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Cal Care Therapy

Christine Paulsen MS, MSW, LCSW

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1.

Individual
Therapy

My office offers a confidential and safe space to explore with a licensed therapist. I use evidence-based techniques to help you overcome challenges, practice new coping mechanisms, and improve your mental health.

2.

Couples
Therapy

Helping couples improve communication, deepen intimacy, and strengthen their bond. Whether you're struggling with conflict, infidelity, or feeling disconnected, I'm here to guide you towards a happier, healthier relationship.

3.

Sex
Counseling

Sex counseling is a safe and confidential space where you can discuss sexual concerns and receive professional guidance. I'm here to help you navigate challenges you may be facing and improve your sexual well-being. Email us to book a session today!

4.

Gender Affirming Care

Gender-affirming therapy supports individuals in exploring and affirming their gender identity, while providing a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to process their emotions and develop coping strategies. I write recommendation letters for gender affirming procedures, after complete assessment. My goal is to help clients live authentically and confidently.

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5.

Kink
 Safe
Space

Professionals outside of the community do not understand the intricacies within certain BDSM, kink, dynamics. People hesitate to disclose relationship details to their therapists, due to the fear of being reported for "abuse," when in fact, the play was consensual.

Additionally, many professional counselors are not trained in fetish work. You are safe here.

​

Therapy Sessions

About Me

During my academic journey at California State University, Bakersfield(CSUB), I served as an Ambassador during my undergraduate studies. I served as the Director of Community Outreach & Research at National Grief Support Services, providing grief-supportive services nationwide, while obtaining my master degree in administration from CSUB in 2005. In the following years, I advanced to a senior social worker role in Kern County. I returned to CSUB for a master’s in social work, specializing in sex counseling at the Buehler Institute. My clinical experience includes counseling the 2SLGBTQIA+ community at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, a 2SLGBTQIA+ affirming church, and The Center for Sexuality & Gender Diversity, reinforcing my dedication to serving diverse, marginalized, and underserved populations. In 2021, I obtained licensure and opened my practice Cal Care Therapy. In 2022, I obtained my licensure to practice in that state of Nevada, remotely. I continue working closely with The Center as an independent contractor and Director of Mental Health Services. I am the Clinical Supervisor for all interns at The Center. Most recently, I have received 2SLGBTQIA+-centered CBT training through the Yale School of Public Health.

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My Approach

I employ an eclectic approach in my practice to ensure individualized care that aligns with each person's unique needs. During our initial session, we will dive into your background history and reasons for seeking therapy. Together, we will establish achievable goals and develop a personalized treatment plan. My therapeutic style combines conversational techniques with a variety of methods tailored to your specific requirements. Your growth, goals, and treatment direction are under your control, with my role being to provide guidance and support throughout the process.

About Cal Care Therapy

Established in 2021, Cal Care Therapy opened to the underserved communities of the kink, BDSM, and LGBTQ+ populations in Bakersfield, California. During the pandemic, services were only offered virtually. However, the need was so great and grew so quickly that in under a year, Cal Care Therapy leased its first shared brick-and-mortar space to offer in-person sessions, while continuing to practice virtually. Before June 2022, the organization had gained licensure to practice psychotherapy in Nevada. By the end of 2022, Cal Care Therapy had moved into a private office suite where clients can enjoy a discreet comfortable therapeutic experience. Currently, Cal Care Therapy continues to grow steadily offering virtual and in-person sessions based on the client's needs and location.

1.

Anxiety

2.

Self Esteem

3.

Depression

4.

5.

Grief

Sex-positive &​

Kink allied

“Christine provides a safe space that allows me to always show up as my authentic self. I still have some work ahead of me but the improvement in my self-confidence in social settings keeps me coming back."

Anonymous / 35yrs - CA

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