Leroy Rickard

Hi, I’m Leroy Rickard, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and facilitator of Men and Women of Valor, a face-to-face support group for veterans in Bakersfield. I believe healing happens through connection, shared experiences, and mutual support in a safe, respectful, and judgment-free environment. This group provides a place for veterans to discuss life challenges, military experiences, stress, relationships, emotional struggles, and the challenges of reacclimating to civilian life after military service. My goal is to help veterans build resilience, strengthen coping skills, foster meaningful connections, and successfully navigate the transition back into society with purpose, confidence, and support.

My approach to facilitating Men and Women of Valor is supportive, collaborative, and focused on connection and growth. This group provides veterans with a safe, respectful, and nonjudgmental space to share experiences, discuss challenges, and receive support from others who understand military service and its lasting impact. Drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) principles and other evidence-based approaches, I help guide discussions around stress management, emotional wellness, relationships, resilience, and the transition back to civilian life. The goal is to foster camaraderie, strengthen coping skills, reduce isolation, and empower veterans to move forward with confidence, purpose, and support from their fellow veterans.

Veterans attending their first Men and Women of Valor group can expect a welcoming, respectful, and supportive environment. My goal is to create a space where veterans feel comfortable sharing at their own pace while connecting with others who understand the unique experiences and challenges associated with military service. During the first group, members will have an opportunity to introduce themselves, discuss what brought them to the group, and learn about the group's purpose and expectations. Whether you are seeking support for stress, relationships, emotional wellness, or the transition back to civilian life, the group is designed to foster connection, mutual support, and a sense of community among fellow veterans.