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 Jacqueline Smith

Jacqueline Smith

LMFT
•
8+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Jacqueline Smith, 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 Masters of Arts (MA) Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and a Doctor of Psychology (PSYD) Marriage and Family Therapy from The Chicago School at Los Angeles.

Bakersfield, CA
Specialties
Relapse Prevention
Style
Insightful
Warm
Affirming

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and my approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in evidence-based practice. I believe healing begins in a safe, supportive environment where you will feel heard, respected, and empowered.

Available virtually and in person

A headshot image of Melvin Lewis

Melvin Lewis

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT
•
10+ years

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

Melvin has a Master in Counseling (MC) Marriage, Family and Child Therapy from University of Phoenix.

Bakersfield, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Domestic Violence
Relationship Issues
Sexual Addiction
Style
Outcome-oriented
Gentle
Supportive

I build strong therapeutic relationships and fully connect with clients to help them achieve their goals. My focus areas are relationship success, family strengthening, healthy communication, trauma processing, and building an overall balanced life.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Tristan Johnson

Tristan Johnson

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
•
1+ years

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

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

Bakersfield, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Men's Issues
Self Esteem
Stress
Style
Directive
Gentle
Collaborative

I specialize in working with individuals navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, and difficulties with self-esteem. I take a client-centered, collaborative approach, tailoring each session to your unique needs and goals.

Available virtually

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Explore additional virtual providers across California who may be a good fit.

A headshot image of Marvin Carter

Marvin Carter

LCSW
•
6+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Marvin Carter, 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
Anxiety
Cultural Stress
Depression
Family Conflict
Sports Performance
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Motivational

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s degree in Social Work and an emphasis in Multi-Ethnic Practice. I bring more than 25 years of experience working with individuals, youth, and families from diverse cultural, ethnic, socioeconomic, and religious backgrounds.

Available virtually

A headshot image of MyKeisha Lewis

MyKeisha Lewis

LCSW
•
7+ years

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

MyKeisha has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Children YOuth and Families from California State University, Hayward.

California
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Style
Practical
Candid
Empowering

I work with children, teens, and adults who experience a range of challenges, including sexual abuse and violent trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use concerns, long-term grief from loss, and emotional distress.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Paige Malone

Paige Malone

LCSW
•
5+ years

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

Paige has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Arizona State University.

California
Specialties
Life Transitions
Peer Relationships
Relationship Issues
Stress
Style
Directive
Approachable
Empowering

Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. Taking the first step toward therapy is an investment in yourself, and I consider it a privilege to walk alongside you on that journey. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker(LCSW), I am deeply committed to the well-being, growth, and empowerment of every client I serve.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jauron James

Jauron James

LCSW
•
2+ years

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

Jauron has a Master of Social Work from University of Southern California.

Twentynine Palms, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Spirituality
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Spiritual
Affirming

I’m passionate about helping people restore healing, hope, and emotional well-being. I’m energetic, down-to-earth, and committed to supporting you through life’s challenges. Together, we’ll create a safe space to heal, grow, and move forward with confidence.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Brittnay Stevens

Brittnay Stevens

LPCC
•
4+ years

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

Brittnay has a Master in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Cultural Stress
LGBTQIA+
Racial Identity
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Affirming

I am a licensed therapist providing culturally grounded, intersectional mental health support across California. As a Black, queer practitioner, my practice is rooted in the belief that healing happens when you can bring your entire, authentic self into the room.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Toya Carroll

Toya Carroll

LPCC
•
3+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Toya Carroll, 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
Anxiety
Depression
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Outcome-oriented
Attuned
Supportive

I am a psychotherapist with more than 15 years of experience working with individuals, families, and couples. My clinical background includes treating anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, grief, relationship concerns, and a wide range of life stressors. I draw from ERP, TF‑CBT, CBT, and Solution‑FT to provide structured, evidence‑based support.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Murque Watson

Murque Watson

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

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

Murque has a Masters of Arts (MA) Counseling Psychology from Argosy University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Mood Disorders
Stress
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Affirming

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space for teens and adults working through anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, and life transitions.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jerome Scott

Jerome Scott

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
22+ years

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

Jerome has a Master of Science (MS) in Counseling Psychology with Emphasis on Marriage and Family Therapy from Mount St Mary's College.

Corona, CA
Specialties
Addiction
Alcohol Use
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Substance Use
Style
Directive
Candid
Supportive

I provide couples and individual psychotherapy, ensuring each client receives the highest level of care. I maintain a specialized clinical practice using an advanced Cognitive Behavioral approach designed to motivate individuals and couples to achieve their treatment plan objectives.

“Mr.Jerome is very skilled as a therapist and has provided valuable insight and tools for my husband and I to incorporate in our marriage journey. He is an excellent listener and provides solid advice!”

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jearenna Mcneil

Jearenna Mcneil

LCSW
•
11+ years

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

Jearenna has a Master of Social Work in Mental Health from San Jose State University.

California
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Empowering

I'm Rena McNeil, LCSW, a licensed therapist and Army veteran offering online therapy to adults across California, with a focus on anxiety, depression, and PTSD, including fellow veterans navigating the transition to civilian life.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Tosh Fritsch

Tosh Fritsch

LMFT
•
20+ years

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

Tosh has a Master's in Counseling (MC) from Sonoma State University.

Santa Rosa, CA
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Parenting
Trauma and PTSD
Video Game Addiction
Style
Directive
Warm
Empowering

With over 26 years of experience, I have dedicated passionately more than half of my life to supporting children, individuals, couples, and families through the challenges and opportunities that life presents. I see my role as walking alongside people during some of the most important and difficult chapters of their lives.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Kim Paylor

Kim Paylor

LPCC
•
6+ years

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

Kim has a Master of Science (MS) in professional clinical counseling from Grand Canyon University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Spirituality
Substance Use
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Affirming

My counseling style is warm, authentic, and collaborative, and I strive to create a safe space where you feel seen, heard, and supported. Rather than telling you what to do, I work alongside you to explore challenges, uncover strengths, and help you move toward the life you want to create.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Lesley Davis

Lesley Davis

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
4+ years

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

Lesley has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Touro University Worldwide (2021).

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Behavioral Issues
Coping Skills
Depression
Style
Insightful
Warm
Collaborative

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, and I strive to create a space where clients feel safe, heard, and understood. Together, we work to navigate life’s challenges while building tools for healing, growth, and resilience. I have worked with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, grief and loss and much more.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ann Stillingfleet

Ann Stillingfleet

LMFT
•
13+ years

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

Ann has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology Holistic from John F Kennedy University.

California
Specialties
Aging
Anxiety
Grief
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Affirming

Feeling overwhelmed with certain aspects of life or just needing to feel seen and heard? You are not alone and do not need to face life's challenges by yourself. I help clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss issues, relationship stress and life transitions find clarity and acquire the tools to live a productive and meaningful life

Available virtually

A headshot image of James Norris

James Norris

LPCC
•
10+ years

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

James has a Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) in Counselor Education and Supervision from University of the Cumberland and a Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology from Seattle University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Cultural Stress
Depression
Men's Issues
Racial Identity
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Collaborative

I aim to improve overall mental, emotional, and physical health through a customized approach tailored to each individual's needs.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Adebola Soyemi

Adebola Soyemi

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
8+ years

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

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

Riverside, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Gentle
Empowering

I take a client-centered approach, meeting you where you are and collaboratively moving toward your goals and mental wellness. Through evidence-based techniques, I help you overcome obstacles, develop coping skills, and cultivate resilience.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Keileisha Davis

Keileisha Davis

LPCC
•
6+ years

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

Keileisha has a Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from University of Phoenix.

Temecula, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Behavioral Issues
Depression
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Collaborative

I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who offers a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. My goal is to offer a supportive environment where you can fully express yourself, gain insight, and take steps toward personal growth and healing.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Rob Scheidlinger

Rob Scheidlinger

LMFT
•
11+ years

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

Rob has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) in Psychology/MFT from Phillips Graduate Institute and a Juris Doctorate (JD) from Brooklyn Law School.

California
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
Men's Issues
Relationship Issues
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Affirming

This is my twelfth year in private practice as a psychotherapist. Over that time I have had the opportunity to form unique relationships with people who came to therapy with the same goal: how to improve the quality of their lives.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Alanna Everhart

Alanna Everhart

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT

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

Alanna has a Masters of Arts (MA) in Marital and Family Therapy from University of San Diego.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
LGBTQIA+
Relationship Issues
Style
Responsive
Attuned
Supportive

I help others navigate life’s challenges in a way that feels supportive, grounded, and collaborative. I believe therapy works best when people feel emotionally safe, understood, and empowered to be vulnerable without judgment. My goal is to create a space where clients can heal, grow and develop healthier connections with themselves and others.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Judy Riley

Judy Riley

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT
•
11+ years

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

Judy has a Master's in Counseling (MC) from University of Phoenix.

Redlands, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Outcome-oriented
Approachable
Empowering

There are times you need someone to listen, understand, have compassion, and empathize with what you are going through. It is not uncommon to experience life struggles that need extra support.

“Judy has been phenomenal at helping me make sense of aspects of my life that have affected me for decades. Through our sessions, I'm realizing for the first time what various cause and effects have had that impact my outlook on life and my interpersonal relationships. I'm at a point where I've realized that I don't know who I am after years of trauma and masking, but I'm getting reacquainted with myself and building my identity on top of a healthy foundation.”

Available virtually

A headshot image of Dynesha Crooks

Dynesha Crooks

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW
•
11+ years

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

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

Compton, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Chronic Illness
Depression
Style
Directive
Candid
Curious

I am passionate about mindfulness and mental wellness. I believe everyone can benefit from supportive guidance during life events, especially when dealing with grief, loss, depression, and anxiety. I approach every situation with empathy to help individuals feel validated and encouraged. Let's make mental health MATTER together!

Available virtually

A headshot image of Darryl Gilmer

Darryl Gilmer

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
14+ years

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

Darryl has a Master of Science in Psychology (MSPSY) from Chapman University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Supportive

I work with couples and individuals navigating relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, and trauma. My approach is warm and relational, emphasizing the healing power of connection both within your relationships and between us in therapy.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Avon Jones

Avon Jones

LPCC
•
11+ years

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

Avon has a Masters of Education (MED) in School Counseling from Wilmington University and a Master of Science (MS) in Human Service Counseling from Lincoln University.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Behavioral Issues
Depression
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Directive
Approachable
Empowering

We know that initiating counseling services for your child or yourself can be very challenging. However, please know that you are making a positive step towards a healthy change in your life. During the counseling process, together we will identify your strengths and use those strengths to help propel you in making the necessary changes.

Available virtually

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