Couples therapists in Bakersfield, CA

I’m grateful to have a career that allows me to be authentically myself and spend my days talking deeply about things that matter. I love working with motivated, bright people who know they have a lot to offer, but feel a bit blocked. I find great joy in helping people unblock to find ease and authenticity in their own lives.

Welcome. I'm a licensed psychotherapist dedicated to supporting people who are going through a tough life transition, whether it’s a diagnosis, relationship loss, other loss, or it’s you who have changed. You may be stressed, burnt out, depressed, anxious, and/or traumatized by what you are going through and carrying. You don’t have to do this alone. You can find your spark again. I have specialized training in somatic psychotherapy and evidence-based mindfulness therapies. As a person living with T1D, I love working with others in the diabetes community, and I understand the mental load and energy it takes, every single day.

Some of what you are carrying has never fit neatly into words. I'm Richard, a licensed marriage and family therapist in California and a working artist with a master's degree in fine art. Over twenty years in mental health, across inpatient units, day programs, and skilled nursing, I have sat with teens, adults, and seniors through anxiety, depression, grief and loss, bipolar disorder, family conflict, stress, and the weight of chronic illness. I am patient, open-minded, and inclusive, and when talking stalls I bring in expressive art. You do not need to be an artist for that to help. Come as you are.

I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides compassionate, patient-centered, and evidence-based care. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and supported. Together, we develop personalized treatment plans focused on your goals, well-being, and long-term mental health.

I have an M.A. in Spiritual Psychology from the University of Santa Monica as well as an M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University. I work with individuals, couples, families, and children and am LGBTQ+ affirmative. One of my specialties is using EMDR for the treatment of trauma, anxiety and depression.

I believe therapy works best when you feel safe, understood, and genuinely supported. My approach is warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental, and I strive to create a space where you can be yourself. People often describe me as easy to talk to, and I believe that compassion—and even a little humor when appropriate—can make the healing process feel more comfortable. We'll work together to build on your strengths and help you create meaningful, lasting change.

I have a Masters in Clinical Psychology from Azusa Pacific University with Specialisation in Marriage and Family Therapy, a Bachelors in Psychology, Honours Bachelors Degree in Education (post grad) in School Guidance and counseling, Mediator and Divorce Mediator Certificate,SAT Teacher Certification and EMDR Certificate (Emdria)

Marche Williams is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, accomplished behavioral health leader, and Founder of SOZO Child & Family Wellness. With more than ten years of direct clinical experience, Marche has dedicated her career to supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families navigating complex behavioral health, emotional, and life challenges.

Marche’s professional mission is rooted in a simple belief: meaningful change occurs when people are given the right combination of support, practical tools, accountability, compassion, and hope. Whether leading behavioral health programs, developing clinicians and staff, or building innovative services through SOZO, she remains committed to helping individuals and families move beyond surviving toward healing, growth, and lasting transformation.