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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 2,459 providers available and sessions starting as low as $0 with insurance, quality care is within reach.

Allan Sadac

Allan Sadac

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Los Alamitos, CA


“From our work, I hope you leave every session with more clarity and direction about the changes you can influence and bring you closer to the life you are wanting.”
LGBTQIA+, Cultural & ethnic issues, Men's issues, Relationship issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kate Salami

Kate Salami

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I provide an inclusive, empathetic, and nonjudgmental space that welcomes people of all genders, sexual orientations, and religious backgrounds.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Maria Herrera

Maria Herrera

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I see therapy as a collaboration between the therapist and the client. You are the expert in your life.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Richard Gottschalk

Richard Gottschalk

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I meet clients where they are at without judgment, listen and understand their truth, and collaborate with them on problem solving and goals that they want to work on.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Melissa Bagwell

Dr. Melissa Bagwell

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Apple Valley, CA


“Clients often describe my style as warm, supportive, and infused with humor, which helps create a safe space for exploration and growth.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Humorous, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Maria Maguire

Maria Maguire

Therapist

Virtual • Santa Rosa, 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.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Genean Jeffery-Johnson

Genean Jeffery-Johnson

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Berkeley, CA


“I help you slow down enough to notice what's actually happening in your body in the moment things get hard, not just the words being said.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Challenging, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Dr. Saeromi Kim

Dr. Saeromi Kim

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I see my greatest strength as my ability to easily connect with many different kinds of people, develop trust and rapport, and upon this foundation, build positive working relationships that promote healing.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Brian Campany

Brian Campany

Therapist

Virtual • California


I truly believe we are all connected in some way. Systemically, there are many ways to improve the way we relate to our own self, and with others. My philosophy is when I improve, everyone else around me improves. My own experiences have informed the way I approach problems and seek solutions, with the goal of being happier and performing better. Throughout my life, I’ve been in the service of others. I am a US Army Veteran and have many years experience training/development of others.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Marcus Davis

Marcus Davis

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe every person—and every couple—has inherent resilience and untapped resources, even in the midst of overwhelming challenges.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 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.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Collin Burnett

Collin Burnett

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Santa Barbara, CA


“I see therapy as a collaborative and meaningful space where all parts of your experience are welcome.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Lisa Sledd

Lisa Sledd

Therapist

Virtual • Arcadia, CA


“I am a compassionate and affirming therapist who prioritizes making clients feel comfortable and understood.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Participatory
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Amanda Khezra

Dr. Amanda Khezra

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“All progress is good progress and at the end of our session my hope is we took another step towards reaching your goals.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Carolyn Le

Carolyn Le

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I take the time to understand what's been going on and what matters to you, and we'll work together to find a path forward that feels manageable and realistic for your life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Emin Issaghoulian

Emin Issaghoulian

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe my greatest strength is in the connections I build with my clients, making you feel heard, seen and empowered.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Carrie Anderson

Carrie Anderson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to help my clients achieve a greater self-awareness, self-acceptance, and be able to find ways to develop personal growth.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Lonnie Ferguson

Lonnie Ferguson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Therapy is a courageous act of self love and it requires a collaborative approach to establish a sense of trust and safety.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Clint Nacar

Clint Nacar

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I strive to provide a supportive, respectful space where you feel heard, understood, and actively involved in your care.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Chioma Igwiloh

Chioma Igwiloh

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“My style is calm, respectful, and practical, focusing on measurable progress and long-term stability.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Jonathan Klein

Jonathan Klein

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Los Angeles, CA


I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist based in Los Angeles and love this work. I came to therapy through an unconventional path — nearly a decade in film and photography, work as a youth counselor, and service in the military — all of which deeply shaped how I understand people and their stories.

I earned my master's degree from Pacifica Graduate Institute, where I focused on psychodynamic and depth-oriented approaches. My thesis centered on ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, a specialty I've continued developing through advanced trainings I've completed.

I work with individuals, couples, adolescents & families across a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I have a particular love for working with creative professionals, veterans and young adults. I'm LGBTQ+ affirmative and love working with folks from the queer community.

My practice spans traditional talk therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) — including psychedelic integration support for those processing experiences outside of our work together. I see clients in person in Atwater Village in Northeast LA, and virtually throughout California.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Meriah Ward

Dr. Meriah Ward

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I create safe, inclusive spaces for healing and self-understanding through evidence-based care that goes beyond symptoms to address the whole person.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Direct, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Hilary Malloy

Hilary Malloy

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


I have a Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work, and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), working in private practice as a Psychotherapist. I live in Los Angeles, and work in-person or hybrid, with adults, teens, couples and the aging population. I specialize in anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, work stress/dissatisfaction, career goals, sleep disorders, substance use, trauma (ptsd/complex/acute), obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD/OCPD), attention deficit disorders (ADD/ADHD). In addition I deal with grief, isolation, and breaking creative blocks.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Katherine Van Heerden

Katherine Van Heerden

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal in helping clients is to help them identify their personal strengths in order to feel more resilient and tackle issues with learned coping skills.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Jacqueline Berrios

Jacqueline Berrios

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m Jackie Berrios, a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over a decade of experience in mental health. I'm a mother of two toddler boys, and a proud first-generation Latina from the DC area, living in CA since 2013. I help mom's struggling with depression, anxiety and adjustment to tap into their strengths and move forward confidently.

I am an empathetic and thoughtful provider that likes to include humor when possible. I help adults experiencing depression and anxiety by supporting them to understand and reframe limiting beliefs and thinking patterns. I am experienced and passionate about working with diverse communities such as LGBTQ+, first generation and BIPOC.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Maternal mental health, Stress management
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Monica Nunez

Monica Nunez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is direct, transparent, open to feedback. I help by brainstorming different options in your life that are in your best interest.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Airy Ramirez

Airy Ramirez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Through our collaborative work, clients can expect to gain valuable self-insights, develop practical coping strategies, and build emotional resilience.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Challenging, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Matthew Bensadigh

Matthew Bensadigh

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“My approach to therapy includes working on cognition, beliefs, behaviors, sensory acuity, and knowledge to help get you to where you want to be.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Cindi Lane-Pompa

Cindi Lane-Pompa

Therapist

Virtual • California


I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults (ADHD, autism), LGBTQIA individuals, and those navigating chronic illness, burnout, and perimenopause or menopause. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or like nothing they’ve tried has worked.

You might feel like you’re constantly “too much” and “not enough” at the same time, or like simple things take more energy than they should. That’s not a personal failure—it’s a sign that your brain and body need different kinds of support.

With over twelve years of experience, I offer therapy that is warm, affirming, and practical. I help clients reduce overwhelm, build coping tools that actually work, and better understand how their brain and body function.

My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, understood, and supported as you build a life that works for you.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Dr. Julie Cohen

Dr. Julie Cohen

Psychologist

Virtual • California


avigating emotional distress or long-standing conflict can feel like being fractured, but healing often begins with finding a reliable and experienced partner. I am Dr. Julie Cohen, a Clinical Psychologist with over 45 years of experience. I have spent my career helping individuals, couples, and families resolve conflict—whether it’s occurring in the living room or the workplace. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and stress, particularly for those who are ready to dive into their inner experience to improve how they feel about themselves and their relationships. I feel privileged to help my clients achieve their goals and improve their lives by providing the expert, seasoned care necessary to handle even the most complex challenges with precision and kindness.

I believe that the foundation of our work is a relationship of absolute trust and safety. My extensive training allows me to look at your life through a wide lens, understanding how your past experiences and upbringing shape your current personality and challenges. I encourage an honest and direct dialogue, as that is where true mutual understanding begins. When I am not working with clients, I value the perspective that comes from a long career dedicated to human behavior, often finding restoration in the very principles of balance and growth that I share in my sessions. I want my clients to feel safe and empowered during their time with me, knowing they have a safety net of four decades of clinical expertise behind them.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Baharan Rahimi

Baharan Rahimi

Therapist

Virtual • Laguna Niguel, CA


“My approach is humanistic, compassionate, and collaborative. I believe therapy works best when you feel safe, understood, and genuinely supported.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Tatiana Molinar

Dr. Tatiana Molinar

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My personal journey overcoming complex trauma fuels my passion for guiding others towards healing and joy.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Ami Gonzalez

Ami Gonzalez

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Stevenson Ranch, CA


“Working therapeutically with teenagers, young adults and their families for over a decade has been motivating.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Family issues, Grief or loss, Relationship issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Michelle Holguin

Michelle Holguin

Therapist

Virtual • Fresno, CA


“My style is interactive and optimistic, and I support clients in trusting themselves in this process.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Charles Bewley

Charles Bewley

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Burbank, CA


More that fifteen years of teaching English and drama at a Los Angeles public high school taught me many things - primarily, it taught me how often people's barriers to achievement are not due to any lack of skill or ability, but rather from emotional barriers stemming from stress, adversity and trauma. So, I went back to graduate school to pursue a new career as a therapist so that I could help in a different way. My training and experience has focused on treating anxiety disorders, PTSD (including Complex-PTSD) and also couples - helping them to navigate challenges and triggers so that they can reset and reconnect.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Identity issues
Empowering, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Nicole Santos

Nicole Santos

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I have over 15+ years experience as a nurse working in various departments, working hands on with patients, as well as leadership and management roles.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Gina Feletar

Gina Feletar

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Chula Vista, CA


I am Gina Feletar, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 27 years of nursing experience, and a dedicated companion on your journey toward well-being. I am serving clients in both Arizona and California.

Healing begins when we see the whole person, not just the symptoms. My practice blends evidence-based care with a holistic perspective, creating space for healing that also honors your uniqueness. Beyond managing mental health conditions, my mission is to help you reclaim your strength, and rediscover hope rooted in wellness and purpose.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Dr. Domonick Wegesin

Dr. Domonick Wegesin

Psychologist

Virtual • California


I’m a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in stress and anxiety disorders, mood concerns, and LGBT-issues.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Andres Borja

Andres Borja

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I bring a warm, grounded presence to therapy and believe that effective treatment starts with authentic connection and mutual respect.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Sybil Stafford

Dr. Sybil Stafford

Therapist

Virtual • Stockton, CA


“I've worked with at risk populations who seem to be misunderstood whether you're a victim of crime or a veteran coping with PTSD.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Humorous, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

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, CA

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.

Find a provider - your way

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