The City of Taft, California was named after President William H. Taft in 1909 and they are extremely proud of their history. They have many buildings and places on the National Register of Historic Places to explore and learn about the town’s history.

Exploring historic places and enjoying other places of recreation are excellent for both your mental and physical health but sometimes some of us need a bit more help than everyone else. If you are looking for some extra help, contact one of the mental health professionals in and around Taft today so you can start feeling better.

This is Victoria Durant's avatar and link to their profile

Victoria Durant

Offering therapy in CA
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issues
22 years of experience

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California. I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science, History, and Psychology and my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology. I have been providing individual, family, and couples therapy for almost two decades. I have experience with a variety of age and ethnic groups. I utilize various theoretical orientations including Solution-Focused, Narrative, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have worked in elementary and high school settings, residential drug treatment, and mental health partial hospitalization programs. Additionally, I am well-versed in 12-Step addiction models. My therapeutic approach focuses on helping clients separate who they think they "should" be from who they actually are. I aim to identify clients’ needs and further develop their communication skills. We collaborate to cultivate an integrated acceptance of self, while promoting a rich environment for change to occur. I seek to find strategies for clients to cultivate more meaningful connections, which require vulnerability and intimacy. Great therapy is built on a relationship of warmth, empathy, and curiosity, where all parties learn from one another. I pay attention to the moment-to-moment experiences of the mind and body, and aspire to integrate them for overall well-being. Our therapy sessions are 50 minutes in length, so please don’t be confused by the 30-minute time slots when you schedule. I do ask for a minimum 24-hour cancellation notice prior to any scheduled sessions. More than one late-notice or no-show, will result in a referral to another therapist on the BetterHelp platform.

Get started View profile
This is Teddi Plummer's avatar and link to their profile

Teddi Plummer

Offering therapy in CA
License: Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

I am empathic and offer encouragement to my clients to assist in fostering hope and a successful counseling outcomes. My clients frequently share with me that I am a therapist who cares. I am supportive of clients who view their faith and/or spirituality as a significant tool in the recovery process. I have served adult and youth clients presenting with disorders, such as schizophrenia-auditory and visual hallucinations, bipolar, OCD, severe depression, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, panic attacks, personality disorders, self-harm (cutting), and dual diagnosis. I have also provided therapeutic services for clients with co-occurring disorders including alcohol/substance abuse and behavioral addictions, and multiple layers of issues (I am a certified SMART Recovery Facilitator). My clinical experience includes assessment, diagnosis, and crisis counseling. Additional therapeutic services include clients experiencing domestic violence and assisting perpetrators of domestic violence to learn healthy coping tools to manage anger. . I have worked in crisis in the emergency room setting and assisted clients suffering from mild to acute suicide ideations. I have co-counseled Dialectical Behavioral Therapy groups to assist clients with emotional regulation and earned training certificates in DBT. I have experience in facilitating anger management and batters intervention groups; I am a certified Nurturing Parenting Facilitator; I have over two years experience in facilitating parenting groups. I have facilitated behavioral and substance addiction groups for at risk youth and adults. I have experience working with the most severely mentally ill as well as those with mild to moderate mental health challenges. I utilize evidence based theoretical models to find what interventions are best fit for client's individual needs, such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing. I am a therapist who values the uniqueness of my clients needs. I believe a client's spirituality and/or faith can play a significant role in fostering hope and attaining a successful counseling outcome. I have 13 years of experience teaching children’s church, 4 years experience as a faith based youth/young adult group leader and 1 year experience providing volunteer Christian counseling to adults under the supervision of the Pastor. I am respectful of the diverse range of faith and beliefs of my clients.

Get started View profile
This is Alexis Tyson's avatar and link to their profile

Alexis Tyson

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
9 years of experience

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist committed to helping individuals pinpoint and solve emotional, mental and interpersonal problems. My work focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, habits, and beliefs that interfere with your daily life. I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping clients reach their goals. I have 9 years of experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma and addiction. Under the umbrella of a humanistic, existential, and cognitive behavior-based approach, modalities used in treatment include Client Centered Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, CBT, and mindfulness-based interventions. If you’re struggling to cope with anxiety, trauma, depression or addiction, I can help you navigate these struggles, and together find a path forward. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you.

Get started View profile
This is Francisca Ammerman's avatar and link to their profile

Francisca Ammerman

Offering therapy in CA
License: LMFT,PPS,MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
12 years of experience

As a licensed marriage and family therapist for over 10 years, I have extensive experience in working with individuals struggling with relational issues as well as depression, anxiety, And trauma. It’s important to be honest with clients and straight forward. Therapy can cause some past emotions to surface but working through those past issues allows for healing.

Get started View profile
This is Ryan Lisman's avatar and link to their profile

Ryan Lisman

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

Hello, my name is Ryan Lisman and I am licensed in California with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBT-related issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence among many other categories. I currently also work as a Psychotherapist and Drama therapist at the Huntington Hospital's mental health unit in Pasadena, California. I primarily utilize a humanistic therapy approach that aims to be client-centered, allowing you to guide the therapy process with unconditional positive regard and cater to your therapeutic needs. I'm trained in a variety of modalities, so please feel free to let me know what therapy style and techniques you would like to explore with me. I am also registered as a Drama Therapist, which allows for an embodied and creative approach to Therapy. I want to commend you for taking the brave steps to pursuing therapy. As a long-term therapy client myself, my therapy process transformed my life in a profound way and I'm deeply passionate about helping to give others that same opportunity for growth.

Get started View profile
This is Sheila Cano's avatar and link to their profile

Sheila Cano

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am a Professional Clinical Counselor licensed in California. I have experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Get started View profile
This is Larry Spinks's avatar and link to their profile

Larry Spinks

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & 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.

Get started View profile
This is Nikkole Brown's avatar and link to their profile

Nikkole Brown

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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.

Get started View profile
This is Sheba Shiver's avatar and link to their profile

Sheba Shiver

Offering therapy in CA
License: PhD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
15 years of experience

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. What I enjoy most about providing mental health services is assisting people with finding their voices. That usually happens with establishing and communicating clear, healthy boundaries in relationships. I start that process with how you might relate to me--working to develop a therapeutic alliance, building trust, and working collaboratively. I learn as much from you as I might be able to teach you. I don't profess to be an expert on your life because it is your experience. I am privileged to be on your journey to wellness. No matter what may be causing disruption in your life--anxiety, depression, trauma, or the like, I will meet you where you are in your process.

Get started View profile
This is James Charbeneau's avatar and link to their profile

James Charbeneau

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

Get started View profile

How to find counseling in Taft

Finding the best therapist close by in Taft 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 Taft. 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 Taft, 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 Taft 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 Taft 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 Taft, 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 Taft area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Taft 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 Taft 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 Taft 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 Taft, 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 Taft 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 Taft 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 Taft 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 Taft 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 Taft 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 93252 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 Taft 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 Taft 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 Taft, 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.

Taft 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 Taft.

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

93252, 93268

Popular cities near Taft, CA

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist