Tehachapi is best known for the major earthquake that happened in 1952 along the White Wolf Fault line. The earthquake was the largest in the state at that time for the 20 th century. The town sustained a lot of damage, but was able to rebuild and become prosperous once more. Sometimes in life earthquakes might come along to rupture our plans and happiness. And sometimes you need help to rebuild.

If you are facing your own personal earthquakes, Tehachapi-area counselors can help. These confidential therapists can provide you with support and advice so that you can overcome and rebuild your life, becoming happy again. Contact a counselor today.

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Merrill Tamiya Moreno

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT,PPS
Relationship issues
16 years of experience

Relationship help is here! Hello, and thank you for stopping by in your search for support. Although I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I am practicing as a Relationship Coach on the Betterhelp platform. You will receive the same exact support and expertise from me as a licensed therapist, but since I only currently offer live messaging sessions with no diagnosing or formal treatment planning, on this platform I will solely be practicing as your Relationship Coach. Any questions about this? Don’t hesitate to ask! :) A little bit more about my professional background: I have 16 years of experience as a mental health provider. I am deeply rooted in a psychodynamic, insight-oriented approach, with a focus on relationships. As your coach, we will dive into uncovering subconscious messages and drives from early life and we will explore ways this has impacted your adult life and relationships in particular. Together we’ll develop insight into what’s really going on and figuring out the root causes behind those relationship obstacles or patterns you may wish to change. If this sounds like the type of coaching you would be interested in engaging in, I would be more than happy to join you on your journey!

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Janet Amaya

Offering therapy in CA
License: M.S.W,L.C.S.W
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
13 years of experience

Hello my name is Janet Amaya, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I have been providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents and adults for over 13 years in a community based mental health setting. I have experience working with children 0-5 and their parents, Adolescents struggling with a variety of life stressors, anxiety, depression, school stress, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (Complex Trauma) and parental conflict. I have also worked with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, unresolved trauma and daily life stresses, and life transitions. I received my Bachelor's Degree at UC DAVIS in Human Development & Psychology. I went on to receive a Master's in Social Work from Sacramento, California State University. I have devoted my career to working with underserved communities in a county mental health agency from Acute Psychiatric Patients to Children and their families struggling with a variety of mental health issues and environmental stressors. I am currently shifting gears to be able to help a broader range of people with assistance through the use of telehealth. We are living in uncertain times, with lots of stressors coming at us on TV, social media, peer pressure, financial struggles. Many people are afraid to leave their homes, others are overwhelmed by the pressures 'adulting' brings. The stigma of mental health is still prevalent in our society and many are finding telehealth to be safe alternative into seeking help. If that is you and you are looking for a safe, convenient way to share your struggles and help you find the clarity you need to continue to improve your day to day functioning, I can help. I have an eclectic approach to therapy, which means I will use my skills and experience to help YOU, I don't use a one-way solution based on one particular therapeutic model. I have preference to combing Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy all of which is trauma informed practice. I have a strong Christian faith, which we can use to help in our work together, but if you choose not to, we can go that way too. I believe you have the answers within you and with some objectivity I can help you see it and start the steps towards progress and healing.

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Dr. Brandy Reid

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT,Psy.D
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

Dr. Brandy Reid is an experienced licensed marriage and family therapist offering 14 years of experience with a demonstrated history of working in community mental health and private practice. Brandy enjoys advocating for marginalized groups through her clinical work and leadership development training. Brandy is a Christian and believes in allowing space for your spirituality to exist within your healing journey. Brandy is also an LGBTQIAA+ ally and enjoys doing advocacy work to support client's self-development. Brandy specializes in working with clients (children and adults) who have life experiences resulting from trauma, depression, anxiety, conduct disorder, substance use, divorce, abuse, and/ or homelessness. Brandy Reid is able to provide anger management, behavior modification intervention, life skills, stress management, family reunification support, parenting support, resilience skill training, self-esteem support, and grief support. Brandy utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach with an emphasis on CBT to help clients reach their goals, become more grounded, and strengthen their self-image. Brandy Reid received her BA in Sociology with a concentration in Pan African Studies in 2008. She went on to obtain an M.A. in clinical psychology ( marriage family therapy) in 2011 and a Psy.D in organizational psychology in 2019.

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(Gary) Trent Allen

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMHC,CPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTBipolar disorderDepression
20 years of experience

My name is Trent and I’m glad to help you work through these issues that you’ve brought today. I’m a client centered solution focused therapist and would love to focus on what your dreams and aspirations are. I would start by asking the miracle question to determine if you woke up tomorrow and your life was perfect and everything you wanted was how you hoped it would be then I would you describe that life for me. Moving forward from there we can work on your goals around the things that you’d like to work on first and prioritize those goals and come up with solutions, copy mechanisms, and strategies to get you to where you would like to be. Life is fulfilled and determined by you and your supportive work and meaningful interactions that you you are looking for and brought to me today. Once we establish a treatment plan based your goals then we can work through them one at time to achieve them. We will consistently check in and see how you are feeling about your progress and re-assess the treatment plan as needed. We can add goals as well moving forward if you determine through the process that there are further things you would like to work on. Initially when doing therapeutic work things can initially feel worse before they feel better so please check in and tell me how you feel the process is working for you. Your feedback to me as we progress is my way to adjust your treatment plan and make sure that your therapeutic goals are being met. I look forward to working with you. I am professional counselor licensed for private practice in WA state as an LMHC with many years providing experience to a very diverse population which an array of mental health concerns. I have worked in non-profit mental health with the severely mentally ill, homeless and substance abuse population for many years. I have also worked in a correctional setting with forensic patients and have practice with residential programs as well. I have a client centered approach to counseling and employ a variety of tools in my "counselor tool belt" to assist my patients with concerns and symptoms they may want help with. I have used solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy and trauma focused therapy. My approach to always meet patients where they are at and provide unconditional acceptance and positive regard to provide a safe environment for people grow, heal and move on what they have brought to the session to work through. I have worked with anxiety and depressive symptoms, PTSA, trauma, personality disorders, Bipolar disorders, Schizoaffective and Schizophrenia disorders to name a few. I look forward to forming a positive therapeutic relationship with you and helping you to grow and become whatever it is you are wanting to be.

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Paula Fuentes

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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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Valerie Rodgers

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, adjustment issues, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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! My general availability is early morning on weekdays, but we can discuss other potential options. I have limited time in the evenings.

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Teresa Velazquez Navarro

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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Sara Irwin

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS,LMHP,LADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
14 years of experience

"There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn't" Hello! I am glad you are here and I look forward to working with you. I am a licensed mental health and addiction therapist in with over 10 years of experience in the field. I graduated from Creighton University in 2008 with a Master's degree in Community Counseling. I have worked with all ages in clinic setting and private practice on various issues including substance abuse, anxiety, trauma, depression, relationship issues, grief, parenting struggles, stress management, and poor impulse control. In addition, I am also trained as a certified Clinical Trauma Professional. My therapeutic style is based on being genuine and understanding with clients. I believe it is essential to actively listen and effectively problem solve with my clients. My therapeutic foundation is a mix of cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and rational-emotive theories. There are so many benefits from seeking out therapy. It can be the beginning of a powerful change for a person's life. I enjoy helping people reach their goals or resolve what is bothering them. I encourage you to start today to change your life for the better by allowing me to help your through your journey. When I am not working, I stay busy with my family. I have two little guys, so I am always on the go with these two. I also love running, traveling, reading, learning new things, and being outdoors. I am here to help you get unstuck and live your best life!

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Felicia Kelley

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
12 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. 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. 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.

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Kurt Kozma

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
37 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 37 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. 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 Tehachapi

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Tehachapi 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 Tehachapi 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 Tehachapi 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 Tehachapi, 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 Tehachapi 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 Tehachapi 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 Tehachapi 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 Tehachapi 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 Tehachapi 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 93581 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 Tehachapi 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 Tehachapi 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 Tehachapi, 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.

Tehachapi 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 Tehachapi.

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

93561, 93581

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