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LGBT therapists in Bakersfield, CA

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People with insurance pay as low as $0 per session through Headway

Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Bakersfield, CA

Bakersfield's LGBTQIA+ community deserves mental health support from providers who truly get it. Headway offers warm, solution-oriented therapists experienced in supporting gender and sexual identity concerns. With 2,467 providers available and sessions starting as low as $0 with insurance, quality care is within reach.

Alicia Aguirre

Alicia Aguirre

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • <1 mi away • Bakersfield, CA


“My eclectic approach to providing therapy allows me to align with my clients in order to meet their needs.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Christine Paulsen

Christine Paulsen

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 2.4 mi away • Bakersfield, CA


“I completed training in CBT techniques specifically for LGBTQ2S+ community members with Yale School of Public Health.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Kenneth Wiley

Kenneth Wiley

Therapist

In-person • <1 mi away • Bakersfield, CA


“I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and faith-based issues. I like to tailor my approach to what best suits your needs as the client.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Zachary Arnold

Zachary Arnold

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I use a person-centered lens, meaning I see you as the expert of your life and view our therapeutic relationship as a key part of the healing process.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Dr. Cristina Antonucci

Dr. Cristina Antonucci

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • San Diego, CA


“I offer a trauma-informed, attachment centered approach, grounded in curiosity, authenticity and genuine human connection.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ivan Arevalo Fuentes

Ivan Arevalo Fuentes

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I consider myself a holistic therapist who is interested in helping clients walk on a path to heal mind, body, and spirit.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lindsay Fisher

Lindsay Fisher

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Stevenson Ranch, CA


“I've made it my mission to change that experience. When we work together, you'll never wonder why I'm recommending a particular medication or what to expect from your treatment plan.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Jaime Haasch

Jaime Haasch

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am warm, welcoming, and direct in my approach with clients. I include mindfulness, gratitude, compassion, and acceptance in my work with clients.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Mariah Larkin

Mariah Larkin

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I think a collaborative approach is very effective. We both bring strengths and vulnerabilities to the work.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Shauna Rossington

Shauna Rossington

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Each client has a different "recipe" for them to reach their goals and the first few sessions are about building rapport and trust so we can find the approach that is your "recipe."”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Patricia Riley

Patricia Riley

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe in each individual's right to self determination. Life can have multiple challenges, but with a thoughtful approaches it can reduce the power over us the challenges can have.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Jamie Plaxco

Jamie Plaxco

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Bakersfield, CA


IMPORTANT: All clients must complete our intake form and sign our policies before their appointment. Please complete these documents at https://intakeq.com/new/6oakjo/lusjbb or contact us at 602-800-4699 (call or text). Please also email or text us a copy of your photo ID/driver's license at [email protected]

For the most current schedule and openings, please book directly on our website at https://mentalhealthpractitioners.com/book-appointment/ or call us at 415-968-6515.

As a PMHNP-BC who specializes in autism, complex cases, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD/trauma, schizophrenia/psychosis disorders, and substance use, I've built my practice around understanding that every person's mental health journey is unique—especially when multiple conditions interact or when traditional approaches haven't worked.

I also provide comprehensive treatment for depression, anxiety, panic disorders, mood disorders, and bipolar disorder, always with an understanding that these conditions often overlap and influence each other in complex ways. What I want you to know is this: your experiences are valid, your struggles make sense in the context of your life, and there's no such thing as being "too much" for treatment.

Whether you're masking autistic traits, battling compulsive behaviors, managing intense emotions, processing trauma, questioning reality, or struggling with substances, I meet you exactly where you are without trying to force you into a predetermined mold. My approach combines evidence-based treatments with deep respect for your individual needs and experiences.

You deserve a provider who doesn't see complexity as a problem to solve, but as a roadmap to understanding how to best support your unique path to wellness.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Holly Shannon

Holly Shannon

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Bakersfield, CA


“My work taught me that women's mental health—especially during pregnancy, postpartum, and hormonal transitions—requires specialized understanding and individualized care.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Micaela Pericone-Kapp

Micaela Pericone-Kapp

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Jose, CA


“I'm here to listen deeply, think critically about what's happening for you specifically, and create treatment plans that actually work in your real life—not just in theory.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Holistic, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Julia Kamp

Julia Kamp

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work with both civilians and military-connected clients — veterans, active duty service members, first responders, and their partners.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lisa Friedman

Lisa Friedman

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that you already have information as to what will help you in your journey. It is my job to help you get to the answers...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Open-minded, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Michael Herrera

Michael Herrera

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am warm, friendly, and passionate about my work. I am creative in techniques and I use humor to facilitate the exploration of concerns.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Humorous, Participatory
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Amanda Khezra

Dr. Amanda Khezra

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“All progress is good progress and at the end of our session my hope is we took another step towards reaching your goals.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Yu-Ning Lin

Yu-Ning Lin

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I'm an empathetic listener who believes in fully understanding my client in order to customize effective strategies individually.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Shara Ally

Shara Ally

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Luis Obispo, CA


“My clinical approach combines precision with partnership. I use measurement-based care, structured symptom tracking that guides our treatment adjustments and minimizes trial-and-error.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Demetria Seawood

Demetria Seawood

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is warm, supportive, and direct—creating a space where you can feel heard, understood, and challenged toward meaningful change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Alyssa Rodriguez

Alyssa Rodriguez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe in a genuine, collaborative relationship with my clients and value the courage it takes to open up.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Nichole Wofford

Dr. Nichole Wofford

Therapist

Virtual • Sacramento, CA


I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 25 years of experience helping individuals navigate trauma, identity exploration, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I’ve worked in community mental health, school systems, and private practice, and I’m deeply committed to providing culturally affirming care that honors the full complexity of who you are.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Kaylyn Gatto

Dr. Kaylyn Gatto

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a space where clients feel safe showing up exactly as they are while also feeling supported to grow and make meaningful changes.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Oscar Droege-Sanchez

Oscar Droege-Sanchez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is practical and collaborative, using tools like CBT and motivational interviewing to help you better understand patterns and build real-life coping skills.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Men's issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Yadira Nieto

Yadira Nieto

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and supportive. I see therapy as a partnership where you can show up as yourself and feel truly heard.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Talia Guppy

Talia Guppy

Therapist

Virtual • California


Welcome! I am currently accepting client and I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ adolescents and young adults, providing affirming care through a solution‐focused and client‐centered approach. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns, supporting effective and meaningful change. I also incorporate Narrative Therapy and Trauma‐Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to address trauma and promote healing when appropriate.

Reaching out for support can feel overwhelming, especially when you are navigating the challenges you are facing. Many of my clients come to therapy wanting a space where they feel safe, accepted, and truly understood. I strive to provide this so we can work collaboratively to move toward greater clarity, resilience, and well‐being.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Energetic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Deborah Reisfeld

Deborah Reisfeld

Therapist

Virtual • California


“During the first session, clients be invited into a welcoming environment centered on safety and trust.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Young Tae Lee

Young Tae Lee

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Gold River, CA


“I don't believe in one-size-fits-all treatment — your story matters, and your care plan should reflect that.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Alexander Graham

Alexander Graham

Therapist

Virtual • San Francisco, CA


I specialize in supporting people who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD, trauma, life transitions and much more. I have extensive experience working with high acuity teens, and I also work with adults of all ages who are navigating imbalance, self-acceptance uncertainty, or emotional overload. I support parents who need guidance in understanding their child’s needs or simply a calm place to process their own feelings. No matter your age or background, if you are struggling to find balance and peace in life, I am here to help.

My approach begins with the belief that life poses great challenges for all of us. Through these challenges, we develop adaptive patterns that may help us survive but can also bring disharmony. I aim to help you bring awareness to these patterns, loosen their grip, and reshape them so you can find greater balance and harmony in your relationship with yourself, others, and the world.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Zaryn Avaren

Zaryn Avaren

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I bring genuine empathy for the messy process of change, combined with an adaptable, evidence-based approach that focuses heavily on cultivating your self-compassion and unique strengths.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Grief or loss
Holistic, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Kathia Millan

Kathia Millan

Therapist

Virtual • California


“You will feel a safe, caring, secure, compassionate, and non-judgmental approach where you can feel heard and respected.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Nizhu Minhaz

Nizhu Minhaz

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is warm, collaborative, and direct—because healing doesn't have to be stiff, and growth rarely happens in silence.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Alec Bustos

Alec Bustos

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in working with children, teens, adults, and families, especially those navigating trauma, emotional dysregulation, neurodivergence, adoption/foster care, and identity exploration.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Chirag Bharati

Chirag Bharati

Therapist

Virtual • Cerritos, CA


“An integrative therapy approach that encompasses all aspects of your individual experience is a great starting point.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Empowering, Participatory
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jessica Zamora

Jessica Zamora

Therapist

Virtual • California


I have worked with adolescents, adults, and older adults as they work through life's challenges. I am client-centered with a trauma-informed lens, often leaving clients feeling heard, validated, and empowered to continue reaching their goals.

As someone who has worked as a clinician embedded in a law enforcement agency, I am acutely aware of the realities of first responders and the impact the work can have on the individual and their relationships.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Inquisitive, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Candice Campbell

Candice Campbell

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I provide a warm, collaborative and balanced approach using cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness to help clients embrace their authentic selves and improve their quality of life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Creative, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Nadra Rachell

Nadra Rachell

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy can be a powerful space to slow down, feel seen, and reconnect with yourself during life's most challenging moments.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Creative, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Steven Cospewicz

Steven Cospewicz

Therapist

Virtual • Santa Clara, CA


“I believe that active listening and a warm, inquisitive, and non judgmental approach allows you to feel safe and heard.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Marcus Davis

Marcus Davis

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe every person—and every couple—has inherent resilience and untapped resources, even in the midst of overwhelming challenges.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Frequently asked questions

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Find the right LGBTQ-friendly therapy provider for you

Headway makes it easier to connect with affirming therapists who understand your identity — from finding the right therapist, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a LGBTQIA Therapist in Bakersfield, CA

Finding LGBTQIA+ therapists in Bakersfield starts with looking for identity-affirming care. A therapist’s training, specialties, and experience should match what you want support with, such as gender identity, sexual identity, relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, or family stress. Look for therapists who mention affirmative therapy, WPATH training, gender-diverse experience, or LGBTQIA+-affirming care in their profiles. The right fit goes beyond clinical skill — it also includes feeling respected in how your identity and goals are understood.

In a mid-sized city like Bakersfield, local LGBTQIA+-affirming therapists may be easier to compare when you include both in-person and virtual appointments in your search. Virtual care can expand your options if nearby office availability is limited or if your schedule works better outside a fixed commute. As you compare therapists, review whether they are accepting new patients, offer appointment times that fit your calendar, and provide a free phone consultation. Reading bios closely can help you see who explicitly works with LGBTQIA+ populations and how they describe their therapy style.

Therapy in Bakersfield can be a significant investment without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs. Headway helps you search for therapists who match your needs, review estimated out-of-pocket costs before booking, and choose between virtual and in-person care. You can browse therapist profiles, compare fit, and book directly when you’re ready.

Find a provider - your way

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1 Cost may vary based on your location, age, and insurance coverage.