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Find a therapist in Bakersfield, CA — covered by insurance

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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 8,972 licensed providers accepting most major insurance plans.

Brittany Anvari

Brittany Anvari

Therapist

Virtual • California


I believe healing begins with meaningful connection. My work with cancer patients and their families has deeply shaped my understanding of pain, loss, resilience, and the complexities that relationships face during times of crisis. I support adults of all ages in navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, loneliness, grief, and relationship concerns, offering both compassionate guidance and practical, effective tools for growth and healing.

Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Joanna Orlowska

Joanna Orlowska

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My greatest strengths as a provider are my collaborative approach with clients to determine not only what they would want to work on, but additional skills...”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Ritu Esbjorn

Ritu Esbjorn

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have been working with individuals and couples for decades, bringing empathy, kindness, and a wealth of life experience into each encounter.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Kelly Haven

Kelly Haven

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work in the belief that we each have everything we need to achieve a fulfilled and successful life already present within us; sometimes we just need a little help accessing it.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Sean Coe

Sean Coe

Therapist

Virtual • Valencia, CA


“My approach to therapy is about walking with my clients, helping explore and understand, and give them opportunities to be certain, clear, at peace...”
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Inquisitive, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Jendayi Ford

Jendayi Ford

Therapist

Virtual • California


Listen.... Life happens and it's during the tough and difficult times that as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I'm here to offer a safe space of affirmation.... and accountability

Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Inquisitive, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sonya Adams

Sonya Adams

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that a strong therapeutic alliance between a client and their therapist is key to success in therapy.”
Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Karen Piekarski

Karen Piekarski

Therapist

Virtual • California


With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I am passionate about guiding individuals on their journey to balance, mindfulness and joy. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with diverse populations and addressing a wide range of mental health challenges. This journey has reinforced my belief that each person's path to well-being is unique and deserves a personalized approach.

Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, Maternal mental health, Panic disorders
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Ameerah McMann

Ameerah McMann

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe in being real, direct, and compassionate. My approach is solution-focused and spiritually grounded, helping clients not only understand their challenges but also actively move toward healing and growth in a meaningful way.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Chelsea Vielhauer

Chelsea Vielhauer

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I offer a collaborative and supportive space using evidence-based and mindfulness-informed approaches to help you build insight, resilience, and meaningful change.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, LGBTQIA+
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Tate Lizagub

Tate Lizagub

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I use both psychodynamic and mindfulness based approaches to help my clients identify and shift patterns that are no longer working for them.”
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss, Relationship issues
Direct, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Elizabeth Brown

Elizabeth Brown

Therapist

Virtual • California


“As a psychotherapist specializing in anxiety, depression, stress, and grief, I ascribe to an eclectic approach with a strong foundation in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and solution-based therapy.”
Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Grief or loss, Panic disorders
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jackeline Balarezo-Ruvalcaba

Jackeline Balarezo-Ruvalcaba

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My communication style is calm, friendly, and personable. I always provide an open space for clients to express themselves free of judgment or guilt.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Kimberly Heath

Kimberly Heath

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My style is collaborative, holistic, and patient-centered. I aim to create a safe and supportive space where clients feel heard and empowered in their treatment journey.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Taylor Alderson

Taylor Alderson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to create an empathic space for self-reflection and acceptance resulting in transformed relationship to self and others.”
Anxiety, Grief or loss, LGBTQIA+, PTSD, Relationship issues
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Imani Francis

Imani Francis

Therapist

Virtual • California


“As a Black cisgender woman, I bring lived experience and genuine cultural understanding to my work — especially with BIPOC clients, women of color, and LGBTQIA+ individuals who are looking for a therapist who truly gets it without needing an...”
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Empowering, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Russell Hendlin

Russell Hendlin

Therapist

Virtual • San Anselmo, CA


I am licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist, with a private practice in Marin since 1990. I got my undergraduate degree from Columbia and a masters of science (psychology) from Antioch University.

I have experience with children, adolescents, adults and families since 1975. I am retired from his position as Director of Medi-Cal Services and a clinical supervisor and staff trainer at Through the Looking Glass in Berkeley. Through the Looking Glass is a nationally recognized non-profit organization serving children aged 0 to 18 where a child or caretaker has a disability. I was formerly on the counseling staff of Larry Fritzlan Recovery Services in Marin.

I brings humor, compassion, clarity and understanding to my work. I try to maintain a stance of curiosity about my clients and their ways of thinking and feeling. I supports couples and families in improving communication, expressing feelings, resolving conflict, and establishing clearer roles. I encourage parents to set limits and establish healthy boundaries. He assists individuals and families in becoming more confident, hopeful, and relaxed. I support relating with clarity, serenity, and loving kindness.

My primary clinical approaches include attachment, mentalization based treatment and family systems.

I works with children, adolescents, individuals and couples who are experiencing anxiety or depression, low confidence or self-esteem, conflict in relationships, neurodiversity, personality issues, and other mental health issues. I works with alcohol and substance abuse, including dual-diagnosis and individuals working 12 step programs, as well as with individuals who would like to address a substance issue but are not open to 12 step work. I work with trauma, and with problems with attention and emotional regulation.

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD
Humorous, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Eileen Lopez

Eileen Lopez

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


“As a Latina clinician, I bring a deep appreciation for the ways culture, family, and community shape our experiences and our relationship with mental health.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Monica Benitez

Monica Benitez

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I believe healing begins with connection, and my goal is to build a collaborative relationship where you feel comfortable sharing your concerns and empowered to move toward meaningful change.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Kara Stratton

Kara Stratton

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is compassionate, validating, and centered on helping clients process difficult emotions in a safe and supportive space.”
Anxiety, Depression, Diabetes, End of life care, Family issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Valerie Murphy

Valerie Murphy

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Valerie specializes in helping clients shift patterns that no longer serve them—including the deep-rooted belief of not feeling good enough—and works collaboratively to build a more compassionate, grounded sense of self.”
Anxiety, PTSD, Relationship issues, Stress management
Energetic, Holistic, Participatory
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lizbeth Benavides

Lizbeth Benavides

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that every person has the capacity for growth, healing, and resilience, regardless of where they are in their journey.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Challenging, Empowering, Inquisitive
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
John Peres

John Peres

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


“I believe therapy should be both healing and practical—not simply a place to talk, but a place to gain insight, learn effective skills, and create lasting change.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Energetic, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Mitchell Guss

Mitchell Guss

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'd like to guide you to a life you feel excited about and nourished by... I can be your companion who provides you with the space and tools to heal from your past, ground yourself in the present, and manifest a future beyond what you even knew you...”
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Jennique Simplice

Jennique Simplice

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“Jenn is a dedicated and compassionate provider who makes the safety and wellbeing of her patient a top priority, she serves patients of all age populations.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Panic disorders
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Ana Vazquez

Ana Vazquez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy is a collaborative process. My goal is to create a safe, supportive, and judgment-free space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to work through your struggles and build the life you want.”
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Megan Hearne

Megan Hearne

Therapist

Virtual • Castro Valley, CA


Hi! I've been in practice since 2011 and will tell everyone I meet that I LOVE my job! I love helping people understand themselves better, finding answers to questions, and sharing the moment when someone says "So THAT'S why that happens!" I love helping people unhook from beliefs that have brought debilitating guilt and shame. I love celebrating success with someone who has taken a risk, challenged their fears, and come out the other side victorious!

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Energetic, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Eleanor Raymond

Eleanor Raymond

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi I'm Eleanor! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California and New Mexico. I am passionate about empowering people to build self-trust and self-acceptance. Most of my clients come to therapy because they want to make a change or cope with a change that they did not choose.

Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Heather Jacobs

Heather Jacobs

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My focus is to assist you in strengthening your own abilities, increasing your self awareness, and all the while learn to cope with every day stressors that inevitably pop up.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Grief or loss
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Robin Balchen

Robin Balchen

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in supporting people through grief, loss, and life transitions, and I use evidenced based methods within a holistic, transpersonal framework to guid healing and growth.”
Depression, End of life care, Family issues, Grief or loss, Infertility
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Dr. Selena Villa

Dr. Selena Villa

Therapist

Virtual • San Bernardino, CA


“I specialize in anxiety, OCD, and parent coaching, and I tailor each session to the individual using evidence-based strategies, creativity, and, when appropriate, nature and animal-assisted interventions to support meaningful, lasting growth.”
Anxiety, OCD, Panic disorders
Creative, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Andrew Mcnab

Andrew Mcnab

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I use motivational interviewing, components of CBT, solution focused therapy, and a Rogerian engagement style of communication/understanding.”
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Diabetes, Identity issues
Creative, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Arlette Large

Arlette Large

Therapist

Virtual • Eureka, CA


“I know healing isn't linear—everyone's path looks different—and my goal is to meet you exactly where you are with empathy and practical guidance.”
Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss, OCD
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Saloomeh Nakh Saz

Saloomeh Nakh Saz

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe healing happens in a relationship built on trust, so we'll move at a pace that feels right for you.”
Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Grief or loss, Maternal mental health
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Rashida Khan

Rashida Khan

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I strive with kindness, compassion, and respect, and look forward to collaborating on treatment together to achieve motivation and progress.”
Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Lani Espinas

Lani Espinas

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I will hold you accountable, challenge you, and give you homework since I don't believe 45 mins a week is sufficient to rectify lifelong patterns.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Solution-oriented
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Christina Pechan

Christina Pechan

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I integrate evidence-based practices with a warm, relational style, so sessions feel like a safe space you look forward to joining.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Ana Zavala

Ana Zavala

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe we can only be made whole addressing every part of the human being instead of focusing on one area.”
Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Karen Cash

Karen Cash

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am available to assist with many of the current issues that are affecting us all. Issues os depression, anxiety and PTSD are impacting many. Relationship and communication challenges are problematic. Challenging adolescents and children suffering from ADHD or Learning Disabilities are impacting family life. I can assist you with these common challenges, and help to provide and process solutions.

ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Nichelle Ward

Nichelle Ward

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe every individual already holds the capacity for growth and healing, and my role is to help uncover and build upon those inner resources.”
ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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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
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10 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 98%Anxiety
  • 92%Depression
  • 88%Stress management
  • 82%Relationship issues
  • 79%Trauma
Insurances accepted
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  • 98%Aetna
  • 79%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 77%Cigna
  • 75%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 66%Blue Shield of California
Languages spoken
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  • 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
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  • 79%Woman
  • 20%Man
  • 1%Non-binary
License types
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  • 48%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 31%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 7%Clinical Psychologist
  • 7%Nurse Practitioner
  • 7%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 37%Family therapy
  • 23%Couples therapy
  • 15%Child or adolescent therapy

Frequently asked questions

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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.

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