Connect with First Responders therapists in Bakersfield, CA

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

50+ therapists
A headshot image of William Larkin

William Larkin

LCSW
7+ years

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

William has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Fullerton.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Divorce
Life Transitions
Panic Attacks
Relationship Issues
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Supportive

I am a licensed psychotherapist that believes therapy should feel like a genuine conversation, not an interview. My goal is to create a space where you can be honest, understood, and challenged in ways that help you move forward. Together, we'll help you build a life that feels more meaningful and manageable.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Margot Brown

Margot Brown

LMFT
31+ years

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

Margot has a Doctor of Psychology, Counseling Psychology from University of San Francisco and a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from College of Notre Dame.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anger Management
Relapse Prevention
Spirituality
Substance Use
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Practical
Attuned
Collaborative

The most effective steps towards positive change are being honest with yourself first! Then, if you can share that honesty with me, I can meet you where you are, and we will begin the journey together.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Lynn Wells

Lynn Wells

LCSW

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

Lynn has a Master of Social Work from California State University, Northridge.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Women's Issues
Style
Outcome-oriented
Warm
Supportive

Life can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. I provide a warm, supportive space where we'll explore the thoughts and experiences shaping your life, build practical coping skills, and work toward meaningful, lasting change. You don't have to have everything figured out before reaching out. I can help you take that first step.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Bruce Malcolm

Bruce Malcolm

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
1+ years

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

Bruce has a Master's in Counseling (MC) in Marriage and Family Therapy from California Baptist College.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
Life Transitions
Spirituality
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Empowering

Sometimes, hidden in a problem is a solution we wouldn’t consider without help. It’s my job to help you to find answers in a safe, authentic space where your voice matters. The solutions we find validate your strengths while you use those strengths to empower you to be the person you have always imagined you could be.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jennifer Ferguson

Jennifer Ferguson

LPCC
1+ years

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

Jennifer has a Master of Science in Counseling from Capella University.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Codependency
Coping Skills
Relationship Issues
Stress
Style
Practical
Approachable
Collaborative

Seeking help for mental health issues can feel intimidating and humbling, but it doesn’t have to be. Recognizing when to ask for help is a sign of strength. We all need someone who will listen, empathize, guide when needed, and even challenge us at times. This is what you’ll experience with me.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Adrienne Oberstein

Adrienne Oberstein

LMFT
31+ years

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

Adrienne has a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Counseling from San Francisco State University.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Life Transitions
Mood Disorders
Parenting
Relationship Issues
Women's Issues
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Empowering

Whether you are currently in crisis or seeking longer-term growth, therapy is a path to real self-care and better coping skills. With genuine curiosity and empathy, I help clients understand and navigate their "stuck" places, lower stress and anxiety and increase a sense of agency and well-being.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Shelly Simpson

Shelly Simpson

LCSW
12+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Shelly Simpson, 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
First Responders
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Self Esteem
Stress
Style
Practical
Approachable
Supportive

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with master’s degrees in Social Work and Clinical Counseling and over 20 years of experience. I primarily work with adults and also welcome teens, providing a warm, down-to-earth space where you can feel heard, supported, and comfortable being yourself.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Veronica Reyes

Veronica Reyes

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
7+ years

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

Veronica has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Dominguez Hills.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anger Management
Coping Skills
Peer Relationships
Self Esteem
Stress
Style
Responsive
Candid
Motivational

Life’s challenges, trauma, and ongoing stress can leave you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected. I work with adolescents, adults, and families using a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach to help foster healing, build resilience, and create meaningful, lasting change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Luz Venegas

Luz Venegas

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
15+ years

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

Luz has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from San Jose State University.

California
Specialties
First Responders
ADHD
Anxiety
Grief
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Gentle
Curious

Taking the first step towards healing is often difficult, but trust that you are making the right decision to a better tomorrow. My goal is that you are able to feel better about your decisions, and to trust yourself in the process. I welcome the opportunity to help you achieve positive changes.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jean-Pierre De Oliveira

Jean-Pierre De Oliveira

LPCC
9+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Jean-Pierre De Oliveira, are mental health professionals 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
First Responders
ADHD
LGBTQIA+
Men's Issues
Sex Therapy
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Candid
Supportive

My name is J.P. De Oliveira Estêvão, and I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (L.P.C.C.). I provide a supportive, collaborative space where clients can explore challenges, build insight, and work toward meaningful change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Karin West

Karin West

LMFT
7+ years

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

Karin has a Master of Health Science (MHS) from California State University, Sacramento.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Panic Attacks
Stress
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California. I’m a warm and down-to-earth therapist who provides a safe space to explore your concerns in a respectful non-judgmental atmosphere, providing a place in which you can feel comfortable to be you.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Yurika Awano

Yurika Awano

LMFT
3+ years

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

Yurika has a Master of Science (MS) Clinical Psychology from San Francisco State University.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Cultural Stress
Depression
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Stress
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Affirming

I’m an attuned, affirming therapist who works with adults seeking clarity, steadiness, and deeper understanding of themselves. I offer a grounded space to slow down, reflect, and explore the patterns, relationships, and identities shaping your experience.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Nydia Valverde

Nydia Valverde

LCSW
17+ years

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

Nydia has a Master of Clinical Social Work from Fordham University.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Mood Disorders
Panic Attacks
Sexual Abuse
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Warm
Affirming

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than twenty years of experience supporting individuals, families, and children of all cultures and backgrounds. I’ve worked in settings where people often seek help during their most vulnerable moments. I approach therapy with compassion, curiosity, and deep respect for each person’s unique story.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Victoria Buskirk

Victoria Buskirk

LMFT
4+ years

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

Victoria has a Master in Counseling (MC) from Touro University Worldwide.

California
Specialties
First Responders
ADHD
Relapse Prevention
Sexual Abuse
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Empowering

I enjoy working with short term or long term clients that feel stuck and would like to try modalities like EMDR and hypnotherapy to work through old patterns.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Elizabeth Ogah

Elizabeth Ogah

LCSW
7+ years

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

Elizabeth has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Loyola University Chicago, Stritch School of Medicine.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Addiction
Career Counseling
Mood Disorders
Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

I prefer to go by Liz. I am an adult adoptee who has worked in the foster care/adoption field for over 7 years, as well as working with addiction/recovery, trauma-informed care, and homelessness services in various capacities for nearly the same amount of time. I am a married mom of 2 with a heart full of compassion, kindness, and lived experience.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Leslie Dorticos

Leslie Dorticos

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT
1+ years

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
First Responders
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 Nina Spaccarelli

Nina Spaccarelli

LMFT
8+ years

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

Nina has a Master of Science (MS) from Antioch University.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Addiction
Style
Directive
Attuned
Collaborative

I’m a licensed therapist with 25 years of experience and training, licensed since 2018. I work with individuals navigating trauma, generational and family patterns, immigrant and political stress, postpartum concerns, high achievement, student-athletes, addiction in the family, suicide loss, and grief.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Holly Ritchey

Holly Ritchey

LCSW
3+ years

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

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

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Relationship Issues
Stress
Style
Outcome-oriented
Approachable
Collaborative

I work with adults moving through hard transitions — helping you set down what you've been carrying, make sense of it, and find your footing again.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Joseph Garcia

Joseph Garcia

LMFT
3+ years

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

Joseph has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapist from Touro University Worldwide.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Addiction
Autism or Asperger's Syndrome
Career Counseling
Parenting
jobStress
Style
Outcome-oriented
Approachable
Collaborative

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to providing a supportive, respectful, and nonjudgmental space where clients can feel heard and understood. My approach is collaborative and practical, helping individuals navigate life challenges, strengthen coping skills, and improve relationships.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Amber Hayslett-Atkison

Amber Hayslett-Atkison

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
14+ years

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

Amber has a Master of Science in Counseling from California State University, Hayward.

Denair, CA
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Behavioral Issues
Coping Skills
Grief
Self-Harming
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Supportive

Welcome! If you are navigating heavy life changes, family stress, or complex behavioral hurdles, we will work side-by-side in a safe space to figure it out together. I focus on bringing clarity and practical strategy to your challenges so you feel grounded and confident. Let’s connect and handle this next step together.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Stacey Robbins-Podvin

Stacey Robbins-Podvin

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

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

Stacey has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Stanislaus.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Addiction
Autism or Asperger's Syndrome
Depression
Mood Disorders
Women's Issues
Style
Insightful
Candid
Empowering

Counseling is a great step to assist in identifying goals and beginning forward progress. Life brings challenges and obstacles, and sometimes we are so close to a problem that we can't see the full picture. I am here to help.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Patricia Rutledge

Patricia Rutledge

LPCC
3+ years

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

Patricia has a Master of Arts (MA) in Co from Occurring Disorders - Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Outcome-oriented
Warm
Supportive

Painful experiences can leave you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from the life you want. I specialize in helping adults heal from childhood and adult physical, sexual, and emotional trauma; military trauma; addiction and recovery; grief; anxiety; depression; and life’s “little t” traumas. If ready for change, I invite you to reach out.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Margie Cueva

Margie Cueva

LCSW
10+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Margie Cueva, 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
First Responders
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Affirming

I work with adults, parents, and couples, navigating life transitions, relationships, and the impact of difficult experiences. My approach is warm, relational, and trauma informed, incorporating evidence-based and neuroscience-informed practices to help people feel more grounded, connected, and empowered to make meaningful change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Gianna Colavin-Bridges

Gianna Colavin-Bridges

LCSW
12+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Gianna Colavin-Bridges, 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.

Napa, CA
Specialties
First Responders
Addiction
Anger Management
Bipolar Disorder
Learning Disabilities
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Motivational

Feeling overwhelmed, or just need someone unbiased to talk to? Therapy can be a place to slow down, make sense of what you’re experiencing, and feel less alone. I’ll meet you where you are and help you find a path forward.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Annabel Vargas

Annabel Vargas

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

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

Annabel has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Fullerton.

California
Specialties
First Responders
Anxiety
Career Counseling
Coping Skills
Family Conflict
Impulse Control Disorders
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Motivational

Whether you’re dealing with non-stop stress, feeling stuck in an anxious loop, navigating a messy life transition, or trying to untangle family drama, it is completely normal to need some support. I’m here to offer a down-to-earth, judgment-free space where we can sort through it all together and get you back to feeling like yourself.

Available virtually