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Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in Bakersfield, CA

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Top addiction and substance use disorder therapists and psychiatrists in Bakersfield, CA

Headway connects Bakersfield individuals with addiction specialists trained in 12-step facilitation, SMART Recovery, and community reinforcement approaches. Access virtual or in-person therapy with providers experienced in managing cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and building sustainable sobriety.

Emily McKillip

Emily McKillip

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am known for creating a warm, safe, and collaborative therapeutic space where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to heal.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Depression, LGBTQIA+, Relationship issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Perri Kruse

Perri Kruse

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California and a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in Washington, DC. I provide psychotherapy to adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions.

I currently work with the Integrative Digestive Health team at UCLA Health and also provide therapy through Lyra Health. I bring extensive experience across medical and mental health settings, including six years as a liver transplant social worker at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, work on the first COVID unit at George Washington University Hospital, and leadership roles in community mental health organizations in Washington, DC.

My approach is warm, collaborative, and client-centered, grounded in trauma-informed care. I primarily use cognitive behavioral and solution-focused therapies while tailoring treatment to each individual. I have particular expertise in trauma, the intersection of physical and mental health, and interpersonal relationships. I offer both short- and long-term therapy and believe meaningful change happens in a space that feels safe, supportive, and authentic.

I am happy to provide a free 15-minute consultation (upon request) to ensure a good fit. To request a consultation, please email: [email protected].

Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, hiking in the Los Angeles mountains, kayaking, and spending time with my rescue dog, Sophia.

Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Brent Petersen

Brent Petersen

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe you are the expert on your own life, and my role is to walk alongside you with curiosity and without judgment.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Mary Mooradian

Mary Mooradian

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I am a licensed psychologist in California with 10 years of experience spanning forensic settings, early childhood assessment, and private practice.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Holistic, Participatory
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Sarah Jackson Garcia

Sarah Jackson Garcia

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to support clients in their healing in a way that fits them, because no two people are the same.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Jennifer Eastman

Jennifer Eastman

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“What sets my practice apart is my extensive experience with co-occurring conditions and complex presentations.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Holly Shannon

Holly Shannon

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Bakersfield, CA


“My work taught me that women's mental health—especially during pregnancy, postpartum, and hormonal transitions—requires specialized understanding and individualized care.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Amy Shefftz

Amy Shefftz

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Concord, CA


IMPORTANT: All clients must complete our intake form and sign our policies before their appointment. Please complete these documents at https://intakeq.com/new/6oakjo/lusjbb or contact us at 602-800-4699 (call or text). Please also email or text us a copy of your photo ID/driver's license at [email protected]

Hi, I'm Amy! As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide comprehensive, individualized care for complex mental health challenges. My expertise includes ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD and trauma, schizophrenia and psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, mood disorders, and bipolar conditions.

What sets my practice apart is my commitment to seeing each person as a unique individual with their own strengths, challenges, and goals. Whether you're seeking your first diagnosis, managing multiple conditions, or looking for a fresh perspective, I bring both clinical expertise and genuine empathy to every interaction. I work to address not just symptoms, but the whole person behind them.

I believe in collaborative care, where your voice and preferences guide our treatment decisions. My approach combines evidence-based psychiatric interventions with respect for your lived experience and personal values. I take time to listen, ask thoughtful questions, and ensure you feel heard and understood. Whether we're exploring medication options, developing coping strategies, or working through diagnostic questions, you'll always be an active partner in your care.

My goal is to help you thrive in daily life. Together, we'll work toward building resilience, improving functioning, and creating the meaningful life you deserve. I'm here to support you every step of the way. I create a safe, judgment-free environment where healing and growth are possible. Ready to begin? I'm currently accepting new patients.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Sara Miller

Sara Miller

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is warm, direct, and strengths-based, integrating psychodynamic therapy, CBT, narrative therapy, mindfulness, exposure work, motivational interviewing, and solution focused approaches.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Baleska Alfaro

Baleska Alfaro

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy is most effective when it is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to your unique experiences and goals.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Heidi Schlig

Heidi Schlig

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal with every client I encounter is to allow them to believe that they are not alone in their journey and can walk through with someone along their side.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Jennifer Eastman

Jennifer Eastman

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Bakersfield, CA


“I combine thorough psychiatric evaluations using DSM-5 criteria with personalized medication management, always staying current with the latest advances in psychiatric care.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Amanda Long

Amanda Long

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“I see our relationship as a true partnership. While I bring clinical knowledge and evidence-based treatment approaches, you bring the most important element—intimate knowledge of your own experience, strengths, and goals.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Mike Strauss

Mike Strauss

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi! Im Mike Strauss and I specialize in anxiety, PTSD, depression and substance abuse. With my own background as an addict now with 17 years clean and sober, I organically found my purpose as a clinician. What initially started with drug and alcohol counseling immediately turned into something bigger, as I pursued a master’s degree in social work. Understanding that addiction is but a symptom of underlying fears and traumas resulting in mood disorders, I was able to REALLY look at myself as I encourage my clients to do during their journeys toward self-realization.

Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Challenging, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Ebere Nwosu

Dr. Ebere Nwosu

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My approach is holistic and patient-centered, combining psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and therapy to create individualized care plans.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Maria Berbeo

Maria Berbeo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I enjoy providing a warm, supportive environment for people to feel safe challenging themselves to grow and learn about themselves.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Maja Ceranic

Maja Ceranic

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“Building strong therapeutic relationships is at the heart of my practice. I strive to create a welcoming, judgment-free environment where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered to take an active role in their mental health journey.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Adrina Garcia

Adrina Garcia

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I see therapy through a whole person lens, which means we'll look at your mental, emotional, and physical world as one connected picture...”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Remy Preston

Remy Preston

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Therapy with me is collaborative, open-minded, and affirming. I meet you where you are, honor your pace, and support you in reaching goals that feel meaningful and realistic for your life.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Joncannon Eiden

Joncannon Eiden

Therapist

Virtual • Vista, CA


“My goal is to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where clients feel understood, challenged when appropriate, and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Inquisitive, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Kemerick Takang

Kemerick Takang

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I am a compassionate, understanding, and good listener. I help individuals navigate emotional struggles using a holistic and evidence-based approach to mental health care.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Meridian Brady

Meridian Brady

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I bring a warm, friendly, curious, and interactive energy to our sessions. I am here to listen and also to ask questions as well as point out blind spots.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Grief or loss, Panic disorders
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Briana Perez

Briana Perez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have experience in elevating clients, addressing what is holding them back, and empowering people towards living a life that feels expansive instead of frustrating.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Diabetes
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Elsie Iwegbu

Elsie Iwegbu

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hi, I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I offer a supportive and judgment-free space to help you manage anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, and mood disorders. I work with children, adolescents, and adults using evidence-based care that’s tailored to your needs. My goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and empowered within the family. Let’s walk this journey together, one step at a time.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Energetic, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Rachel Jenkins Stevens

Rachel Jenkins Stevens

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm listening for feelings, themes, patterns, and especially experiences that haven't been articulated or spoken out loud yet.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Selina Matthews

Dr. Selina Matthews

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I believe that when we heal the deeper patterns and wounds of the past, new possibilities emerge, and your future begins to evolve in a beautiful new way.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jonathan Goelz

Jonathan Goelz

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & depression.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Gina Digiacomo

Gina Digiacomo

Therapist

Virtual • Anaheim, CA


“To empower people by building each individual a personal tool box with all the strategies and coping skills needed and appropriate to each persons situation, circumstance, personal growth and relationships.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Jeff J Garcia

Jeff J Garcia

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space in both English and Spanish where you can feel truly heard and empowered.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Alina Halonen

Alina Halonen

Therapist

Virtual • West Hollywood, CA


“Having navigated my own recovery and healing journey, I know that insight alone doesn't always create change.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Maxine Kibble-Cacioppo

Maxine Kibble-Cacioppo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My role as your therapist is to create a safe and supportive environment during our sessions to foster trust and facilitate change.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Direct, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Michael Times

Michael Times

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience supporting adults, teens, and families in medical, community mental health, and addiction treatment settings. I’ve worked with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use. I bring a calm, supportive, and down‐to‐earth style to therapy so clients feel safe and understood. I also teach social work and sociology at the university level, which keeps me grounded in current research and best practices. Most importantly, I care about meeting you where you are and helping you move toward meaningful change.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Natalie Itkin

Dr. Natalie Itkin

Psychologist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


“I blend structured approaches like CBT with insight-oriented and relational work, because no two paths to healing look the same.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Rachana Homagain

Rachana Homagain

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I bring my 15+ years of experience in emergency and behavioral health, my empathy, and my lived experience to my patients.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Nadia Grissom

Nadia Grissom

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am empathetic, authentic and an active listener. I work hard to observe behavioral patterns and support my clients to reflect and implement change.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 15 insurance carriers
Michelle A. Moore

Michelle A. Moore

Therapist

Virtual • California


Therapy is a way of showing up for yourself, a path of self discovery where you can reconnect with who you are today and the life you truly want. I’ve supported people navigating addiction, trauma, depression, and anxiety, and I believe deeply in meeting you exactly where you are and wherever you feel ready to begin. Together, our sessions become a collaborative journey, with me holding safe, steady space for you as you grow into the person you’ve always had it within you to become.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lizbeth Benavides

Lizbeth Benavides

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that every person has the capacity for growth, healing, and resilience, regardless of where they are in their journey.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Empowering, Inquisitive
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Laila Yousefian

Laila Yousefian

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Escondido, CA


I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who provides compassionate, evidence-based care for adults. My approach is clinical, trauma-informed, and whole-person; I look beyond symptoms alone and consider the many parts of life that shape mental health. I believe care should feel collaborative, supportive, and not overwhelming. My goal is to help you feel understood while creating a treatment plan that fits your life, values, and goals. Whether you are seeking medication management, in-office IV or IM ketamine treatment, or support through a difficult season, I want you to feel safe, respected, and empowered.

Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Alexandra Pullen

Alexandra Pullen

Therapist

Virtual • California


My goal is to create a space where you feel seen, understood, and supported. I believe mental wellness is an essential part of overall health, and that healing begins by moving from survival to thriving through nervous system regulation, processing past experiences, and strengthening the mind-body connection. Meaningful change and healing happens within a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, authenticity, and collaboration. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, addiction, performance anxiety, work-related stress... or simply feeling overwhelmed by life's demands, we'll work together to build insight, process difficult experiences when appropriate, develop practical coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Jennifer Otis

Jennifer Otis

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Therapy with me is an active, collaborative partnership designed around your strengths rather than your struggles.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

About our therapists who can help with addiction and substance use in Bakersfield, CA

Number of therapists serving Bakersfield, CA
There are over 2,769 therapists in Bakersfield, CA accepting new patients.
2,769+
Average years in practice
Watercolor illustration of a bookshelf
10 years
Top specialties offered
Watercolor illustration of specialties
  • 100%Substance use / addiction
  • 98%Anxiety
  • 96%Depression
  • 89%Stress management
  • 85%Trauma
Insurances accepted
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  • 98%Aetna
  • 84%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 82%Cigna
  • 78%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 66%Blue Shield of California
Languages spoken
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  • 97%English
  • 12%Spanish
  • 2%Farsi
  • 1%Mandarin
  • 1%Igbo
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 88%Online only
  • 12%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 69%Woman
  • 30%Man
  • 1%Non-binary
License types
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  • 42%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 27%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 15%Nurse Practitioner
  • 8%Clinical Psychologist
  • 7%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Treatment approaches
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  • 99%Individual therapy
  • 43%Family therapy
  • 30%Couples therapy
  • 17%Child or adolescent therapy

Frequently asked questions

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Find the right addiction counselor for you

Headway makes it easier to find support for overcoming addiction — from finding the right provider, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Addiction Therapist in Bakersfield

Finding addiction therapists in Bakersfield starts with knowing what kind of support fits your needs. Addiction care can include support for alcohol use, drug use, prescription substance concerns, gambling, and other behavioral patterns. Some therapists focus on motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy for substance use, harm reduction, relapse prevention, or coordination with medication-assisted care when a prescriber is part of your care team. As you compare therapists, look for listed specialties, training, and experience that match the concerns you want to address.

Bakersfield has local therapists available, and virtual care can add more options when location, transportation, or scheduling matters. Some people prefer meeting in person at an office, while others choose virtual sessions for more flexibility. Recovery can involve progress, setbacks, and changing needs, so it helps to find a therapist whose profile reflects a respectful, non-judgmental approach. Before booking, review therapist bios for details on their approach, appointment availability, whether they are accepting new patients, and whether they offer a free phone consultation.

Therapy in Bakersfield can be a significant investment without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs and understand what you may pay before care begins. Headway helps you search for addiction therapists in Bakersfield who are accepting new patients, compare virtual and in-person options, and see estimated out-of-pocket costs after entering your insurance details. From there, you can browse therapist profiles, review fit, and book directly when you’re ready.

If you or someone you know is experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms — especially from alcohol or benzodiazepines — talk to a medical provider or seek emergency care before starting outpatient therapy. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or substance use and is in a crisis, immediately reach out to:

* 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — call or text 988 * SAMHSA National Helpline — 1-800-662-HELP (4357), free, confidential, 24/7 * Crisis Text Line — text HOME to 741741

Find a provider - your way

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1 Cost may vary based on your location, age, and insurance coverage.