Substance Use Therapists in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA

Christy Israel
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
I also have experience in, and am comfortable treating a broad spectrum of challenges, including, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, bipolar disorders, and other psychiatric disorders.
Hello! My name is Christy Israel, and I am a licensed professional clinical counselor. I am a person-centered therapist. I believe, as psychologist, Carl Rogers stated, "that each individual has within him or herself vast resources for self-understanding, for altering his or her self-concept, attitudes, and self-directed behavior." I take great joy in partnering with my clients, eliciting their strengths, in order for them to heal, grow, achieve their goals, and live the life of their dreams. I really love to match people with the most appropriate form of therapy for them.
I also have experience in, and am comfortable treating a broad spectrum of challenges, including, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, bipolar disorders, and other psychiatric disorders.
Hello! My name is Christy Israel, and I am a licensed professional clinical counselor. I am a person-centered therapist. I believe, as psychologist, Carl Rogers stated, "that each individual has within him or herself vast resources for self-understanding, for altering his or her self-concept, attitudes, and self-directed behavior." I take great joy in partnering with my clients, eliciting their strengths, in order for them to heal, grow, achieve their goals, and live the life of their dreams. I really love to match people with the most appropriate form of therapy for them.
(424) 587-3709 View (424) 587-3709
Photo of Janine Ochoa, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janine Ochoa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
This often takes the form of substance use, self-deprecation, and hopelessness, just to name a few.
My name is Janine Ochoa, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I have worked with adolescents in foster care, as well as currently working with adults in substance counseling, anxiety, depression, and PTSD, just to name a few. I have used many approaches, however, have enhanced my skills in cognitive behavioral therapy and attachment-based therapy, to assist my clients in learning coping skills and enhancing their own self-determination. I have seen how the approach I utilize has helped adolescents and adults who have been enduring challenges with belonging and self-acceptance.
This often takes the form of substance use, self-deprecation, and hopelessness, just to name a few.
My name is Janine Ochoa, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I have worked with adolescents in foster care, as well as currently working with adults in substance counseling, anxiety, depression, and PTSD, just to name a few. I have used many approaches, however, have enhanced my skills in cognitive behavioral therapy and attachment-based therapy, to assist my clients in learning coping skills and enhancing their own self-determination. I have seen how the approach I utilize has helped adolescents and adults who have been enduring challenges with belonging and self-acceptance.
(562) 620-7167 View (562) 620-7167
Photo of Sheila Kelly, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sheila Kelly
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
I specialize in serving transitional age young adult clients however am very comfortable with teens through mid-life. My clients struggle with trauma, depression, anxiety, intense relationships, codependency and substance use. I am certified in EMDR therapy and have completed Level 3 of Gottman Method couple's therapy. My passion is to assist people discover their core selves while maintaining acceptance, intimacy, and connection in relationships.
I specialize in serving transitional age young adult clients however am very comfortable with teens through mid-life. My clients struggle with trauma, depression, anxiety, intense relationships, codependency and substance use. I am certified in EMDR therapy and have completed Level 3 of Gottman Method couple's therapy. My passion is to assist people discover their core selves while maintaining acceptance, intimacy, and connection in relationships.
(424) 364-2421 View (424) 364-2421
Photo of Robin L Kusilka, MA, LMFT, AT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robin L Kusilka
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275  (Online Only)
There are times that life can feel overwhelming whether due to trauma, stress, anxiety, depression or life transitions. I would like to join you on your journey toward wholeness and well-being as you navigate through life's trying times. I utilize an integrative holistic approach, allowing for unique and unlimited growth and potential. In my collaborative approach my goal in the therapeutic relationship is for each client to feel heard, respected and understood. I customize each client's needs and treatment using a variety of tools including psycho-education, mindfulness, meditation, body awareness and art.
There are times that life can feel overwhelming whether due to trauma, stress, anxiety, depression or life transitions. I would like to join you on your journey toward wholeness and well-being as you navigate through life's trying times. I utilize an integrative holistic approach, allowing for unique and unlimited growth and potential. In my collaborative approach my goal in the therapeutic relationship is for each client to feel heard, respected and understood. I customize each client's needs and treatment using a variety of tools including psycho-education, mindfulness, meditation, body awareness and art.
(424) 363-8990 View (424) 363-8990
Photo of Bernard Nicolas, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bernard Nicolas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90732
While superbly educated and experienced as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I always remember that the primary component of any healing I can facilitate is spiritual. I have a background as a creative artist and a community-oriented clinician. I work with children 6 and up, couples, families and individuals regardless of sexual orientation, race, religion, or economic status. I have also done a lot of work with adolescents dealing with substance abuse and adults facing workplace issues.
While superbly educated and experienced as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I always remember that the primary component of any healing I can facilitate is spiritual. I have a background as a creative artist and a community-oriented clinician. I work with children 6 and up, couples, families and individuals regardless of sexual orientation, race, religion, or economic status. I have also done a lot of work with adolescents dealing with substance abuse and adults facing workplace issues.
(424) 273-8475 View (424) 273-8475
Photo of Krysta Alarcon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krysta Alarcon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
My name is Krysta Alarcon, LCSW 121989 I have learned to integrate effective communication and my clinical knowledge as an effective provider and leader to clients and overcome barriers related to behavioral health. I use my critical thinking skills to use when providing leadership and person-centered approach to services to individuals. My passion lies beyond mental health more towards overall well-being and becoming the best version of us in hopes of creating a brighter future.
My name is Krysta Alarcon, LCSW 121989 I have learned to integrate effective communication and my clinical knowledge as an effective provider and leader to clients and overcome barriers related to behavioral health. I use my critical thinking skills to use when providing leadership and person-centered approach to services to individuals. My passion lies beyond mental health more towards overall well-being and becoming the best version of us in hopes of creating a brighter future.
(424) 799-1651 View (424) 799-1651
Photo of Mirna Johnson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mirna Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
My name is Mirna Johnson. I am a Mexican American, Army Veteran and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT). I have experience helping individuals and families navigate difficult times. My unique background and cultural sensitivity allow me to connect with clients on a deeper level. I am passionate about empowering people to find healing and restoration in their relationships. Empowering individuals couples and families to foster healthy relationships, overcome challenges, and cultivate resilience.
My name is Mirna Johnson. I am a Mexican American, Army Veteran and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT). I have experience helping individuals and families navigate difficult times. My unique background and cultural sensitivity allow me to connect with clients on a deeper level. I am passionate about empowering people to find healing and restoration in their relationships. Empowering individuals couples and families to foster healthy relationships, overcome challenges, and cultivate resilience.
(424) 799-3160 View (424) 799-3160
Photo of Heather Michelle Wondra, MFT, Lic, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Michelle Wondra
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, Lic
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275  (Online Only)
Licensed and specializing in eating disorders, anxiety, depression, addiction, relationships, and more. I provide you with Zoom, FaceTime and/or phone sessions. I have personal experience recovering from an eating disorder as well as internship practice and experience with cancer patients, victims of crime, children, and teens.
Licensed and specializing in eating disorders, anxiety, depression, addiction, relationships, and more. I provide you with Zoom, FaceTime and/or phone sessions. I have personal experience recovering from an eating disorder as well as internship practice and experience with cancer patients, victims of crime, children, and teens.
(310) 683-4872 View (310) 683-4872
Photo of Carol Francis - Counseling Adults, Children & Couples, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP, Psychologist
Counseling Adults, Children & Couples
Psychologist, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
(310) 421-2863 View (310) 421-2863
Photo of Jeanne Quilling, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeanne Quilling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275  (Online Only)
Thanks for viewing my professional profile. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 19 years experience, including working in hospitals, private clinics, and as the Clinical Director of an in-patient residential facility. My experience includes treating a broad range of issues including addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, divorce, parenting children with special needs, post-partum depression and schizophrenia.
Thanks for viewing my professional profile. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 19 years experience, including working in hospitals, private clinics, and as the Clinical Director of an in-patient residential facility. My experience includes treating a broad range of issues including addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, divorce, parenting children with special needs, post-partum depression and schizophrenia.
(310) 807-2295 View (310) 807-2295
Photo of Dexter Jay Jefferson Jr, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dexter Jay Jefferson Jr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275  (Online Only)
Yesterday’s experiences can influence today’s thoughts, and your current thoughts will dictate how you behave and feel. Are you in an uncertain place in life and find yourself desiring peace and happiness? Do you fear the unknown or constantly worry? Do you experience bouts of sadness or anger that appear to be intensifying? Have you tried everything to fix these things, but nothing has worked? Well, there is hope. Regardless of your struggles, the right therapist can help you begin the healing process. I believe that I am the right therapist for you. I specialize in treating anxiety and depression and I am here to help.
Yesterday’s experiences can influence today’s thoughts, and your current thoughts will dictate how you behave and feel. Are you in an uncertain place in life and find yourself desiring peace and happiness? Do you fear the unknown or constantly worry? Do you experience bouts of sadness or anger that appear to be intensifying? Have you tried everything to fix these things, but nothing has worked? Well, there is hope. Regardless of your struggles, the right therapist can help you begin the healing process. I believe that I am the right therapist for you. I specialize in treating anxiety and depression and I am here to help.
(562) 608-3827 View (562) 608-3827
Photo of Meg Ichikawa Chang, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meg Ichikawa Chang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
When times are tough, a little professional help to sort things out can be beneficial. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to freely express your thoughts and feelings. With me gently supporting and guiding you through, you will gain insight into how your past experiences have shaped the way you think and respond to life situations. We will identify thought patterns that no longer work for you, explore brand new perspectives and practice positive coping skills. Through my gentle and compassionate guidance, you will equip yourself with successful coping skills that will help you throughout your entire life journey.
When times are tough, a little professional help to sort things out can be beneficial. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to freely express your thoughts and feelings. With me gently supporting and guiding you through, you will gain insight into how your past experiences have shaped the way you think and respond to life situations. We will identify thought patterns that no longer work for you, explore brand new perspectives and practice positive coping skills. Through my gentle and compassionate guidance, you will equip yourself with successful coping skills that will help you throughout your entire life journey.
(424) 667-5591 View (424) 667-5591
Photo of Ann Christensen, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Christensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
I am a Board Certified psychotherapist. Many clients simply need help in handling a family or personal crisis, or guidance through a transitional period in their lives. I encourage goal setting, specific objectives, strategies and time frames. I also have extensive experience responding to the needs of women, men and couples who are having difficulty juggling family, finances, work stress and intimate relationships.
I am a Board Certified psychotherapist. Many clients simply need help in handling a family or personal crisis, or guidance through a transitional period in their lives. I encourage goal setting, specific objectives, strategies and time frames. I also have extensive experience responding to the needs of women, men and couples who are having difficulty juggling family, finances, work stress and intimate relationships.
(310) 956-1059 View (310) 956-1059
Photo of Susan W Brown, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Susan W Brown
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Traumas from your past holding you back? I can help you overcome them with the gold standard for trauma treatment: EMDR. Dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship challenges or grief? I provide a caring, supportive atmosphere with which to help you face your issues and move forward. I am a Christian therapist who uses psychological tools and Biblical principles to help people improve their lives. I also have experience treating combat veterans with PTSD. I look forward to helping you make significant changes that will benefit your life. Call today for a free phone consultation.
Traumas from your past holding you back? I can help you overcome them with the gold standard for trauma treatment: EMDR. Dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship challenges or grief? I provide a caring, supportive atmosphere with which to help you face your issues and move forward. I am a Christian therapist who uses psychological tools and Biblical principles to help people improve their lives. I also have experience treating combat veterans with PTSD. I look forward to helping you make significant changes that will benefit your life. Call today for a free phone consultation.
(310) 627-2319 View (310) 627-2319
Photo of Lisa Richards, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Richards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
What would it mean to you, to flourish and thrive? How can you use your experiences~all of them~for good? What will we learn from you? How do you want to leave the world a better place because of you? You are that important. I am a Board Certified Diplomat in clinical social work with over thirty-five years of experience. I believe that we learn and teach in every moment, and it is rewarding for me to help clients grow their authentic power. Life is full of lessons, gifts and opportunities, when we learn to receive them.
What would it mean to you, to flourish and thrive? How can you use your experiences~all of them~for good? What will we learn from you? How do you want to leave the world a better place because of you? You are that important. I am a Board Certified Diplomat in clinical social work with over thirty-five years of experience. I believe that we learn and teach in every moment, and it is rewarding for me to help clients grow their authentic power. Life is full of lessons, gifts and opportunities, when we learn to receive them.
(310) 920-6191 View (310) 920-6191
Photo of Mallory Molle, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mallory Molle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Welcome! My name is Mallory Molle and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist within the San Pedro area. I am passionate about helping people grow, change, and ultimately feel their best. With an empathic and compassionate approach, I am dedicated to supporting and encouraging clients throughout their therapeutic journey. In a confidential and non-judgmental environment, I work to foster a space of acceptance and warmth. Having worked within this profession for the past 8 years and within the helping field for 15 years, I have extensive experience helping people from all walks of life.
Welcome! My name is Mallory Molle and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist within the San Pedro area. I am passionate about helping people grow, change, and ultimately feel their best. With an empathic and compassionate approach, I am dedicated to supporting and encouraging clients throughout their therapeutic journey. In a confidential and non-judgmental environment, I work to foster a space of acceptance and warmth. Having worked within this profession for the past 8 years and within the helping field for 15 years, I have extensive experience helping people from all walks of life.
(424) 888-7528 View (424) 888-7528
Photo of Janet Blaser, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janet Blaser
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Resolving personal issues and the work of self-discovery can be a difficult but rewarding journey. Undertaking this challenge in a thoughtful way, with someone who acts as support and guide, helps illuminate the process. Relationship issues, romantic, familial or social, can be filled with confusion, anger, jealousy and the loss of self-worth. They can also be the seeds for better understanding who you are in the moment and who you really want to be.
Resolving personal issues and the work of self-discovery can be a difficult but rewarding journey. Undertaking this challenge in a thoughtful way, with someone who acts as support and guide, helps illuminate the process. Relationship issues, romantic, familial or social, can be filled with confusion, anger, jealousy and the loss of self-worth. They can also be the seeds for better understanding who you are in the moment and who you really want to be.
(424) 294-8954 View (424) 294-8954
Photo of Bonnie Ray Kennan, PsyD, MFT, CGP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bonnie Ray Kennan
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT, CGP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Do you frequently experience deja vu in your relationships? Are you dating the "same" person you divorced five years ago? Do your relationships feel draining and chaotic? Interpersonal stress can cause anxiety, depression, and other painful conditions. "Relationship Rehab" is my unique system that will help you create satisfying and loving relationships. It is through relationship that you will heal the aches in your heart and replace tired old patterns with healthy behaviors. You will gain insight and self awareness on your therapeutic journey. You will integrate new skills for living, loving, and relating. I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist.
Do you frequently experience deja vu in your relationships? Are you dating the "same" person you divorced five years ago? Do your relationships feel draining and chaotic? Interpersonal stress can cause anxiety, depression, and other painful conditions. "Relationship Rehab" is my unique system that will help you create satisfying and loving relationships. It is through relationship that you will heal the aches in your heart and replace tired old patterns with healthy behaviors. You will gain insight and self awareness on your therapeutic journey. You will integrate new skills for living, loving, and relating. I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist.
(424) 294-8108 View (424) 294-8108
Photo of Ronald Wayne Perales, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ronald Wayne Perales
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Treating Covid 19 fear, anxiety, depression, grief, via tele-therapy. I help people to feel better and move forward. In our work together you can resolve issues and regain balance.
Treating Covid 19 fear, anxiety, depression, grief, via tele-therapy. I help people to feel better and move forward. In our work together you can resolve issues and regain balance.
(424) 320-6611 View (424) 320-6611
Photo of Gary Schapper, MA, MDiv, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gary Schapper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275  (Online Only)
Are your worried, rushed, easily losing your temper, crashing in hopelessness, and/or uncertain of who you are and what is your purpose in life? I use a mindfulness therapy that helps you to: 1) notice when unhelpful aspects of your past are presenting themselves in the present; 2) understand, notice, and temper all of your feelings; 3) create new stories in your life; 4) embrace love at its deepest levels; 5) improve relationships and communications in all areas of your life.
Are your worried, rushed, easily losing your temper, crashing in hopelessness, and/or uncertain of who you are and what is your purpose in life? I use a mindfulness therapy that helps you to: 1) notice when unhelpful aspects of your past are presenting themselves in the present; 2) understand, notice, and temper all of your feelings; 3) create new stories in your life; 4) embrace love at its deepest levels; 5) improve relationships and communications in all areas of your life.
(310) 879-5063 View (310) 879-5063
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Substance Use Therapists

How do substance and drug recovery or rehabilitation programs work?

In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other clients in recovery; in outpatient programs, individuals reside at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counselors, and psychotherapists. Staff often also includes people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other methods.

How do 12-step programs combined with psychotherapy work?

Members of 12-step programs help each other reach abstinence and work to maintain it. These programs promote complete change in the individual’s emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual perspectives. Some programs require that new members attend 90 meetings in 90 days. Many people do attend these programs in conjunction with their work in psychotherapy; the combination of therapy along with 12-step can be extremely effective.

How does harm reduction combined with psychotherapy work?

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, harm reduction prevents death, injury, disease, overdose, and substance misuse. People who choose harm reduction for substance use reduce the amount of drugs they consume. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.

Are there specific medications for substance and drug use?

There are medications approved to treat substance use disorder—such as buprenorphine, methadone, naltrexone, and acamprosate. These medications do help people cope with substance use as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone can help reduce cravings, methadone is an opioid medication used to treat severe pain, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.