Addiction Therapists in San Diego, CA

Rene Williamson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
San Diego, CA 92116
Confused? Stressed? Frustrated? Depressed? Need help with your relationship, your kids or other life challenges? Sometimes we all just need a compassionate, caring person to listen and provide informed and appropriate feedback and guidance. I believe that 90% of therapy's effectiveness is in choosing the right person. You either "click" with your therapist, or you don't. If you find a good match, you are half-way there! Please call me for a free telephone consultation, so we can discuss your concerns to see if I am a good fit for your particular needs. I look forward to your call.
Confused? Stressed? Frustrated? Depressed? Need help with your relationship, your kids or other life challenges? Sometimes we all just need a compassionate, caring person to listen and provide informed and appropriate feedback and guidance. I believe that 90% of therapy's effectiveness is in choosing the right person. You either "click" with your therapist, or you don't. If you find a good match, you are half-way there! Please call me for a free telephone consultation, so we can discuss your concerns to see if I am a good fit for your particular needs. I look forward to your call.
(619) 377-8639 View (619) 377-8639
John Lee Evans
Psychologist, PhD
San Diego, CA 92127
Whether you are a successful professional, an athlete or a struggling student, you want someone who will help you overcome depression, anxiety, addictions and many other problems.
People want straight talk from a psychologist, not psychobabble. They don’t want a passive therapist who just listens. Nor do they want a know-it-all to tell them exactly what to do. They want a competent psychologist who gives real feedback about what he sees going on. They want someone with real life experience who can relate to their problems as a professional, a parent or a student. Before becoming a psychologist, Dr. Evans had experience serving in the Peace Corps, running a business, getting married and having children.
Whether you are a successful professional, an athlete or a struggling student, you want someone who will help you overcome depression, anxiety, addictions and many other problems.
People want straight talk from a psychologist, not psychobabble. They don’t want a passive therapist who just listens. Nor do they want a know-it-all to tell them exactly what to do. They want a competent psychologist who gives real feedback about what he sees going on. They want someone with real life experience who can relate to their problems as a professional, a parent or a student. Before becoming a psychologist, Dr. Evans had experience serving in the Peace Corps, running a business, getting married and having children.
(858) 673-9600 View (858) 673-9600
Kirsten Helgager
Psychologist, PsyD
San Diego, CA 92108
The focus of my work has been on the treatment of trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, addiction, and disordered eating.
You might be dealing with PTSD, anxiety, depression, or the effects of childhood trauma. These things can affect all areas of your life – your self worth, your energy levels, your ability to be your authentic and best self. You find yourself disconnected from what matters most. You know you don't have to live this way anymore. You are looking for a collaborative, supportive therapist who can guide you along your journey of healing from emotional pain.
The focus of my work has been on the treatment of trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, addiction, and disordered eating.
You might be dealing with PTSD, anxiety, depression, or the effects of childhood trauma. These things can affect all areas of your life – your self worth, your energy levels, your ability to be your authentic and best self. You find yourself disconnected from what matters most. You know you don't have to live this way anymore. You are looking for a collaborative, supportive therapist who can guide you along your journey of healing from emotional pain.
(619) 377-7499 View (619) 377-7499
Kristine Grace Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CETI, CEDS, TEP
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109
I have specialities in trauma, eating disorders, couples, addictions, family therapy and LGBTQIA+.
With over 30 years of experience, I compassionately help guide you experientially, so you can access somatic and emotional wisdom.
I have specialities in trauma, eating disorders, couples, addictions, family therapy and LGBTQIA+.
With over 30 years of experience, I compassionately help guide you experientially, so you can access somatic and emotional wisdom.
(858) 683-0857 View (858) 683-0857
Genoveva Avalos-Mireles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ASW, MA, BA
San Diego, CA 92121
I treat trauma and addictions.
I have over 27 years of experience in optimal mental health. I have extensive experience treating addictions and related issues. I am also trained in Trauma-Eye EMDR. I borrow from Gestalt, psychodynamic theories, Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy(DBT), Anger management, Grief and loss, and infertility. Preventative therapy.
I treat trauma and addictions.
I have over 27 years of experience in optimal mental health. I have extensive experience treating addictions and related issues. I am also trained in Trauma-Eye EMDR. I borrow from Gestalt, psychodynamic theories, Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy(DBT), Anger management, Grief and loss, and infertility. Preventative therapy.
(858) 758-9401 View (858) 758-9401
Sean Sprigle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Before I was a therapist I was a client myself, struggling with addiction, PTSD and other issues as well.
My specialties include substance abuse (dual diagnosis), trauma/PTSD, codependency, dysfunctional family dynamics, anxiety, and depression. I utilize a wide range of skills, experience, and training to help ease the difficulties my clients are facing.
Before I was a therapist I was a client myself, struggling with addiction, PTSD and other issues as well.
My specialties include substance abuse (dual diagnosis), trauma/PTSD, codependency, dysfunctional family dynamics, anxiety, and depression. I utilize a wide range of skills, experience, and training to help ease the difficulties my clients are facing.
(858) 879-6083 View (858) 879-6083
Green Meadows
Psychologist, PhD
San Diego, CA 92121
At Green Meadows, we incorporate a variety of therapy modalities specifically for working with problems related to addiction, trauma, infidelity, and couples who are in conflict or feel like roommates instead of lovers.
Finding a therapist that understands your unique challenges, values your strengths, and offers hope based on a variety of data-driven approaches — that is a recipe tor success.
At Green Meadows, we incorporate a variety of therapy modalities specifically for working with problems related to addiction, trauma, infidelity, and couples who are in conflict or feel like roommates instead of lovers.
Finding a therapist that understands your unique challenges, values your strengths, and offers hope based on a variety of data-driven approaches — that is a recipe tor success.
(858) 924-0469 View (858) 924-0469
Mental Health First Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My clients range age 11 to 65 and are seeking help with anxiety, depression, addiction and adjustments in their life (children, divorce, illness, and loss).
I have spent the last decade working in the mental health field. My approaches are cognitive behavioral, client centered, and solution focused. All three serve my clients in helping them understand their journey in life.
My clients range age 11 to 65 and are seeking help with anxiety, depression, addiction and adjustments in their life (children, divorce, illness, and loss).
I have spent the last decade working in the mental health field. My approaches are cognitive behavioral, client centered, and solution focused. All three serve my clients in helping them understand their journey in life.
(858) 358-7587 View (858) 358-7587
Creston Davis: Trauma, Anxiety, Depression
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92110
If you are having challenges with trauma, anxiety, and depression, or keeping your mood stable, I can assist you with finding the right balance and solutions. Left untreated those feeling of hopelessness, sadness, loss of interest in activities can have a negative impact on your life. I work with people who have trauma, some have flashbacks, deep fear of trust and hypervigilance.
If you are having challenges with trauma, anxiety, and depression, or keeping your mood stable, I can assist you with finding the right balance and solutions. Left untreated those feeling of hopelessness, sadness, loss of interest in activities can have a negative impact on your life. I work with people who have trauma, some have flashbacks, deep fear of trust and hypervigilance.
(619) 677-6015 View (619) 677-6015
Agape Counseling Center, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
San Diego, CA 92116
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, addiction?
I have over 25 years of experience working in mental health, substance abuse, and child welfare. I utilize CBT to increase and maintain functioning. I provide proven and usable techniques and interventions to address individual, couple, and family dysfunction.
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, addiction?
I have over 25 years of experience working in mental health, substance abuse, and child welfare. I utilize CBT to increase and maintain functioning. I provide proven and usable techniques and interventions to address individual, couple, and family dysfunction.
(619) 367-0918 View (619) 367-0918
Tanya Wardner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92128
Do you feel that something is missing but you don’t know what it is, or how to get it? Maybe you’re not as happy as you thought you’d be at this stage of your life or maybe you’re busier than you ever imagined and have difficulty taking time for yourself. Do you find yourself wondering, Will things get better? Will I ever feel truly happy? Is this all there is?
Do you feel that something is missing but you don’t know what it is, or how to get it? Maybe you’re not as happy as you thought you’d be at this stage of your life or maybe you’re busier than you ever imagined and have difficulty taking time for yourself. Do you find yourself wondering, Will things get better? Will I ever feel truly happy? Is this all there is?
(657) 233-3919 View (657) 233-3919
Dr. Sisi Yu
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117
Many of my clients are high-achieving teens and adults who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, burnout, or patterns around alcohol or substance use.
I use evidence-based interventions to help you manage anxiety, difficult emotions, and unhelpful coping habits around alcohol or substance use. We also explore how childhood experiences and family dynamics shape your current relationship and behavior patterns. In addiction work, I use a non-12-step approach to support your goals and make change at your pace.
Many of my clients are high-achieving teens and adults who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, burnout, or patterns around alcohol or substance use.
I use evidence-based interventions to help you manage anxiety, difficult emotions, and unhelpful coping habits around alcohol or substance use. We also explore how childhood experiences and family dynamics shape your current relationship and behavior patterns. In addiction work, I use a non-12-step approach to support your goals and make change at your pace.
(619) 558-0736 View (619) 558-0736
Jonah Ray Berger
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC-II
San Diego, CA 92103
Drawing on two decades of experience with trauma, addiction, and transformation, I help you bring mindfulness to the spaces between self and other.
You’re emotionally intelligent and deeply reflective, yet something inside still feels just out of reach. Despite your awareness, relationships can leave you feeling unseen or disconnected. You sense that the missing piece isn’t more outward effort, but a deeper connection, both to yourself and others. You want to experience relationships as sacred ground for growth, where honesty, awareness, and your connection to your Self become the teachers. You're ready to explore how the things you've been through are keeping you from getting what you're longing for. Together, we’ll explore how your inner world shapes your outer experiences.
Drawing on two decades of experience with trauma, addiction, and transformation, I help you bring mindfulness to the spaces between self and other.
You’re emotionally intelligent and deeply reflective, yet something inside still feels just out of reach. Despite your awareness, relationships can leave you feeling unseen or disconnected. You sense that the missing piece isn’t more outward effort, but a deeper connection, both to yourself and others. You want to experience relationships as sacred ground for growth, where honesty, awareness, and your connection to your Self become the teachers. You're ready to explore how the things you've been through are keeping you from getting what you're longing for. Together, we’ll explore how your inner world shapes your outer experiences.
(408) 916-5558 View (408) 916-5558
Lindsay Kramer Damoose
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
San Diego, CA 92103
I specialize in treating substance use disorders, trauma—including work with frontline professionals—mood and anxiety disorders, grief, and relationship/family issues.
My work balances compassion with accountability, creating a supportive yet growth‑oriented experience. I prioritize building a strong, collaborative relationship with my clients. Many describe me as approachable and easy to talk to, and I strive to ensure that each person I work with feels genuinely seen in their suffering.
I specialize in treating substance use disorders, trauma—including work with frontline professionals—mood and anxiety disorders, grief, and relationship/family issues.
My work balances compassion with accountability, creating a supportive yet growth‑oriented experience. I prioritize building a strong, collaborative relationship with my clients. Many describe me as approachable and easy to talk to, and I strive to ensure that each person I work with feels genuinely seen in their suffering.
(619) 329-9662 View (619) 329-9662
Dorothy Porter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Are you trying to navigate difficult relationships, manage daily worries, or deal with long days of depression? I am here to support the challenges ahead. I am committed to helping people regain a sense of purpose and greater understanding about what they are struggling with. I work to empower people to have some control in a chaotic world. My approach is attachment-based as I find staying attuned to the person helps us both navigate the issues more effectively and learn more about the root experiences that shape our lives today. I like to pull from multiple evidence-based practices to meet people where they are at as well.
Are you trying to navigate difficult relationships, manage daily worries, or deal with long days of depression? I am here to support the challenges ahead. I am committed to helping people regain a sense of purpose and greater understanding about what they are struggling with. I work to empower people to have some control in a chaotic world. My approach is attachment-based as I find staying attuned to the person helps us both navigate the issues more effectively and learn more about the root experiences that shape our lives today. I like to pull from multiple evidence-based practices to meet people where they are at as well.
(619) 329-8255 View (619) 329-8255
Christopher Kincheloe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
San Diego, CA 92109
I have 8 years experience treating individuals with substance abuse issues and those in a mental health crisis.
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. I work under the firm belief that trust is the most important factor in a client-therapist relationship. This occupation is so much more than just an job in for me, it is my passion. I look forward to meeting you.
I have 8 years experience treating individuals with substance abuse issues and those in a mental health crisis.
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. I work under the firm belief that trust is the most important factor in a client-therapist relationship. This occupation is so much more than just an job in for me, it is my passion. I look forward to meeting you.
(619) 486-5547 View (619) 486-5547
Jocelynn Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Feeling emotionally overwhelmed or unseen by the ones you hold dear? Feeling stuck can be deeply exhausting. I offer a compassionate and attuned space where emotions are held with care and curiosity rather than judgment. Together, we will work toward greater emotional clarity and a stronger sense of connection with yourself and others. I work with teens and young adults navigating anxiety, stress, self-doubt, and life transitions. Through a supportive and collaborative approach, we focus on building coping skills, emotional clarity, and confidence to support meaningful growth.
Feeling emotionally overwhelmed or unseen by the ones you hold dear? Feeling stuck can be deeply exhausting. I offer a compassionate and attuned space where emotions are held with care and curiosity rather than judgment. Together, we will work toward greater emotional clarity and a stronger sense of connection with yourself and others. I work with teens and young adults navigating anxiety, stress, self-doubt, and life transitions. Through a supportive and collaborative approach, we focus on building coping skills, emotional clarity, and confidence to support meaningful growth.
(619) 304-8827 View (619) 304-8827
Eran Montiel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92110
I have experience working with relationship and family issues, sexual addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse/ addiction, lack of motivation, and suicidal thoughts.
I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where issues, thoughts, and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment.
I have experience working with relationship and family issues, sexual addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse/ addiction, lack of motivation, and suicidal thoughts.
I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where issues, thoughts, and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment.
(760) 981-0860 View (760) 981-0860
Dr. Austin Slade
Psychologist, PsyD
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92122
My practice is a safe harbor for those navigating the complexities of trauma (PTSD), grief, depression, chronic illness (Lyme, ME/CFS, Long COVID), and addictions—from substances to gambling and pornography.
My specialized training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) helps heal wounded inner parts, while Somatic Experiencing (SE) releases trauma stored in the body. For those in recovery, Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP) builds a firm foundation for the future.
My practice is a safe harbor for those navigating the complexities of trauma (PTSD), grief, depression, chronic illness (Lyme, ME/CFS, Long COVID), and addictions—from substances to gambling and pornography.
My specialized training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) helps heal wounded inner parts, while Somatic Experiencing (SE) releases trauma stored in the body. For those in recovery, Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP) builds a firm foundation for the future.
(858) 294-0192 View (858) 294-0192
Stephen Brewer
Psychologist, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I provide psychological evaluation, second-opinion review, and consultation in complex cases involving diagnosis, trauma, addiction, and treatment concerns, grounded in clinical, academic, and forensic experience.
I provide independent psychological evaluation, second-opinion review, and consultation in complex mental health matters. This may include questions about diagnosis, trauma, addiction, treatment decisions, or the quality of care received. My role is to review the situation carefully and clarify the issues at stake.
I provide psychological evaluation, second-opinion review, and consultation in complex cases involving diagnosis, trauma, addiction, and treatment concerns, grounded in clinical, academic, and forensic experience.
I provide independent psychological evaluation, second-opinion review, and consultation in complex mental health matters. This may include questions about diagnosis, trauma, addiction, treatment decisions, or the quality of care received. My role is to review the situation carefully and clarify the issues at stake.
(619) 377-3120 x2 View (619) 377-3120 x2

See more therapy options for San Diego

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.