, family conflicts, trauma, and abuse, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I take a psychodynamic and client-centered approach because I believe that clients are the experts of their experience and that early childhood experiences manifest today as maladaptive behaviors. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. The first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life is courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Michael Miller

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficulties
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and have been licensed in the state of Washington since 2014. My primary environment of support has been working with clients in educational settings such as helping parents support their child through the developmental stages in high school or adults managing the stresses of attending college. My background in career counseling pairs well when partnering with clients transitioning to new positions or career opportunities. Topics I provide support for have included depression, anxiety, parenting problems, career challenges, ADHD, and various other qualified accommodations. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in partnering with people by treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, compassion, and above all using a culturally intelligent lens. My approach is client-centered with a cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused therapy. I will facilitate a discussion as we develop a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Change can be a difficult and sometimes overwhelming path to take on ones own, I will walk with you and support you along your journey. I look forward to working with you!

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This is Lori Rolf's avatar and link to their profile

Lori Rolf

Offering therapy in CA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementDepressionCompassion fatigue
13 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Minnesota and California with over 15 years experience working as a counselor and therapist. I have worked with individuals experiencing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, eating disorder, grief and loss, relationship issues, emotion management, stress, work/life balance, and trauma. My therapy style is empathic and accepting. My approach combines cognitive behavior, dialectical behavior, solution focused and relational-cultural therapy. I believe that therapy is most effective when there is a therapeutic partnership that is genuine, compassionate, empathetic, and supportive of client choices. I respect and value the experiences in your life that contribute to you choosing therapy. Our work together will be based on your individual treatment plan goals with a focus on building skills to create changes in your life. It takes courage and hope to reach out for help. I am honored to be part of your journey toward health and wellness!

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This is Christopher Cox's avatar and link to their profile

Christopher Cox

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & anger management. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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This is Albani Goodall's avatar and link to their profile

Albani Goodall

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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How to find counseling in Bakersfield

Finding the best therapist close by in Bakersfield can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Bakersfield. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Bakersfield, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Bakersfield or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Bakersfield area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Bakersfield, elsewhere in Kern, or in the greater state of California.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Bakersfield area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Bakersfield therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Bakersfield due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Bakersfield may not take health insurance, some in the state of California may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Bakersfield, California working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Bakersfield above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Bakersfield helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Bakersfield therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Bakersfield therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Bakersfield therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in CA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 93390 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Bakersfield counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Bakersfield licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Bakersfield, California can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Bakersfield has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Bakersfield.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Bakersfield:

93301, 93302, 93304, 93305, 93306, 93307, 93309, 93311, 93312, 93313, 93314, 93384, 93385, 93387, 93389, 93390

Popular cities near Bakersfield, CA

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