LGBT therapists in Bakersfield, CA

Some struggle privately. Some turn to close ones but end up more perplexed or hurt. For 27 years I have offered therapy that unwinds pain, anxiety, depression, ptsd opening doors to new joy, peace, presence and fulfillment Using IFS, ACT & AEDP-Aspects, EMDR, CBT, PTR-influenced, Hypnotherapy, Somatic, Expressive (art/dance/vocal/writing/drama therapies) I draw upon my LMFT and my PhD in Expressive Therapies.

I arrive as a human first, therapist second. I consider myself a deeply attuned feeler and a lover of animals. My personal process deeply influences my process as a psychotherapist. Navigating complex trauma, navigating the world as a deep feeler, and returning to being in my body are core processes where I have transmuted pain into spaciousness.

It takes real courage to take this first step toward prioritizing your mental health, and I want to honor that. Beginning therapy can feel vulnerable, unfamiliar, or even intimidating, and I understand that. Maybe you’ve spent a long time in survival mode, developing ways of coping that helped you get through hard experiences but may no longer serve you. That can show up as disconnecting from yourself or others, struggling with boundaries, or carrying a story about yourself shaped by cultural or relational expectations. Wherever you are, we can start exactly where you are.

Hi, I'm J! I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 25 years of experience working with individuals and relationships across a range of settings, from community mental health to private practice. My approach is interactive, dynamic, and deeply engaged, because I believe real progress happens when therapy feels like a genuine partnership. Whether you're navigating long-standing challenges or facing something new, I'm here to help you move forward. I currently see clients via Telehealth and can't wait to connect with you!

Seeking help can be the first step to acquire greater understanding and insight into our lives and relationships.