Substance Use Therapists in 94114

Photo of Irina Slutsky, Marriage & Family Therapist
Irina Slutsky
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I also use Gestalt, Somatic Therapy, Family Systems Therapy and, in terms of substance use, Abstinence Recovery support (12-Step, etc.
Struggling with relationships? Experiencing the many ways substance use can create pain, whether for you or someone you love? Are you living with a mental health condition that requires support? Identifying limiting beliefs and unhelpful behaviors is an essential step to living an emotionally stable life, whatever difficult crossroads you may be experiencing. Often, emotional recovery begins with healing long-buried childhood trauma. And I believe relief can sometimes happen as early as the first session. (Licensed in CA, TX and FL.)
I also use Gestalt, Somatic Therapy, Family Systems Therapy and, in terms of substance use, Abstinence Recovery support (12-Step, etc.
Struggling with relationships? Experiencing the many ways substance use can create pain, whether for you or someone you love? Are you living with a mental health condition that requires support? Identifying limiting beliefs and unhelpful behaviors is an essential step to living an emotionally stable life, whatever difficult crossroads you may be experiencing. Often, emotional recovery begins with healing long-buried childhood trauma. And I believe relief can sometimes happen as early as the first session. (Licensed in CA, TX and FL.)
(650) 731-5084 View (650) 731-5084
Photo of John Haupert, MSN, PMHNPBC
John Haupert
MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
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.
(628) 232-8613 View (628) 232-8613
Photo of Vanessa Brown, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
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.
(415) 914-9354 View (415) 914-9354
Photo of Rori Sante, ASW
Rori Sante
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
I work with a variety of issues impacting LGBTQ+ people, including stigma, anxiety, trauma, attachment, relationships, sex, substance use, disability, and body image.
Are you tired of having to educate therapists about your experience as a queer/trans person? I’m a trans therapist who specializes in addressing the intersection between LGBTQ+ issues and mental health, substance use, and behavior change. I address the role of oppression, discrimination, and stigma in my work with clients. I will help you manage overwhelm, anxiety, depression, and relational challenges by co-creating healthy coping skills that align with your values.
I work with a variety of issues impacting LGBTQ+ people, including stigma, anxiety, trauma, attachment, relationships, sex, substance use, disability, and body image.
Are you tired of having to educate therapists about your experience as a queer/trans person? I’m a trans therapist who specializes in addressing the intersection between LGBTQ+ issues and mental health, substance use, and behavior change. I address the role of oppression, discrimination, and stigma in my work with clients. I will help you manage overwhelm, anxiety, depression, and relational challenges by co-creating healthy coping skills that align with your values.
(415) 496-4897 x706 View (415) 496-4897 x706
Photo of Stefanie Schlief, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Stefanie Schlief
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting clients across all identities, in both traditional and ethically non-monogamous relationships, who seek support with topics of guilt and shame, attachment issues, love and intimacy concerns, substance use, trauma, and more.
I am an associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in sex therapy, harm reduction, trauma-informed care, PTSD, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I am currently accepting both couples and individuals at my practice. My work is non-judgmental, client focused, sex positive, open to those practicing ethical non-monogamy and polyamory, kink-positive, SWer supportive, and welcomes humans of all cultural backgrounds. I love to help people navigate through their relationships, both casual and serious, and offer support and care in making tough changes or choices. Together we can explore shame, identity, and what scares or challenges us.
I am currently accepting clients across all identities, in both traditional and ethically non-monogamous relationships, who seek support with topics of guilt and shame, attachment issues, love and intimacy concerns, substance use, trauma, and more.
I am an associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in sex therapy, harm reduction, trauma-informed care, PTSD, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I am currently accepting both couples and individuals at my practice. My work is non-judgmental, client focused, sex positive, open to those practicing ethical non-monogamy and polyamory, kink-positive, SWer supportive, and welcomes humans of all cultural backgrounds. I love to help people navigate through their relationships, both casual and serious, and offer support and care in making tough changes or choices. Together we can explore shame, identity, and what scares or challenges us.
(510) 288-6085 View (510) 288-6085
Photo of David Miller, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I am David Joel Miller, licensed in California as a Marriage And Family Therapist 45390 and as a Professional Clinical Counselor. I work with clients to overcome the problems of living and create the best life possible regardless of the circumstances they find themselves in. I emphasize overcoming anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, achieving work-life balance, and eventually dealing with the challenges of aging.
I am David Joel Miller, licensed in California as a Marriage And Family Therapist 45390 and as a Professional Clinical Counselor. I work with clients to overcome the problems of living and create the best life possible regardless of the circumstances they find themselves in. I emphasize overcoming anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, achieving work-life balance, and eventually dealing with the challenges of aging.
(415) 915-7178 View (415) 915-7178
Photo of Stanley Fuller, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stanley Fuller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I work extensively with Queer and LGBT community, Kink Affirmative/ Sex Positive, Sexual abuse, Substance Use, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Chronic pain, Aging, Childhood Trauma, Grieving, and Couples.
You are unique. My approach is from a holistic lens through relational humanistic psychodynamics. I hope that we build a foundational relationship that is based on trust and acceptance. I will walk with you through your journey of healing and self-discovery. I utilize my self-reflective journey through humanistic transpersonal psychodynamics, meeting you where you are in the here and now, offering acceptance and understanding.
I work extensively with Queer and LGBT community, Kink Affirmative/ Sex Positive, Sexual abuse, Substance Use, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Chronic pain, Aging, Childhood Trauma, Grieving, and Couples.
You are unique. My approach is from a holistic lens through relational humanistic psychodynamics. I hope that we build a foundational relationship that is based on trust and acceptance. I will walk with you through your journey of healing and self-discovery. I utilize my self-reflective journey through humanistic transpersonal psychodynamics, meeting you where you are in the here and now, offering acceptance and understanding.
(415) 993-5146 View (415) 993-5146
Photo of Kelly Albrecht, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelly Albrecht
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem Solving Therapy and somatic interventions.
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem Solving Therapy and somatic interventions.
(415) 275-6276 View (415) 275-6276
Photo of Evan Wassarman, PsyD, Psychologist
Evan Wassarman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
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.
(415) 997-0929 View (415) 997-0929
Photo of Colin Fyfe, Marriage & Family Therapist
Colin Fyfe
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
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
(415) 484-9466 View (415) 484-9466
Photo of Erik Paul Anton Deiters, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erik Paul Anton Deiters
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I work with individuals and couples to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, and other mental health issues, as well as substance use and within the LGBTQ+ community.
I'm passionate about helping my clients find the best solutions to their problems and look forward to helping them live their best lives.
I work with individuals and couples to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, and other mental health issues, as well as substance use and within the LGBTQ+ community.
I'm passionate about helping my clients find the best solutions to their problems and look forward to helping them live their best lives.
(415) 366-3713 View (415) 366-3713
Photo of Dexter Mai, MSW, ASW
Dexter Mai
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
21 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting people who are experiencing challenges with depression, anxiety, relationships, sexual identity, gender identity, substance use, and men's issues.
When was the last time you felt TRULY happy? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life? Have past traumas left you feeling stressed and anxious? Or maybe you're on a journey to better understand yourself and find lasting happiness. If any of this resonates with you, I can help. As a Taiwanese American who immigrated to the United States at a young age, I know firsthand the struggles faced by individuals from AAPI and immigrant communities. I also recognize the unique challenges the LGBTQ community faces, and I'm committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all my clients.
I specialize in supporting people who are experiencing challenges with depression, anxiety, relationships, sexual identity, gender identity, substance use, and men's issues.
When was the last time you felt TRULY happy? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life? Have past traumas left you feeling stressed and anxious? Or maybe you're on a journey to better understand yourself and find lasting happiness. If any of this resonates with you, I can help. As a Taiwanese American who immigrated to the United States at a young age, I know firsthand the struggles faced by individuals from AAPI and immigrant communities. I also recognize the unique challenges the LGBTQ community faces, and I'm committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all my clients.
(408) 478-9309 View (408) 478-9309
Photo of Bailey Franklin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bailey Franklin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
My training includes AEDP (Level 2), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) for clients who want to explore their substance use.
I believe that deep down our thoughts and feelings make sense. And that while life can sometimes feel overwhelming, real change is possible. My therapeutic process integrates strength-based modalities that are tailored to the unique needs of each client and centers on identifying our untapped sources of strength and resilience to break through doubt, shame and fear. With care and curiosity, we will begin the process of exploring and healing the often hidden wounds inflicted by our experiences, families and society. Working together, we can change old patterns of feeling and thinking in order to empower your authentic, evolving self.
My training includes AEDP (Level 2), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) for clients who want to explore their substance use.
I believe that deep down our thoughts and feelings make sense. And that while life can sometimes feel overwhelming, real change is possible. My therapeutic process integrates strength-based modalities that are tailored to the unique needs of each client and centers on identifying our untapped sources of strength and resilience to break through doubt, shame and fear. With care and curiosity, we will begin the process of exploring and healing the often hidden wounds inflicted by our experiences, families and society. Working together, we can change old patterns of feeling and thinking in order to empower your authentic, evolving self.
(818) 918-2320 View (818) 918-2320
Photo of Christopher Vincent Powers, MA, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christopher Vincent Powers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
Affirmative, interactive, client-centered therapy can help you address depression, anxiety, and destructive behaviors. I serve heterosexual, gay, lesbian, bisexual, queer, trans, non-binary, and polyamorous individuals. I practice individual therapy, relationship counseling, and sex therapy. My experience includes working with substance use issues from a harm reduction approach, regardless of whether my client's goal is abstinence or substance use management. I love to help people address trauma, improve communication, take control of their lives, gain sexual confidence, and get their needs met.
Affirmative, interactive, client-centered therapy can help you address depression, anxiety, and destructive behaviors. I serve heterosexual, gay, lesbian, bisexual, queer, trans, non-binary, and polyamorous individuals. I practice individual therapy, relationship counseling, and sex therapy. My experience includes working with substance use issues from a harm reduction approach, regardless of whether my client's goal is abstinence or substance use management. I love to help people address trauma, improve communication, take control of their lives, gain sexual confidence, and get their needs met.
(415) 798-9586 View (415) 798-9586
Photo of Kristin L Dempsey, MS, MFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristin L Dempsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
I work with individuals, families and groups with challenging behaviors - addictions, trauma care, co-occurring mental health and substance use concerns, including psychosis. I work to promote person-driven care, always working to help empower and focus the people I work with toward desired and meaningful change. I enjoy working with adolescents and children, as well as adults. In addition to the above issues, I also have experience working with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, pregnancy counseling and issues which emgerge from life transitions. I also provide EMDR.
I work with individuals, families and groups with challenging behaviors - addictions, trauma care, co-occurring mental health and substance use concerns, including psychosis. I work to promote person-driven care, always working to help empower and focus the people I work with toward desired and meaningful change. I enjoy working with adolescents and children, as well as adults. In addition to the above issues, I also have experience working with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, pregnancy counseling and issues which emgerge from life transitions. I also provide EMDR.
(650) 727-9505 View (650) 727-9505
Photo of Jacob Adal - Adal Heart2Heart Psychotherapy Services, Inc., PsyD, Psychologist
Adal Heart2Heart Psychotherapy Services, Inc.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I specialize not only in working with clients who struggle with mental health challenges, substance use, and various addictions but also in helping men navigate issues related to male identity.
Taking the first step towards personal growth can be incredibly difficult. It can feel overwhelming to acknowledge that you need help and take the necessary steps to seek it out. However, by reading this, you have already accomplished the hardest part of initiating treatment. It takes courage and strength to recognize that you need support, and I commend you for taking this step. One of the most important aspects of my work is creating a safe and supportive environment for my clients. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process, where clients are active participants in their own healing.
I specialize not only in working with clients who struggle with mental health challenges, substance use, and various addictions but also in helping men navigate issues related to male identity.
Taking the first step towards personal growth can be incredibly difficult. It can feel overwhelming to acknowledge that you need help and take the necessary steps to seek it out. However, by reading this, you have already accomplished the hardest part of initiating treatment. It takes courage and strength to recognize that you need support, and I commend you for taking this step. One of the most important aspects of my work is creating a safe and supportive environment for my clients. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process, where clients are active participants in their own healing.
(661) 964-4219 View (661) 964-4219
Photo of Anica Leon-Weil, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anica Leon-Weil
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
I have experience working with folks across the lifespan in regards to relational issues, polyamory/open relationships, work stress, self esteem, boundary setting, life transitions, sexuality, substance use, trauma, depression, anxiety, perinatal/postpartum, & caregiving for elders, especially those with dementia.
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here and appreciate that it can take a lot to start the process of finding support. I believe we all have the capacity to experience satisfaction, fulfillment, and moments of joy in our lives. Let's explore the barriers to these things- both internally and externally, increase self understanding, and develop coping skills for the challenges you face. Life can be hard and we don’t always get to choose our circumstances but we can try to find ways to get through the best we can. I use a holistic approach with a backdrop of trauma focused, racial and social justice informed, and compassionate care.
I have experience working with folks across the lifespan in regards to relational issues, polyamory/open relationships, work stress, self esteem, boundary setting, life transitions, sexuality, substance use, trauma, depression, anxiety, perinatal/postpartum, & caregiving for elders, especially those with dementia.
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here and appreciate that it can take a lot to start the process of finding support. I believe we all have the capacity to experience satisfaction, fulfillment, and moments of joy in our lives. Let's explore the barriers to these things- both internally and externally, increase self understanding, and develop coping skills for the challenges you face. Life can be hard and we don’t always get to choose our circumstances but we can try to find ways to get through the best we can. I use a holistic approach with a backdrop of trauma focused, racial and social justice informed, and compassionate care.
View
Photo of Michael DeVito, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael DeVito
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
Currently, I have openings for individuals. I am licensed in NY, IL, and CA working on Zoom. I have 20 years of experience helping people with anxiety/stress, trauma, depression, relationship difficulties, chronic health, and substance use concerns. My work is strength-based and emphasizes the development of resilience, interpersonal skills, and ways to better manage challenging emotions, thoughts, and life circumstances.
Currently, I have openings for individuals. I am licensed in NY, IL, and CA working on Zoom. I have 20 years of experience helping people with anxiety/stress, trauma, depression, relationship difficulties, chronic health, and substance use concerns. My work is strength-based and emphasizes the development of resilience, interpersonal skills, and ways to better manage challenging emotions, thoughts, and life circumstances.
(646) 916-5609 View (646) 916-5609
Photo of Ken Stamper, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ken Stamper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I also enjoy working with new parents, adolescents, families, and adults who are struggling with screen use, bullying, video games, and substance use.
My therapeutic style is approachable, warm, curious, and, when necessary, challenging. I draw from my training in the lineage of Gestalt Therapy, working in the 'here and now' to find out how we can create growth and change. I also use tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy when appropriate to help develop awareness for effective change. We will work collaboratively to see how you can learn respond to your environment with greater freedom and choice, where you can see possibilities and turn them into actualities. I'm here to support you in becoming your best self.
I also enjoy working with new parents, adolescents, families, and adults who are struggling with screen use, bullying, video games, and substance use.
My therapeutic style is approachable, warm, curious, and, when necessary, challenging. I draw from my training in the lineage of Gestalt Therapy, working in the 'here and now' to find out how we can create growth and change. I also use tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy when appropriate to help develop awareness for effective change. We will work collaboratively to see how you can learn respond to your environment with greater freedom and choice, where you can see possibilities and turn them into actualities. I'm here to support you in becoming your best self.
(628) 214-5147 View (628) 214-5147
Photo of Laura Wilhoit, PhD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Laura Wilhoit
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I also have an extensive background working with people with substance use disorders and addictions in general.
Hello! My name is Dr. Laura Wilhoit and I offer virtual therapy throughout the state of California. In my 12+ years of experience, I have worked with a variety of people, including those struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and substance use. Outside of depression and anxiety, one of my current areas of focus is helping people as they adjust to parenting challenges, including postpartum depression. I am certified through the Perinatal Mental Health Certification program (PMH-C) to help parents. As a mother of 3 children myself, I know that parenting can be challenging and parents often aren't given sufficient support.
I also have an extensive background working with people with substance use disorders and addictions in general.
Hello! My name is Dr. Laura Wilhoit and I offer virtual therapy throughout the state of California. In my 12+ years of experience, I have worked with a variety of people, including those struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and substance use. Outside of depression and anxiety, one of my current areas of focus is helping people as they adjust to parenting challenges, including postpartum depression. I am certified through the Perinatal Mental Health Certification program (PMH-C) to help parents. As a mother of 3 children myself, I know that parenting can be challenging and parents often aren't given sufficient support.
(858) 422-4146 View (858) 422-4146
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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.