Skip to main content
Headway

Find a therapist in Bakersfield, CA — covered by insurance

Therapist and patient in a therapy session
Calculator Illustration
Get a cost estimate
People with insurance pay as low as $0 per session through Headway

Top therapists in Bakersfield, CA accepting new patients

Connect with empowering, solution-oriented providers in Bakersfield neighborhoods including Downtown, East Bakersfield, and Southwest Bakersfield. Headway offers flexible scheduling with availability as soon as next day, free intake consultations, and 8,969 licensed providers accepting most major insurance plans.

Adrianna Valdez

Adrianna Valdez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I blend the practical tools of CBT and Solution-Focused therapy with attachment and mindfulness approaches to help you regulate stress and shift unhelpful patterns.”
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Direct, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Brenda Way

Brenda Way

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Castaic, CA


“My first priority is to create a safe enough space for you to talk to me without fear of being judged.”
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression, Diabetes
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Julie Coulibaly

Julie Coulibaly

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello, I provide a supportive and nonjudgemental space for clients. I have experience working with individuals with a trauma/PTSD experience. My approach is in helping clients build insight with compassion. I believe therapy is a space to help an individual grow and heal.

Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Diabetes, PTSD
Open-minded, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Kathryn Eden

Kathryn Eden

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My work is both supportive and practical, focused on helping you gain clarity, develop effective coping strategies, and make meaningful changes in your life.”
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss, Panic disorders
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Maria Ayala

Maria Ayala

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal isn't to hand you a diagnosis. It's to help you feel steadier, and to build something that holds up after therapy ends.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Alejandro Sigala

Alejandro Sigala

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach with new clients is generally meeting you where you're at. I believe you are the expert in your life; and I am just the guide...”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Silvia Vaughn

Silvia Vaughn

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I provide a supportive, open, and compassionate space where clients feel heard, respected, and understood.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Rhianna Belair

Rhianna Belair

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I focus on helping clients understand the patterns that shape their emotional responses, relationships, and sense of self...”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Naheed Azim

Naheed Azim

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi, I’m Naheed. I work with adults (18+) who are navigating anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions.

I believe therapy is a collaborative journey built on compassion, patience, and respect. Every person’s story and experiences are unique, and my goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel comfortable being yourself, exploring your experiences, and working toward meaningful change.

I understand that these experiences can affect emotional well-being, relationships, self-esteem, and how individuals view themselves and the world around them. My approach is trauma-informed, focusing on creating a space where clients feel heard, validated, and empowered as they work toward healing and personal growth.

In addition to my clinical experience, I bring personal understanding of women’s mental health experiences, including the challenges associated with postpartum depression. This perspective allows me to approach therapy with compassion and empathy while supporting women as they navigate the emotional, relational, and identity changes that can come with motherhood and major life transitions.

Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Michelle Hernandez

Michelle Hernandez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to provide a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can talk openly and begin making meaningful changes.”
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss, Panic disorders
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
David Irias

David Irias

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“I believe quality mental health care starts with truly listening and creating a personalized plan that fits your goals and lifestyle.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues
Energetic, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Laura Kansteiner

Laura Kansteiner

Therapist

Virtual • Agoura Hills, CA


“I specialize in treating co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, having worked across residential, intensive outpatient, and private practice settings since 2001.”
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Relationship issues, Substance use / addiction
Direct, Empowering, Inquisitive
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Amanda Pelaez

Amanda Pelaez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm also a therapist who is honest and direct—I will gently challenge you at times, because I believe growth happens when you are supported and encouraged to step outside of what feels comfortable.”
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Relationship issues
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Teresa Roman-Brunson

Teresa Roman-Brunson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“As a licensed marriage and family therapist with more than 35 years of experience, I see mental health as the foundation for a happy, fulfilling life.”
Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care, Family issues
Affirming, Inquisitive, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
James Castillo

James Castillo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that genuine emotional growth flourishes when we balance rigorous, evidence-based practices with a deeply authentic human connection.”
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dalicia Mack-Nowell

Dalicia Mack-Nowell

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi, I’m Dalicia Mack-Nowell, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I work with adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, everyday stress, life transitions, burnout, and relationship challenges. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or just not like yourself lately, you don’t have to figure it out alone. I’m here to support you in making sense of what you’re going through and finding a way forward that feels right for you.

Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Relationship issues, Stress management
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Steven Frank

Steven Frank

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in trauma work and am certified in EMDR, helping adults and older adults who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or worn down by patterns that no longer serve them.”
Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Panic disorders
Affirming, Creative, Participatory
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Susan Pelletier

Susan Pelletier

Therapist

Virtual • California


Are you an adult feeling stuck after difficult experiences, a major life change, or a season of self-doubt? I support adults working through trauma, life transitions, stress, and questions of identity and self-worth. Together, we can make space for what you have been carrying and reconnect with your strengths. I believe you are capable of healing and building a life that feels meaningful to you. My role is to listen with care, meet you where you are, and help you discover what works for your whole self.

ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Holistic, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Shannon Merritt

Shannon Merritt

Therapist

Virtual • California


What should your client know about you?

Hello and welcome! My name is Shannon Merritt and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT). I am based in Southern California and offer telehealth services to clients across the state. My expertise includes supporting individuals through life transitions, managing depression and anxiety, coping with loss, and addressing various mental health challenges. I am also passionate about helping people recover from addiction and/or trauma.

What is your approach to therapy?

I draw from various modalities and tailor my approach to each individual and their specific needs. I aim to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel at ease, can build resilience, and ultimately thrive. My communication style is straightforward, calm, and approachable. I offer clear and honest feedback in order to foster clients' wellbeing while developing hope for their future.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

In our first session together, we'll start with brief introductions, then dive into the specific challenges you're facing. This will help me create a tailored plan for us to work through in follow-up sessions. Clients can expect to develop valuable insight and gain the tools needed to make meaningful changes in their lives.

Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, Substance use / addiction
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Mayra Plascencia

Mayra Plascencia

Therapist

Virtual • Fresno, CA


“I believe that healing happens when you feel safe enough to be fully seen, without judgment, pressure, or the need to "have it all together."”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Scott Von Boeckmann

Scott Von Boeckmann

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My calm, gentle approach creates a safe space. I actively listen to deeply understand your needs, fostering trust...”
Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Rosealinda Carrillo

Rosealinda Carrillo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm passionate about decolonizing therapy and creating a space that honors culture, identity, and the intersection of both.”
Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Aviva Malek

Aviva Malek

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi, I'm Aviva, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Life can become difficult when stress, burnout, relationship problems, body image concerns, or past experiences begin to affect your daily life. Sometimes people seek therapy because they are exhausted from trying to manage everything on their own. I believe in working together to create solutions that will give a different perspective or a way to break patterns that no longer work for them. I have experience with patterns that no longer suit you and have learned methods to work through them.

Anxiety, Eating disorders, Family issues, Relationship issues, Stress management
Direct, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Kelli Brower

Kelli Brower

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe everyone deserves an individualized approach to their mental health care and is ultimately in charge of their own journey.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Irmgard Alarcon

Irmgard Alarcon

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is warm, genuine, and understanding. I like to work as a team with my clients where we can have difficult conversations...”
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Relationship issues, Stress management
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Joshua Helman

Joshua Helman

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am mostly a humanistic provider first, meaning, I look at the individual and employ empathy and support from the perspective of their own outlooks and expectations.”
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, End of life care, Grief or loss, LGBTQIA+
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Olivia Hanley

Olivia Hanley

Therapist

Virtual • California


I'm Olivia Hanley, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) based in Ventura, California. I completed my MSW at USC and have spent the last four years doing this work because I believe people deserve real, substantive support — not a one-size-fits-all approach.

I specialize in maternal mental health (postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, and the identity shift that comes with motherhood), anxiety and trauma in teens and adults, and play-based therapy for children and adolescents. I work with clients across California via telehealth and am in-network with Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield of California, Cigna, and Carelon Behavioral Health.

I tend to attract clients who are high-functioning but quietly struggling — moms who look like they have it together, teens who internalize everything, and adults who've been "fine" for a long time and are finally ready not to be. I'm direct, curious, and warm. I will challenge you — gently — when it's useful.

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Maternal mental health
Challenging, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Casey Rath

Casey Rath

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to provide a supportive, judgment-free space where you feel comfortable being yourself, gain practical tools, and make meaningful, lasting changes.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Eric Frank

Eric Frank

Therapist

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“I have a particular passion for working with active-duty military, veterans, first responders, and law enforcement...”
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Men's issues, OCD
Empowering, Inquisitive, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Alba Hernandez

Alba Hernandez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard while also helping you build practical skills that create lasting change.”
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, PTSD, Stress management
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Kati Coggin

Kati Coggin

Therapist

Virtual • California


With more than 20 years of experience, I have helped adults, children, and families navigate life’s challenges and create meaningful change. I hold both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Social Work and believe there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. I see therapy as a partnership, where you set the direction and I provide support, guidance, and encouragement along the way.

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Family issues, Relationship issues, Stress management
Empowering, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Tisha Langley

Tisha Langley

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is warm, direct, practical, grounded and occasionally funny. Therapy with me is a real conversation, not a clinical checklist or a series of quiet nods that leave you wondering.”
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Jazmin Huerta

Jazmin Huerta

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 4 years of experience. I have experience working with clients facing a variety of emotional and life challenges, including anxiety, depression, stress, adjustment difficulties, trauma-related concerns, and postpartum disorders. I provide evidence-based psychotherapy that supports emotional wellbeing, healthy coping skills, and personal growth in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment.

My therapeutic approach is integrated and tailored to meet your unique needs. I often draw from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational interviewing.

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, Maternal mental health
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tara Ryan

Tara Ryan

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a multi-state licensed therapist across California, Colorado, Iowa, Nebraska, and Texas, specializing in helping adults navigate deep-seated mental health challenges alongside intense personal and professional transitions.

With vast clinical experience, I have served as a university career counselor, a specialist for healthcare professionals, and a dedicated clinician within both the US Navy Family Advocacy Program and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

My practice provides a highly supportive, practical space for college students, working adults at all career stages, healthcare workers, service members, Veterans, and the LGBTQIA+ community.

I blend empathetic listening with deep clinical insight to help you manage and heal from:

Core Mental Health & Neurodivergence:

Anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, and identity exploration.

Trauma & Life Impact:

Complex trauma, PTSD, grief, loss, and managing chronic medical conditions.

Daily Survival:

Severe career burnout, relationship problems, and navigating life's overlapping pressures.

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Eating disorders
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Hillary Stevens

Hillary Stevens

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I listen for understanding, challenge to help you stretch/ grow, and provide non-judgmental support.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Andrew Soluna

Andrew Soluna

Therapist

Virtual • California


I work with people navigating their evolving identity, self-worth, relationships, life purpose, and psychedelic integration. Often high-functioning but privately struggling, or simply needing trusted support in a safe space to tend to the soul and grow. The foundation of my work as a clinician is psychodynamic psychotherapy. But the therapeutic space is not bound by clinical measurements or a rigid psychology. Far beyond clinical diagnosis, therapy is the path towards wholeness in Self, vitality in daily life and relationships, and creative expression of the soul. I am a perpetual student of depth psychology and completing certification as a Jungian analyst.

Depression, Identity issues, Relationship issues
Empowering, Holistic, Inquisitive
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Jessica Ryan

Jessica Ryan

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is collaborative, supportive, and practical, and I strive to create a space where clients feel comfortable exploring challenges while developing tools for meaningful, lasting change.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Holistic, Inquisitive, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Melissa Briseno-Vasquez

Melissa Briseno-Vasquez

Therapist

Virtual • California


You might be feeling overwhelmed, stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, or carrying the weight of past experiences. I’m Melissa, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I’m here to support you. I offer a warm, steady space where you can feel safe, heard, and in control of your healing. Using EMDR and trauma-informed CBT, we’ll work together to help you feel more grounded, build self-compassion, and create healthier, more fulfilling relationships.

Anxiety, Family issues, Identity issues, LGBTQIA+, PTSD
Affirming, Direct, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Alexiis Figueroa

Alexiis Figueroa

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation for growth and healing, and I strive to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space for clients.”
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Carmen Santillan

Carmen Santillan

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a board‐certified clinical therapist with a strong foundation in narrative therapy, helping clients explore and reshape the stories that influence their lives. In recent years, I’ve supported children ages 5–17 as well as adults navigating a wide range of emotional experiences, including anxiety, depression, grief, and gender affirmation.

Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
161 - 200 of

About our therapists serving Bakersfield, CA

Number of therapists serving Bakersfield, CA
There are over 8,988 therapists in Bakersfield, CA accepting new patients.
8,988+
Average years in practice
Watercolor illustration of a bookshelf
10 years
Top specialties offered
Watercolor illustration of specialties
  • 98%Anxiety
  • 92%Depression
  • 88%Stress management
  • 82%Relationship issues
  • 79%Trauma
Insurances accepted
Watercolor illustration of insurance cards
  • 98%Aetna
  • 79%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 77%Cigna
  • 75%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 66%Blue Shield of California
Languages spoken
Watercolor illustration of languages
  • 97%English
  • 17%Spanish
  • 2%Farsi
  • 1%Mandarin
  • 1%Hindi
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 90%Online only
  • 10%In-person or online
Provider gender
Watercolor illustration of gender identity
  • 79%Woman
  • 20%Man
  • 1%Non-binary
License types
Watercolor illustration of license
  • 48%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 31%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 7%Clinical Psychologist
  • 7%Nurse Practitioner
  • 7%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Treatment approaches
Watercolor illustration of treatment approach
  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 37%Family therapy
  • 23%Couples therapy
  • 15%Child or adolescent therapy

Frequently asked questions

Therapy Chair

Happy patient looking away

Find the right therapist for you

Headway makes it easy to find support for your mental health — from finding the right provider, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Therapist in Bakersfield

Searching for therapists in Bakersfield starts with knowing what kind of support you want. Therapists can help with concerns like anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, grief, and life transitions. As you compare options, look for a therapist whose training, listed specialties, and therapy approach match what you want to focus on. Provider bios can help you understand whether a therapist uses approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, or trauma-informed care.

Bakersfield has local therapy options across areas like Downtown, East Bakersfield, and Southwest Bakersfield, while virtual appointments can add more flexibility if office location or commute time matters. When narrowing your search, consider appointment availability, whether a therapist is accepting new patients, and whether they offer a free phone consultation before your first session. Reading each profile can also help you understand a therapist’s communication style, session structure, and experience with concerns similar to yours.

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 you book. Headway makes that process easier by helping you find licensed therapists, check your insurance details to confirm coverage for your area, see estimated costs upfront, review detailed bios, and book directly when you’re ready.

Explore more therapists in California

Use left and right arrow keys to switch tabs. Press Shift+Tab to return to the tab list from links in the selected tab.

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