Connect with Gottman Method therapy in Bakersfield, CA

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

50+ providers
A headshot image of Melissa Zartar

Melissa Zartar

LMFT
8+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Melissa Zartar, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Melissa has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Antioch University.

Encino, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
Relationship Issues
Stress
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Supportive

I bring compassion and empathy into my practice, fostering a safe, nonjudgmental space for you. My dedication to understanding your unique experiences allows me to offer personalized support. With a holistic approach, I combine therapeutic modalities to empower your journey toward mental and emotional well-being.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Lynley Giagnocavo

Lynley Giagnocavo

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Lynley Giagnocavo, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Lynley has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology from Azusa Pacific University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Life Transitions
Stress
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Supportive

When you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply unsure of the next step, finding a way forward can feel impossible. Together, we will navigate the obstacles holding you back and uncover practical, meaningful paths to lasting, positive change. Let’s figure it out—together.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Leslie Dorticos

Leslie Dorticos

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Leslie Dorticos, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Leslie has a Master of Clinical Health Services from Turo University Worldwide.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQIA+
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Warm
Collaborative

When circumstances or life, in general, can feel overwhelming, either from past history or current situations, getting through the day can be a struggle. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where your story matters.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Lourdes Soliven

Lourdes Soliven

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Lourdes Soliven, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Lourdes has a Master of Arts (MA) from Hope International University.

California
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Motivational

I am a bilingual (English-Tagalog) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges with greater clarity, healing, and resilience. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, and life.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jacqueline Limon-Altindis

Jacqueline Limon-Altindis

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Jacqueline Limon-Altindis, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Jacqueline has a Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Psychology/ Marriage and Family Therapy from University of La Verne.

Chino Hills, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Spirituality
Stress
Style
Exploratory
Spiritual
Empowering

I love supporting people in their reconnecting with their true selves by uncovering what is beneath the layers of fear, trauma, and outside expectations. With a strong foundation in Psychology, I also guide my patients through spiritual practices like meditation and mindfulness, along with practical tools like breathing and relaxation techniques.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Alec Bustos

Alec Bustos

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Alec Bustos, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Alec has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of Nevada.

California
Specialties
Sex Therapy
Substance Use
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Warm
Affirming

I support children, teens, adults, and families healing from trauma, neurodivergence, identity exploration, and life transitions. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in genuine connection.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Nachiket Dharmadhikari

Nachiket Dharmadhikari

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Nachiket Dharmadhikari, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Nachiket has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Loma Linda University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Relationship Issues
Stress
Style
Outcome-oriented
Approachable
Collaborative

If you’re exhausted from carrying the weight of figuring everything out alone, I’m glad you found me. I offer an active, down-to-earth partnership designed to stop the endless cycling and get you moving forward. Together, we’ll look past the surface to break stuck patterns and build a practical, real-world toolkit. Looking forward to meeting you.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Chirag Bharati

Chirag Bharati

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Chirag Bharati, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Chirag has a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University.

Cerritos, CA
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQIA+
Men's Issues
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Collaborative

“Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness." I believe that client care should absolutely be individualized (in collaboration with the individual), contain healthy coping skills, and include tools towards building a social support network that can help him/her/them progress towards a much happier future.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ramona Esquer

Ramona Esquer

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Ramona Esquer, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Ramona has a Master of Science (MS) in Marriage and Family Therapy from University Of Phoenix.

California
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
Grief
Style
Insightful
Gentle
Supportive

My goal is to offer a supportive, nonjudgemental empathetic environment where you can express yourself, reflect, and gain insight into taking steps toward your person growth.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Linda Sharples

Linda Sharples

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
2+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Linda Sharples, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Linda has a Master of Science (MS) in Psychological Counseling from California Baptist College.

Temecula, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Style
Exploratory
Spiritual
Collaborative

I work with individuals, couples, and families addressing anxiety, depression, family dysfunction, and the stress of life transitions. My goal is to help you understand your challenges and build the skills needed to reduce symptoms and increase healthy functioning.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Pallavi Rightious

Pallavi Rightious

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Pallavi Rightious, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Pallavi has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Racial Identity
Relationship Issues
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Warm
Supportive

Are you ready to experience therapy in a way that allows you to feel like you're connecting with a nonjudgmental friend rather than being analyzed by a professional? Although I cannot be a friend in the traditional sense, I do make the process of therapy feel comfortable and natural, not tense or awkward.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jennifer Brown

Jennifer Brown

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Jennifer Brown, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Jennifer has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of California, Los Angeles and a Masters of Education (MED) from Azusa Pacific University.

California
Specialties
Cultural Stress
Relationship Issues
Spirituality
Stress
Women's Issues
Style
Responsive
Candid
Supportive

Welcome. Take a breath, you are here. And I am here to support you. I specialize in helping those who feel burned out from holding everything together, in their relationships, families, and everyday lives. Many of my clients are used to being the strong one, but underneath feel overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, and disconnected from themselves.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Lisa Encinas

Lisa Encinas

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Lisa Encinas, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Lisa has a Master in Counseling (MC) from California Baptist University.

Banning, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Style
Outcome-oriented
Warm
Supportive

I have worked with different ages, cultural backgrounds, ethnic backgrounds, and socioeconomic levels. I consider myself versatile, resilient, and well-rounded, relating to others as well as being open to learning constantly about my clients because I care about their well-being.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Tiya Johnson

Tiya Johnson

LPCC
1+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Tiya Johnson, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Tiya has a Master of Clinical Health Services in Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University.

Riverside, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Supportive

I provide a compassionate and collaborative space for you to explore life's challenges. Together, we'll work through difficult emotions, relationships, and transitions with understanding and support.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Gabriela Calvert

Gabriela Calvert

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Gabriela Calvert, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Gabriela has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Community Mental Health from California State University, Fullerton.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Supportive

You can call me Gaby. Whether you have a history of trauma or not, I believe whatever you are struggling with has to do with your childhood. I want to help you unravel it in a safe, effective, and compassionate way!

Available virtually

A headshot image of Julia Stevenson

Julia Stevenson

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Julia Stevenson, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Julia has a Master in Counseling (MC) from Wright Institute.

California
Specialties
Divorce
Eating Disorders
Style
Insightful
Warm
Curious

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in California and Oregon, with nearly a decade of experience working with couples, adults, teens, and individuals navigating a wide range of emotional, relational, and life challenges. My approach to therapy is deeply relational, collaborative, and client-centered.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Genoveva Avalos-Mireles

Genoveva Avalos-Mireles

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
23+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Genoveva Avalos-Mireles, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

All Rula providers are licensed and hold a master’s or doctorate degree required for practice.

California
Specialties
Coping Skills
Cultural Stress
Life Transitions
Peer Relationships
Self Esteem
Style
Responsive
Warm
Collaborative

I work with adults, couples, adolescents, families, and blended families navigating shame, guilt, addiction, depression, anxiety, relationships, work-life balance, stress, acculturation, loss, grief, gender identity, trauma, loneliness, attachment, communication issues, PTSD, and abuse.

She relates to me on a more personal level and not so therapist vs patient. She listens and understands. She takes diligent notes to follow up with my status each session and she tailors behavioral modification or treatments based on me and my needs. Additionally, she has a sense of humor and I feel very safe talking to her.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Stephanie Spaniak

Stephanie Spaniak

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Stephanie Spaniak, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Stephanie has a Master in Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy from National University.

Sacramento, CA
Specialties
Depression
First Responders
Mood Disorders
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Warm
Motivational

I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 12 years of experience supporting individuals and families in diverse community settings.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Stacey Cranfill

Stacey Cranfill

LMFT
4+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Stacey Cranfill, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

All Rula providers are licensed and hold a master’s or doctorate degree required for practice.

Lakeport, CA
Specialties
Substance Use
Style
Responsive
Warm
Collaborative

I provide services to individuals and families of all ages struggling with challenges such as adjusting to life's stressors or changes, depression, anxiety, grief, behavioral issues, low self-esteem, poor decision-making skills, and poor communication skills.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Janice Gaines

Janice Gaines

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Janice Gaines, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Janice has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of Southern California.

La Canada Flintridge, CA
Specialties
Life Transitions
Mood Disorders
Relationship Issues
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Practical
Attuned
Affirming

I am pleased to meet you on your journey of self care and growth! If you have ever felt stuck or overwhelmed, you are not alone. I work with adults navigating life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma etc. I will create a safe, supportive space as we do the work to obtain the type of life you want and reach your goals.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Megan Collins

Megan Collins

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Megan Collins, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Megan has a Masters of Arts (MA) Marital and Family Therapy/ Art Therapy from Loyola Marymount University.

California
Specialties
Aging
Chronic Illness
Chronic Pain
Older Adult
Women's Issues
Style
Responsive
Attuned
Collaborative

I’m a warm, collaborative therapist who helps people feel grounded, understood, and empowered. My goal is to help you move from overwhelm to clarity with care that feels real.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Karla Cortez

Karla Cortez

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
5+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Karla Cortez, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Karla has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) from Brandman University.

Hesperia, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
Stress
Style
Exploratory
Gentle
Motivational

I use different approaches to help clients learn how to navigate their relationships and their emotional experiences. I have worked with individuals of all ages, couples, families, and groups.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Shanelle Johnson

Shanelle Johnson

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Shanelle Johnson, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Shanelle has a Master's in Counseling (MC) and Psychology from National University.

California
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Life Transitions
Mood Disorders
Self Esteem
Women's Issues
Style
Directive
Warm
Motivational

I show up 100% authentic to who I am with the hopes that that give you permission to show up 100% authentic to who I am. I like to call myself "the Harriet Tubman of Mental Health." My goal is to help you get from point A to point B in your life.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Donald Mauro

Donald Mauro

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
20+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Donald Mauro, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Donald has a Masters of Arts (MA) from Antioch University.

Los Angeles, CA
Specialties
Aging
Anxiety
Depression
Style
Insightful
Candid
Collaborative

I've lived through single parenthood, divorce, grief, anxiety, depression, and retirement. I've learned to argue without losing it and found happiness in a long marriage. These experiences, combined with ongoing learning, have sharpened my skills and deepened my understanding of what clients face.

Don has a lot of life experience, practical advice and uses techniques I've never tried with other therapists to help me improve.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Dominique Walker

Dominique Walker

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Dominique Walker, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Dominique has a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from California School of Professional Psychology, San Diego.

California
Specialties
Cultural Stress
Grief
Relationship Issues
Self Esteem
Spirituality
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Empowering

My approach is direct, warm, and attuned, with the ultimate goal of empowering your healing and growth. I practice with the BES approach, focusing on balance, expression, and self-love.

Available virtually

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