Substance Use Psychiatrists in Oakland, CA

Photo of Candice Marie Rugg, BSN, RN, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Candice Marie Rugg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, RN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94603
I specialize in working with patients who struggle with substance use disorders. My approach is based on a harm reduction model, utilizing trauma informed care and a whole person focus when considering treatment options. The care I offer is always client centric and non-judgemental. My other areas of interest include sexual health/sex positivity, and I am passionate in providing culturally sensitive care that is gender-affirming, body-positive, Alt sex/Alt relationship-affirming, and LGBTQIA informed.
I specialize in working with patients who struggle with substance use disorders. My approach is based on a harm reduction model, utilizing trauma informed care and a whole person focus when considering treatment options. The care I offer is always client centric and non-judgemental. My other areas of interest include sexual health/sex positivity, and I am passionate in providing culturally sensitive care that is gender-affirming, body-positive, Alt sex/Alt relationship-affirming, and LGBTQIA informed.
(628) 230-4994 View (628) 230-4994
Photo of Anna Budayr, MD, Psychiatrist
Anna Budayr
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
I have a unique practice style combining the use of psychotropic medications with psychodynamic psychotherapy, and a unique treatment plan is formulated for every individual patient. For more information please feel free to call my office.
I have a unique practice style combining the use of psychotropic medications with psychodynamic psychotherapy, and a unique treatment plan is formulated for every individual patient. For more information please feel free to call my office.
(510) 878-4521 View (510) 878-4521
Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, MD, Psychiatrist
Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94607
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, board certified in general psychiatry/forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. As a recognized leader in the fields of psychiatry and qualified medical evaluations (QMEs), I am called upon to provide excellent service in various settings, including medical, legal, and academics. I conduct various types of evaluations, including: Legal/Forensics, Risk Assessment (Violence/Sexual), Drug/Alcohol Evals, Cognitive Evals, Competency Evals, Diagnostic Clarification, Fitness For Duty Evals.,​ Pre-employment Evals., Immigration-related Evals., and Workers’ Comp. (QME/AME).
I'm Dr. Alex Sahba, board certified in general psychiatry/forensic psychiatry and trained at UCLA. As a recognized leader in the fields of psychiatry and qualified medical evaluations (QMEs), I am called upon to provide excellent service in various settings, including medical, legal, and academics. I conduct various types of evaluations, including: Legal/Forensics, Risk Assessment (Violence/Sexual), Drug/Alcohol Evals, Cognitive Evals, Competency Evals, Diagnostic Clarification, Fitness For Duty Evals.,​ Pre-employment Evals., Immigration-related Evals., and Workers’ Comp. (QME/AME).
(510) 901-4644 View (510) 901-4644
Photo of Catherine Stayer, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Catherine Stayer
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
INTEGRATIVE PSYCHIATRY for CHILDREN, TEENS, ADULTS, and COUPLES. I see my role as one who accompanies you on a journey towards optimal health, vitality, and personal growth. Depending on your unique needs, my approach combines conventional modalities (i.e., medications and therapy) with complementary (i.e., botanicals, nutriceuticals, nutrition, acupuncture, guided imagery, etc.). The goal is not merely to treat symptoms, but to address the matrix of underlying causes and the obstacles that keep you from living your best life.
INTEGRATIVE PSYCHIATRY for CHILDREN, TEENS, ADULTS, and COUPLES. I see my role as one who accompanies you on a journey towards optimal health, vitality, and personal growth. Depending on your unique needs, my approach combines conventional modalities (i.e., medications and therapy) with complementary (i.e., botanicals, nutriceuticals, nutrition, acupuncture, guided imagery, etc.). The goal is not merely to treat symptoms, but to address the matrix of underlying causes and the obstacles that keep you from living your best life.
(510) 206-2620 View (510) 206-2620
Photo of Pavel Ksendz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pavel Ksendz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94607  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialized in treating mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am a strong proponent of the philosophy that health is multifactorial, made up of physical, psychological, emotional, social and spiritual facets. I value taking a collaborative approach with clients to create a thorough, individualized treatment plan that best meets their specific needs and goals. I have a long-held passion for mental healthcare and have worked with individuals of all ages in a variety of settings within psychiatry.
(415) 888-9601 View (415) 888-9601
Photo of Whitney Smith - K. Whitney Smith, MD, MD, Psychiatrist
K. Whitney Smith, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
At times anxiety, depression, transitions in life or interpersonal relationships can begin to feel overwhelming. I provide therapy and, if appropriate, medications to assist individuals during these periods. My approach is warm, responsive and practical. My technique is based in psycho-dynamic theory and incorporates elements of mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy. My use of medications is thoughtful and aims to treat symptoms while minimizing side effects.
At times anxiety, depression, transitions in life or interpersonal relationships can begin to feel overwhelming. I provide therapy and, if appropriate, medications to assist individuals during these periods. My approach is warm, responsive and practical. My technique is based in psycho-dynamic theory and incorporates elements of mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy. My use of medications is thoughtful and aims to treat symptoms while minimizing side effects.
(415) 275-8280 View (415) 275-8280
Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
(888) 909-8676 View (888) 909-8676
Photo of Leah Haddad, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(341) 888-6708 View (341) 888-6708
Photo of Jessica Vermeulen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Vermeulen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
(341) 234-2952 View (341) 234-2952
Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(341) 444-3304 View (341) 444-3304
Photo of Kumar Vedantham, MD, Psychiatrist
Kumar Vedantham
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612
Waitlist for new clients
Combining Science with Kindness is what drew me to psychiatry and is the cornerstone of my practice. After graduating from Brown Medical School, I completed my psychiatry training at UCSF. I have been practicing psychiatry for over 30 years. I currently treat veterans at the Oakland VA Clinic and teach medical students at UCSF. I am proficient at treating Anxiety/Panic Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depression, ADHD, Addiction, and Trauma. My practice is primarily focused on pharmacologic treatment though I always view my patients through a holistic lens. The engine of my practice is curiosity and compassion.
Combining Science with Kindness is what drew me to psychiatry and is the cornerstone of my practice. After graduating from Brown Medical School, I completed my psychiatry training at UCSF. I have been practicing psychiatry for over 30 years. I currently treat veterans at the Oakland VA Clinic and teach medical students at UCSF. I am proficient at treating Anxiety/Panic Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Major Depression, ADHD, Addiction, and Trauma. My practice is primarily focused on pharmacologic treatment though I always view my patients through a holistic lens. The engine of my practice is curiosity and compassion.
(510) 757-1624 View (510) 757-1624
Photo of Jonathan Allotey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(341) 895-7292 View (341) 895-7292
Photo of Thomas A. Gonda Jr, MD, MFT, Psychiatrist
Thomas A. Gonda Jr
Psychiatrist, MD, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
I offer the physician perspective to help you gain insight and knowledge in a comfortable, confidential and supportive atmosphere. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs to help attain the personal growth they're striving for. I am a psychiatrist who does talk therapy. Offices in: Oakland, San Francisco, San Diego, Reno and Las Vegas. I offer weekend and evening hours. I have a DEA license to prescribe Subutex and Suboxone. I offer hypnotherapy as an additional treatment modality. I am a licensed physician in California and Nevada.
I offer the physician perspective to help you gain insight and knowledge in a comfortable, confidential and supportive atmosphere. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs to help attain the personal growth they're striving for. I am a psychiatrist who does talk therapy. Offices in: Oakland, San Francisco, San Diego, Reno and Las Vegas. I offer weekend and evening hours. I have a DEA license to prescribe Subutex and Suboxone. I offer hypnotherapy as an additional treatment modality. I am a licensed physician in California and Nevada.
(510) 221-6740 View (510) 221-6740
Photo of Samir Hamed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
I understand that taking the first step towards seeking help can be daunting. My priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to listening to your unique story and working together to find the best path for your mental wellness. My goal is to provide compassionate and personalized care, empowering you to take control of your mental health and live your best life. Your well-being is my top concern, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
I understand that taking the first step towards seeking help can be daunting. My priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to listening to your unique story and working together to find the best path for your mental wellness. My goal is to provide compassionate and personalized care, empowering you to take control of your mental health and live your best life. Your well-being is my top concern, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
(951) 540-0520 View (951) 540-0520
Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(415) 639-3972 View (415) 639-3972
Photo of Leah Haddad, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94603
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(415) 938-3959 View (415) 938-3959
Photo of Jonathan Allotey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94604  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(415) 886-0268 View (415) 886-0268
Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
(415) 980-8997 View (415) 980-8997
Photo of Nefretiri Abat, JD, PMHNPBC, RN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nefretiri Abat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, JD, PMHNPBC, RN, BSN
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
My ideal client is a highly ambitious young adult or adult navigating the complexities of ADHD. They face hurdles with concentration, managing time, impulsivity, and social interactions. They need personalized telepsychiatry services, evidence-based therapies, and practical tools to manage their ADHD symptoms. Their ambition is to conquer ADHD-related obstacles, enhance focus, attain their academic and professional objectives, and foster healthier relationships. They are determined to unleash their innate potential and harmonize their aspirations with mental well-being.
My ideal client is a highly ambitious young adult or adult navigating the complexities of ADHD. They face hurdles with concentration, managing time, impulsivity, and social interactions. They need personalized telepsychiatry services, evidence-based therapies, and practical tools to manage their ADHD symptoms. Their ambition is to conquer ADHD-related obstacles, enhance focus, attain their academic and professional objectives, and foster healthier relationships. They are determined to unleash their innate potential and harmonize their aspirations with mental well-being.
(628) 345-8464 View (628) 345-8464
Photo of Jeff Leininger, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jeff Leininger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
I help individuals who are experiencing challenging life transitions, acute or chronic anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, insomnia and chemical dependency issues. Soon, I will offer Ketamine and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I work with clients during their times of wellness in order to create a more balanced, mindful and body-centered consciousness. I have considerable experience working with individuals who are reconsidering their relationship to alcohol and other substances.
I help individuals who are experiencing challenging life transitions, acute or chronic anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, insomnia and chemical dependency issues. Soon, I will offer Ketamine and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I work with clients during their times of wellness in order to create a more balanced, mindful and body-centered consciousness. I have considerable experience working with individuals who are reconsidering their relationship to alcohol and other substances.
(415) 702-4304 View (415) 702-4304
1
Substance Use Psychiatrists

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.