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 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

A headshot image of Ebony Harris

Ebony Harris

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
6+ years

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

Ebony has a Master of Science (MS) in Counseling from Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy - University of Phoenix.

Bakersfield, CA
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Warm
Supportive

As a therapist, it is a privilege to walk alongside my clients on their unique journey to overcome barriers that are preventing them from living their full potential. I am passionate about empowering my clients to heal and live authentically. "One chapter doesn't tell the full story." Let's continue writing your story!

Available virtually

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 Tahlua Goosby

Tahlua Goosby

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
•
6+ years

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

Tahlua has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Child Welfare from California State University, Bakersfield.

Bakersfield, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Motivational

I specialize in working with individuals navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I tailor each session to your unique needs and goals, encouraging collaboration and client-centered care. I'm here to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can be yourself.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Charity Johnson

Charity Johnson

Patients consistently give high satisfaction ratings

LCSW
•
10+ years

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

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

Bakersfield, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Stress
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Collaborative

Life's challenges can feel overwhelming, especially when the world seems in constant flux. Fear, anxiety, or powerlessness may engulf us, making it hard to cope with instability. Prioritizing your mental health is essential, and I'm here to help you navigate these feelings and find your footing.

“Charity is very intuitive and offers practical solutions and advice without over stepping your boundaries and what is realistic about your life situation and physical and mental wellbeing and limitations”

Available virtually

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A headshot image of Denisha McCoy

Denisha McCoy

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
•
11+ years

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

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

Los Angeles, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Divorce
Parenting
Relationship Issues
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

I work with individuals and families impacted by various mental health-related stressors.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Shelley Benn

Shelley Benn

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
5+ years

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

Shelley has a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology/Marriage and Family Therapy from Argosy University.

California
Specialties
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
Spirituality
Women's Issues
Style
Outcome-oriented
Candid
Motivational

Life transitions and unexpected stressors can leave us feeling overwhelmed or disconnected. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can untangle anxious thoughts and develop sustainable coping strategies. You don’t have to carry heavy burdens alone. Using a client-centered, brief solutions approach, I provide a safe environment.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ayanna Forks

Ayanna Forks

Recognized for high quality patient care

LPCC

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Ayanna Forks, 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
Coping Skills
Depression
Stress
Suicidal Ideation
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Motivational

Welcome! Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate life's challenges alone. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience, I am dedicated to helping individuals find healing, build resilience, and create meaningful change in their lives.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Evan Thomas

Evan Thomas

LCSW
•
7+ years

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

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

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Parenting
Stress
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Motivational

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience in the social work field. I am here to support & empower you in your journey.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ebony Watson

Ebony Watson

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
•
3+ years

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

Ebony has a Master of Social Work from University of Michigan School of Social Work.

California
Specialties
Career Counseling
Depression
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
Style
Exploratory
Attuned
Collaborative

Reaching out to therapy is a meaningful first step. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who provides a grounded, affirming, and collaborative approach to therapy, specializing in life transitions, trauma, career stress, perfectionism, and women's issues.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Leanna Flores

Leanna Flores

LCSW
•
3+ years

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

Leanna has a Master of Social Work from University of the Pacific.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Gentle
Affirming

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for helping others be their most authentic selves.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Janice Austin-Taylor

Janice Austin-Taylor

LMFT
•
26+ years

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

Janice has a Master of Science in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling from California State University, Dominguez Hills.

Palmdale, CA
Specialties
ADHD
Anger Management
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Impulse Control Disorders
Style
Practical
Approachable
Affirming

On our therapeutic journey, I will validate and empathize with you while exploring tools to help you with anxiety and emotional distress as you become better able to cope with difficult experiences that you may be experiencing.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Joseph Burton

Joseph Burton

LCSW
•
4+ years

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

Joseph has a Master of Social Work (MSW) Social and economic justice from University of California, Los Angeles.

California
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Men's Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Supportive

I am a trauma-informed and culturally responsive therapist who supports individuals navigating anxiety, depression, stress, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, explore challenges, and develop practical tools for meaningful change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Tesi Taylor Long

Tesi Taylor Long

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
•
7+ years

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

Tesi Taylor has a Master of Social Work (MSW) Social Work/Ethics, Justice & Policy from California State University, Chico.

Sacramento, CA
Specialties
Addiction
Grief
Older Adult
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Warm
Motivational

Welcome! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience and a passion for helping people heal, grow, and overcome life's challenges. As a CADC-CAS certified clinician, I provide compassionate, personalized care with expertise in addiction and co-occurring mental health, creating a safe, supportive space.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jimmie Simpson

Jimmie Simpson

LMFT
•
9+ years

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

Jimmie has a Master in Counseling from University of Phoenix.

Los Angeles, CA
Specialties
Addiction
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Approachable
Collaborative

Welcome! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 10+ years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions. I provide a warm, supportive, trauma-informed space where we'll work together to build resilience, healing, and lasting positive change.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jeshurun Joseph

Jeshurun Joseph

LCSW
•
9+ years

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

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

California
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Stress

It can often feel as though we are alone as we navigate life’s challenges; with no one to turn to. I welcome the opportunity to walk alongside you in achieving holistic emotional wellness through a culturally sensitive, client-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-focused framework.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Salina Golightly-Mondragon

Salina Golightly-Mondragon

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
•
12+ years

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

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

Riverside, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
Panic Attacks
Style
Outcome-oriented
Attuned
Supportive

I work as a Mental Health Therapist with a primary focus in Individual Therapy and Couples/Marital Counseling.

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 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 Paris Conner

Paris Conner

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
•
4+ years

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

Paris has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Brandman University (2020).

Rialto, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Style
Responsive
Gentle
Collaborative

I have a passion for helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges. I have a deep commitment to fostering healing and growth by using a compassionate and client-centered approach to therapy, tailoring each session to meet the unique needs and goals of those seeking support.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Samuel Semanda

Samuel Semanda

LMFT
•
4+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Samuel Semanda, 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
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Collaborative

I'm an LMFT, and I warmly welcome you as you begin this work together. In an intersubjective approach, I focus on how your experiences and our therapeutic relationship unfold in the room, creating safety, meaning, and momentum.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Danielle Lipkin

Danielle Lipkin

LMFT
•
17+ years

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

Danielle has a Master of Science (MS) in Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy from University of La Verne.

Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Style
Insightful
Warm
Collaborative

I am a mom, bonus mom and wife with 15 years of experience providing therapy as a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I am a dedicated therapist passionate about providing access to quality mental health care.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Dominique Broussard

Dominique Broussard

LCP
•
5+ years

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

Dominique has a Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) in Counseling Psychology from University of Georgia.

Oxnard, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Cultural Stress
Depression
Racial Identity
Stress
Style
Responsive
Warm
Affirming

Everyone deserves to have their story heard and responded to with empathy, compassion, and care. Imagine the comfort of being wrapped in your warmest blanket with a soothing beverage on a really cold or rainy day. While every session may not feel that way, I strive to create a warm, safe environment as we begin the therapy journey.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Zephon Lister

Zephon Lister

LMFT
•
17+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Zephon Lister, 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
Chronic Illness
Relationship Issues
Spirituality
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

Life can feel overwhelming when anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, or life transitions leave you feeling stuck or disconnected. I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space to explore what you’re experiencing, recognize patterns, and create meaningful change that helps you feel more empowered to shape the life and relationships you want.

Available virtually

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