Substance Use Therapists in Western Addition, San Francisco, CA
Over the years, I have come to understand that many of our difficulties with work and/or relationships can be traced to some forms of disconnection internally and externally, sometime manifested as depression, anxiety, existential angst, eating disorder, or addiction. I view therapy as a continuous in-depth conversation with another person in order to mend past traumas, reconnect with self and others, and develop a new perspective on life. I will bring to this journey curiosity, compassion, knowledge, experiences, and a commitment to help you strive for a healthier and more balanced life.
Over the years, I have come to understand that many of our difficulties with work and/or relationships can be traced to some forms of disconnection internally and externally, sometime manifested as depression, anxiety, existential angst, eating disorder, or addiction. I view therapy as a continuous in-depth conversation with another person in order to mend past traumas, reconnect with self and others, and develop a new perspective on life. I will bring to this journey curiosity, compassion, knowledge, experiences, and a commitment to help you strive for a healthier and more balanced life.
I specialize in working with those navigating life transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use recovery.
You may find yourself overthinking, feeling disconnected, or carrying the emotions of others, sensing there’s something deeper calling for attention. My work supports those who are ready to release old patterns, clear energetic blocks, and reconnect with their most authentic, peaceful, and empowered selves. My approach blends traditional psychotherapy and eastern healing practices to help you uncover the deeper roots of your challenges.
I specialize in working with those navigating life transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use recovery.
You may find yourself overthinking, feeling disconnected, or carrying the emotions of others, sensing there’s something deeper calling for attention. My work supports those who are ready to release old patterns, clear energetic blocks, and reconnect with their most authentic, peaceful, and empowered selves. My approach blends traditional psychotherapy and eastern healing practices to help you uncover the deeper roots of your challenges.
Life can be incredibly hard, and there is no "manual" for how to navigate life's overwhelming situations and complex emotional experiences. During these tough times, it's common to feel "stuck" and desperately wanting solutions, while struggling to identify them on your own. At this juncture, the objectivity, support, and insight of a licensed clinical psychologist can help you to move through this time in your life. I have witnessed this process, personally, and helped many clients persevere through intense periods of conflict and pain.
Life can be incredibly hard, and there is no "manual" for how to navigate life's overwhelming situations and complex emotional experiences. During these tough times, it's common to feel "stuck" and desperately wanting solutions, while struggling to identify them on your own. At this juncture, the objectivity, support, and insight of a licensed clinical psychologist can help you to move through this time in your life. I have witnessed this process, personally, and helped many clients persevere through intense periods of conflict and pain.
I also work with teens and individuals exploring substance use.
You may be feeling anxiety in your relationships, experiencing low self-esteem, or stretched thin by the pressures of work and life. Maybe you're the one others rely on—but deep down, you're ready for change that’s actually sustainable. My clients often seek therapy when they’re at a turning point: wanting to feel more confident, more connected, and more in control. You don’t need to have it all figured out to begin—you just need a place where your challenges are met with clarity, care, and respect for your pace.
I also work with teens and individuals exploring substance use.
You may be feeling anxiety in your relationships, experiencing low self-esteem, or stretched thin by the pressures of work and life. Maybe you're the one others rely on—but deep down, you're ready for change that’s actually sustainable. My clients often seek therapy when they’re at a turning point: wanting to feel more confident, more connected, and more in control. You don’t need to have it all figured out to begin—you just need a place where your challenges are met with clarity, care, and respect for your pace.
If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, relationship challenges, grief, substance use, or major life transitions, I’m here to help.
I take an integrative approach tailored to your needs. Using somatic practices, solution-focused strategies, and mindfulness, we’ll work to regulate your nervous system, restore balance, and help you feel more grounded—whether you’re managing stress, processing emotions, or seeking personal growth.
If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, relationship challenges, grief, substance use, or major life transitions, I’m here to help.
I take an integrative approach tailored to your needs. Using somatic practices, solution-focused strategies, and mindfulness, we’ll work to regulate your nervous system, restore balance, and help you feel more grounded—whether you’re managing stress, processing emotions, or seeking personal growth.
My approach to therapy is psychodynamic, psychoanalytic and relational. Our task together is to help unlock the parts of you that got stuck somewhere along the way.
My approach to therapy is psychodynamic, psychoanalytic and relational. Our task together is to help unlock the parts of you that got stuck somewhere along the way.
Dr. Joanna Renee Fassl
Marriage & Family Therapist, Joanna Fassl, LMFT, DC, MA
Western Addition, San Francisco, CA 94117
Waitlist for new clients
My clients are looking for a different type of therapy. They wish for a more enlivened and interactive approach that engages beyond words and captures the heart of one's struggle and yearning to break free. My clients oftentimes feel lost, plagued with chronic anxiety, depression or anger, and stuck in a rigidified experience of themselves. They toggle between a tired set of coping mechanisms; and the fear and distrust of branching out into the new. My work cradles the middle: lovingly chipping away at the hardened barriers while welcoming in steady, free, authentic expression. All held in grace and awe for this precious life.
My clients are looking for a different type of therapy. They wish for a more enlivened and interactive approach that engages beyond words and captures the heart of one's struggle and yearning to break free. My clients oftentimes feel lost, plagued with chronic anxiety, depression or anger, and stuck in a rigidified experience of themselves. They toggle between a tired set of coping mechanisms; and the fear and distrust of branching out into the new. My work cradles the middle: lovingly chipping away at the hardened barriers while welcoming in steady, free, authentic expression. All held in grace and awe for this precious life.
Kelle A Kasner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
5 Endorsed
Western Addition, San Francisco, CA 94115
Waitlist for new clients
For 20 years I have supported folks with mental health conditions and substance use disorders.
Have you made significant changes in your life but find yourself stuck in old patterns? Are you in recovery from drugs or alcohol or disordered eating, but still find yourself struggling in other ways? My Name is Kelle Kirk and I help folks in recovery STAY in recovery. Many of us have found out that cutting out the drinking or drugging or changing our relationship to food or our bodies didn't "fix" everything; in some ways, maybe we found things to be more intense or complicated in this new landscape. You have come so far and made such progress, let's work on the being human and truly do something different.
For 20 years I have supported folks with mental health conditions and substance use disorders.
Have you made significant changes in your life but find yourself stuck in old patterns? Are you in recovery from drugs or alcohol or disordered eating, but still find yourself struggling in other ways? My Name is Kelle Kirk and I help folks in recovery STAY in recovery. Many of us have found out that cutting out the drinking or drugging or changing our relationship to food or our bodies didn't "fix" everything; in some ways, maybe we found things to be more intense or complicated in this new landscape. You have come so far and made such progress, let's work on the being human and truly do something different.
Are you noticing an increase of stress, anxiety or feeling overwhelmed? Are you working on mending relationships? Are you feeling frustrated, sad, confused or unhappy with where you are in life? Welcome to Clarity Counseling & Therapy Group! We understand that making the decision to start therapy can be a tough one and we congratulate you in taking this first step. Our team was created in order to help solve some of the biggest hurdles people face when it comes to therapy: Affordability, flexibility, and finding the right therapist for you.
Are you noticing an increase of stress, anxiety or feeling overwhelmed? Are you working on mending relationships? Are you feeling frustrated, sad, confused or unhappy with where you are in life? Welcome to Clarity Counseling & Therapy Group! We understand that making the decision to start therapy can be a tough one and we congratulate you in taking this first step. Our team was created in order to help solve some of the biggest hurdles people face when it comes to therapy: Affordability, flexibility, and finding the right therapist for you.
Melodee
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Western Addition, San Francisco, CA 94115
Like most therapists on Psychology Today, or perhaps anywhere else, my training, background, and interests are diverse. I truly enjoy working with a wide variety of people, both as a therapist and in other domains in life!
However, I currently have particular interest and experience in working with those who broadly fall under the category of what we now call "neurodivergence" (including ADHD, autism, learning differences, anxiety, etc) as well as with people who are facing issues related to trauma, sexuality, gender, relationships, intimacy, or the avoidance, reluctance, and fear associated with any of these very human challenges.
Like most therapists on Psychology Today, or perhaps anywhere else, my training, background, and interests are diverse. I truly enjoy working with a wide variety of people, both as a therapist and in other domains in life!
However, I currently have particular interest and experience in working with those who broadly fall under the category of what we now call "neurodivergence" (including ADHD, autism, learning differences, anxiety, etc) as well as with people who are facing issues related to trauma, sexuality, gender, relationships, intimacy, or the avoidance, reluctance, and fear associated with any of these very human challenges.
My integrative approach views you as a complete person, considering mind, body, spirit, culture, and personal history. These elements are incorporated in a dynamic therapeutic process that engages your senses and encourages prompt symptom relief. You will learn practical tools to cope with stress, identify triggers and end destructive patterns. This improved self-knowledge strengthens your mental health, relationships, and work-life. Through my extensive personal and professional experience, I have developed a vast and deep therapy tool kit. I look forward to exploring treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
My integrative approach views you as a complete person, considering mind, body, spirit, culture, and personal history. These elements are incorporated in a dynamic therapeutic process that engages your senses and encourages prompt symptom relief. You will learn practical tools to cope with stress, identify triggers and end destructive patterns. This improved self-knowledge strengthens your mental health, relationships, and work-life. Through my extensive personal and professional experience, I have developed a vast and deep therapy tool kit. I look forward to exploring treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Matthew Grundy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
8 Endorsed
Western Addition, San Francisco, CA 94102
Are you a deep thinker, grappling with anxiety, depression, or challenges in your relationships? Do you think if you could just "figure it out" you could solve all your problems? Are you someone with a sharp, critical eye, for yourself and others? Do you feel you can describe your struggles with lots of self-awareness but aren't sure where to go from there? My work helps individuals understand themselves more deeply as whole humans, rather than just a brain dragging a body around. Together we'll use your strengths to your advantage, and help you identify where you want to change and how to go about making those changes happen.
Are you a deep thinker, grappling with anxiety, depression, or challenges in your relationships? Do you think if you could just "figure it out" you could solve all your problems? Are you someone with a sharp, critical eye, for yourself and others? Do you feel you can describe your struggles with lots of self-awareness but aren't sure where to go from there? My work helps individuals understand themselves more deeply as whole humans, rather than just a brain dragging a body around. Together we'll use your strengths to your advantage, and help you identify where you want to change and how to go about making those changes happen.
Rachael
Associate Professional Clincal Counselor, APCC, AMFT
3 Endorsed
Western Addition, San Francisco, CA 94117
My areas of expertise include life transitions, infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, parenting, depression, trauma, and substance use.
Perhaps you’re struggling with infertility, feeling trapped in a relentless cycle of hope and heartbreak. Maybe you’re a new mom drowning in the hormone changes and sleep deprivation that come with a new baby. Or you might be grappling with depression, shame, and isolation as you try to start a family, feeling left behind as others move on into motherhood.
You might be using every ounce of energy you have just to get through the day, when in reality you’re crumbling under the crushing weight of depression, anxiety, trauma or addiction. Or perhaps you’re at a crossroads with your career and are feeling lost about what’s next.
My areas of expertise include life transitions, infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, parenting, depression, trauma, and substance use.
Perhaps you’re struggling with infertility, feeling trapped in a relentless cycle of hope and heartbreak. Maybe you’re a new mom drowning in the hormone changes and sleep deprivation that come with a new baby. Or you might be grappling with depression, shame, and isolation as you try to start a family, feeling left behind as others move on into motherhood.
You might be using every ounce of energy you have just to get through the day, when in reality you’re crumbling under the crushing weight of depression, anxiety, trauma or addiction. Or perhaps you’re at a crossroads with your career and are feeling lost about what’s next.
Welcome. Are you ready for the work necessary to make real, enduring change? Do you have a troubling personal issue or suffer from general dissatisfaction? My orientation is to focus on the unconscious, the elusive essence of the problem. A powerful process unfolds when change occurs at this level of the mind. This opens the space for authentic personal transformation.
Welcome. Are you ready for the work necessary to make real, enduring change? Do you have a troubling personal issue or suffer from general dissatisfaction? My orientation is to focus on the unconscious, the elusive essence of the problem. A powerful process unfolds when change occurs at this level of the mind. This opens the space for authentic personal transformation.
You’re a thoughtful, growth-oriented person who senses it’s time for a reset. Maybe you’re navigating a transition like a career change, breakup, or new to parenthood; or you’re noticing familiar patterns that keep circling back: overthinking, people-pleasing, low self-esteem, or waves of anxiety that interrupt sleep and focus. You want steadiness in your life, clarity in your choices, and more ease in your relationships. Most of all, you’re ready to feel like yourself again. You want to be grounded, confident, and connected to purpose because continuing on autopilot no longer fits the life you’re creating.
You’re a thoughtful, growth-oriented person who senses it’s time for a reset. Maybe you’re navigating a transition like a career change, breakup, or new to parenthood; or you’re noticing familiar patterns that keep circling back: overthinking, people-pleasing, low self-esteem, or waves of anxiety that interrupt sleep and focus. You want steadiness in your life, clarity in your choices, and more ease in your relationships. Most of all, you’re ready to feel like yourself again. You want to be grounded, confident, and connected to purpose because continuing on autopilot no longer fits the life you’re creating.
Time to get your life back on track? Tired of the same old fights? Is your addiction hijacking your life? Wondering if you can continue to deal with the chaos around you? You can take your life back, find some peace and learn how to better communicate with your partner and yourself. We all have deep needs for tenderness, sharing and love.
Time to get your life back on track? Tired of the same old fights? Is your addiction hijacking your life? Wondering if you can continue to deal with the chaos around you? You can take your life back, find some peace and learn how to better communicate with your partner and yourself. We all have deep needs for tenderness, sharing and love.
I offer short and long term treatment of distressing psychological symptoms. Common symptoms include attentional difficulties, debilitating anxiety, lack of energy/motivation, overwhelming sadness and anger, feelings of hopelessness and helplessness, and psychosomatic symptoms. These symptoms often emerge in response to life transitions, intergenerational family dynamics, identity crisis, difficult or traumatic past events, racial trauma, or the loss of a relationship. An additional focus of my practice centers around issues of racial and ethnic identity, navigating interracial relationships, and immigration related issues.
I offer short and long term treatment of distressing psychological symptoms. Common symptoms include attentional difficulties, debilitating anxiety, lack of energy/motivation, overwhelming sadness and anger, feelings of hopelessness and helplessness, and psychosomatic symptoms. These symptoms often emerge in response to life transitions, intergenerational family dynamics, identity crisis, difficult or traumatic past events, racial trauma, or the loss of a relationship. An additional focus of my practice centers around issues of racial and ethnic identity, navigating interracial relationships, and immigration related issues.
I believe that the strong relationship I build with my clients allows for personal exploration, healing, and growth. Whether you are moving through life transitions, feeling overwhelmed by stress, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I strive to build a welcoming, attuned environment and offer a space where you can explore personal parts of your story without judgment. Every person's journey is unique, and I am committed to tailoring my approach with research-based interventions to meet your needs. I also believe in the healing power of humor and play to make space for joy amidst difficulties.
I believe that the strong relationship I build with my clients allows for personal exploration, healing, and growth. Whether you are moving through life transitions, feeling overwhelmed by stress, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I strive to build a welcoming, attuned environment and offer a space where you can explore personal parts of your story without judgment. Every person's journey is unique, and I am committed to tailoring my approach with research-based interventions to meet your needs. I also believe in the healing power of humor and play to make space for joy amidst difficulties.
Are you seeking a therapist who understands the unique challenges of navigating today’s world as an LGBTQ+ individual? Do you find yourself grappling with anxiety or depression, or struggling to manage the complexities of your marriage or relationship? Are you yearning for a deeper spiritual connection, but unsure of how to align your daily life with your values?
If you resonate with any of these challenges, I encourage you to reach out. As a San Francisco Bay Area therapist, I offer compassionate, evidence-based, and LGBTQ+-affirming counseling for individuals and couples.
Are you seeking a therapist who understands the unique challenges of navigating today’s world as an LGBTQ+ individual? Do you find yourself grappling with anxiety or depression, or struggling to manage the complexities of your marriage or relationship? Are you yearning for a deeper spiritual connection, but unsure of how to align your daily life with your values?
If you resonate with any of these challenges, I encourage you to reach out. As a San Francisco Bay Area therapist, I offer compassionate, evidence-based, and LGBTQ+-affirming counseling for individuals and couples.
Currently accepting new clients What I love most about life is people and getting to know them. Everyone has a story...everyone has challenges, dreams, strengths, and the capacity to experience peace and fulfillment. I'd love to help you transform your suffering, fear or frustrations into something brighter. As chaotic as the world and the mind can be, there are ways through it all. I've worked in mental health since 2001 and as a therapist since 2011. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), my primary focuses are anxiety, trauma, addiction, life transitions, search for meaning or purpose, and couples work.
Currently accepting new clients What I love most about life is people and getting to know them. Everyone has a story...everyone has challenges, dreams, strengths, and the capacity to experience peace and fulfillment. I'd love to help you transform your suffering, fear or frustrations into something brighter. As chaotic as the world and the mind can be, there are ways through it all. I've worked in mental health since 2001 and as a therapist since 2011. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), my primary focuses are anxiety, trauma, addiction, life transitions, search for meaning or purpose, and couples work.
See more therapy options for Western Addition, San Francisco
Nearby Substance Use Therapists Searches for Western Addition, San Francisco
- Civic Center
- Cow Hollow
- Downtown
- Fillmore
- Haight-Ashbury
- Hayes Valley
- Laurel Heights
- North of Market (NoMa)
- Pacific Heights
- Presidio Heights
- Tenderloin
Nearby Searches for Western Addition, San Francisco
- Civic Center
- Cow Hollow
- Downtown
- Fillmore
- Haight-Ashbury
- Hayes Valley
- Japantown
- Laurel Heights
- North of Market (NoMa)
- Pacific Heights
- Presidio Heights
- Tenderloin
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.