Photo of Benjamin Russack, LMFT, MFA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Benjamin Russack
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
In the short term, I am directive and structured, and will work with you, your spouse or your child to put out any "fires" --acute stressors such as job loss, divorce, heartbreak or addiction issues need to be resolved before the deeper work of therapy can begin.
I tend to be quite direct in my approach and begin therapy with a combination of focused goal and solution oriented work. As the therapy proceeds, I then branch out into deeper issues concerning the unconscious, dream work, unresolved trauma and more. Additionally, I specialize and am not limited to, treating depression, anxiety and chemical dependency. Lastly, I also enjoy working with adolescents, couples and families. ** I host a podcast called "Look, Just Tell Me What To Do" which addresses issues related to mental health which is available here https://lookjusttellmewhattodo.podbean.com/ or on most podcast platforms.
In the short term, I am directive and structured, and will work with you, your spouse or your child to put out any "fires" --acute stressors such as job loss, divorce, heartbreak or addiction issues need to be resolved before the deeper work of therapy can begin.
I tend to be quite direct in my approach and begin therapy with a combination of focused goal and solution oriented work. As the therapy proceeds, I then branch out into deeper issues concerning the unconscious, dream work, unresolved trauma and more. Additionally, I specialize and am not limited to, treating depression, anxiety and chemical dependency. Lastly, I also enjoy working with adolescents, couples and families. ** I host a podcast called "Look, Just Tell Me What To Do" which addresses issues related to mental health which is available here https://lookjusttellmewhattodo.podbean.com/ or on most podcast platforms.
(415) 735-3508 View (415) 735-3508
Photo of Dr. Sasha Avanesov, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Sasha Avanesov
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I have over 16 years of expertise in residential and outpatient settings at one of the foremost South Bay addiction treatment centers.
Whether you are experiencing anxiety, stress, relationship issues, coping with trauma, wondering if the world has gone mad, seeking answers to spiritual or existential questions, or pursuing personal growth, I will work hard to empower you. Together, we will explore, clarify, and address issues at the root of your concerns, clearing a path towards inner peace.
I have over 16 years of expertise in residential and outpatient settings at one of the foremost South Bay addiction treatment centers.
Whether you are experiencing anxiety, stress, relationship issues, coping with trauma, wondering if the world has gone mad, seeking answers to spiritual or existential questions, or pursuing personal growth, I will work hard to empower you. Together, we will explore, clarify, and address issues at the root of your concerns, clearing a path towards inner peace.
(510) 405-7319 View (510) 405-7319
Photo of Trevor M Ahrendt, PsyD, Psychologist
Trevor M Ahrendt
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I help people lead an examined life, especially when they're making transformative, profound shifts. I love to meet people when they're trying to make big changes relationships, careers, or rebooting their life out of addiction, depression, or bad marriahes. I offer both practical, tactical solutions and exploration of deeper, unconscious currents. I have a particular interest in people looking to develop or integrate a sense of spirituality. I work with people in tech, leaders, artists and seekers who are looking to lead a vital and integrated life.
I help people lead an examined life, especially when they're making transformative, profound shifts. I love to meet people when they're trying to make big changes relationships, careers, or rebooting their life out of addiction, depression, or bad marriahes. I offer both practical, tactical solutions and exploration of deeper, unconscious currents. I have a particular interest in people looking to develop or integrate a sense of spirituality. I work with people in tech, leaders, artists and seekers who are looking to lead a vital and integrated life.
(510) 587-9221 View (510) 587-9221
Photo of Arthur Brendze, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Arthur Brendze
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I am happy to share my unusually broad and varied experience with you: Isolation, Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Addiction/ Recovery/Codependency, Self-Esteem, Relationships/Marriage, Personality Disorders, Retirement/Aging/Saging, Loss/Grief, Religion/Spirituality, Diversity/Cross-Cultural, Same Sex Issues, Childhood/Parenting, Weight/Body-Image and more.
I am a licensed psychotherapist with over 30 years of experience in Psychotherapy, Relationship/Marriage Counseling and Organizational Development and Transformation. Before becoming a licensed psychotherapist, I was a wooden boatbuilder, USCG Licensed Captain, businessman and educator. I still am. Over the years, a diverse spectrum of individuals, couples and groups have arrived in my practice with an equally diverse spectrum of challenges …some common …some not so common. We have worked on them together, usually with satisfying success for all concerned.
I am happy to share my unusually broad and varied experience with you: Isolation, Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Addiction/ Recovery/Codependency, Self-Esteem, Relationships/Marriage, Personality Disorders, Retirement/Aging/Saging, Loss/Grief, Religion/Spirituality, Diversity/Cross-Cultural, Same Sex Issues, Childhood/Parenting, Weight/Body-Image and more.
I am a licensed psychotherapist with over 30 years of experience in Psychotherapy, Relationship/Marriage Counseling and Organizational Development and Transformation. Before becoming a licensed psychotherapist, I was a wooden boatbuilder, USCG Licensed Captain, businessman and educator. I still am. Over the years, a diverse spectrum of individuals, couples and groups have arrived in my practice with an equally diverse spectrum of challenges …some common …some not so common. We have worked on them together, usually with satisfying success for all concerned.
(904) 474-3973 View (904) 474-3973
Photo of David Ralph Beuerman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Ralph Beuerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
My current position of Clinical Supervisor at UCSF in the Department of Psychiatry working in addiction medicine has provided a solid foundation supporting individuals struggling with addiction using my expertise in Motivational Interviewing .
Are you looking to make a change in your life? Maybe there is a significant relationship that is not what you wish it was. Maybe you are struggling to make a career change or a big decision at work. Perhaps you are considering relocating to another area. Are you trying to quit smoking, grappling with weight loss, wanting to start an exercise or meditation routine? Or maybe you want to adjust how you react to certain stressors or situations that inevitably crop up in life. My practice “Time for Change” is here for you.
My current position of Clinical Supervisor at UCSF in the Department of Psychiatry working in addiction medicine has provided a solid foundation supporting individuals struggling with addiction using my expertise in Motivational Interviewing .
Are you looking to make a change in your life? Maybe there is a significant relationship that is not what you wish it was. Maybe you are struggling to make a career change or a big decision at work. Perhaps you are considering relocating to another area. Are you trying to quit smoking, grappling with weight loss, wanting to start an exercise or meditation routine? Or maybe you want to adjust how you react to certain stressors or situations that inevitably crop up in life. My practice “Time for Change” is here for you.
(415) 463-3982 View (415) 463-3982
Photo of Michael Korson, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Korson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
My clients come to therapy because there is something that prevents them from feeling satisfied and achieving their potential. It may be depression or anxiety. It may be some addiction (to alcohol or drugs, food, sex or internet). It may be that their relationships are stuck or they lack satisfying relationships. It may be that they are searching for a better sense of who they truly are. While my focus is to find the right approach for each client to bring about the changes they seek, with all clients I strive to create a safe and supportive relationship.
My clients come to therapy because there is something that prevents them from feeling satisfied and achieving their potential. It may be depression or anxiety. It may be some addiction (to alcohol or drugs, food, sex or internet). It may be that their relationships are stuck or they lack satisfying relationships. It may be that they are searching for a better sense of who they truly are. While my focus is to find the right approach for each client to bring about the changes they seek, with all clients I strive to create a safe and supportive relationship.
(650) 924-9597 View (650) 924-9597
Photo of Ken Stamper, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ken Stamper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I also enjoy working with new parents, adolescents, families, and adults who are struggling with screen use, bullying, video games, and substance use.
My therapeutic style is approachable, warm, curious, and, when necessary, challenging. I draw from my training in the lineage of Gestalt Therapy, working in the 'here and now' to find out how we can create growth and change. I also use tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy when appropriate to help develop awareness for effective change. We will work collaboratively to see how you can learn respond to your environment with greater freedom and choice, where you can see possibilities and turn them into actualities. I'm here to support you in becoming your best self.
I also enjoy working with new parents, adolescents, families, and adults who are struggling with screen use, bullying, video games, and substance use.
My therapeutic style is approachable, warm, curious, and, when necessary, challenging. I draw from my training in the lineage of Gestalt Therapy, working in the 'here and now' to find out how we can create growth and change. I also use tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy when appropriate to help develop awareness for effective change. We will work collaboratively to see how you can learn respond to your environment with greater freedom and choice, where you can see possibilities and turn them into actualities. I'm here to support you in becoming your best self.
(628) 214-5147 View (628) 214-5147
Photo of Derek Rubinstein, PsyD, Psychologist
Derek Rubinstein
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I also bring specialized training and experience in working with young professionals, men's issues, high functioning autism / Asperger's Syndrome, depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, substance abuse, relationship challenges, personal discovery, integration of spiritual/psychedelic experiences, and mindfulness meditation.
Like any new endeavor, beginning therapy can bring both anxiety and hope. Whether you're seeking therapy to address specific concerns or to engage in personal exploration, I bring many years of experience working with a broad range of issues and people. I see therapy as a unique opportunity to help my clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves, develop greater awareness and insight, and make meaningful changes that lead to greater fulfillment in their lives, relationships, and careers.
I also bring specialized training and experience in working with young professionals, men's issues, high functioning autism / Asperger's Syndrome, depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, substance abuse, relationship challenges, personal discovery, integration of spiritual/psychedelic experiences, and mindfulness meditation.
Like any new endeavor, beginning therapy can bring both anxiety and hope. Whether you're seeking therapy to address specific concerns or to engage in personal exploration, I bring many years of experience working with a broad range of issues and people. I see therapy as a unique opportunity to help my clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves, develop greater awareness and insight, and make meaningful changes that lead to greater fulfillment in their lives, relationships, and careers.
(415) 521-3766 View (415) 521-3766
Photo of Joseph Choy, PsyD, Psychologist
Joseph Choy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
We are often ruled by thoughts and patterns of conditioning that are largely outside of our awareness. While adaptive, this process can sometimes lead us astray. I aim to help you uncover unhealthy patterns of conditioning by cultivating awareness through mindful intention which will ultimately help guide you towards a more conscious and fulfilling life. I have extensive experience working with individuals suffering from mood disorders, trauma-related disorders and substance abuse.
We are often ruled by thoughts and patterns of conditioning that are largely outside of our awareness. While adaptive, this process can sometimes lead us astray. I aim to help you uncover unhealthy patterns of conditioning by cultivating awareness through mindful intention which will ultimately help guide you towards a more conscious and fulfilling life. I have extensive experience working with individuals suffering from mood disorders, trauma-related disorders and substance abuse.
(628) 300-0288 View (628) 300-0288
Photo of Dr. Sean Robertson, MA, PsyD
Dr. Sean Robertson
MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
In addition to couples counseling, I also offer couples intimacy coaching for performance anxiety, sex addiction, sexuality, and open relationships.
Start seeing challenges as opportunities to get your needs met and improve your relationship! I’m Dr. Sean Robertson, creator of RDP. I work as an online Couples Counselor and Intimacy Coach. I know relationships can be hard, even though they’re also one of the most fulfilling parts of our life. In my couples counseling I create an empathic space for learning and deep connection, while also being diligent about ensuring that clients implement the tools I teach. My methods are based in behavioral psychology, Gottman Method, and attachment psychology.
In addition to couples counseling, I also offer couples intimacy coaching for performance anxiety, sex addiction, sexuality, and open relationships.
Start seeing challenges as opportunities to get your needs met and improve your relationship! I’m Dr. Sean Robertson, creator of RDP. I work as an online Couples Counselor and Intimacy Coach. I know relationships can be hard, even though they’re also one of the most fulfilling parts of our life. In my couples counseling I create an empathic space for learning and deep connection, while also being diligent about ensuring that clients implement the tools I teach. My methods are based in behavioral psychology, Gottman Method, and attachment psychology.
(415) 873-8050 View (415) 873-8050
Photo of Lee Rather, PhD, Psychologist
Lee Rather
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
I am a Licensed Psychologist who works with adults in psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and couples therapy, Over the last 25 years, I have helped people with a wide range of problems including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, sexual concerns, interpersonal relationship issues, career obstacles, blocks in creativity, and the process of coming to terms with difficult and traumatic life situations. Usually my work extends further in helping people discover and develop a more lively and authentic sense of self, which in turn brings a sense of deeper meaningfulness and engagement in life.
I am a Licensed Psychologist who works with adults in psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and couples therapy, Over the last 25 years, I have helped people with a wide range of problems including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, sexual concerns, interpersonal relationship issues, career obstacles, blocks in creativity, and the process of coming to terms with difficult and traumatic life situations. Usually my work extends further in helping people discover and develop a more lively and authentic sense of self, which in turn brings a sense of deeper meaningfulness and engagement in life.
(415) 763-5972 View (415) 763-5972
Photo of Dr. Sean Robertson, MA, PsyD
Dr. Sean Robertson
MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
In addition to couples counseling, I also offer couples intimacy coaching for performance anxiety, sex addiction, sexuality, and open relationships.
Start seeing challenges as opportunities to get your needs met and improve your relationship! I’m Dr. Sean Robertson, creator of RDP. I work as an online Couples Counselor and Intimacy Coach. I know relationships can be hard, even though they’re also one of the most fulfilling parts of our life. In my couples counseling I create an empathic space for learning and deep connection, while also being diligent about ensuring that clients implement the tools I teach. My methods are based in behavioral psychology, Gottman Method, and attachment psychology.
In addition to couples counseling, I also offer couples intimacy coaching for performance anxiety, sex addiction, sexuality, and open relationships.
Start seeing challenges as opportunities to get your needs met and improve your relationship! I’m Dr. Sean Robertson, creator of RDP. I work as an online Couples Counselor and Intimacy Coach. I know relationships can be hard, even though they’re also one of the most fulfilling parts of our life. In my couples counseling I create an empathic space for learning and deep connection, while also being diligent about ensuring that clients implement the tools I teach. My methods are based in behavioral psychology, Gottman Method, and attachment psychology.
(760) 314-4449 View (760) 314-4449
Photo of Ryan Moore, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ryan Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I have a few areas of speciality including, relationship problems, addiction, trauma, family wounds, and spiritual concerns/growth.
My goal is to create a safe and open space for you to explore your story and deepen your self understanding, putting you on a path to healing. I work with you to identify areas of frustration and concern, as well as areas of strength. My approach is based in relational psychotherapy and also incorporates Emotionally Focused Therapy, family systems and Existential perspectives.
I have a few areas of speciality including, relationship problems, addiction, trauma, family wounds, and spiritual concerns/growth.
My goal is to create a safe and open space for you to explore your story and deepen your self understanding, putting you on a path to healing. I work with you to identify areas of frustration and concern, as well as areas of strength. My approach is based in relational psychotherapy and also incorporates Emotionally Focused Therapy, family systems and Existential perspectives.
(415) 761-2815 View (415) 761-2815
Photo of John Andonakakis, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Andonakakis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I have trained and worked in a broad array of environments, including community-based and private mental health clinics, substance abuse treatment centers for adolescents and adults, elementary schools, hospital psychiatric facilities, and residential facilities for homeless single adults.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience. I work with adults who are struggling with challenging life transitions, repercussions of traumatic experience, challenges with emotional regulation, relationships, and concerns related to psycho-spiritual development. I am proud to serve the LGBT and straight communities. I accept Tele-therapy referrals.
I have trained and worked in a broad array of environments, including community-based and private mental health clinics, substance abuse treatment centers for adolescents and adults, elementary schools, hospital psychiatric facilities, and residential facilities for homeless single adults.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience. I work with adults who are struggling with challenging life transitions, repercussions of traumatic experience, challenges with emotional regulation, relationships, and concerns related to psycho-spiritual development. I am proud to serve the LGBT and straight communities. I accept Tele-therapy referrals.
(415) 795-2912 View (415) 795-2912
Photo of Thom Kessler, MS, LMFT, RAS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Thom Kessler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Addiction Specialist.
Whether your decision to make changes involves freedom from painful limiting beliefs, release from repetitive relationship patterns, or transformation through sincere self-examination, I help people to fully realize the person they are destined to become. I work with adults, couples, teens, and families, helping them to successfully attain short-term goals and craft long-range solutions by utilizing a variety of approaches matched to their specific needs or expressed desires as they learn new ways to address life's challenges. As a level 3 Gottman couples therapist, I work with couples utilizing John Gottman's evidence-based theory.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Addiction Specialist.
Whether your decision to make changes involves freedom from painful limiting beliefs, release from repetitive relationship patterns, or transformation through sincere self-examination, I help people to fully realize the person they are destined to become. I work with adults, couples, teens, and families, helping them to successfully attain short-term goals and craft long-range solutions by utilizing a variety of approaches matched to their specific needs or expressed desires as they learn new ways to address life's challenges. As a level 3 Gottman couples therapist, I work with couples utilizing John Gottman's evidence-based theory.
(415) 454-8931 View (415) 454-8931
Photo of Don Diva, MS, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Don Diva
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I'm best suited to treat relationship problems, depression, father wounds, men with sexual addiction and grief/loss issues.
Are you stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns? Are you coping with the stress of life in destructive ways- by bottling up your feelings or acting out through addiction or in toxic relationships? You do not have to struggle alone. During the different stages of our lives, our relationships, and our family life cycle, we can get stuck in certain places. As your therapist we would work together to help you find what you need so that you can move through these stuck places, experience healthier relationships, find hope and be free from destructive behaviors.
I'm best suited to treat relationship problems, depression, father wounds, men with sexual addiction and grief/loss issues.
Are you stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns? Are you coping with the stress of life in destructive ways- by bottling up your feelings or acting out through addiction or in toxic relationships? You do not have to struggle alone. During the different stages of our lives, our relationships, and our family life cycle, we can get stuck in certain places. As your therapist we would work together to help you find what you need so that you can move through these stuck places, experience healthier relationships, find hope and be free from destructive behaviors.
(714) 882-5711 View (714) 882-5711
Photo of Evan Wassarman, PsyD, Psychologist
Evan Wassarman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
I work with adults to address issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar, relational difficulties, career and life transitions, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use, and personal growth.
There is no one reason to enter therapy that is more meaningful or valid than any other. In my approach, all of your experiences matter and there are no wrong answers. I view each person as unique and multi-dimensional–not just a diagnosis or a set of symptoms. You and I will discuss and think together about your past, present, and future to gain a deeper understanding of how you experience the world. Through this process we can uncover thoughts and feelings you may not have realized you had, and help you to gain a new understanding of yourself and your relationships that improves your quality of life and sense of peace of mind.
I work with adults to address issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar, relational difficulties, career and life transitions, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use, and personal growth.
There is no one reason to enter therapy that is more meaningful or valid than any other. In my approach, all of your experiences matter and there are no wrong answers. I view each person as unique and multi-dimensional–not just a diagnosis or a set of symptoms. You and I will discuss and think together about your past, present, and future to gain a deeper understanding of how you experience the world. Through this process we can uncover thoughts and feelings you may not have realized you had, and help you to gain a new understanding of yourself and your relationships that improves your quality of life and sense of peace of mind.
(415) 997-0929 View (415) 997-0929
Photo of James Baron, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
James Baron
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Hi, my name is Mike Baron. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy is very client-focused. After all, you are the expert when it comes to you. Most of my career has been focused on active-duty military and Veterans. As a result, I have an extensive background in combat trauma and substance abuse. I have a long history of working with both Veterans and active-duty military members. I work with individuals and couples dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, combat trauma, and substance abuse.
Hi, my name is Mike Baron. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy is very client-focused. After all, you are the expert when it comes to you. Most of my career has been focused on active-duty military and Veterans. As a result, I have an extensive background in combat trauma and substance abuse. I have a long history of working with both Veterans and active-duty military members. I work with individuals and couples dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, combat trauma, and substance abuse.
(619) 815-5114 View (619) 815-5114
Photo of Nate Hinerman, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nate Hinerman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
I routinely treat depression and anxiety, addiction, trauma, PTSD, and a variety of personality disorders, in addition to grief and loss.
Nate Hinerman, PhD, LMFT, is Dean of Undergraduate Programs at Golden Gate University, San Francisco, where he is also a tenured Professor of Psychology, as well as the Chair of the Psychology Department. He is also on the faculty at the University of San Francisco, teaching in the Nursing School, and in the Religious Studies Department. He serves as Chair of the San Francisco End of Life Network, a community-based support and education group for hospice and palliative care professionals and patients, now in its 23rd year (www.sfeol.org).
I routinely treat depression and anxiety, addiction, trauma, PTSD, and a variety of personality disorders, in addition to grief and loss.
Nate Hinerman, PhD, LMFT, is Dean of Undergraduate Programs at Golden Gate University, San Francisco, where he is also a tenured Professor of Psychology, as well as the Chair of the Psychology Department. He is also on the faculty at the University of San Francisco, teaching in the Nursing School, and in the Religious Studies Department. He serves as Chair of the San Francisco End of Life Network, a community-based support and education group for hospice and palliative care professionals and patients, now in its 23rd year (www.sfeol.org).
(628) 215-8084 View (628) 215-8084
Photo of J. Marc Wallis - J. Marc Wallis, LCSW, Psychotherapy, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
J. Marc Wallis, LCSW, Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
My approach is warm, collaborative and effective. With 30 years of clinical experience, I help adults, adolescents, couples and teams address a variety of concerns, including: emotional turmoil, unsatisyfing relationships, and ways you may unwittingly be doing things that get in your own way. The collaborative work of therapy helps people feel more alive, satisfied and engaged in work, relationships and their other pursuits.
My approach is warm, collaborative and effective. With 30 years of clinical experience, I help adults, adolescents, couples and teams address a variety of concerns, including: emotional turmoil, unsatisyfing relationships, and ways you may unwittingly be doing things that get in your own way. The collaborative work of therapy helps people feel more alive, satisfied and engaged in work, relationships and their other pursuits.
(650) 209-7826 View (650) 209-7826
1
Addiction Therapists

What is the best therapy for addiction?

Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.