Alcohol Use Therapists in San Jose, CA

Photo of Chris M Packham, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, MA, LAADC, FAC, M-RAS
Chris M Packham
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, MA, LAADC, FAC, M-RAS
San Jose, CA 95126
You feel stuck in the same cycle. Stress rises. Conflict grows. Anxiety takes control. The issue sits deeper than motivation. Many people never learned evidence-based skills for emotional regulation. Without these skills, impulsive reactions damage trust. Communication breaks down. Boundaries weaken. Counseling builds practical tools so you can regulate emotions, rebuild trust, and communicate with clarity.
You feel stuck in the same cycle. Stress rises. Conflict grows. Anxiety takes control. The issue sits deeper than motivation. Many people never learned evidence-based skills for emotional regulation. Without these skills, impulsive reactions damage trust. Communication breaks down. Boundaries weaken. Counseling builds practical tools so you can regulate emotions, rebuild trust, and communicate with clarity.
(408) 741-9871 View (408) 741-9871
Photo of Chris M. Packham, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LAADC, M-RAS, FAC, MA
Chris M. Packham
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LAADC, M-RAS, FAC, MA
San Jose, CA 95128
Break free from the grip of alcohol use and emotional distress.
Specialize in evidence-based techniques to help individuals build effective coping mechanisms & identify solutions free from judgment or labels. Problem: “You look fine on the outside, but inside you feel anxious, stuck, and overwhelmed by your own thoughts. Solution: “Therapy gives you clear tools and support so you regain control, confidence, and peace.
Break free from the grip of alcohol use and emotional distress.
Specialize in evidence-based techniques to help individuals build effective coping mechanisms & identify solutions free from judgment or labels. Problem: “You look fine on the outside, but inside you feel anxious, stuck, and overwhelmed by your own thoughts. Solution: “Therapy gives you clear tools and support so you regain control, confidence, and peace.
(408) 763-4968 View (408) 763-4968
Photo of Kevin J Kuhlow, LAADC
Kevin J Kuhlow
Verified Verified
Online Only
My expertise lies in Executive Coaching, Human Performance Improvement, and Addiction Treatment with diversified experience that includes recent positions as a Counselor for Addiction Recovery and former role as an Advisor to high-net-worth clients. I have focused on leveraging combined background to provide advisement to executives and other professionals struggling with addiction. I am currently completing a Ph.D. degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, and previously earned a Master’s degree in Addiction Studies. Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LAADC).
My expertise lies in Executive Coaching, Human Performance Improvement, and Addiction Treatment with diversified experience that includes recent positions as a Counselor for Addiction Recovery and former role as an Advisor to high-net-worth clients. I have focused on leveraging combined background to provide advisement to executives and other professionals struggling with addiction. I am currently completing a Ph.D. degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, and previously earned a Master’s degree in Addiction Studies. Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LAADC).
(925) 744-6912 View (925) 744-6912
Photo of Irina Tsukanova, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC I
Irina Tsukanova
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC I
San Jose, CA 95126
If alcohol and other substances became the only way for you to deal with daily problems, I can help you to navigate through the endless circle. As parents, we face unique, everyday challenges dealing with our families and professional life. Oftentimes, we neglect to care for our needs and wants. Each person has a unique situation, and I will make your journey to recovery easier. I use motivational interviewing, positive psychology, and many other methods to help my client to overcome the substance use disorder.
If alcohol and other substances became the only way for you to deal with daily problems, I can help you to navigate through the endless circle. As parents, we face unique, everyday challenges dealing with our families and professional life. Oftentimes, we neglect to care for our needs and wants. Each person has a unique situation, and I will make your journey to recovery easier. I use motivational interviewing, positive psychology, and many other methods to help my client to overcome the substance use disorder.
(408) 840-4086 View (408) 840-4086
Photo of Romeo Flora, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Romeo Flora
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
In my practice, East meets West. I have been a psychotherapist for more than 30 years, providing MHS to veterans, children, adults, couples and families. I have worked at Kaiser Permanente in the Psychiatry Department for 15 years, the City and County of San Francisco for three years, Santa Clara County for 7 years and at the VA Medical Center for a year.
In my practice, East meets West. I have been a psychotherapist for more than 30 years, providing MHS to veterans, children, adults, couples and families. I have worked at Kaiser Permanente in the Psychiatry Department for 15 years, the City and County of San Francisco for three years, Santa Clara County for 7 years and at the VA Medical Center for a year.
(415) 630-2881 View (415) 630-2881
Photo of Laura L Sanchez, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Laura L Sanchez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
I understand that seeking therapy can be a significant step, especially when facing various challenges. If you're in California, I want you to know that I offer telehealth therapy, including evening appointments. As your therapist, my approach is rooted in empathy, compassion, and cultural sensitivity. I strive to create a safe and supportive space where you feel heard and understood. With my experience, I can assist you in setting meaningful goals for your therapy journey. I have experience with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds including LGBTQI and BIPOC. Your mental health is important & I care about your well being.
I understand that seeking therapy can be a significant step, especially when facing various challenges. If you're in California, I want you to know that I offer telehealth therapy, including evening appointments. As your therapist, my approach is rooted in empathy, compassion, and cultural sensitivity. I strive to create a safe and supportive space where you feel heard and understood. With my experience, I can assist you in setting meaningful goals for your therapy journey. I have experience with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds including LGBTQI and BIPOC. Your mental health is important & I care about your well being.
(530) 444-6857 View (530) 444-6857
Photo of Matthew Ortega, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Matthew Ortega
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi, I am a Marriage & Family Therapist licensed in California with over 11 years of experience working as a mental health counselor, therapist, mentor to at-risk youth, and life coach. I have worked with clients (ages 4-70+) with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, personality disorders, relationship issues, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced anger control issues and eating disorders.
Hi, I am a Marriage & Family Therapist licensed in California with over 11 years of experience working as a mental health counselor, therapist, mentor to at-risk youth, and life coach. I have worked with clients (ages 4-70+) with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, personality disorders, relationship issues, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced anger control issues and eating disorders.
(925) 633-6197 View (925) 633-6197
Photo of Andy Sims - Andy Sims - ADHD Allies, MS, PAAC
Andy Sims - ADHD Allies
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Awareness is the first step. Our "symptoms" flare when we are in a state of unrest. Environments, co-existing conditions, sleep, nutrition, lack of exercise, and many other reasons can trigger these. Our support is guided by finding where the unrest lies, unpacking it, and then co-creating strategic solutions for each client's unique characteristics and situations. I use a variety of tools for reflection, discovery of strengths/challenges, meditation, and even exercise. One of the most important tools we bring is having a trained ADHD lens to look through when supporting one with ADHD.
Awareness is the first step. Our "symptoms" flare when we are in a state of unrest. Environments, co-existing conditions, sleep, nutrition, lack of exercise, and many other reasons can trigger these. Our support is guided by finding where the unrest lies, unpacking it, and then co-creating strategic solutions for each client's unique characteristics and situations. I use a variety of tools for reflection, discovery of strengths/challenges, meditation, and even exercise. One of the most important tools we bring is having a trained ADHD lens to look through when supporting one with ADHD.
(805) 514-2060 View (805) 514-2060
Jerry David Mermis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Serves Area
Facing, financial, legal, professional, relationship, behavior or addiction issues. Fourty years experience supporting people in troubles of every kind imaginable. I have also focused on men's issues, life transitions, grief, loss and spiritual issues. My goal is to help individuals with dual diagnosis, depression, marriage problems, addictions, parenting issues, fear, anxiety, grief, decision making, burnout, stress and family crisis, doubt, anger or forgiveness. We’ll work together to change behaviors and attitudes. I work with you to strengthen your recovery. E-mail me at karmajerry@yahoo.com
Facing, financial, legal, professional, relationship, behavior or addiction issues. Fourty years experience supporting people in troubles of every kind imaginable. I have also focused on men's issues, life transitions, grief, loss and spiritual issues. My goal is to help individuals with dual diagnosis, depression, marriage problems, addictions, parenting issues, fear, anxiety, grief, decision making, burnout, stress and family crisis, doubt, anger or forgiveness. We’ll work together to change behaviors and attitudes. I work with you to strengthen your recovery. E-mail me at karmajerry@yahoo.com
(831) 272-4969 View (831) 272-4969
Photo of Daniel Powell, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Daniel Powell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. I'm comfortable working with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, bi-polar, substance abuse, psychosis, autism spectrum disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder. I implement individual evidenced based interventions designed to positive behavior change. I enjoy working with couples, families, parent training, adults and adolescents.
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. I'm comfortable working with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, bi-polar, substance abuse, psychosis, autism spectrum disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder. I implement individual evidenced based interventions designed to positive behavior change. I enjoy working with couples, families, parent training, adults and adolescents.
(619) 305-0826 View (619) 305-0826
Photo of Jerome R Scott, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jerome R Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi, I'm Jerome - welcome! I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families work through anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship conflict. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, with a focus on how family dynamics and life transitions affect emotional well-being. Whether you're navigating personal struggles or relational challenges, I provide a safe, compassionate space to explore your experiences and build meaningful change. My goal is to help you reconnect with your strengths and move forward with clarity and purpose.
Hi, I'm Jerome - welcome! I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families work through anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship conflict. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, with a focus on how family dynamics and life transitions affect emotional well-being. Whether you're navigating personal struggles or relational challenges, I provide a safe, compassionate space to explore your experiences and build meaningful change. My goal is to help you reconnect with your strengths and move forward with clarity and purpose.
(909) 415-5505 View (909) 415-5505
Photo of Sarah Plep, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sarah Plep
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
As a therapist I work with individuals, adolescents, families and couples. My main frameworks are cognitive behavioral therapy, strengths based psychotherapy, and motivational interviewing. My primary job is to provide you with a safe non-judgemental space to process and to achieve the goals that will make you more fulfilled in our high stress Bay Area. I can serve as a guide along this path as you discover what it means to be the truest you. As well as assist you to overcome whatever has been holding you back. It isn’t always easy but working on ourselves brings great rewards.
As a therapist I work with individuals, adolescents, families and couples. My main frameworks are cognitive behavioral therapy, strengths based psychotherapy, and motivational interviewing. My primary job is to provide you with a safe non-judgemental space to process and to achieve the goals that will make you more fulfilled in our high stress Bay Area. I can serve as a guide along this path as you discover what it means to be the truest you. As well as assist you to overcome whatever has been holding you back. It isn’t always easy but working on ourselves brings great rewards.
(408) 827-1815 View (408) 827-1815
Photo of Kevin Kuhlow, LAADC, MS
Kevin Kuhlow
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Is alcohol or another substance holding you back? Are you a professional or executive who has found that the one thing you haven't been able to overcome is substance use? Many clinicians don't truly understand the stress and loneliness that professional success can create. My experience as a senior executive and addiction professional can help you break free and achieve your true potential. Don't let substance abuse be the one thing you haven't been able to overcome as a professional. I utilize positive counseling techniques designed to capitalize on your strengths to help you overcome substance use and achieve your potential.
Is alcohol or another substance holding you back? Are you a professional or executive who has found that the one thing you haven't been able to overcome is substance use? Many clinicians don't truly understand the stress and loneliness that professional success can create. My experience as a senior executive and addiction professional can help you break free and achieve your true potential. Don't let substance abuse be the one thing you haven't been able to overcome as a professional. I utilize positive counseling techniques designed to capitalize on your strengths to help you overcome substance use and achieve your potential.
(650) 420-4560 View (650) 420-4560
Photo of Christan Mercurio, Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Christan Mercurio
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
2 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95126
You perform at a high level, but inside you feel tense, stuck, or on edge. Habits that used to help now leave you exhausted, and thinking harder doesn’t change anything. Many of the people I see are neurodivergent (Autistic, ADHD, high-masking), navigating high-pressure environments, or managing teens and relationships under stress. You want relief, flexibility, and the ability to respond differently without losing your edge.
You perform at a high level, but inside you feel tense, stuck, or on edge. Habits that used to help now leave you exhausted, and thinking harder doesn’t change anything. Many of the people I see are neurodivergent (Autistic, ADHD, high-masking), navigating high-pressure environments, or managing teens and relationships under stress. You want relief, flexibility, and the ability to respond differently without losing your edge.
(650) 640-3516 x481 View (650) 640-3516 x481
Photo of Audrey Hu, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ASW
Audrey Hu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ASW
San Jose, CA 95125
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
(408) 404-5583 View (408) 404-5583
Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
San Jose, CA 95113
I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, broken relationships, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, financial recklessness, and gambling. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, broken relationships, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, financial recklessness, and gambling. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(408) 762-4288 View (408) 762-4288
Photo of Jennie Nystrom, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Jennie Nystrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
San Jose, CA 95125
Do you feel depressed or anxious due to childhood trauma? Do you feel disconnected in your relationships with others? I’m here to help you develop an action plan for meaningful changes. My approach to therapy is relational and person-centered. I will work alongside you in a warm and understanding environment where you can explore your emotions and find better ways to deal with the stressors in your life.
Do you feel depressed or anxious due to childhood trauma? Do you feel disconnected in your relationships with others? I’m here to help you develop an action plan for meaningful changes. My approach to therapy is relational and person-centered. I will work alongside you in a warm and understanding environment where you can explore your emotions and find better ways to deal with the stressors in your life.
(408) 404-5596 View (408) 404-5596
Photo of Devin Peck, Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC
Devin Peck
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You’ve been holding it together for everyone else, but inside, it’s a different story. You’re angry, anxious, or shut down—barely sleeping, snapping at people you care about, and feeling disconnected from who you used to be. Maybe you're facing changes you never expected, like adapting to life with blindness or another disability. You’re avoiding intimacy, struggling in public or social situations, and questioning past and future decisions. Whether you're a veteran, first responder, or just tired of carrying it all alone—you know something needs to change.
You’ve been holding it together for everyone else, but inside, it’s a different story. You’re angry, anxious, or shut down—barely sleeping, snapping at people you care about, and feeling disconnected from who you used to be. Maybe you're facing changes you never expected, like adapting to life with blindness or another disability. You’re avoiding intimacy, struggling in public or social situations, and questioning past and future decisions. Whether you're a veteran, first responder, or just tired of carrying it all alone—you know something needs to change.
(408) 413-1576 View (408) 413-1576
Photo of Luann Peitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SUDC-IV, EMDR
Luann Peitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SUDC-IV, EMDR
2 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95118
You work hard to hold it all together—but inside, you’re overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you. Maybe it’s anxiety, past trauma, addiction, or relationship struggles wearing you down. You want to feel more present, more connected, and more like yourself again. You’re not looking for quick fixes—you want real change, and you’re ready to understand what’s beneath the surface. Therapy can be the space where that shift begins.
You work hard to hold it all together—but inside, you’re overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you. Maybe it’s anxiety, past trauma, addiction, or relationship struggles wearing you down. You want to feel more present, more connected, and more like yourself again. You’re not looking for quick fixes—you want real change, and you’re ready to understand what’s beneath the surface. Therapy can be the space where that shift begins.
(831) 228-3932 View (831) 228-3932
Photo of Holly Hopkins Shah, Psychologist, PsyD
Holly Hopkins Shah
Psychologist, PsyD
San Jose, CA 95128
Thank you for visiting my profile. You're looking for a therapist because either you or a loved one is in some distress. I can help. I have experience in treating many issues one faces that produces some distress from relationship problems, trauma or family difficulties to depression, anxiety and grief.
Thank you for visiting my profile. You're looking for a therapist because either you or a loved one is in some distress. I can help. I have experience in treating many issues one faces that produces some distress from relationship problems, trauma or family difficulties to depression, anxiety and grief.
(408) 628-1618 View (408) 628-1618

See more therapy options for San Jose

Alcohol Use Therapists
Are there specific medications for alcohol use?
There are oral medications approved to treat alcohol use disorder—such as disulfiram, acamprosate, and naltrexone, which also comes in an injectable form. These medications do help people reduce their drinking as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone helps reduce cravings, disulfiram can make a person feel sick when they drink, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.

How do alcohol recovery or rehabilitation programs work?
In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other patients in recovery; in outpatient programs,individuals live at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counselors, and psychotherapists. Staff can also include people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other tools for recovery.

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 alcohol use reduce the amount of alcohol they intake. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.