The City of Taft, California was named after President William H. Taft in 1909 and they are extremely proud of their history. They have many buildings and places on the National Register of Historic Places to explore and learn about the town’s history.

Exploring historic places and enjoying other places of recreation are excellent for both your mental and physical health but sometimes some of us need a bit more help than everyone else. If you are looking for some extra help, contact one of the mental health professionals in and around Taft today so you can start feeling better.

This is Beth Deja's avatar and link to their profile

Beth Deja

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

People come to therapy for a variety of reasons. Sometimes you are in crisis mode or going through something in real time, and sometimes you just need someone to talk to for support. My goal is to help you manage distress and identify problem-solving skills that will keep you mangaging in the future. Originally from Michigan, I gave up cold winters for the palm trees of sunny San Diego, then backtracked somehow and am enjoying scalding summers and sunny winters in Denver. Licensed in both Colorado and California, I am empathetic, nonjudgmental, and authentic. Once I know you, I like to give it to you straight with a good sense of humor. I have over ten years of experience providing mental health services to adults, families, and children, and I have been providing online therapy since 2015. I work with all types of issues, including depression, anxiety, and interpersonal relationship conflicts. My primary treatment modalities include CBT, trauma-informed approaches, and solution-focused techniques. I enjoy working as a therapist because I legitimately love learning about people. I truly look forward to meeting and working with you. Welcome!

This is Kirsten Brandenburg's avatar and link to their profile

Kirsten Brandenburg

Offering therapy in CA
License: M.S.,LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

Hello and welcome, I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I received my Masters in Psychology, Bachelors in Psychology, Bachelors in Anthropology, and Minor in Business from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. I have been providing individual, family, and group psychotherapy since 2014. I utilize psychodynamic and attachment theory and a neurobiological approach to trauma during therapy (live chat) sessions. I am trained and have a specialized background working with complex trauma including childhood and sexual abuse, domestic violence, perinatal and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, and parenting/ co-parenting. I work hard to provide a safe space where you can express your feelings and thoughts without judgment. You deserve to heal and find joy in life, and I am here to support you in this.

This is Diana Vines's avatar and link to their profile

Diana Vines

Offering therapy in CA
License: Psy.D
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in the state of California as well as having a Masters in Social Work . I have experience working with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems and end of life issues. My counseling style is warm, supportive, and interactive, and I consider the client/therapist relationship to be the most important element in the healing process. I believe in treating each client with respect, sensitivity, and compassion , avoiding stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive behavioral and solution focused therapy but I consider early life experiences to be very influential in an individual's psychological development. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It is not easy to take the first step towards change but therapy can be a transformative experience leading to a more satisfying and fulfilling life. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you.

This is Alvin Tan's avatar and link to their profile

Alvin Tan

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

Hi, I am a licensed clinical social worker in San Diego, California. My primary background experience is in helping clients to regain/increase control over their mental health, via developing increased insight/understanding of symptoms, identifying and utilizing coping skills, developing positive support systems, and increasing ability to problem-solve/navigate challenges. I have worked with adults in multiple settings, including those experiencing active crisis within acute locked psychiatric care, clients coming into an outpatient clinic for mental health services and counseling/groups, clients utilizing substance use disorder treatment individually and in groups, and adult clients with developmental disabilities in the group home setting. Professionally, I've worked both as direct care staff as well as in management and supervisor roles, and have also mentored undergrad and grad students. I'm looking forward to meeting you and offering you support.

This is Karen  Winberry's avatar and link to their profile

Karen Winberry

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
26 years of experience

I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Counselor. I have 25 years of experience in the mental health profession. I work with children (ages 7 and up), adolescents, adults, and older adults on issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, anger management, substance abuse, parenting, domestic violence, and other relationship issues. I also have extensive experience working with clients with serious mental illness, such as Bipolar Disorder, Major Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Schizoaffective Disorders. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques, and I am able to adapt to individual client needs. I work with culturally and ethnically diverse populations. I help my clients to develop healthy skills to cope with life stressors. If you feel you could use some help in navigating life's many challenges, need someone who will listen to you without judging, and someone to provide honest and constructive feedback, then reach out to me and we can take steps toward a more fulfilling and joyful life.

This is Daniel Thorne's avatar and link to their profile

Daniel Thorne

Offering therapy in CA
License: M.S.,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issues
30 years of experience

My name is Dan Thorne. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I have over 30 years of experience as a therapist. My work with clients ranges from stress reduction, learning mindfulness techniques, relationship and parenting issues, phobias, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. My approach to therapy is to make my client feel comfortable and valued during treatment. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort between the client and the therapist, working together on the client’s goals in treatment. I use cognitive-behavioral therapy, hypnotherapy, and dialectical behavior therapy as my main approaches. Not everyone is ready to change. But therapy can be a first step to using the untapped strengths you have to empower yourself in your life. I look forward to working with you!

This is Vanessa Potier Watts's avatar and link to their profile

Vanessa Potier Watts

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Stefanie Huff's avatar and link to their profile

Stefanie Huff

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, alcohol/drug abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Joseph "Gerry" Grossman's avatar and link to their profile

Joseph "Gerry" Grossman

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
38 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 38 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, intimacy related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, 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 can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Maria Littleton's avatar and link to their profile

Maria Littleton

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

How to find counseling in Taft

Finding the best therapist close by in Taft 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 Taft. 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 Taft, 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 Taft 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 Taft 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 Taft, 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 Taft area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Taft 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 Taft 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 Taft 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 Taft, 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 Taft 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 Taft 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 Taft 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 Taft 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 Taft 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 93268 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 Taft 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 Taft 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 Taft, 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.

Taft 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Taft.

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

93252, 93268

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist