Substance Use Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Brandi Walker, Psychologist, PhD
Brandi Walker
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I’ve spent the last seven years researching children with ADHD, their families, and various sleep and environmental factors in hospitals, clinics, and schools. As a soon-to-be-retired commissioned officer in the Army, I’ve worked directly with veterans, service members, and their families for over a decade. I’ve also contributed to initiatives aligned with the Army’s Holistic Health and Fitness programming. I’m dedicated to advancing knowledge on ADHD and providing therapeutic, research-informed support to individuals and families impacted by it.
I’ve spent the last seven years researching children with ADHD, their families, and various sleep and environmental factors in hospitals, clinics, and schools. As a soon-to-be-retired commissioned officer in the Army, I’ve worked directly with veterans, service members, and their families for over a decade. I’ve also contributed to initiatives aligned with the Army’s Holistic Health and Fitness programming. I’m dedicated to advancing knowledge on ADHD and providing therapeutic, research-informed support to individuals and families impacted by it.
(202) 831-7098 View (202) 831-7098
Photo of Massimo Scano, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAC II , CSAC
Massimo Scano
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAC II , CSAC
Washington, DC 20009
After several years in the Italian Navy and then working as a Registered Nurse, I received training in Counseling Psychology and worked for many years in community-based outpatient settings and private practice where I help people address their issues with depression, anxiety, and substance use.
In my practice I am guided by the belief that change is possible and that every person has the capacity for healthy growth and development but may at times need help in accessing inner resources for positive change. I believe a therapist-client relationship that is characterized by empathy, curiosity, acceptance and caring is what facilitates the therapeutic process. I aim to provide an environment where my clients feel safe and free to explore their feelings, thoughts, needs and goals - an environment where we can work together at understanding what is keeping them from living a more fulfilling life.
After several years in the Italian Navy and then working as a Registered Nurse, I received training in Counseling Psychology and worked for many years in community-based outpatient settings and private practice where I help people address their issues with depression, anxiety, and substance use.
In my practice I am guided by the belief that change is possible and that every person has the capacity for healthy growth and development but may at times need help in accessing inner resources for positive change. I believe a therapist-client relationship that is characterized by empathy, curiosity, acceptance and caring is what facilitates the therapeutic process. I aim to provide an environment where my clients feel safe and free to explore their feelings, thoughts, needs and goals - an environment where we can work together at understanding what is keeping them from living a more fulfilling life.
(202) 618-5440 View (202) 618-5440
Photo of Arelis Perez - Arelis Perez Psychotherapy Services , Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Arelis Perez Psychotherapy Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Hi, I'm Arelis — therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor, and founder of Arelis Perez Psychotherapy Services. If you've been searching for a therapist who truly understands your world — your culture, your language, your lived experience — you're in the right place. Our diverse, bilingual team provides virtual therapy in English and Spanish for individuals, couples, families, and teens across DC, Maryland, and Virginia. We specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, domestic violence, life transitions, and immigration psychological evaluations.
Hi, I'm Arelis — therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor, and founder of Arelis Perez Psychotherapy Services. If you've been searching for a therapist who truly understands your world — your culture, your language, your lived experience — you're in the right place. Our diverse, bilingual team provides virtual therapy in English and Spanish for individuals, couples, families, and teens across DC, Maryland, and Virginia. We specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, domestic violence, life transitions, and immigration psychological evaluations.
(202) 902-6338 View (202) 902-6338
Photo of Brian Gill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Brian Gill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Washington, DC 20009
You bring a desire to create change in your life and the willingness to explore how this may be possible. Struggling with feeling stuck? Finding yourself repeating old patterns? Wanting to create change in your life? Then by all means give a call.
You bring a desire to create change in your life and the willingness to explore how this may be possible. Struggling with feeling stuck? Finding yourself repeating old patterns? Wanting to create change in your life? Then by all means give a call.
(202) 932-9340 View (202) 932-9340
Photo of Robert Muller, Psychologist, PhD
Robert Muller
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I assist individuals to honestly evaluate their need to control substance use, anger and other potentially self-destructive and hurtful behaviors.
If you cling to habitual patterns of reaction and interaction that keep you from reaching your full social, romantic and career potential... If a traumatic life event or ongoing family conflict is overwhelming you... If depression, poorly controlled emotions or stifling self-consciousness are holding you back... It's time to take charge of your life again and begin the path to greater personal fulfillment. For more details on my background and how I work, consult my website at: RobMullerPhD.org. Please note, I am currently licensed in Washington, DC & New York.
I assist individuals to honestly evaluate their need to control substance use, anger and other potentially self-destructive and hurtful behaviors.
If you cling to habitual patterns of reaction and interaction that keep you from reaching your full social, romantic and career potential... If a traumatic life event or ongoing family conflict is overwhelming you... If depression, poorly controlled emotions or stifling self-consciousness are holding you back... It's time to take charge of your life again and begin the path to greater personal fulfillment. For more details on my background and how I work, consult my website at: RobMullerPhD.org. Please note, I am currently licensed in Washington, DC & New York.
(202) 596-7222 View (202) 596-7222
Photo of Caren Gillison, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, CRC
Caren Gillison
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, CRC
Online Only
I have over 15 years of experience of supporting adults dealing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and substance use.
I am a licensed mental health clinician serving Washington, DC and Maryland. I am dedicated to helping you become the best version of yourself. My work centers on fostering mental resilience, self-awareness, and self-efficacy. In our sessions, we’ll explore both your challenges and strengths, develop effective coping strategies, and create a personalized path toward growth and fulfillment.
I have over 15 years of experience of supporting adults dealing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and substance use.
I am a licensed mental health clinician serving Washington, DC and Maryland. I am dedicated to helping you become the best version of yourself. My work centers on fostering mental resilience, self-awareness, and self-efficacy. In our sessions, we’ll explore both your challenges and strengths, develop effective coping strategies, and create a personalized path toward growth and fulfillment.
(866) 509-7183 View (866) 509-7183
Photo of Juliet Eyang - Therapeutic Links Behavioral Health Services LLC, Social Worker, LGSW
I help adults navigate anxiety, trauma, depression, substance use, and major life transitions.
I take a practical, collaborative approach using CBT, DBT, ACT, and Motivational Interviewing to help you understand patterns and build skills that actually work. Together, we focus on emotional regulation, clarity, and steady progress—so you can feel more grounded, in control, and aligned with your values.
I help adults navigate anxiety, trauma, depression, substance use, and major life transitions.
I take a practical, collaborative approach using CBT, DBT, ACT, and Motivational Interviewing to help you understand patterns and build skills that actually work. Together, we focus on emotional regulation, clarity, and steady progress—so you can feel more grounded, in control, and aligned with your values.
(855) 506-5875 x1 View (855) 506-5875 x1
Photo of Susanna Shapiro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Susanna Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am passionate about helping people of all cultures and backgrounds overcome obstacles and achieve fulfilling lives. I provide therapy in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, and specialize in supporting couples on the brink with an active, relational approach. I bring curiosity, humor, and love into the therapy space, guiding clients through serious work that can also be fascinating and fun. My training in structural family therapy and neurobiology of trauma helps clients move beyond harmful patterns toward their goals.
I am passionate about helping people of all cultures and backgrounds overcome obstacles and achieve fulfilling lives. I provide therapy in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, and specialize in supporting couples on the brink with an active, relational approach. I bring curiosity, humor, and love into the therapy space, guiding clients through serious work that can also be fascinating and fun. My training in structural family therapy and neurobiology of trauma helps clients move beyond harmful patterns toward their goals.
(855) 946-5138 View (855) 946-5138
Photo of Seth Andrew Greenblatt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, LICSW
Seth Andrew Greenblatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, LICSW
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, conducting Psychotherapy via telehealth. I am more than happy to engage in a free 15 minute consultation to see if we are a good fit. I subscribe to an Integrated Wellness Philosophy, treating a person's physical and mental health, along with their nutritional, financial and interrelationship needs. I will help you reach your potential by utilizing a humanistic, existential approach to become a healthier, happier person. My rates are reasonable and you will find me personable and comfortable with a good sense of humor and sensitivity. You can try me out and see if we connect.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, conducting Psychotherapy via telehealth. I am more than happy to engage in a free 15 minute consultation to see if we are a good fit. I subscribe to an Integrated Wellness Philosophy, treating a person's physical and mental health, along with their nutritional, financial and interrelationship needs. I will help you reach your potential by utilizing a humanistic, existential approach to become a healthier, happier person. My rates are reasonable and you will find me personable and comfortable with a good sense of humor and sensitivity. You can try me out and see if we connect.
(202) 816-7349 View (202) 816-7349
Photo of Sophia Sills-Tailor, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Sophia Sills-Tailor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I create a space where you can talk freely, laugh a little, and sort through what’s been weighing you down. I consider myself a professional secret keeper who believes healing happens through honesty, humor, and connection with ourselves and others. My style is relaxed but intentional, helping you find calm in the chaos, set boundaries, and rediscover balance and self-care techniques. You don’t have to have it all figured out—just be willing to show up as you’re ready to do the work.
I create a space where you can talk freely, laugh a little, and sort through what’s been weighing you down. I consider myself a professional secret keeper who believes healing happens through honesty, humor, and connection with ourselves and others. My style is relaxed but intentional, helping you find calm in the chaos, set boundaries, and rediscover balance and self-care techniques. You don’t have to have it all figured out—just be willing to show up as you’re ready to do the work.
(202) 868-8092 View (202) 868-8092
Photo of Liz McLaughlin, Psychologist, PhD
Liz McLaughlin
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I help people work on anxiety, depression, substance use problems, stress, and more.
I offer an individualized therapy experience based on modern, evidence-based practices. Your goals may include exploring identity, managing life transitions, improving your relationships, or something else; I look forward to hearing your unique story. I use cognitive-behavioral, acceptance-based, and motivational enhancement-based strategies. We’ll start with a thorough assessment. We’ll collaborate on identifying what is working for you and what is not, and test new strategies you can use. I’ll provide a safe setting where you can work things out.
I help people work on anxiety, depression, substance use problems, stress, and more.
I offer an individualized therapy experience based on modern, evidence-based practices. Your goals may include exploring identity, managing life transitions, improving your relationships, or something else; I look forward to hearing your unique story. I use cognitive-behavioral, acceptance-based, and motivational enhancement-based strategies. We’ll start with a thorough assessment. We’ll collaborate on identifying what is working for you and what is not, and test new strategies you can use. I’ll provide a safe setting where you can work things out.
(202) 335-7841 x4 View (202) 335-7841 x4
Photo of Christina Buswell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Christina Buswell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with trauma survivors and those experiencing substance use challenges in the community and in residential programs.
Are you ready to make some changes in your life, but need the right person to get you started, wherever you might be? Taking the first step takes a lot of courage, and I’m committed to helping anyone start making the right changes. No two people are the same, and I believe the most important aspect of therapy is building a therapeutic alliance that enables you to achieve the things you are working towards. Whether that is improved self-esteem, healthier relationships, or finding joy in everyday life. I can support you in exploring and developing goals you create for yourself and break things down into manageable steps.
I have worked with trauma survivors and those experiencing substance use challenges in the community and in residential programs.
Are you ready to make some changes in your life, but need the right person to get you started, wherever you might be? Taking the first step takes a lot of courage, and I’m committed to helping anyone start making the right changes. No two people are the same, and I believe the most important aspect of therapy is building a therapeutic alliance that enables you to achieve the things you are working towards. Whether that is improved self-esteem, healthier relationships, or finding joy in everyday life. I can support you in exploring and developing goals you create for yourself and break things down into manageable steps.
(202) 839-9483 View (202) 839-9483
Photo of Alandra Corbett Johnson, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alandra Corbett Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I enjoy working with couples and clients of all ages. I work with clients from all demographics such as the LGBTQ+ population and those from diverse cultural backgrounds. I work with clients to help improve their confidence, interpersonal relationships, success and overall happiness. The main goal is for each client to feel heard, seen and excited to reach their greatest potential.
I enjoy working with couples and clients of all ages. I work with clients from all demographics such as the LGBTQ+ population and those from diverse cultural backgrounds. I work with clients to help improve their confidence, interpersonal relationships, success and overall happiness. The main goal is for each client to feel heard, seen and excited to reach their greatest potential.
(202) 831-8536 View (202) 831-8536
Photo of Akili Banjo-Yeboah - Aspire Community Wellness Consortium LLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MPA, CACII
Aspire Community Wellness Consortium LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MPA, CACII
1 Endorsed
Online Only
They may be: Struggling with substance use (alcohol, opioids, marijuana, cocaine, or polysubstance use) and the emotional weight that comes with it.
I help individuals rebuild their lives by restoring resiliency, rediscovering their “why,” and moving forward with dignity. Through evidence-based addiction therapy and person-centered care, I offer a safe space to heal, grow, and create lasting change.
They may be: Struggling with substance use (alcohol, opioids, marijuana, cocaine, or polysubstance use) and the emotional weight that comes with it.
I help individuals rebuild their lives by restoring resiliency, rediscovering their “why,” and moving forward with dignity. Through evidence-based addiction therapy and person-centered care, I offer a safe space to heal, grow, and create lasting change.
(202) 335-5972 View (202) 335-5972
Photo of Emily Foster, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Emily Foster
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I specialize in adult psychotherapy, including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, substance use, trauma, relationships, and LGBTQ issues.
In addition to treating anxiety, depression, and relationship issues, I have experience in substance use counseling and enjoy working with clients who are concerned about their substance use. I encourage them to examine this use more deeply, and help them learn new ways of managing the difficult thoughts and feelings often associated with their use.
I specialize in adult psychotherapy, including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, substance use, trauma, relationships, and LGBTQ issues.
In addition to treating anxiety, depression, and relationship issues, I have experience in substance use counseling and enjoy working with clients who are concerned about their substance use. I encourage them to examine this use more deeply, and help them learn new ways of managing the difficult thoughts and feelings often associated with their use.
(202) 804-0315 View (202) 804-0315
Photo of Christopher Edwards, Psychologist, PhD
Christopher Edwards
Psychologist, PhD
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
Life can constantly challenge our sense of self and confidence. I strongly feel that everyone is exactly who they ought to be. Each individual has strengths, and they can be difficult to identify when you’re struggling with your mental health. In my 15+ years of experience, I have worked with individuals who are experiencing every level of mental illness from its most disruptive forms to the day-to-day challenges. I have supported people in even the heaviest places recover, find a life of hope, and reaffirm their purpose.
Life can constantly challenge our sense of self and confidence. I strongly feel that everyone is exactly who they ought to be. Each individual has strengths, and they can be difficult to identify when you’re struggling with your mental health. In my 15+ years of experience, I have worked with individuals who are experiencing every level of mental illness from its most disruptive forms to the day-to-day challenges. I have supported people in even the heaviest places recover, find a life of hope, and reaffirm their purpose.
(202) 937-3791 View (202) 937-3791
Photo of Philip W Meilman, Psychologist, PhD
Philip W Meilman
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
I like to work with adults, young adults, and late adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, interpersonal concerns, LGBTQ+ issues, and/or substance abuse difficulties, often using an action-oriented and cognitive-behavioral (CBT) approach. Of course, the approach will vary somewhat depending on the need. A licensed clinical psychologist, I have been in practice for 48 years, and previously served as director for the Counseling and Psychiatric Service (CAPS) at Georgetown University for 15 years. Currently I am providing services virtually, by teletherapy, using a secure video platform.
I like to work with adults, young adults, and late adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, interpersonal concerns, LGBTQ+ issues, and/or substance abuse difficulties, often using an action-oriented and cognitive-behavioral (CBT) approach. Of course, the approach will vary somewhat depending on the need. A licensed clinical psychologist, I have been in practice for 48 years, and previously served as director for the Counseling and Psychiatric Service (CAPS) at Georgetown University for 15 years. Currently I am providing services virtually, by teletherapy, using a secure video platform.
(607) 358-7129 View (607) 358-7129
Photo of Sheila DelValle - Sheila Delvalle—Substance Abuse•Couples•Teens, Licensed Master Social Worker, MSW, LMSW, LGSW
Sheila Delvalle—Substance Abuse•Couples•Teens
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSW, LMSW, LGSW
Online Only
Do you struggle with substance use?
You can expect expert support with no judgment. You can get help rebuilding relationships with your family. Couples therapy can help you and your partner get back on track. You can regain intimacy and trust. Support for you, your relationship, and your adolescent children. Your teenager can get practical tools to help them thrive at home and in school.
Do you struggle with substance use?
You can expect expert support with no judgment. You can get help rebuilding relationships with your family. Couples therapy can help you and your partner get back on track. You can regain intimacy and trust. Support for you, your relationship, and your adolescent children. Your teenager can get practical tools to help them thrive at home and in school.
(202) 796-6511 View (202) 796-6511
Photo of Anne Kunze, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PLLC
Anne Kunze
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PLLC
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
Do your feelings or thoughts weigh heavily on you most of the day? Does your drinking or using concern you or others? Is your mind often a highlight reel of your worst moments or "what ifs"? If these questions resonate with you, let's talk.
Do your feelings or thoughts weigh heavily on you most of the day? Does your drinking or using concern you or others? Is your mind often a highlight reel of your worst moments or "what ifs"? If these questions resonate with you, let's talk.
(833) 637-3804 View (833) 637-3804
Photo of Kris Oseth, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, LPCC, CPT
Kris Oseth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, LPCC, CPT
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010
I may show you how to change your behavior by using Mindfulness/changing your thoughts, recovery/harm reduction tools to address substance use, guidance/education/resources for exploring sexual orientation/gender identity/transitioning/coming out, provide couples/individual work for better communication in relationships, and/or I can apply EMDR/somatic-based approaches for trauma/anxiety and even substance using/behavioral urges.
I work with clients of all backgrounds, while specializing in following areas: LGBTQ+, Transgender/Gender-Diverse/Non-binary transitioning process and identity; kink/poly/non-monogamous relationships, sex work, substance use/misuse – goals for sobriety/recovery or harm reduction, out of control sexual behavior, anxiety/trauma, Personal Training, EMDR
I may show you how to change your behavior by using Mindfulness/changing your thoughts, recovery/harm reduction tools to address substance use, guidance/education/resources for exploring sexual orientation/gender identity/transitioning/coming out, provide couples/individual work for better communication in relationships, and/or I can apply EMDR/somatic-based approaches for trauma/anxiety and even substance using/behavioral urges.
I work with clients of all backgrounds, while specializing in following areas: LGBTQ+, Transgender/Gender-Diverse/Non-binary transitioning process and identity; kink/poly/non-monogamous relationships, sex work, substance use/misuse – goals for sobriety/recovery or harm reduction, out of control sexual behavior, anxiety/trauma, Personal Training, EMDR
(202) 759-8060 View (202) 759-8060

See more therapy options for Washington

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.