Substance Use Therapists in San Diego, CA
Shame can contribute to substance use, depression, anxiety, interpersonal struggles, poor health outcomes, maladaptive trauma responses, and, at extremes, psychosis and suicidal ideation.
I am a psychologist, writer, and proud father of twins who primarily works in a psychiatric hospital setting. There, I aid adults in navigating severe mental health crises. A common theme has been helping such individuals harness their inner creativity to reduce shame and, in its wake, generate celebratory connections with themselves, others, and the world.
Shame can contribute to substance use, depression, anxiety, interpersonal struggles, poor health outcomes, maladaptive trauma responses, and, at extremes, psychosis and suicidal ideation.
I am a psychologist, writer, and proud father of twins who primarily works in a psychiatric hospital setting. There, I aid adults in navigating severe mental health crises. A common theme has been helping such individuals harness their inner creativity to reduce shame and, in its wake, generate celebratory connections with themselves, others, and the world.
Our clinicians are all deeply trained in research-supported therapies that target substance use/compulsive behaviors patterns as well as mental health issues such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)/complex trauma and anxiety/mood disorders.
Helping people change must include each individual finding personal and compelling reasons for change, as well as a pathway they can truly endorse. CMC:CA currently offers therapy to support all stages of change and goals, EMDR, exposure therapy, and help for the loved ones of those facing substance use concerns. We serve San Diego and all of California.
Our clinicians are all deeply trained in research-supported therapies that target substance use/compulsive behaviors patterns as well as mental health issues such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)/complex trauma and anxiety/mood disorders.
Helping people change must include each individual finding personal and compelling reasons for change, as well as a pathway they can truly endorse. CMC:CA currently offers therapy to support all stages of change and goals, EMDR, exposure therapy, and help for the loved ones of those facing substance use concerns. We serve San Diego and all of California.
I specialize in addressing issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders.
I am interested in learning about you, your struggles and strengths. I can help you by providing a compassionate, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment to express your deepest thoughts and feelings in order to explore ways to resolve the problems you encounter. As we build our therapeutic relationship, I will deliver honest, direct therapy to you. Ideally reducing defensiveness and allowing you to hear what you need to hear. Together, we will help you recognize your strengths, identify new perspectives, and develop healthy coping skills so that you can maximize your personal potential.
I specialize in addressing issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders.
I am interested in learning about you, your struggles and strengths. I can help you by providing a compassionate, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment to express your deepest thoughts and feelings in order to explore ways to resolve the problems you encounter. As we build our therapeutic relationship, I will deliver honest, direct therapy to you. Ideally reducing defensiveness and allowing you to hear what you need to hear. Together, we will help you recognize your strengths, identify new perspectives, and develop healthy coping skills so that you can maximize your personal potential.
Suffering can be emotional pain, physical pain, pain caused by love, death, or even loss. Sometimes our suffering can be more than we can bear and we need help to understand the source of our pain and acceptance of it. Very often we are unaware of the thoughts that cause us pain. By becoming aware of the thoughts behind suffering, you can change the thoughts and promote peace. In other words, you can condition yourself to believe and behave differently and eventually suffering diminishes.
Suffering can be emotional pain, physical pain, pain caused by love, death, or even loss. Sometimes our suffering can be more than we can bear and we need help to understand the source of our pain and acceptance of it. Very often we are unaware of the thoughts that cause us pain. By becoming aware of the thoughts behind suffering, you can change the thoughts and promote peace. In other words, you can condition yourself to believe and behave differently and eventually suffering diminishes.
Elizabeth Williams @ Grow Through Life Counseling
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
I have supported individuals experiencing substance use, severe mental illness, co-occurring disorders, and more.
My approach to care is rooted in client-centered, strength-based practices, and I integrate techniques grounded in evidence-based practices. I understand that everyone has their own unique perspective which is why I create a treatment plan based on the needs of each individual.
I have supported individuals experiencing substance use, severe mental illness, co-occurring disorders, and more.
My approach to care is rooted in client-centered, strength-based practices, and I integrate techniques grounded in evidence-based practices. I understand that everyone has their own unique perspective which is why I create a treatment plan based on the needs of each individual.
I specialize in treating individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders focusing on holistic and customized approaches to meet each client where they are.
I specialize in working with young adults and adults navigating challenges related to addictive processes, substance abuse, relationship and codependency issues, trauma/PTSD, and life transitions. My approach is deeply rooted in guiding you back to yourself — to your innate power and inner radiance.
I believe addictive behaviors and mental health issues are the psyche's attempts of coping with unhealed emotional wounds. Together, we will tend to these emotional wounds through integration and healing, helping you reclaim a sense of wholeness within yourself.
I specialize in treating individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders focusing on holistic and customized approaches to meet each client where they are.
I specialize in working with young adults and adults navigating challenges related to addictive processes, substance abuse, relationship and codependency issues, trauma/PTSD, and life transitions. My approach is deeply rooted in guiding you back to yourself — to your innate power and inner radiance.
I believe addictive behaviors and mental health issues are the psyche's attempts of coping with unhealed emotional wounds. Together, we will tend to these emotional wounds through integration and healing, helping you reclaim a sense of wholeness within yourself.
I also work with adults who are struggling with Substance Use.
The most important thing is creating a therapeutic rapport with my clients where they feel heard and understood, in an empathetic way. The theoretical approaches I use range from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, Psychoanalytic, and Solution-Focused.
I also work with adults who are struggling with Substance Use.
The most important thing is creating a therapeutic rapport with my clients where they feel heard and understood, in an empathetic way. The theoretical approaches I use range from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, Psychoanalytic, and Solution-Focused.
Whether you’re wrestling with substance use, navigating toxic work dynam
It can be deeply disorienting when your job starts to chip away at your sense of self. Maybe it’s the constant pressure, the lack of respect, or the creeping realization that your coping habits aren't serving you anymore. Burnout and workplace incivility don’t just affect your productivity—they can erode your confidence, numb your motivation, and strain your relationships. With an MFCC from Pacific Oaks College and over two decades of experience, I help adults confront these stressors head-on and begin to reclaim a life that feels grounded and fulfilling.
Whether you’re wrestling with substance use, navigating toxic work dynam
It can be deeply disorienting when your job starts to chip away at your sense of self. Maybe it’s the constant pressure, the lack of respect, or the creeping realization that your coping habits aren't serving you anymore. Burnout and workplace incivility don’t just affect your productivity—they can erode your confidence, numb your motivation, and strain your relationships. With an MFCC from Pacific Oaks College and over two decades of experience, I help adults confront these stressors head-on and begin to reclaim a life that feels grounded and fulfilling.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, substance use, self-esteem and life transitions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about serving college students and young adults (ages 18-35). Are you feeling overwhelmed, chaotic, stuck, and purposeless? Asking yourself questions like “Who am I?” and “What do I want my life to look like?” I understand the unique challenges young adults face. Therapy can be a helpful platform to ease emotional burden and increase balance and fulfillment in life. I want to work alongside you towards pursuing a life that inspires you as you become your favorite version of yourself.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, substance use, self-esteem and life transitions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about serving college students and young adults (ages 18-35). Are you feeling overwhelmed, chaotic, stuck, and purposeless? Asking yourself questions like “Who am I?” and “What do I want my life to look like?” I understand the unique challenges young adults face. Therapy can be a helpful platform to ease emotional burden and increase balance and fulfillment in life. I want to work alongside you towards pursuing a life that inspires you as you become your favorite version of yourself.
I have experience providing clinical assessment and therapeutic care to adolescents and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, anger management, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Personality Disorders, ADHD management, and LGBTQ+ issues.
I am a therapist who is assertive in my communication style. I work to provide a safe and supportive environment for my clients, where they can explore their thoughts and feelings. I have experience working with people from all walks of life, and I strive to create an open and honest relationship with each person that I work with.
I have experience providing clinical assessment and therapeutic care to adolescents and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, anger management, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Personality Disorders, ADHD management, and LGBTQ+ issues.
I am a therapist who is assertive in my communication style. I work to provide a safe and supportive environment for my clients, where they can explore their thoughts and feelings. I have experience working with people from all walks of life, and I strive to create an open and honest relationship with each person that I work with.
I have meaningful experience helping adults with substance use and co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward can be isolating and exhausting. You might feel weighed down by painful emotions or caught in a cycle of self-doubt that makes it hard to see your next step. Struggling to move past perceived shortcomings can prevent you from being fully present and engaged in your life, leaving you disconnected from what truly matters. If this resonates with you, you’re not alone—and help is available.
I have meaningful experience helping adults with substance use and co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward can be isolating and exhausting. You might feel weighed down by painful emotions or caught in a cycle of self-doubt that makes it hard to see your next step. Struggling to move past perceived shortcomings can prevent you from being fully present and engaged in your life, leaving you disconnected from what truly matters. If this resonates with you, you’re not alone—and help is available.
I have worked with co-occurring disorders such as substance use, mood disorders, PTSD, Personality Disorders and Psychotic disorders.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to turn? Have you been feeling down and hopeless and don't know what to do? How about nervous, anxious, or on edge? Maybe you feel stuck and don't know who to talk to. Does it feel your partner/spouse is not meeting your needs and it’s difficult to communicate? Are you struggling to speak about your issues because you believe you will be judged? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I am proud of you for taking the first step of reaching out.
I have worked with co-occurring disorders such as substance use, mood disorders, PTSD, Personality Disorders and Psychotic disorders.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to turn? Have you been feeling down and hopeless and don't know what to do? How about nervous, anxious, or on edge? Maybe you feel stuck and don't know who to talk to. Does it feel your partner/spouse is not meeting your needs and it’s difficult to communicate? Are you struggling to speak about your issues because you believe you will be judged? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I am proud of you for taking the first step of reaching out.
I am an LMFT and a substance use counselor with extensive personal and professional experience in addiction.
Being addicted to alcohol or drugs is like being in a dark pit where you do not know what is up and what is down. It is cold and lonely, and you can feel hopeless about finding any escape. Being the family member of a loved one who is struggling with addiction is scary and can leave you sad and in a constant state of uncertainty. You are always asking yourself why is your loved one pushing aside the life ring you toss out and grabbing the anchor of drugs and alcohol over and over and over again. You see they are drowning and feel you cannot save them. Addiction is insidious, but there are paths to recovery.
I am an LMFT and a substance use counselor with extensive personal and professional experience in addiction.
Being addicted to alcohol or drugs is like being in a dark pit where you do not know what is up and what is down. It is cold and lonely, and you can feel hopeless about finding any escape. Being the family member of a loved one who is struggling with addiction is scary and can leave you sad and in a constant state of uncertainty. You are always asking yourself why is your loved one pushing aside the life ring you toss out and grabbing the anchor of drugs and alcohol over and over and over again. You see they are drowning and feel you cannot save them. Addiction is insidious, but there are paths to recovery.
I work primarily with people who have symptoms/issues related to trauma, ranging from anxiety and depression to substance use, to thought and mood disorders.
I work to create a calm environment that allows the client to regulate their nervous system so that they can move from a place of safety, authenticity, and joy. What attracted me and what drives me are the same, to create spaces where people feel safe, secure, supported, seen, and heard so that they can go out and create that for others in their lives.
I work primarily with people who have symptoms/issues related to trauma, ranging from anxiety and depression to substance use, to thought and mood disorders.
I work to create a calm environment that allows the client to regulate their nervous system so that they can move from a place of safety, authenticity, and joy. What attracted me and what drives me are the same, to create spaces where people feel safe, secure, supported, seen, and heard so that they can go out and create that for others in their lives.
As a clinical psychologist specializing in mental health and substance use assessments, I offer a compassionate, judgment-free space to explore concerns, gain clarity, and develop a plan that works for you.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in San Diego, primarily working as a staff Psychologist at the Department of Veterans Affairs, as well as an Assistant. Clinical Professor at UC San Diego Dept. of Psychiatry. I have particular expertise in PTSD, Addictions, and veteran mental health, and am available to provide expert testimony in select legal cases.
As a clinical psychologist specializing in mental health and substance use assessments, I offer a compassionate, judgment-free space to explore concerns, gain clarity, and develop a plan that works for you.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in San Diego, primarily working as a staff Psychologist at the Department of Veterans Affairs, as well as an Assistant. Clinical Professor at UC San Diego Dept. of Psychiatry. I have particular expertise in PTSD, Addictions, and veteran mental health, and am available to provide expert testimony in select legal cases.
Caroline Ridout Stewart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
I work with and advocate for patients with substance use disorders providing both clinicians and a clinical case manager to help patients and family members access resources.
I particularly enjoy working with individuals who are creative yet highly anxious and depressed. Innovators find an improved capacity to create with informed anxiety management. I am a harm reductionist who embraces the belief that addiction is a brain disease and not a character defect and that persons with addictive illness need more clinically-informed care. I support authenticity for both the client and the therapist, understanding that little can hurt us when we are at peace with the truth of our own stories.
I work with and advocate for patients with substance use disorders providing both clinicians and a clinical case manager to help patients and family members access resources.
I particularly enjoy working with individuals who are creative yet highly anxious and depressed. Innovators find an improved capacity to create with informed anxiety management. I am a harm reductionist who embraces the belief that addiction is a brain disease and not a character defect and that persons with addictive illness need more clinically-informed care. I support authenticity for both the client and the therapist, understanding that little can hurt us when we are at peace with the truth of our own stories.
I use a combination of Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Person-centered, and Strengths-based therapy to treat individuals dealing with complex trauma, substance use disorders, depression, and anxiety.
My style and approach tend to fit adolescents and adults coping with stress, overcoming traumatic experiences, and managing life’s demands related to school, work, and relationships. These experiences can include Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and co-occurring substance use disorders.
I use a combination of Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Person-centered, and Strengths-based therapy to treat individuals dealing with complex trauma, substance use disorders, depression, and anxiety.
My style and approach tend to fit adolescents and adults coping with stress, overcoming traumatic experiences, and managing life’s demands related to school, work, and relationships. These experiences can include Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and co-occurring substance use disorders.
I offer individual mental health and/or substance use counseling in both English and Japanese.
I believe therapy begins within a genuine connection where your unique story can truly be heard and validated. My role as a therapist is to provide space and support with attunement, compassion, and sensitivity to your specific needs. I believe that change occurs within the context of a trusting, respectful, and collaborative relationship in which you feel safe to speak freely about the challenges you are facing.
I offer individual mental health and/or substance use counseling in both English and Japanese.
I believe therapy begins within a genuine connection where your unique story can truly be heard and validated. My role as a therapist is to provide space and support with attunement, compassion, and sensitivity to your specific needs. I believe that change occurs within the context of a trusting, respectful, and collaborative relationship in which you feel safe to speak freely about the challenges you are facing.
Are you or your partner struggling with substance use, feeling stuck in a cycle of addiction, and unsure how to move forward?
I specialize in helping individuals and couples overcome substance use disorders and rebuild their lives. Using evidence-based methods like CBT and Motivational Interviewing, I create personalized plans to meet your unique needs. In sessions, you’ll find a supportive space to explore challenges, build healthier coping skills, and create meaningful change.
Are you or your partner struggling with substance use, feeling stuck in a cycle of addiction, and unsure how to move forward?
I specialize in helping individuals and couples overcome substance use disorders and rebuild their lives. Using evidence-based methods like CBT and Motivational Interviewing, I create personalized plans to meet your unique needs. In sessions, you’ll find a supportive space to explore challenges, build healthier coping skills, and create meaningful change.
I specialize in providing evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, for individuals with OCD, anxiety and problematic substance use.
I help individuals who are feeling stuck or disconnected explore what's getting in the way, and create a life that they find meaningful and fulfilling. I do this using evidence based methods that are tailored to the person's specific values, preferences, and needs. I believe that identifying your strengths and what drives you is as important as pinpointing problem areas. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and judgment-free atmosphere so you can connect with your purpose, your most authentic self, and in turn, with others in your life.
I specialize in providing evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, for individuals with OCD, anxiety and problematic substance use.
I help individuals who are feeling stuck or disconnected explore what's getting in the way, and create a life that they find meaningful and fulfilling. I do this using evidence based methods that are tailored to the person's specific values, preferences, and needs. I believe that identifying your strengths and what drives you is as important as pinpointing problem areas. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and judgment-free atmosphere so you can connect with your purpose, your most authentic self, and in turn, with others in your life.
See more therapy options for San Diego
Nearby Substance Use Therapists Searches for San Diego
- Bonita
- Chula Vista
- Coronado
- Del Mar
- El Cajon
- Imperial Beach
- La Jolla
- La Mesa
- Lemon Grove
- National City
- Santee
- Spring Valley
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.