Connect with LGBTQIA+ therapists in Bakersfield, CA

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

50+ therapists
A headshot image of Julianne Bull

Julianne Bull

LMFT

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

Julianne has a Masters of Arts (MA) from University of Southern California.

South Pasadena, CA
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Supportive

I help adolescents, young adults, women, and creative professionals navigate anxiety, life transitions, relationship changes, grief, and identity exploration. My approach is warm, collaborative, and strengths-based, incorporating DBT skills, mindfulness, and practical tools to build confidence and resilience.

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
LGBTQIA+
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
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 Lanz Banes

Lanz Banes

LCSW

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

Lanz has a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) from Tulane University and a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Children & Families, Child Welfare Scholar from University of California, Berkeley.

California
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Anxiety
Child Abuse or Neglect
Grief
Racial Identity
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

You do not need to struggle alone. Whether dealing with grief, anxiety, depression, trauma or navigating an inhospitable world, you have the power to change your reality and take control of your own story. Let's figure out how — together.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Sarkis Anthony Vartan

Sarkis Anthony Vartan

LCSW

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

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

Turlock, CA
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Anxiety
Career Counseling
Depression
Family Conflict
Relationship Issues
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Collaborative

With more than 35 years of behavioral health experience, I help adults navigate anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, and stress. My approach is warm, insightful, and collaborative, combining practical strategies with deeper self-understanding to support meaningful change.

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
LGBTQIA+
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 Judy Iwanier

Judy Iwanier

LCSW

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

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

California
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Directive
Approachable
Collaborative

There are times when we need an open-minded, non-judgmental external support person who offers strength-based, empathetic, and solution-focused interventions. I provide support to survivors of traumatic experiences, individuals who have experienced a loss or separation from a loved one, as well as those suffering from depression and anxiety.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Vershante Hill

Vershante Hill

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPCC

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

Vershante has a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology from California State University, Dominguez Hills.

California
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Collaborative

I am down to earth, attentive, and dedicated to your growth and self-empowerment.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Stacy Richardson

Stacy Richardson

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
7+ years

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

Stacy has a Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) in Psychology / Gender Studies from North Central University and a Master of Science (MS) in Marital, Couples and Family from Capella University.

California
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Anxiety
Grief
Life Transitions
Style
Responsive
Candid
Motivational

I work with adults, and older adults, creating a space where you can explore challenges and build on your strengths. My goal is to partner with you in finding solutions that honor your unique experiences and personal needs.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Angelica Limon

Angelica Limon

LMFT

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

Angelica has a Master of Science (MS) in Marriage, Family and Child Therapy from University of Phoenix, Fresno.

Clovis, CA
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Anxiety
Depression
First Responders
Sexual Abuse
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Warm
Affirming

A compassionate therapist driven by a profound passion for guiding individuals through life's most complex emotional landscapes. At the heart of her practice is a belief that true healing grows from a therapeutic relationship rooted in deep understanding, mutual respect, and absolute honesty.

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
LGBTQIA+
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 Emily Derrick

Emily Derrick

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

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

Emily has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling from University of San Francisco.

California
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Anxiety
Infertility
Style
Responsive
Warm
Curious

Seeking fertility treatments and therapy is a brave act. I provide a safe, warm space for people conceiving with assistance to process emotions, weigh treatment decisions, grieve loss, and craft a new narrative about their conception story. Your story is beautiful.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Edith Quevedo

Edith Quevedo

LMFT

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

Edith has a Master in Marriage and Family Therapy Counseling from University of Phoenix.

California
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Warm
Supportive

Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, and you don’t have to do it alone. My goal is to provide a warm, supportive, and judgment-free space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change. I have over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, working with teens, adults, and families.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Zenaida Kleiner

Zenaida Kleiner

LMFT

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

Zenaida has a Master of Science (MS) in Counseling Psychology/Marital & Family Therapy from California Lutheran University.

Simi Valley, CA
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Cultural Stress
Family Conflict
Grief
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Attuned
Curious

I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who helps folx reconnect with themselves after trauma, chronic stress, burnout, and major life transitions. Together we'll create a space where you can slow down, make sense of your experiences, and move toward lasting change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Sarah Hernandez

Sarah Hernandez

LMFT

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

Sarah has a Master of Clinical Health Services from University of Southern California.

California
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Anxiety
Cultural Stress
Depression
Racial Identity
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Affirming

Taking this step takes courage, and I’m glad you’re here! I provide a warm, supportive space in English and Spanish for individuals navigating anxiety, relationship and family challenges, trauma, and first-generation or acculturation experiences. Together, we’ll build on your strengths and work toward healing and growth.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jessica Funk

Jessica Funk

LMFT

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

Jessica has a Master of Science (MS) from California Baptist College.

California
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Anxiety
Depression
First Responders
Stress
Style
Directive
Candid
Collaborative

I believe healing begins through connection, understanding, and trust. She creates a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to grow.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Valentina Volk

Valentina Volk

LCSW

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

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

California
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Aging
Chronic Pain
Grief
Life Transitions
Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
Style
Responsive
Warm
Supportive

You may be carrying the weight of grief, illness, caregiving, or a major life transition while still trying to hold it all together. My work is grounded in the belief that even during difficult seasons, people have the capacity for resilience, growth, and connection.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Melissa Matugas

Melissa Matugas

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Melissa Matugas, 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
LGBTQIA+
Anxiety
Grief
Racial Identity
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Curious

Have you experienced loss or adjusting to change? Life comes with loss and change: the death of a loved one, the loss of health, a break-up. Dealing with any loss and adjusting to major change often negatively affects us, and our emotional well-being and coping habits are sometimes compromised as a result.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Carin Grove

Carin Grove

LMFT

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

Carin has a Masters of Arts (MA) from University of California, San Francisco.

California
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
Mood Disorders
Peer Relationships
Style
Responsive
Warm
Supportive

I’ve worked with schools for 27 years, providing therapy and consultation to parents and students on school-based issues. I am comfortable and familiar with school-based issues. Therapy is about building relationships.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Tosha Thomas

Tosha Thomas

LCSW

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

Tosha has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, San Bernardino.

California
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Warm
Affirming

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe healing happens through connection, compassion, and understanding. I partner with clients to explore patterns, build coping skills, and develop greater self-awareness in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment. My work is informed by trauma-informed care and a holistic perspective.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Adolph Delgado

Adolph Delgado

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Adolph Delgado, 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.

California
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Career Counseling
Divorce
Grief
Life Transitions
Spirituality
Style
Practical
Approachable
Collaborative

I am a Faith based clinician who understands that thoughts and emotions can spiral, leaving us feeling chaotic and stranded. I love helping clients find a focused intention, daily plan, or long term goal to help ground and orient themselves, while learning to identify and release fear and limiting beliefs that so often hold progress back.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Chitra Wiltshire

Chitra Wiltshire

LCSW

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

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

California
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Anxiety
Cultural Stress
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Self Esteem
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Collaborative

I'm a social worker and therapist with experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families through life's challenges while also working to create more equitable and affirming environments in schools and communities.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Anthony Holmquist-Burks

Anthony Holmquist-Burks

LCSW

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

Anthony has a Master of Social Work from Augsburg College.

California
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Anger Management
Career Counseling
Life Transitions
School Issues
Substance Use
Style
Exploratory
Spiritual
Empowering

Taking the first step toward healing, growth, and emotional wellness is a meaningful act of courage. I provide a supportive, compassionate, and culturally responsive space where clients can feel heard, understood, and empowered to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and clarity.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Arthur Belmont

Arthur Belmont

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
27+ years

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

Arthur has a Master of Science (MS) in Counseling, Marriage, Child & Family Therapy from California State University, Long Beach.

California
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Style
Practical
Approachable
Empowering

I practice Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy with individuals, couples, youth, and families, helping clients navigate emotional and behavioral challenges with evidence-based approaches.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Eric Finch

Eric Finch

LCSW

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

Eric has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Bakersfield.

California
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Life Transitions
Stress
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

Many people come to therapy feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to begin. I offer a warm, supportive space where you can show up as you are. Together, we'll explore challenges, build on your strengths, and create meaningful, lasting change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Michelle Margules

Michelle Margules

LCP

Licensed Clinical Psychologists (LCPs), like Michelle Margules, hold a doctoral degree and are trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Michelle has a Doctor of Psychology (PSYD) from Pepperdine University.

California
Specialties
LGBTQIA+
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Affirming

Are you struggling with life transitions, family conflicts, trauma, grief, or anxiety? If so, I am glad you are seeking support. I'm here to help you work through these challenges and feel that you have a safe and comforting space to do so. I have been practicing for over 20 years and look forward to meeting you.

Available virtually