Bakersfield, CA, is sometimes called “Nashville West” thanks to its contributions to country music. While Bakersfield has certainly influenced the genre, it did it in its own way. The electric-guitar-driven sound of Merle Haggard and Dwight Yoakum that dominated country music in the 1950s and early 1960s was known as the Bakersfield Sound. Are you looking to do something a little bit differently? Talking to a therapist Bakersfield CA can help you figure out how to do things your own way.


There are many types of therapy that may work for you: individual and group therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and Christian counseling, just to name a few. If you’re interested in a client centered approach to mental health services that you can access from your own home, consider signing up for counseling services with BetterHelp.

BetterHelp therapists in Bakersfield CA are qualified and licensed to practice therapy and have at least 2,000 hours of clinical practice. If you’re interested in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, or are unsure what’s the best appraoch for you, a BetterHelp therapist can help. And, if you’re worried about therapy costs, subscriptions cost between $65 to $90 per week (billed every four weeks), which my be more affordable than many in-person treatment.

Working with a professional in the mental health field can help you learn how to manage difficult life transitions, trauma related issues, or any other challenges. Speak to a Bakersfield-based counselor below to get started.

 

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Psychologist Orlee Tugend-Raymond providing different types of therapy in Bakersfield

Orlee Tugend-Raymond

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 25789
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
25 years offering treatment

I am a family and marriage counselor licensed in California with over 25 years of experience in working with families, children and couples. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, family dynamics and career challenges. I also have a Jewish background and am here to support Jewish clients that are either looking for spiritual support or would like to talk to a Jewish therapist. I am available to support Hebrew speakers as I speak fluent Hebrew. My counseling style is warm and interactive. My listening skills are excellent and I will hear what you are saying. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My counseling approaches include cognitive-behavioral, blended family issues and navigating caregivers. I also do solution focused therapy for those that prefer shorter term therapy. Our dialogue and treatment plan will always be designed to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you to get the happier and more fulfilled life that you are looking for. I look forward to working with you! Specialties: Parenting issues and family dynamics blended families stress/anxiety life changes career challenges Caregiver stress

Psychologist Katherine Eldean providing different types of therapy in Bakersfield

Katherine Eldean

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 49558
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma, & abuse. I also have experience working with depression and Bipolar Disorder. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happy life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Diana Bernhardy providing different types of therapy in Bakersfield

Diana Bernhardy

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW LCS13837
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
32 years offering treatment

Hello, my name is Diana Bernhardy. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years experience working with diverse groups and treatment issues. Past experiences have included primarily working in a forensic inpatient psychiatric mental health facility providing dydactic treatment with individuals with moderate to severe mental disorders, antisocial /criminal behaviors, and substance abuse. I've also worked in private practice and outpatient mental health services providing various treatment modalities and interventions in addressing various topics, i.e., depression, anxiety, stress, anger, grief/loss , separation issues, self esteem issues, women issues, PTSD/trauma, and case management. I explore the mental, behavior and spiritual aspects of the person to achieve wholeness and wellness. Thank you for reading my profile and I look forward to working with you.

Psychologist Barbara Morales-Rossi providing different types of therapy in Bakersfield

Barbara Morales-Rossi

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 113871
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefDepression
7 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California, I'm here to support individuals navigating emotional landscapes in life. My practice centers on helping clients address transitions that tend to increase depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and addiction while honoring their unique experiences and identities. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach to therapy, with a deep commitment to understanding each person's individual journey. My work focuses on empowering clients to develop their own skill to navigate these transitions with improve communication, active life styles that can decrease symptoms that block quality of life rediscover their sense of purpose. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I support individuals through transitions such as workplace stress, grief and loss with moving, jobs, lifestyles, recovery, women's issues, and codependency. My therapeutic style emphasizes creating a supportive, affirming space where clients can explore their experiences, heal from past wounds, and build resilience. I am dedicated to walking alongside my clients with empathy, respect, and genuine care, helping them transform challenging emotions like guilt and shame into opportunities for growth and self-understanding.

Psychologist Carlton Hemphill providing different types of therapy in Bakersfield

Carlton Hemphill

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC LPCC21526, AZ LPC LPC-24496
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemADHD
7 years offering treatment

I work with adults in their 20s and 30s who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward. Many face the challenges of neurodivergence like Autism or ADHD, along with the anxiety or life transitions that often come with it. I also support gay and queer individuals navigating identity, self-esteem, and relationship issues. I also work with Pure-O OCD using Inference-based CBT (I-CBT), an approach that's still hard to find in virtual care. My approach is insight-driven. Before we reach for techniques, I want to understand what's happening underneath, then we decide together which tools actually fit you. I don't see your identity as something to fix.

Psychologist Christine Piddington providing different types of therapy in Bakersfield

Christine Piddington

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 69521
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
11 years offering treatment

Hello! I'm a California-licensed therapist with 11 years of professional experience dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges. My passion and deep expertise lie in coping with grief and loss, profoundly shaped by my background as a hospice social worker. I understand the unique complexities that come with navigating profound loss. For the past 7.5 years, I've worked exclusively via remote sessions, providing comprehensive support to clients across California. I'm here to help you with a wide range of concerns, including: Stress & Anxiety Family Conflicts Trauma & Abuse Grief & Loss (specialty area) Depression Beyond these, I bring a strong background in client advocacy, stemming from my two years in the Peace Corps in Belize advocating for those with HIV/AIDS, and my broader work championing the rights of underprivileged communities. This includes experience with disability leave in the workplace and securing Emotional Support Animals (ESA) in housing. My diverse journey also includes experience in prison and hospital settings, enriching my understanding of varied client needs. I believe you are the expert of your own story and possess immense strengths. Taking the first step towards a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and I am here to support you in that process. While I'm currently based in Alaska and pursuing licensure here, I maintain my active California license and am committed to helping you on your healing journey.

Psychologist Yu Tsun Tseng-Brown providing different types of therapy in Bakersfield

Yu Tsun Tseng-Brown

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 53180
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
26 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California, I bring over two decades of dedicated experience supporting individuals, couple, family through complex emotional landscapes. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding the nuanced challenges of depression, anxiety, marital problems, trauma, grief, and anger management. I am certified in child abuse and home violence, parenting educator, play therapy, seek safety (intervention for substance abuse and trauma), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, managing and adapting program (treatment of depression, trauma, anxiety, and disruptive behavior) and CORES (crisis intervention). I specialize in creating compassionate, culturally-responsive therapeutic spaces that honor each client's unique journey. Drawing from extensive clinical expertise, I help individuals develop resilient coping strategies and meaningful pathways toward emotional healing and personal growth. My professional commitment is centered on providing empathetic, evidence-based support that respects your individual experiences and strengths. I believe in collaborative healing, where you are the expert of your own story, and I serve as a supportive guide in your transformative process.

Psychologist Victoria Lloyd providing different types of therapy in Bakersfield

Victoria Lloyd

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 9661
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist with a decade of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and find meaningful connection while addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach to therapy, particularly committed to serving Black and LGBTQ+ communities. My work honors each person's unique journey, creating a supportive space where individuals can explore personal growth, heal from past experiences, and rediscover their inner strength. My therapeutic approach blends evidence-based practices with a holistic understanding of individual experiences. I'm especially passionate about helping clients build resilience, enhance self-esteem, and develop effective coping strategies. Whether you're struggling with isolation, seeking life purpose, or working through significant changes, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.

Psychologist Ashby "Brooks" Larsen providing different types of therapy in Bakersfield

Ashby "Brooks" Larsen

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 12724, UT LCSW 11035932-3501
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
58 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California and Utah with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Earl Barrios providing different types of therapy in Bakersfield

Earl Barrios

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 229
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
38 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 36 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Jo Ellen Clark providing different types of therapy in Bakersfield

Jo Ellen Clark

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 106161
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflicts, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I have experience working as a social worker in a medical environment. I worked for over six years in our local trauma center in the Acute Rehab Unit (ARU). Through this experience I worked with individuals and families in acute crisis. Individuals dealt with immediate life changes impacting income, living arrangements, supportive relationships and possible altered physicality short and/or long term. Depression, anxiety, and dealing with interpersonal relationships were all part of the process of processing the life altering event. This experience gave me the opportunity to work with all ages, socioeconomic levels, education levels, ethnicities, cultures and back grounds while using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Systems Theory, Cultural Competency (client as expert) and an individual client focused approach to assist the client with their goals. I now work as a hospice social worker. Working with individuals and families dealing with end of life challenges, loss, grief and hopefully acceptance. Compassion, empathy, advocacy and listening are all pieces to assist individuals and families to cope with the end of life. It is not so different than working with any other client, I meet the client and families where they are. Assess one's needs and establish goals for client centered work. All the skills that are learned through my experiences are transferred to working with individuals whether it is life questions, road blocks to achieving goals or trauma to be worked through, the approach is met with companion, non judgement, support and open communication.

Psychologist Janice Snyder providing different types of therapy in Bakersfield

Janice Snyder

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 8880
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have a Ph.D. from USC. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Teresa Avila providing different types of therapy in Bakersfield

Teresa Avila

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 161333
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on empowering clients to develop resilience, self-understanding, and meaningful strategies for personal growth. With expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and trauma, I create a compassionate space where clients can explore their experiences and cultivate healing. My professional background focuses on supporting individuals through life transitions, workplace dynamics, and personal identity exploration. I am particularly passionate about helping clients work through social anxiety, isolation, body image concerns, and interpersonal communication challenges. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I collaborate with clients to develop personalized approaches that honor their unique strengths and experiences. As a bilingual therapist fluent in English and Spanish, I am committed to providing culturally responsive and inclusive care. My goal is to support you in developing self-love, understanding your life's purpose, and building meaningful connections that promote emotional well-being.

Psychologist Elena Balashova-Shamis providing different types of therapy in Bakersfield

Elena Balashova-Shamis

Clinician
License Type(s): CA Psychologist PSY20104
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
23 years offering treatment

Dr. Elena Balashova-Shamis is a highly experienced, licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, adults, and elderly. She is trained as a psychoanalyst and provides integrative, personalized treatments for her patients. She teaches at 5 local universities, including UCLA’s medical school and NPI. She is known for her presentations, publications, and dissertation advising.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Bakersfield, California

Finding a therapist near you in Bakersfield, California starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. California is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you. 

The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In California, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across California, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.

Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California

Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In California, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.

Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in California

BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. 

You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California

BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.

Therapists near you in California

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across California, including residents in Bakersfield.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in California do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

Is online therapy effective?

Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.

How quickly can I start therapy?

You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy discreet?

Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.

Find a Therapist in Bakersfield, California

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Bakersfield and the surrounding CA area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

Find the right therapist for your needs
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