Substance Use Therapists in Castro, San Francisco, CA
Life can get complicated and there is no handbook on how to handle things like depression, anxiety, addiction and relationship problems. It is important to know two things: 1. you are not alone, 2. challenges are always opportunities to grow and change your life. You are probably here because it's time to "do something different." Let us help guide you through this journey!
Life can get complicated and there is no handbook on how to handle things like depression, anxiety, addiction and relationship problems. It is important to know two things: 1. you are not alone, 2. challenges are always opportunities to grow and change your life. You are probably here because it's time to "do something different." Let us help guide you through this journey!
You’re drowning. The waves of life are crashing down hard and they just keep coming. You thought things would be different by now. That you’d be happy, confident, and content with life, but instead you’re struggling. Struggling to find motivation to face the day, to have time and energy to put into your relationships and family, and feeling like nothing you do is ever good enough.
You’re drowning. The waves of life are crashing down hard and they just keep coming. You thought things would be different by now. That you’d be happy, confident, and content with life, but instead you’re struggling. Struggling to find motivation to face the day, to have time and energy to put into your relationships and family, and feeling like nothing you do is ever good enough.
I have always been fiercely passionate about helping others to amplify their strengths and manifest the lives they find most fulfilling. Nothing moves me more than to be a guide and a witness to human transformation. As we go through life's inevitable transitions, occasionally we encounter roadblocks or detours that can either stop us in our tracks or provide us with vital life lessons filled with wisdom and empowerment. Whether you're single and searching, recovering from a recent split, or at the precipice of big change in your relationship, I am here to help you move through those valuable transitions.
I have always been fiercely passionate about helping others to amplify their strengths and manifest the lives they find most fulfilling. Nothing moves me more than to be a guide and a witness to human transformation. As we go through life's inevitable transitions, occasionally we encounter roadblocks or detours that can either stop us in our tracks or provide us with vital life lessons filled with wisdom and empowerment. Whether you're single and searching, recovering from a recent split, or at the precipice of big change in your relationship, I am here to help you move through those valuable transitions.
I have worked in the field of psychotherapy for over 20 years. I love supporting people in their journey of self-exploration. We all have so many aspects of ourselves and helping others to unearth these aspects, reflect upon them, and make positive changes gives me great joy. This may include working on family of origin dynamics to mental health symptoms to wanting to make changes with your relationship to substances. So many aspects to explore individually and in relationship to each other. Check out my website for more information about specialities and how I work!
I have worked in the field of psychotherapy for over 20 years. I love supporting people in their journey of self-exploration. We all have so many aspects of ourselves and helping others to unearth these aspects, reflect upon them, and make positive changes gives me great joy. This may include working on family of origin dynamics to mental health symptoms to wanting to make changes with your relationship to substances. So many aspects to explore individually and in relationship to each other. Check out my website for more information about specialities and how I work!
I have extensive experience working with issues of anxiety, depression, stress management, racial trauma, post traumatic stress, relationship conflict, navigating toxic work environments, sexuality and gender, and substance use issues.
Are you experiencing issues related to stress, anxiety, depression, loss of identity, trauma, or lack of confidence? Are these issues causing you to neglect your own self-care, misuse substances, and/or isolate from family and friends? Do you need support with navigating personal or professional relationships? Are you exploring your sexual or gender identity? Managing a major life transition or preparing for one? These are the times when therapy can be helpful. We can work together to identify your goals, improve your quality of life, and develop a strong sense of self in the process.
I have extensive experience working with issues of anxiety, depression, stress management, racial trauma, post traumatic stress, relationship conflict, navigating toxic work environments, sexuality and gender, and substance use issues.
Are you experiencing issues related to stress, anxiety, depression, loss of identity, trauma, or lack of confidence? Are these issues causing you to neglect your own self-care, misuse substances, and/or isolate from family and friends? Do you need support with navigating personal or professional relationships? Are you exploring your sexual or gender identity? Managing a major life transition or preparing for one? These are the times when therapy can be helpful. We can work together to identify your goals, improve your quality of life, and develop a strong sense of self in the process.
Are you experiencing the many ways substance use can create pain, whether for you or someone you love?
I use brainspotting, a technique developed out of EMDR, to help clients process trauma, difficult issues/symptoms and to get unstuck. I also use Gestalt, Somatic Therapy, Family Systems Therapy and, in terms of substance use, Abstinence Recovery support (12-Step, etc.) as well as Harm Reduction approach.
Are you experiencing the many ways substance use can create pain, whether for you or someone you love?
I use brainspotting, a technique developed out of EMDR, to help clients process trauma, difficult issues/symptoms and to get unstuck. I also use Gestalt, Somatic Therapy, Family Systems Therapy and, in terms of substance use, Abstinence Recovery support (12-Step, etc.) as well as Harm Reduction approach.
I completed my master's in nursing at Boston College while doing my specialized graduate training at the VA with a focus on PTSD and substance use.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with extensive experience providing psychotherapy to adults of all ages. I also offer medication management to interested clients. I provide non-judgmental care for clients who want to improve their mental health and wellbeing. I am oriented towards the harm-reduction model and feel it is important to meet each client where they are in their individual mental health and wellness journey. My primary areas of interest are in trauma, substance abuse, and in working with the LGBTQ+ community. My other areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, & ADHD, among many other mental health concerns.
I completed my master's in nursing at Boston College while doing my specialized graduate training at the VA with a focus on PTSD and substance use.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with extensive experience providing psychotherapy to adults of all ages. I also offer medication management to interested clients. I provide non-judgmental care for clients who want to improve their mental health and wellbeing. I am oriented towards the harm-reduction model and feel it is important to meet each client where they are in their individual mental health and wellness journey. My primary areas of interest are in trauma, substance abuse, and in working with the LGBTQ+ community. My other areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, & ADHD, among many other mental health concerns.
I specialize in sex therapy, trauma and PTSD, harm reduction and substance use, and helping clients cope with loss, shame, identity, or major life changes.
I tailor my approach to meet you exactly where you are using methods such as narrative therapy, mindfulness and somatic work. Sessions are rooted in compassion and collaboration. Whether we're unpacking the weight of past trauma, exploring intimacy and communication, or finding new ways to deal with pain, my goal is to walk with you with care and curiosity.
I specialize in sex therapy, trauma and PTSD, harm reduction and substance use, and helping clients cope with loss, shame, identity, or major life changes.
I tailor my approach to meet you exactly where you are using methods such as narrative therapy, mindfulness and somatic work. Sessions are rooted in compassion and collaboration. Whether we're unpacking the weight of past trauma, exploring intimacy and communication, or finding new ways to deal with pain, my goal is to walk with you with care and curiosity.
Olive Delgado-Pelton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
2 Endorsed
Castro, San Francisco, CA 94114
My therapy style is direct, caring, and accepting. I firmly believe that the client is the authority of their own experience and I am passionate about meeting folx where they’re at. I honor the sacredness of holding space for my clients' challenges while celebrating their strengths, insight, and growth. My practice is rooted in liberation, abolitionism, decolonization, consent, and autonomy. My eclectic framework includes Gestalt, DBT, and Relational therapy. I also use harm reduction, trauma-informed, somatic, and emotionally focused therapy lenses.
My therapy style is direct, caring, and accepting. I firmly believe that the client is the authority of their own experience and I am passionate about meeting folx where they’re at. I honor the sacredness of holding space for my clients' challenges while celebrating their strengths, insight, and growth. My practice is rooted in liberation, abolitionism, decolonization, consent, and autonomy. My eclectic framework includes Gestalt, DBT, and Relational therapy. I also use harm reduction, trauma-informed, somatic, and emotionally focused therapy lenses.
Do you often feel overwhelmed by anxiety, racing thoughts, or self-doubt that won’t quiet down? Maybe you find yourself stuck in cycles of rumination or OCD, unable to rest or feel fully present. These patterns often trace back to earlier life experiences and unresolved stress. Therapy can help you make sense of these responses and start building a life that feels more grounded. I use a collaborative, client-centered approach that draws from somatic and mindfulness practices to help regulate your nervous system and create a more peaceful inner world.
Do you often feel overwhelmed by anxiety, racing thoughts, or self-doubt that won’t quiet down? Maybe you find yourself stuck in cycles of rumination or OCD, unable to rest or feel fully present. These patterns often trace back to earlier life experiences and unresolved stress. Therapy can help you make sense of these responses and start building a life that feels more grounded. I use a collaborative, client-centered approach that draws from somatic and mindfulness practices to help regulate your nervous system and create a more peaceful inner world.
I specialize in working with Gay/Queer men, individuals that are in the recovery process from substance use, and males around issues of masculinity, sex, and emotional vulnerability I have expertise in and experience with: Masculinity and other male issues Sex and sexuality Ethically non- monogamous/ polyamory relationships / Kink Substance abuse issues.
Human connection is the catalyst needed to explore any underlining psychic distress. In my psychotherapy practice, I prioritize fostering a collaborative relationship to provide emotional and personal safety, allowing you to dive beneath the surface to better understand the underlying causes of your personal distress. The goal is, through exploration, to create opportunities for you to become more self-aware of your own thoughts and feelings, empowering you to re-create new ways of connecting to yourself and loved ones
I specialize in working with Gay/Queer men, individuals that are in the recovery process from substance use, and males around issues of masculinity, sex, and emotional vulnerability I have expertise in and experience with: Masculinity and other male issues Sex and sexuality Ethically non- monogamous/ polyamory relationships / Kink Substance abuse issues.
Human connection is the catalyst needed to explore any underlining psychic distress. In my psychotherapy practice, I prioritize fostering a collaborative relationship to provide emotional and personal safety, allowing you to dive beneath the surface to better understand the underlying causes of your personal distress. The goal is, through exploration, to create opportunities for you to become more self-aware of your own thoughts and feelings, empowering you to re-create new ways of connecting to yourself and loved ones
People often ask how I see therapy. I see it as a space to get an awareness of all that
you're capable of, and also to build the ability to deal with the feelings that come up in the midst of it all. People also ask: When is the right time? What can it help me with? How do I find the right therapist? I see therapy as a process where we work to change your internal sense of yourself so you can engage with the world with more joy. It's a time when together we can look at your beliefs about yourself and the world, then find and keep ones that support you in becoming the person you want to be.
People often ask how I see therapy. I see it as a space to get an awareness of all that
you're capable of, and also to build the ability to deal with the feelings that come up in the midst of it all. People also ask: When is the right time? What can it help me with? How do I find the right therapist? I see therapy as a process where we work to change your internal sense of yourself so you can engage with the world with more joy. It's a time when together we can look at your beliefs about yourself and the world, then find and keep ones that support you in becoming the person you want to be.
I offer counseling for individuals and partners experiencing a broad range of life challenges. And, I have extensive experience in supporting folks as they navigate the following content areas: communication & relationship issues; grief & loss; identity; trauma; sexual orientation, sexuality & sensuality; creativity; systems & lived experiences of oppression; anxiety & fear; depression; co-dependence; addiction; infidelity, betrayal & trust; and inner-child work. I’m sex-positive, queer, and poly- & kink-affirming, and welcome all ethnic & racial identities & positionalities. (For more info: www.noellebraddocktherapy.com)
I offer counseling for individuals and partners experiencing a broad range of life challenges. And, I have extensive experience in supporting folks as they navigate the following content areas: communication & relationship issues; grief & loss; identity; trauma; sexual orientation, sexuality & sensuality; creativity; systems & lived experiences of oppression; anxiety & fear; depression; co-dependence; addiction; infidelity, betrayal & trust; and inner-child work. I’m sex-positive, queer, and poly- & kink-affirming, and welcome all ethnic & racial identities & positionalities. (For more info: www.noellebraddocktherapy.com)
A lot of us have a hard time asking for help. Fear, shame, or needing to be self-sufficient are feelings that can get in the way of recognizing when we need help--and reaching out and asking for it. My approach to therapy creates a safe place where sensitive, painful or scary feelings can be openly explored without judgment. We form a partnership to figure out what is going on and how to move forward. I'm actively engaged in our work--it's a partnership, after all--to help you overcome problem behaviors and develop better ways of coping.
A lot of us have a hard time asking for help. Fear, shame, or needing to be self-sufficient are feelings that can get in the way of recognizing when we need help--and reaching out and asking for it. My approach to therapy creates a safe place where sensitive, painful or scary feelings can be openly explored without judgment. We form a partnership to figure out what is going on and how to move forward. I'm actively engaged in our work--it's a partnership, after all--to help you overcome problem behaviors and develop better ways of coping.
Are you a trans, nonbinary, or gender-nonconforming adult or teen navigating identity, anxiety, or feelings of depression? My approach is collaborative and curious—I’ll support you with tapping into your inner resilience while supporting you with expanding on coping tools that fit your life. Together we can explore your inner world with warmth and honesty making room for deeper self-understanding, meaningful connection, and a stronger sense of belonging. It is possible to feel more at peace, even during these difficult times. All neurotypes welcome!
Are you a trans, nonbinary, or gender-nonconforming adult or teen navigating identity, anxiety, or feelings of depression? My approach is collaborative and curious—I’ll support you with tapping into your inner resilience while supporting you with expanding on coping tools that fit your life. Together we can explore your inner world with warmth and honesty making room for deeper self-understanding, meaningful connection, and a stronger sense of belonging. It is possible to feel more at peace, even during these difficult times. All neurotypes welcome!
My name is Kel Smith and I am here to support people towards living more fulfilled lives. I am a somatically trained therapist who works with adults, couples, and teens in person in SF's Castro District on Wednesdays, and over telehealth Tuesdays - Fridays. I may be a good therapist for you if you are looking for support with deepening your sense of agency, better understanding your embodied experiences, navigating life transitions, and/or recognizing and shifting behavior patterns and internal narratives. I support my clients with cultivating more tools to mitigate and manage experiences of anxiety, dissociation, and depression.
My name is Kel Smith and I am here to support people towards living more fulfilled lives. I am a somatically trained therapist who works with adults, couples, and teens in person in SF's Castro District on Wednesdays, and over telehealth Tuesdays - Fridays. I may be a good therapist for you if you are looking for support with deepening your sense of agency, better understanding your embodied experiences, navigating life transitions, and/or recognizing and shifting behavior patterns and internal narratives. I support my clients with cultivating more tools to mitigate and manage experiences of anxiety, dissociation, and depression.
Are you struggling with work, relational, and life stressors that have overwhelmed you and you are unsure what to do next? You're trying to open the next chapter in your life, but your past traumas and anxiety stop you. This is where I come in and help guide you in making YOUR right decision. I will help you through your journey in becoming worry-free and assist you in processing unresolved feelings and learning healthy coping skills for emotional distress
Are you struggling with work, relational, and life stressors that have overwhelmed you and you are unsure what to do next? You're trying to open the next chapter in your life, but your past traumas and anxiety stop you. This is where I come in and help guide you in making YOUR right decision. I will help you through your journey in becoming worry-free and assist you in processing unresolved feelings and learning healthy coping skills for emotional distress
I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing psychotherapy and ADHD/ADD assessment services for adults. I have a warm, outgoing therapeutic style and provide a safe, intimate relationship, while challenging you with care and compassion to live a more satisfying life. I help clients better understand their own relationships and behavior patterns, manage strong emotions, increase mindfulness and purposefulness, and cultivate greater compassion. I see clients for both short-term, solution-oriented therapy, and longer-term, exploratory therapy. Thank you for you interest, and I wish you the best of luck in this process.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing psychotherapy and ADHD/ADD assessment services for adults. I have a warm, outgoing therapeutic style and provide a safe, intimate relationship, while challenging you with care and compassion to live a more satisfying life. I help clients better understand their own relationships and behavior patterns, manage strong emotions, increase mindfulness and purposefulness, and cultivate greater compassion. I see clients for both short-term, solution-oriented therapy, and longer-term, exploratory therapy. Thank you for you interest, and I wish you the best of luck in this process.
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.
I specialize in working with gay men and LGBTQ+ clients who want more than traditional “talk therapy.” Many of my clients are high-functioning professionals who appear successful on the outside but struggle with anxiety, stress, or disconnection on the inside. You may be asking: How can therapy really make a difference?
My approach is grounded in mindfulness, the practice of observing the present moment without judgment. Research shows mindfulness is highly effective for anxiety, depression, and addiction. In our work, you’ll learn practical tools to shift from stress and suffering into greater clarity, resilience, and aliveness.
I specialize in working with gay men and LGBTQ+ clients who want more than traditional “talk therapy.” Many of my clients are high-functioning professionals who appear successful on the outside but struggle with anxiety, stress, or disconnection on the inside. You may be asking: How can therapy really make a difference?
My approach is grounded in mindfulness, the practice of observing the present moment without judgment. Research shows mindfulness is highly effective for anxiety, depression, and addiction. In our work, you’ll learn practical tools to shift from stress and suffering into greater clarity, resilience, and aliveness.
See more therapy options for Castro, San Francisco
Nearby Substance Use Therapists Searches for Castro, San Francisco
- Castro-Upper Market
- Civic Center
- Fillmore
- Haight-Ashbury
- Hayes Valley
- Inner Sunset
- Mission
- Noe Valley
- Western Addition
Nearby Searches for Castro, San Francisco
- Castro-Upper Market
- Civic Center
- Cole Valley
- Diamond Heights
- Fillmore
- Haight-Ashbury
- Hayes Valley
- Inner Sunset
- Mission
- Noe Valley
- Western Addition
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.