Find a Therapist in Bakersfield, CA

Alexander Lopez is a compassionate Marriage & Family Therapist Intern (MFTI) who brings a wealth of experience in guiding individuals through challenging emotional landscapes. With a background in treating mood disorders, irrational core beliefs, and behavioral difficulties, he is dedicated to fostering healing and growth in his clients. His therapeutic approach encompasses working with couples to facilitate relational repair, enhance attachment, and navigate conflict resolution. Specializing in family systems therapy, Alexander focuses on strengthening attachment bonds, helping families to re-orient established norms, and resolving conflicts effectively. His extensive work in the community clinic has allowed him to support preteens, teens, and young adults grappling with issues such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, and grief. Known for his empathetic understanding of the LGBTQ+ community, Alexander integrates his clinical and personal experiences into his practice, ensuring that clients feel affirmed and supported in their journey toward identity integration.

Derrick Rufus is a compassionate therapist who believes that therapy is a transformative journey that empowers individuals to develop resilience and enhance their overall wellness. He collaborates with clients to set meaningful goals, gain insights, and acquire techniques that help them navigate life's challenges. With extensive experience in family, couples, and individual therapy, Derrick utilizes evidence-based interventions that prioritize cultural sensitivity and empathy, all within a safe and supportive environment. His expertise spans various therapy styles, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Trauma Focused approaches, addressing common issues such as depression, anxiety, and the need for effective coping skills. Derrick's person-centered and strength-based methodologies reflect his commitment to helping clients become the most authentic versions of themselves.

Thomas Crocker is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 20 years of experience. He recognizes the profound impact that the stories we tell ourselves and each other have on our lives. These narratives shape our mindsets, often trapping us or empowering us to move forward. Through his work with individuals, couples, and families, Thomas helps clients view their life stories as narratives rather than absolute truths, fostering personal growth and transformation.

Felix Cruz, a seasoned Marriage & Family Therapist (MS, LMFT), brings over 20 years of experience specializing in helping Mexican and Latino families navigate emotional challenges. His profound understanding of the Mexican/Latino culture and its core values of honesty, respect, and prosperity allows him to effectively connect with individuals from Bakersfield and across Kern County. With a background in various therapeutic modalities including Coaching, Play Therapy, and Trauma-Focused therapy, Felix is dedicated to empowering individuals, couples, and families during difficult times. He is particularly skilled in addressing emotional issues such as depression, anxiety, and domestic violence, providing compassionate support tailored to each client's unique needs. Felix also conducts psychosocial evaluations for immigration pardon letters, further extending his commitment to serving the community. His journey to earn a Master’s in Psychology in his second language reflects his unwavering dedication to his craft, allowing him to dedicate time to each client with genuine care and empathy.

Megan Faubus, a dedicated and compassionate Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, specializes in supporting adults and elders in overcoming their most pressing challenges. With a focus on Dual Diagnosis, Trauma, and PTSD, she employs a blend of therapeutic approaches, including Trauma-Focused therapy, Eclectic methods, and EMDR, ensuring personalized care suited to each client’s unique journey. Megan is particularly skilled in addressing a wide range of issues, from Bipolar Disorder and Substance Use to Life Transitions and Relationship Issues. Her warm, humanistic approach fosters a safe environment for individuals and couples, empowering them to navigate stress, grief, and mood disorders with confidence. In addition to her expertise in coping strategies, Megan is an advocate for diversity, extending her services sensitively to LGBTQ+ individuals and various life experiences. With a commitment to genuine connection, she helps clients develop robust coping skills and enhanced self-esteem, paving the way for healing and personal growth.

Janelle Goh is a compassionate and dedicated Clinical Social Worker and Therapist, holding an LCSW. With a focus on teens and adults, she excels in guiding individuals through various life transitions, providing expert support for those navigating the challenges of pregnancy, postpartum adjustment, and coping strategies. Janelle is well-versed in addressing a wide array of issues, including trauma and PTSD, grief, infertility, and relationship dynamics. Her diverse therapeutic modalities encompass popular approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and Play Therapy, tailoring her methods to best meet the unique needs of her clients. Janelle's strengths in family and marital counseling, as well as her ability to incorporate art as a healing tool, bring a fresh and innovative perspective to the therapeutic journey. Her commitment to fostering resilience and well-being makes her an invaluable resource for those seeking support during difficult times.

Tina Green is a dedicated Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist at Foresight Bakersfield. With a Master's Degree in Counseling, emphasizing Marriage & Family Therapy from California State University, Bakersfield, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her practice. Tina has worked extensively with community-based organizations, supporting individuals of all ages, from foster children and parenting adolescents to young adults and senior citizens. Her commitment lies particularly in helping those who have endured traumatic experiences, guiding them in regaining their lives and restoring their sense of self. Tina's holistic approach to therapeutic support fosters resilience and growth in her clients.

Ken Harlander, a dedicated Marriage & Family Therapist with over twenty years of experience, understands the immense courage it takes for individuals to seek help. Throughout his career, he has been honored to support clients navigating challenging situations, from childhood trauma to marital struggles. Ken has witnessed firsthand the resilience of those who come to share their stories of hurt and pain, which he finds both difficult yet filled with hope. He firmly believes that no one needs to remain trapped in emotional, psychological, spiritual, or relational distress. Ken works with clients of all ages—children, teens, adults, and elders—addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, addiction, and parenting challenges. His passion lies particularly in couples therapy and working with teens and families. He strives to create a safe and nurturing environment where individuals and groups can openly explore their concerns. Through his Culturally Sensitive, Mindfulness-Based, and Person-Centered approaches, Ken is committed to guiding clients toward healthier versions of themselves and fostering more fulfilling relationships. Change is not only possible but within reach with the right support and guidance.

Carol Hendrix, PhD, is a compassionate psychologist dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of their emotional lives. She believes that rather than spending energy on changing others or placing blame for personal struggles, individuals can cultivate the courage to love and transform themselves, which in turn fosters deeper connections with those around them. With her extensive knowledge of the internal messages shaped by early relationships, Carol helps clients reshape their relationship skills learned from parents and others. Her specialties encompass grief and relationship issues, recognizing that grief is a profound emotional response to significant loss, whether it be the death of a loved one, health decline, marital separation, or job loss. With over twenty years of experience in writing evaluations, resolving relationship challenges, and working through the ramifications of loss, Carol understands how mental illness and addiction can affect family dynamics. She also recognizes that harsh realities, such as economic uncertainty and trauma, can leave lasting impacts, making vulnerability a shared human experience that she is committed to addressing through her work.

Robyn Jane Thompson is a dedicated marriage and family therapist associate, committed to guiding individuals through the complexities of life's challenges. Many people navigate loneliness, depression, and stress throughout their journeys, especially during transitions in relationships, work, and personal growth. Sometimes, the support systems in place are not sufficient, and having an outsider—wholly devoted to one's personal goals and growth—can make all the difference. Robyn embodies openness and genuineness, ready to join her clients on their unique paths. With a blend of curiosity, humor, and compassion, she creates a safe space for individuals to explore and embrace their true selves. Robyn has experience working with various demographics, including children, teens, adults, couples, and families, allowing her to bring a rich array of perspectives into her sessions. By integrating mindfulness and person-centered approaches, she inspires insight and personal development. Having moved across the globe to pursue her passion for helping others, Robyn understands that growth often accompanies significant challenges. Those seeking encouragement and direction on their journey will find a supportive ally in Robyn.

Michelle Juhasz is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who holds licensure in California and New Jersey. With a client-centered and strengths-based approach to therapy, Michelle focuses on helping clients enhance their mindset and thought processes, fostering a constructive sense of self and improving overall well-being. She specializes in working with adults aged 18 and up from diverse cultural identities, backgrounds, and orientations, addressing concerns including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, trauma, stress, and significant life transitions. Through her eclectic approach, she selects interventions tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual client. Her practice incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic techniques, mindfulness-based strategies, and holistic tools. Michelle collaborates closely with her clients to establish realistic and achievable goals, emphasizing that the therapeutic journey is a partnership aimed at identifying areas for growth, understanding, and healing.

Coleen Keiser, an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor and Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, has a deep-seated passion for understanding the intricacies of the human experience. She believes that every individual's story is significant and deserving of attention. Through a collaborative partnership, Coleen utilizes science-based theories and interventions to navigate the complex emotions and behaviors that can feel overwhelming. Her approach is rooted in curiosity and an openness to self-discovery, promoting healing and personal growth that extend into all areas of life. With over seven years of experience working with adults, teens, and couples in both private and outpatient settings, Coleen has honed her skills to provide a safe and compassionate space for her clients. She ensures that they feel supported and understood, standing alongside them as they strive to reach their full potential. With a gentle mix of compassion, honest reflection, and a touch of humor, Coleen cultivates a therapeutic relationship that fosters trust and emotional well-being.

Javon Kemp is a Licensed Professional Counselor who is deeply committed to guiding his clients through their recovery journeys. He understands that life's challenges can lead individuals to survival mode, often causing them to lose sight of the values that matter most. With a compassionate approach, Javon honors the opportunity to assist clients in retrieving the pieces of their lives that may have been lost or neglected. His passion lies in supporting individuals grappling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, anger, and communication challenges. With a decade of experience employing various therapeutic techniques including Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Javon is well-equipped to provide effective treatment. He has also honed his skills in crisis communication and supporting individuals experiencing feelings of helplessness while collaborating with multidisciplinary treatment teams. His aim is to cultivate a nonjudgmental and empathetic environment, fostering the development of coping strategies that lead to lasting positive outcomes. Javon is eager to support each client on their journey toward recovery.