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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.

Jordan Bunting

Jordan Bunting

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a compassion focused and evidence-based clinician specializing in treating clients with ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Steven Aird

Steven Aird

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Lake Forest, CA


“I focus on establishing a safe, collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship, creating the framework for the work we will do together.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Valerie Vasquez

Valerie Vasquez

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“Care is delivered through a supportive, nonjudgmental, and collaborative approach, prioritizing patient understanding, stability, and meaningful, sustainable improvement in daily functioning.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Kifle Jikamo

Dr. Kifle Jikamo

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience delivering mental health care across various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and crisis services. I hold a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and have specialized training in psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and crisis intervention. My background includes leadership roles such as Director of Nursing and experience as an expert witness in medical legal cases. I provide comprehensive, compassionate care tailored to each patient's unique needs, with a focus on mental health evaluation, medication management, and support for individuals dealing with psychiatric conditions, including geriatric and substance use populations.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Jamie Plaxco

Jamie Plaxco

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Bakersfield, 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]

For the most current schedule and openings, please book directly on our website at https://mentalhealthpractitioners.com/book-appointment/ or call us at 415-968-6515.

As a PMHNP-BC who specializes in autism, complex cases, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD/trauma, schizophrenia/psychosis disorders, and substance use, I've built my practice around understanding that every person's mental health journey is unique—especially when multiple conditions interact or when traditional approaches haven't worked.

I also provide comprehensive treatment for depression, anxiety, panic disorders, mood disorders, and bipolar disorder, always with an understanding that these conditions often overlap and influence each other in complex ways. What I want you to know is this: your experiences are valid, your struggles make sense in the context of your life, and there's no such thing as being "too much" for treatment.

Whether you're masking autistic traits, battling compulsive behaviors, managing intense emotions, processing trauma, questioning reality, or struggling with substances, I meet you exactly where you are without trying to force you into a predetermined mold. My approach combines evidence-based treatments with deep respect for your individual needs and experiences.

You deserve a provider who doesn't see complexity as a problem to solve, but as a roadmap to understanding how to best support your unique path to wellness.

Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Jennifer Eastman

Jennifer Eastman

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Bakersfield, CA


“I dedicate time to genuinely hearing your story, what led you here, what obstacles you are working through, and which goals hold the greatest importance to you.”
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 11 insurance carriers
Nidhi Patel

Nidhi Patel

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to offer a supportive, down-to-earth space where you feel understood and can create meaningful, lasting change.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Neydi Tovar

Neydi Tovar

Therapist

Virtual • California


Asking for help can feel harder when you've spent most of your life being the one who holds things together. I'm Neydi, a bilingual English and Spanish speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 13 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. I work with individuals and families navigating trauma, grief, anxiety, and substance use. These challenges rarely arrive alone and almost always connect back to our relationships, our families, and the communities we come from. Clients often describe me as warm, direct, and genuinely invested.

Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
James Witmer

James Witmer

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“I approach our time together with openness, humility, acceptance, and free of pre-conceived judgement.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Cristina Bonilla

Cristina Bonilla

Therapist

Virtual • Yucca Valley, CA


“We use a client-centered, trauma focused approach in our treatment modalities, utilizing evidence-based practices such as EMDR...”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Darlington Igbokwe

Dr. Darlington Igbokwe

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My approach to mental health care is centered on building trust and understanding, ensuring that each client feels heard and respected.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Edward Garren

Edward Garren

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“The purpose of therapy is to remove blocks to truth; to help you abandon any patterns of belief that no longer serve you in a productive way; to implement self-forgiveness.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Humorous, Participatory
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Vivian Ifediora

Vivian Ifediora

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My approach is warm, collaborative, and personalized. I take time to truly understand each client's story—looking beyond symptoms to the root causes of distress.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Energetic, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Stephanie Patrick-Calvillo

Stephanie Patrick-Calvillo

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Bakersfield, CA


IMPORTANT: For current availability, visit https://mentalhealthpractitioners.com/ or call/text us anytime at 415-968-6515—we make it super easy! Intake forms are required before your first appointment and will be emailed to you when you book online. Please be sure to send us a picture of your insurance information and photo ID!

I'm Stephanie Patrick-Calvillo, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who believes mental health care should be accessible, compassionate, and tailored to each individual. Over the past 15+ years, I've worked with diverse populations—from adolescents facing their first mental health crisis to adults navigating complex psychiatric conditions, and seniors experiencing cognitive and emotional challenges.

My practice is grounded in the belief that effective treatment goes beyond symptom management. I take time to understand your unique story, your strengths, and the factors that shape your mental health. Whether you're dealing with a new diagnosis or have been managing symptoms for years, I meet you where you are with respect and without judgment.

I specialize in treating mood disorders, anxiety, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, substance use concerns, and behavioral issues related to dementia. I've completed advanced certification training because I'm committed to staying current with evidence-based treatments—ensuring you receive care that reflects the latest research.

Beyond clinical work, I'm passionate about mentoring the next generation of healthcare providers. I've mentored nursing and nurse practitioner students from multiple universities, which keeps me grounded and reminds me why this work matters.

When you work with me, you're getting someone who genuinely cares, who's seen mental health challenges from many angles, and who believes deeply in your capacity for healing and growth.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Salamatou Carr

Salamatou Carr

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My background spans inpatient psychiatry, outpatient mental health, and correctional healthcare—experiences that have shaped me into a clinician who leads with compassion, cultural humility, and deep respect for every person's story.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Alexis Bernard

Alexis Bernard

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience working with adults navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, and stress.

I specialize in helping people who feel stuck at a crossroads—whether due to career changes, relationship shifts, or unexpected challenges. Many of my clients come to therapy looking for clarity, better coping skills, and a way to move forward with confidence.

My approach is direct, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and strengths-based approaches. We focus on understanding patterns, building insight, and developing practical tools that create real change.

I primarily work with adults, with a focus on those navigating major life transitions and redefining what’s next.

Therapy doesn’t have to last forever. It’s a space to gain clarity, make intentional changes, and move forward at your own pace.

Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Identity issues, Stress management
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Kimberly G. Galindo

Kimberly G. Galindo

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where patients feel heard, respected, and actively involved in their care.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Laura Spera

Laura Spera

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Fresno, CA


“With over 20+ years of experience in the field, I've helped individuals and couples work through the challenges of anxiety, depression, grief and uncertainty...”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Amy Mandel

Amy Mandel

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am integrative with therapeutic approach, dependent on needs of the individual. Several practice approaches would include: Psychodynamic, CBT, ACT, CBT, EMDR, Solution Focused, etc.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Saby Kirpal

Saby Kirpal

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Bakersfield, CA


“Mental health treatment should never feel like something done to you, but rather something we navigate together.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Michelle Liu

Michelle Liu

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is Holistic and Cultural sensitive, with individually tailored goals that address Mind, Body, and Spirit Wellness.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Yvette Hinojosa

Yvette Hinojosa

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I support people in creating meaningful change by cultivating mindful awareness of thought and speech patterns that influence growth, joy, and satisfaction.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Humorous, Inquisitive, Participatory
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Curtis Lehmann

Dr. Curtis Lehmann

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • West Covina, CA


“My biggest boast as a therapist is that I make people feel like I've been where they are, regardless if that's the brink of divorce, the mires of depression, or the self-defeating loop of addiction.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Catherine Broadhead

Catherine Broadhead

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My aim is to empower you with self-awareness, coping strategies, and emotional skills to overcome challenges, reduce distress, improve relationships, and lead a more balanced, fulfilling life.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Cristina Dawes

Cristina Dawes

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • San Pedro, CA


“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.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Gloria Sudeta

Gloria Sudeta

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Ontario, CA


“I am dual board-certified family nurse practitioner and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Matthew Tapia

Matthew Tapia

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I bring together two distinct disciplines: the relational depth of individual and family therapy, and the science-backed precision of behavioral analysis.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
China Aktan

China Aktan

Therapist

Virtual • California


I believe therapy works best when people feel genuinely seen, heard, and understood. I work with individuals facing depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, relationship challenges, and difficult life transitions. With 4 years of experience, I strive to create a supportive and judgment-free space where clients can feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and emotions at their own pace.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Clarence Johnson

Clarence Johnson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am deeply attuned to the intersections of race, identity, and mental health, creating a safe, affirming space for healing.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Chanelle Catuogno

Chanelle Catuogno

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


“I specialize in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and values-based interventions; DBT, MI, and CBT.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Bill Benson

Bill Benson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Clients often tell me they appreciate that I am direct without being harsh, compassionate without being vague, and practical without reducing therapy to bumper-sticker wisdom.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Bijan Amirshahi

Bijan Amirshahi

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My practice emphasizes on helping clients resolve immediate situations, while healing from difficult life experiences and developing strong personal and intimate relationships.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Stephanie Spaniak

Stephanie Spaniak

Therapist

Virtual • California


Whatever brought you here, you don’t have to figure it out alone. With over 12 years of experience supporting individuals and families, I’ve seen how much can shift when someone finally feels truly heard. Whether you’re working through something specific or simply feel ready for change, I’d be honored to walk alongside you and your loved ones on the path forward.

Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
J. Paul Gatdula

J. Paul Gatdula

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I became drawn to psychiatry after seeing how often people felt rushed or unheard in the system, and I try to do things differently.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Helen Anyiam

Helen Anyiam

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“We look forward to working together with you and the family to achieve your goals of symptom remission, better functioning, and improved wellbeing.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Kyle Windham

Kyle Windham

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My clinical style is rooted in the belief that true healing requires both robust, research-backed tools and a deeply authentic human bond.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jin LI

Jin LI

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hi, I'm Jin Li, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over a decade of experience in neurological and psychiatric care. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep issues, and stress-related conditions. My background in both Western psychiatry and functional/integrative medicine allows me to provide a whole-person, root-cause-informed approach to care.

I’m bilingual in English and Mandarin Chinese, and I value culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and collaborative healing relationships. Whether you're navigating emotional overwhelm, hormonal shifts, or brain fog, I’m here to support you with empathy and expertise.

You can learn more about my practice at: https://www.lotusmind-care.com/

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Sophia Kubes

Sophia Kubes

Therapist

Virtual • California


If you’re struggling with your relationship with food, your body, or feeling stuck in cycles of restriction, bingeing, or guilt, you are not alone—and you don’t have to face it by yourself. In my private practice, I specialize in working with individuals navigating eating disorders and disordered eating.

I provide compassionate, individualized therapy for adolescents and adults experiencing anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, chronic dieting, and body image concerns. In addition to eating disorder treatment, I work with children, teens, and adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, substance use, and challenges related to identity and the LGBTQIA+ community. I am committed to creating an affirming, inclusive space where clients of all backgrounds feel seen, respected, & supported.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jeff Wilfong

Jeff Wilfong

Therapist

Virtual • Sacramento, CA


Therapy reduces suffering and creates possibility for healthy changes. It is one of the best investments that you can make as you gain awareness and learn about problematic patterns. Everyone is at their own change-readiness level and I will support you where you are at. I am familiar with most psychological issues or relationship concerns, as I have worked in numerous settings and generally I have said "Yes!" to everyone along the way.

Qualities:

  • 18+ years of experience
  • Good listener and attentive
  • Direct and honest
  • Calm and grounded
  • Engaged and active during the session
  • Utilize mindfulness-based interventions
  • Easy-going
  • Good boundaries
  • Non-judgmental
  • Solution-focused
  • Experience working with people from many cultures and backgrounds, political affiliations, religions and more.
  • LGBTQ+ friendly

Please reach out via email or text. I return all messages in a prompt manner.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

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, CA

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.