At times, it can seem like life is just moving too fast. You want to slow things down and take a break, so you can get control again because it feels like everything is out of your control. In Ridgecrest, there are many licensed and dedicated therapists who can help you. 

With a population of over 28 thousand people, the town of Ridgecrest, California is largely a Navy town, with most of the employment there related to the Naval Ordnance Test Station, or NOTS. Sometimes, keeping your job may be a struggle if you are suffering with depression or anxiety disorder. Contact one of the dedicated mental health professionals in Ridgecrest today and get the help you need. 

This is Dr. Jared Wilke's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Jared Wilke

Offering therapy in CA
License: PsyD
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
7 years of experience

I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist in the state of California, with over 7 years of experience counseling individuals, couples and families. I completed my Doctor of Psychology degree from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families in helping those overcoming difficulties in their lives. My experience also includes psychological evaluation and several years of inpatient work with those who have severe mental illness. Choosing someone who has the clinical expertise to deal with your specific concerns is an important decision. I combine this expertise with personal and caring treatment. My goal is to successfully assist in the adjustments and transitions that may be necessary for you, your significant other and your family. I specialize in individual, family, and couples therapy.

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Elizabeth Renteria

Offering therapy in CA
License: CA LCSW 22752,OR LCSW 5306
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
3 years of experience

Hello, My name is Elizabeth Renteria and I am a licensed clinical social worker in both the states of California and Oregon. I received my master's in Social Work from the University of Washington in Seattle and also have a Master's in Counseling from the University of La Verne. I have several years of experience treating both individuals and families in a variety of issues including depression, anxiety and trauma and other life stressors. I use a client centered approach that focuses on practical solutions to help you cultivate well-being and improve your life. I combine strength based and culturally relevant practices along with other cognitive based therapies to help you in treatment. I believe that creating a warm, collaborative and safe therapeutic relationship is key for achieving best results. I look forward to meeting you and discussing how together we promote healing in your life.

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This is Dr. Carlyn Werderman's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Carlyn Werderman

Offering therapy in CA
License: Psy.D.
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
14 years of experience

I completed my Master's and Doctoral degrees at the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University in Los Angeles. I offer my clients an individualized, empowering, values-based, and solution-focused therapeutic approach, which derive from several therapeutic approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy, Schema Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. My previous clinical experience includes working with children, families, and adults in school, outpatient/community mental health, and residential treatment settings. I specialize in working with those who experience mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, anger, chronic pain, substance use, relationship, sexual health, and LGBT-related issues. I also specialize in working with high-conflict families, parental alienation and family reunification cases. I look forward to getting to know more about you and see if we are a good fit!

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Ellen Golding

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefEating disordersDepression
17 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & eating disorders. 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.

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Kirsten Angeliyan

Offering therapy in CA
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Southern California. My experience comes from providing direct mental health and behavioral counseling for younger and older adults with a variety of presenting issues including depression, suicidal ideation, bipolar disorder, psychosis, PTSD, co-dependency, attachment issues, and persistent mental health issues. I approach the therapeutic relationship with a sensitivity and respect for multicultural and social factors. My clinical experience includes working with marginalized populations, homeless individuals, individuals re-entering from incarceration and individuals living with chronic mental health challenges. I also have experience working with individuals in a healthcare setting with work stress, relationship issues, communication issues, and anger management issues. My therapy style and approach draws influence from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, Gestalt, and Narrative Therapy approaches. My communication style is warm, direct, and transparent. My hope is to get to know your communication style so we can work collaboratively to get you to mental wellness - and to do so in a way that makes sense to you. Outside of the therapy room, I am usually cooking up a new cultural dish, keeping up with NBA stats, and spending time with my dogs in the woods. I look forward to the privilege of getting to know who you are and to partnering with you towards feeling better. Change can happen when you give it a chance.

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Rhea Bernstein

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, intimacy related issues, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Quisha Castro

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

As a psychotherapist for the past 20 years, I’ve worked in a variety of outpatient and inpatient settings with children, adolescents, and adults with complex needs. My approach to therapy starts with the psychotherapist and client relationship. In our sessions, I provide a supportive environment where you feel seen, heard and a space for therapeutic connection, where change is created. Life can be difficult, and we all find ourselves at times struggling with difficult thoughts and overwhelming feelings. Past traumas or current stressors can leave us feeling anxious, depressed, or disconnected from ourselves and others. As a psychotherapist, together we examine how old patterns no longer serve you and help foster a more peaceful and purposeful way of living. My goal to is assist my client with an in-depth perspective and understanding their individual uniqueness. I work to build self-awareness and help clients meet life's challenges towards fulfillment, change unhelpful patterns or behaviors, and teach new methods people can use to approach complex situations to maximize positive results. My specialties include anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflicts, life transitions, substance abuse, eating disorders, and difficulties relating in relationships. My clinical focus is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy & Mindfulness and Acceptance Based Practices that examines your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I facilitate this transformative process by forming a partnership with each person by assessing and analyzing their distinct and unique circumstances and life experiences. This allows us to tailor an effective and practical treatment plan for our work together. I place importance on how you apply what you learn about yourself in therapy to everyday life.

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This is sona topalian's avatar and link to their profile

sona topalian

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & 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.

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This is Deanna Gale Emad's avatar and link to their profile

Deanna Gale Emad

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I believe that you have already inside you all that you need to overcome, learn and grow from your challenges. I am seasoned in assisting you on your journey of self growth and awareness. I am grateful for the opportunity to support you in overcoming the areas in your life that are challenging you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am confident that it will be of great support so lets get started.

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This is Rebecca Jarrell's avatar and link to their profile

Rebecca Jarrell

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
22 years of experience

Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas and a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LPCC) in California and New Mexico with 22 years experience in a variety of settings, including: psychiatrist office, inpatient psychiatric hospital and private practice. I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Master of Arts degree in Counseling from Sam Houston State University. My areas of specialized focus include grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and trauma recovery. I am a Certified Grief Educator and strive to provide compassionate support to those struggling through grief and loss. I primarily utilize the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach. It takes strength and insight to realize that a change is needed in our lives. I applaud you for taking this step. I look forward to working with you! My ultimate goal is to assist my clients in finding healthy ways to improve the quality of their lives. It is my belief that most people already have the answers they are seeking within themselves and that I am here to facilitate their path to finding these answers. I believe that each client is a unique individual and strive to make them feel safe and comfortable from the start of counseling.

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How to find counseling in Ridgecrest

Finding the best therapist close by in Ridgecrest can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Ridgecrest. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Ridgecrest, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Ridgecrest or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Ridgecrest area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Ridgecrest, elsewhere in Kern, or in the greater state of California.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Ridgecrest area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Ridgecrest therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Ridgecrest due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Ridgecrest may not take health insurance, some in the state of California may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Ridgecrest, California working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Ridgecrest above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Ridgecrest helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Ridgecrest therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Ridgecrest therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Ridgecrest therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in CA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 93556 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Ridgecrest counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Ridgecrest licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Ridgecrest, California can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Ridgecrest has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Ridgecrest.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Ridgecrest:

93555, 93556

Popular cities near Ridgecrest, CA

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