Connect with Black or African American therapists in Bakersfield, CA

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

50+ therapists
A headshot image of Chandler Norton

Chandler Norton

LMFT
5+ years

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

Chandler has a Master's in Counseling (MC) in Marriage and Family Therapy from National University.

Los Angeles, CA
Specialties
Depression
Men's Issues
Relationship Issues
Self Esteem
Stress
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

As a former collegiate student-athlete, I have experience helping clients with depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, and sports performance challenges. I work to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared comfortably.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Lamar Whaley

Lamar Whaley

LMFT
3+ years

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

Lamar has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage & Family Therapy from Pacific Oaks College.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
School Issues
Spirituality
Style
Exploratory
Spiritual
Curious

My goal is to help you address the stressors—personal, familial, spiritual, academic—that weigh on you. I'll introduce interventions that empower you to manage emotions and reduce behaviors that interfere with daily life. I specialize in working with clients who struggle with depression and anxiety.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Kristyn Smith

Kristyn Smith

LCSW

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

Kristyn has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Rutgers University College, New Brunswick.

Lomita, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Mood Disorders
Stress
Style
Directive
Approachable
Empowering

I'm a therapist with a background in medical assisting, education, and social work. I help clients facing complex or treatment-resistant mental health challenges through a compassionate, research-informed, and collaborative approach tailored to your unique needs.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Prynzessin Carney

Prynzessin Carney

LMFT
7+ years

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

Prynzessin has a Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University.

Long Beach, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Cultural Stress
Depression
Self Esteem
Style
Outcome-oriented
Warm
Supportive

I work with adults from diverse backgrounds who struggle with poor self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindful Self Compassion Therapy to help clients identify and meet their treatment goals.

I felt at ease the moment I met Prynzessin. Her demeanor was pleasant and kind. She listens and asks questions. Most importantly, she LISTENS, then asks questions and offers suggestions, etc. I feel comfortable with Prynzessin and can discuss all my concerns with her without prejudice. I highly recommend her.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Rasheeda Alana Rahab

Rasheeda Alana Rahab

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT
10+ years

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

Rasheeda Alana has a Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology Concentration in Community Mental Health from California Institute of Integral Studies.

San Rafael, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Life Transitions
Style
Responsive
Warm
Affirming

I work with individuals, couples, and families seeking mental health support across a continuum of care. My focus is on delivering appropriate and relevant services that meet you where you are.

Available virtually

A headshot image of LaNiesa Norris

LaNiesa Norris

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LPCC
16+ years

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

LaNiesa has a Master of Arts (MA) in Mental Health Counseling and Rehabilitation from University of South Florida.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Stress
Style
Outcome-oriented
Attuned
Collaborative

I work with adolescents and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, parent/child conflict, and conduct problems. My approach is collaborative, helping you identify areas to improve and set concrete action steps using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focus techniques.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Guy Washington

Guy Washington

Patients consistently give high satisfaction ratings

LCP
16+ years

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

Guy has a Doctor of Psychology (PSYD) from California School of Professional Psychology and a Master of Arts (MA) from Chapman University.

Sacramento, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Substance Use
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Attuned
Collaborative

I prefer an integrative approach to treatment, as there is no one model or technique that fits everyone. Therefore, it is imperative to connect and collaborate with clients to better understand their needs.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Porscha Castillo

Porscha Castillo

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
4+ years

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

Porscha has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Walden University.

Oakland, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Outcome-oriented
Gentle
Motivational

I look to help with anything you're struggling with. I work with a plethora of clients with challenges and barriers from Depression, Relationships, Life Coaching, Home Stress, Work Stress, Trauma, Maternal Health, and Child Mental Health.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Tiffanie Turner

Tiffanie Turner

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
7+ years

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

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

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Life Transitions
Stress
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Curious

I primarily work with adult individuals and specialize in anxiety, depression, emotional abuse, and stress.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Reginald Hammond

Reginald Hammond

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW

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

Reginald has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Long Beach.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Stress
Substance Use
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Practical
Candid
Empowering

I provide therapy grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and strength-based practices. My focus is on helping clients build on their existing strengths, develop effective coping skills, and create lasting positive change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Nicholas Davis

Nicholas Davis

Patients consistently give high satisfaction ratings

LPCC
3+ years

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

Nicholas has a Master's in Counseling (MC) from University of San Diego.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
Style
Responsive
Gentle
Collaborative

I work with adolescents and adults who are navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, impulsivity, interpersonal difficulties, concentration issues, suicidal ideation, and low self-esteem. My goal is to help you feel heard and supported as we work together toward meaningful change.

Nick is the best! He is attentive and he listens. Ive learned a lot from him and I love to learn.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Olabisi Sule-Odu

Olabisi Sule-Odu

LCSW

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

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

Lancaster, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Relationship Issues
Stress
Women's Issues
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Motivational

Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 5 years’ experience providing therapy for adults facing anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions. Trauma-informed and collaborative, I help clients build resilience, heal emotionally, and reconnect with purpose, using empathy, cultural sensitivity, and lived experience to support meaningful growth.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Marsha Buckson

Marsha Buckson

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

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

Marsha has a Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) from Savannah State University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Peer Relationships
Stress
Style
Insightful
Candid
Collaborative

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths!

Available virtually

A headshot image of RHONDA HOLMES

RHONDA HOLMES

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW

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

RHONDA has a Master of Social Work from California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt.

California
Specialties
Depression
Domestic Violence
Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
Substance Use
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Empowering

Sometimes life just feels like a lot, and having someone to talk things through with can make all the difference. I work with people navigating anxiety, self‑doubt, big transitions, trauma, or the pressure to keep everything together. Let's slow things down, make space for what you’re feeling, and build coping skills that actually fit you.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Brietta Looney

Brietta Looney

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
2+ years

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

Brietta has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Azusa Pacific University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Peer Relationships
Style
Exploratory
Candid
Collaborative

I work with young adults who struggle with anxiety, stress, and depression. Using Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, and Person Centered approaches, I help you make progress and accomplish the goals you desire.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Celeste Vaughan-Briggs

Celeste Vaughan-Briggs

LCSW

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

Celeste has a Master of Social Work from University of Pennsylvania.

California
Specialties
Chronic Illness
Coping Skills
Cultural Stress
Grief
Women's Issues
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Curious

Looking to start your exploration of the season you find yourself in? Life’s circumstances can be challenging. I invite you to partner with me to navigate depression, anxiety, grief, and life transitions with sensitivity and compassion.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Tabitha Winesberry

Tabitha Winesberry

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
9+ years

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

Tabitha has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology: Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University.

Pasadena, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Style
Directive
Attuned
Collaborative

You may want to work on relationship issues, boost self-esteem, find freedom from being stuck, or may want someone to join the process of understanding yourself better. Whatever might bring you into therapy, the approaches I use are strength-based (focusing on your strengths) and are proven to be effective for both short and long-term therapy.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Angela Gilmer

Angela Gilmer

LCSW

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

Angela has a Master of Social Work, Mental Health from California State University, Long Beach.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Collaborative

Life can feel heavy when you're overthinking, feeling emotionally drained, struggling to sleep, or just not feeling like yourself. Therapy can be a place to slow down and start making sense of what you've been carrying. I specialize in helping adults to feel more grounded, emotionally balanced, and reconnected to the life they want for themselves.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Michelle Magee-Lopez

Michelle Magee-Lopez

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
7+ years

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

Michelle has a Master of Science (MS) from California State University Dominguez Hills.

Cerritos, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Family Conflict
Relationship Issues
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Motivational

I am an LMFT with a background in Theatre Arts. I believe psychotherapy is an important component of an individual’s overall well-being. As an LMFT, I continue to strive to become the embodiment of reliability, dedication, and an understanding of the importance of creating a non-threatening, safe environment for clients.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Crystal Dunbar

Crystal Dunbar

LMFT
4+ years

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

Crystal has a Masters of Arts (MA) from Pepperdine University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Motivational

Are you dealing with depression, isolation, anxiety, or relationship issues? Do you need support with social-emotional challenges, racial inequity, colorism, or traumatic events? I can help you navigate these challenges and transitions to identify new passions.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Sheyvon Turner

Sheyvon Turner

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LPCC
6+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Sheyvon Turner, 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.

Hemet, CA
Specialties
Addiction
Style
Responsive
Warm
Collaborative

I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling with adjusting to life changes, managing challenging behaviors and thoughts, relationship issues, trauma, and addiction.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Nicole Lightfoot

Nicole Lightfoot

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LPCC

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

Nicole has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Community Clinical Psychology from Texas Southern University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Codependency
Cultural Stress
Depression
Mood Disorders
Style
Directive
Candid
Curious

I am not sure what prompted your search for a therapist, but I'm so glad you are here. The truth is, therapy can be daunting. Feeling scared or skeptical as you seek change is normal, but I wholeheartedly believe we are not meant to struggle alone. Humans are neurobiologically wired for connection.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Dr. Monique Hicks

Dr. Monique Hicks

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
8+ years

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

Dr. Monique has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Grand Canyon University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Style
Responsive
Spiritual
Collaborative

I utilize a range of interventions and techniques tailored to you. I have extensive experience working with all populations. If you are experiencing difficulties or want to learn techniques to obtain emotional, spiritual, and mental stability, I am here to assist you in attaining your therapeutic goals.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ariadne Lyon

Ariadne Lyon

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCP

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

Ariadne has a Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) in Clinical Psychology from Binghamton University and a Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Psychology from Binghamton University.

San Francisco, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Gender Identity
LGBTQIA+
Self Esteem
Style
Insightful
Warm
Supportive

Starting to look for a therapist can be overwhelming, so congratulations on taking a huge first step! I am a very self-compassion-focused therapist, which means I will constantly point out the ways you are already trying your hardest to take care of yourself. I'd be a great fit for anyone looking to notice and challenge their self-criticism.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Chiana Ghant

Chiana Ghant

LCSW

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

Chiana has a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) from California Baptist College and a Master of Social Work from California Baptist College.

San Bernardino, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Stress
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Curious

I specialize in heart-centered, compassionate, strength-based therapy for adults. I support individuals through life's challenges by creating a safe and affirming space to process emotions, build resilience, and reconnect with purpose and self-worth. My approach is grounded in empathy, empowerment, and evidence-based care to help you thrive.

Available virtually

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