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LGBT therapists in Bakersfield, CA

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People with insurance pay as low as $0 per session through Headway

Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Bakersfield, CA

Bakersfield's LGBTQIA+ community deserves mental health support from providers who truly get it. Headway offers warm, solution-oriented therapists experienced in supporting gender and sexual identity concerns. With 2,628 providers available and sessions starting as low as $0 with insurance, quality care is within reach.

Jessica Raybon

Jessica Raybon

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I became a therapist because I discovered the profound impact therapy had in my life, and I wanted to offer others that same supportive place during life's challenges.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Creative, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Madison Allen

Madison Allen

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Arcadia, CA


“I enjoy incorporating creativity, games, conversation, and other interactive approaches when appropriate, whether I'm working with children, adolescents, adults, or families.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Creative, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Shocka Heights

Shocka Heights

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My therapeutic approach is rooted in trauma-informed care, cultural humility, community, joy, healing, and the belief that our stories deserve to be heard and honored.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sabrina Lopez

Sabrina Lopez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work with adolescents and adults who are carrying anxiety, depression, or a difficult relationship with food, and who also want a place where their culture, family, and identity are understood rather than translated.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Oscar Castillo

Oscar Castillo

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Redlands, CA


“My approach to care is holistic and patient-centered, focusing on understanding your unique experiences and needs.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Amy Traynham Feragen

Amy Traynham Feragen

Therapist

Virtual • California


I was born and raised in Montana and have a genuine passion for nature and the outdoors. I received my Bachelors in Psychology at Montana State University in 2001. I then pursued my Masters of Social Work degree and graduated in 2008 from the University of Montana. This graduate program had a focus on providing a social justice and integrated practitioner perspective. I have an eclectic style that can be tailored to each unique individual. My primary therapeutic methods include Mindfulness Based, Holistic, Exposure, Narrative, Cognitive and Behavioral, Strengths Based & Solution Focused Therapies. I provide a non-judgmental and compassionate environment that often helps people feel comfortable. A true passion of mine is structuring therapeutic activities for clients to express, process, increase self-awareness, and de-stress from life’s challenging and developmental experiences.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Erica Sandoval

Erica Sandoval

Therapist

Virtual • California


I have over 7 years of experience working with depression and anxiety disorders, trauma, couples, and other severe mental health concerns. My goal is to create a comfortable, safe space where you can begin your therapeutic journey with confidence and without judgment. Together, we can openly explore what you want in—and out of—life. If you don't know what that looks like yet, that's okay. We can figure it out together. Your goals may also change along the way, and therapy should have the flexibility to change with you.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Lauren Chew

Lauren Chew

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced specific or prolonged trauma, mental health struggles, navigating healthy relationships...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Katherine Kluna

Katherine Kluna

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that effective therapy is not one-size-fits-all. I tailor my communication style and therapeutic approach to meet your individual needs...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Kevin Tran-Mortel

Kevin Tran-Mortel

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is both objective and collaborative, with an emphasis on logic- and values-based actions.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tess Norton

Tess Norton

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m an LMFT who uses a psychodynamic, client-centered approach. I help young adults better handle life’s stressors, keep perfectionism in check, and grow their self-esteem. I want to help people feel more connected to themselves and others. I enjoy working with Gen Z and Millennials who are navigating their unique paths in life. I mostly work with anxiety, whether it stems from familial stress (due to filial piety or trauma) or societal pressures (due to gender expectations or political factors). I also work with social anxiety and self-esteem issues.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues, Identity issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Lorraine Schwartz

Lorraine Schwartz

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I will ask you questions so you can find your own authentic answers. I speak plainly & provide a non-judgmental, safe environment where we can explore what's going on in your world at your pace.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Alison Sarah Adler

Alison Sarah Adler

Therapist

Virtual • Santa Clara, CA


“I have been a therapist for more than 2 decade and am tremendously grateful to be doing something I love.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tori Farris

Tori Farris

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I approach the mind and body as a continuous system. I understand the importance and preciousness of an attuned and compassionate therapy container.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Creative, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Jessica Gomez

Jessica Gomez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities to ensure that each client's unique needs are met, recognizing that no single approach fits all.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Mabel Aiello

Mabel Aiello

Therapist

Virtual • California


“In my 10+ years of experience, I have found that my talents as a therapist are highlighted with high-functioning individuals who are navigating relationship issues (family, friends, romantic), trauma, depression, and anxiety.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Jeffrey Maloney

Jeffrey Maloney

Psychologist

Virtual • California


I have been a psychologist for 44 years and worn many hats: schools, private practice, clinics and agencies. Experience counts for a lot! I am dedicated to my patients reducing their suffering.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Noemi Flores

Noemi Flores

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe you are the expert on your own life, and my role is to walk alongside you, helping you gain insight, explore new perspectives, and develop tools that fit who you are and where you want to go.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Kseniya Nia Povroznik

Kseniya Nia Povroznik

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm a queer Ukrainian immigrant and I love creating a safe space for people who frequently feel overlooked to feel safe and whole.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Yanira Chavez

Yanira Chavez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“As a first-generation Latina living with chronic illnesses, I understand the unique hardships, cultural expectations, and barriers that can impact mental health and well-being.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kari Floberg

Kari Floberg

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Bringing my own lived experience of recovery from an eating disorder, I intimately understand the winding nature of change and approach your journey with deep reverence and compassion.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders, Family issues
Holistic, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers
Abieyuwa Salami

Abieyuwa Salami

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Bernardino, CA


“I provide compassionate, evidence-based care for adults dealing with trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and alcohol use recovery.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Mona Perkins

Mona Perkins

Therapist

Virtual • California


I have a masters degree in psychology with a background in development throughout the lifetime. I have worked with school age, teens, and families through a school based setting. This has given me the value of supporting growth in regards to gender, sexuality, and trauma.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Adrian Rodriguez

Adrian Rodriguez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I invite curiosity and an integration of compassion to our work together. I use a mix of evidence based therapy tools such as EMDR and Unified Protocol...”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Zanaeya Fitts

Zanaeya Fitts

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I help clients understand how past experiences and attachment patterns continue to influence their present-day emotions, relationships, and sense of self.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Challenging, Direct, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Christina Insalaco

Dr. Christina Insalaco

Therapist

Virtual • San Francisco, CA


“I practice Lacanian psychoanalysis, and I am currently a Candidate Psychoanalyst at the Lacanian School of Psychoanalysis in Berkeley, CA.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Christopher Brown

Christopher Brown

Therapist

Virtual • California


“A trauma-informed therapist is a compassionate mental health professional who prioritizes safety, trust, and empowerment...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Cameron Virjee

Cameron Virjee

Therapist

Virtual • Petaluma, CA


“I focus on listening, asking thoughtful questions, and paying attention to what's actually going on in their world.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Direct, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Danielle Walker

Danielle Walker

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I aim to bring your authentic self forward, nurture any pain, break down those barriers, and harbor insight.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Carolyn Mason

Carolyn Mason

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Rancho Cucamonga, CA


“I believe in providing a safe, comfortable, professional environment where individuals, couples, families, and children can work on issues that are interfering with their lives.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Morgan Taylor

Morgan Taylor

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Marin County, California. My education and training have been centered on being trauma-informed and working with individuals, couples, and families.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Anna Rivera

Anna Rivera

Psychologist

Virtual • South Pasadena, CA


“Anna's approach to therapy is informed, intuitive, and eclectic. She incorporates mindfulness, connection to body (Trauma Resiliency Model), and attention to different emotional parts (Internal Family Systems)...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Identity issues
Holistic, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jose Medina

Jose Medina

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have ten years of clinical experience treating post traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety. I also specialize in LBGTQ+ issues, issues of identity, and navigating major life transitions.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Dr. Nicko Jaeger

Dr. Nicko Jaeger

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hello,

I am Dr. Jaeger and I welcome you to my practice. I look forward to sitting with you, hearing your story, and developing a plan to help you with your concerns and needs.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Ari Aho

Ari Aho

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm an eclectic therapist who blends evidence-based, cultural, and art-based healing practices to support each individual's needs.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jena Montenegro

Jena Montenegro

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a trauma expert with experience in a wide variety of populations including LGBTQ, African-American, Latino, Indigenous, and Asian peoples.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Carmela Capinpin

Carmela Capinpin

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe in the power of personal agency and collective healing, and view therapy as a collaborative process rooted in compassion, openness, curiosity, and dignity.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Gigi Khalsa

Gigi Khalsa

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


Hi, I’m Gigi — a fat-positive, queer therapist with over 15 years of experience in mental health, and a deep commitment to creating space for healing, exploration, and radical self-acceptance.

I believe therapy is for anyone seeking growth, clarity, or peace — especially those who’ve been told they were “too much” or “not enough.” I specialize in working with clients navigating identity, gender, sexuality, body image, and nontraditional relationships.

My goal is to help you reconnect with your most authentic self and build a life that feels like it belongs to you.

My work is rooted in curiosity, humility, and compassion. I draw from a variety of approaches, including CBT, DBT, narrative therapy, and attachment-based work — all through a feminist and socially conscious lens. I also recognize the complex systems of power that shape our experiences, and I aim to make therapy a collaborative space where your voice is centered and respected.

What matters most to me is that you feel seen, heard, and supported. I know what it feels like to move through the world feeling unwelcome or unseen — and I’m here to offer something different. Together, we’ll explore the patterns that no longer serve you, celebrate what makes you beautifully unique, and find ways to move forward with more confidence, self-love, and ease.

You are the expert in your life. I’m here to offer tools, perspective, and a steady hand — not to fix you, but to walk alongside you as you build the life that feels like home.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Identity issues, Relationship issues
Affirming, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Dr. Mariam Esfahani

Dr. Mariam Esfahani

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m Dr. Mariam Esfahani, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Doctorate in Psychology. With nearly two decades of experience, I have dedicated my career to helping adolescents and adults navigate trauma, anxiety, and life transitions. I also specialize in couples therapy, guiding partners toward healthier communication, connection, and conflict resolution.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sean Stevens

Sean Stevens

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Oxnard, CA


“When given new opportunities and education that can improve clients lives, people will respond and change in ways that make sense to them.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists in Bakersfield, CA

Number of therapists serving Bakersfield, CA
There are over 2,615 therapists in Bakersfield, CA accepting new patients.
2,615+
Average years in practice
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9 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 98%Anxiety
  • 94%Depression
  • 89%Stress management
  • 86%Relationship issues
Insurances accepted
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  • 98%Aetna
  • 79%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 75%Cigna
  • 73%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 64%Blue Shield of California
Languages spoken
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  • 97%English
  • 15%Spanish
  • 1%Farsi
  • 1%Mandarin
  • 1%Assamese
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 89%Online only
  • 11%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 74%Woman
  • 23%Man
  • 3%Non-binary
License types
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  • 46%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 29%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 9%Nurse Practitioner
  • 8%Clinical Psychologist
  • 7%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 40%Family therapy
  • 27%Couples therapy
  • 17%Child or adolescent therapy

Frequently asked questions

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Find the right LGBTQ-friendly therapy provider for you

Headway makes it easier to connect with affirming therapists who understand your identity — from finding the right therapist, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a LGBTQIA Therapist in Bakersfield

Finding LGBTQIA+ therapists in Bakersfield starts with looking for identity-affirming care. A therapist’s training, specialties, and experience should match what you want support with, such as gender identity, sexual identity, relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, or family stress. Look for therapists who mention affirmative therapy, WPATH training, gender-diverse experience, or LGBTQIA+-affirming care in their profiles. The right fit goes beyond clinical skill — it also includes feeling respected in how your identity and goals are understood.

In a mid-sized city like Bakersfield, local LGBTQIA+-affirming therapists may be easier to compare when you include both in-person and virtual appointments in your search. Virtual care can expand your options if nearby office availability is limited or if your schedule works better outside a fixed commute. As you compare therapists, review whether they are accepting new patients, offer appointment times that fit your calendar, and provide a free phone consultation. Reading bios closely can help you see who explicitly works with LGBTQIA+ populations and how they describe their therapy style.

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. Headway helps you search for therapists who match your needs, review estimated out-of-pocket costs before booking, and choose between virtual and in-person care. You can browse therapist profiles, compare fit, and book directly when you’re ready.

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