Substance Use Psychiatrists in Santa Cruz, CA

Photo of Rudy Roque, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rudy Roque
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060  (Online Only)
Life can be incredibly challenging, so finding a mental health provider when you're already struggling should not be. I know how overwhelming it can be to navigate insurance and find someone who is a good fit. As a provider, I hope to help as many people as possible overcome that process by offering a mindful, knowledgeable, and transparent approach to medication management. If you are struggling, I hope you reach out and know that I am here to help.
Life can be incredibly challenging, so finding a mental health provider when you're already struggling should not be. I know how overwhelming it can be to navigate insurance and find someone who is a good fit. As a provider, I hope to help as many people as possible overcome that process by offering a mindful, knowledgeable, and transparent approach to medication management. If you are struggling, I hope you reach out and know that I am here to help.
(657) 256-3763 View (657) 256-3763
Photo of Pavel Ksendz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pavel Ksendz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060  (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.
(831) 786-5223 View (831) 786-5223
Photo of Samir Hamed, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samir Hamed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060  (Online Only)
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Allied Healers, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(831) 318-8262 View (831) 318-8262
Photo of Alex Sahba - Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba, MD, Psychiatrist
Psychiatric Evaluations - Dr. Alex Sahba
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
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).
(831) 401-4823 View (831) 401-4823
Photo of Alma Caridad Ritsema, RN, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alma Caridad Ritsema
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Accepting New Patients - We are acutely aware that there is a shortage of mental health care practitioners in the area at a time when so many people are struggling to maintain their mental health. We are happy to be a new and growing practice that can address this shortage and help new patients. The goal of Manresa Wellness is to provide mental health support to adults in our community by providing competent and compassionate care.
Accepting New Patients - We are acutely aware that there is a shortage of mental health care practitioners in the area at a time when so many people are struggling to maintain their mental health. We are happy to be a new and growing practice that can address this shortage and help new patients. The goal of Manresa Wellness is to provide mental health support to adults in our community by providing competent and compassionate care.
(831) 603-3938 View (831) 603-3938
Photo of Stacey Amber Flores - Integrated Psychiatric Nursing Inc, MSN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Integrated Psychiatric Nursing Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
I offer comprehensive psychiatric services to children, teens and adults. I work with adolescents and adults with bipolar and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. l enjoy helping kiddos navigate ADHD, ODD, DMDD treatment options and psychotherapeutic interventions which may be beneficial. My goal is to help each client reach their goals and explore all domains of life and evaluate areas which may need some extra care. Whether you're going through a life stressor and need help navigating that or are ready to work on a chronic problem, I am here to help see you through this and provide you with comprehensive care.
I offer comprehensive psychiatric services to children, teens and adults. I work with adolescents and adults with bipolar and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. l enjoy helping kiddos navigate ADHD, ODD, DMDD treatment options and psychotherapeutic interventions which may be beneficial. My goal is to help each client reach their goals and explore all domains of life and evaluate areas which may need some extra care. Whether you're going through a life stressor and need help navigating that or are ready to work on a chronic problem, I am here to help see you through this and provide you with comprehensive care.
(831) 612-1379 View (831) 612-1379
Photo of Inti Flores, MD, Psychiatrist
Inti Flores
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Not accepting new clients
I treat a wide range of concerns including problems related to mood and anxiety, difficulties with intimacy and relationships, self-defeating behaviors, substance use problems, PTSD and complex forms of developmental trauma, challenging stage-of-life transitions, loss and bereavement, concerns regarding gender and sexuality, difficulties stemming from socially and culturally located trauma, living with pain and/or medical illness, as well as other problems adapting to stressful circumstances.
I treat a wide range of concerns including problems related to mood and anxiety, difficulties with intimacy and relationships, self-defeating behaviors, substance use problems, PTSD and complex forms of developmental trauma, challenging stage-of-life transitions, loss and bereavement, concerns regarding gender and sexuality, difficulties stemming from socially and culturally located trauma, living with pain and/or medical illness, as well as other problems adapting to stressful circumstances.
(831) 218-6902 View (831) 218-6902

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Volker Nabavi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Volker Nabavi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95123
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
My name is Volker Nabavi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, substance use, ADHD, OCD, and Bipolar disorders. I have received training in both medical and nursing fields which enables me to apply both medical and nursing theories to manage my client’s mental health holistically and meet their needs. During sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing for a supportive, client-centered, holistic approach.
(213) 877-4658 View (213) 877-4658
Photo of Olga Jackson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olga Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Watsonville, CA 95076  (Online Only)
I specialize in mental health medication management and counseling for individuals aged 12 and older struggling with mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), schizophrenia, and personality d/o.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I am fluent in English and Russian, and I have 15 years of experience in mental health care and nursing during which my focus has been improving the lives of my patients using highly effective treatments to include medication management and psychotherapy. In addition to utilizing mental health medication, I also use Motivational interviewing, Supportive Therapy, and Psychodynamic approaches to therapy and treatment.
I specialize in mental health medication management and counseling for individuals aged 12 and older struggling with mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), schizophrenia, and personality d/o.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I am fluent in English and Russian, and I have 15 years of experience in mental health care and nursing during which my focus has been improving the lives of my patients using highly effective treatments to include medication management and psychotherapy. In addition to utilizing mental health medication, I also use Motivational interviewing, Supportive Therapy, and Psychodynamic approaches to therapy and treatment.
(510) 650-0766 View (510) 650-0766
Photo of Jennifer Ruthenburg, MD, MA, Psychiatrist
Jennifer Ruthenburg
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
I take an integrative approach to treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma related disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, psycho-oncologic and end of life issues. I have special training and expertise in treating mental health symptoms and disorders relating to pregnancy/postpartum, perimenopause and PMDD. I also have training in a range of psychotherapeutic approaches, including psychoanalytic, Jungian, mindfulness-based, and psychedelic assisted psychotherapy. My last name was previously Hagstrom.
I take an integrative approach to treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma related disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, psycho-oncologic and end of life issues. I have special training and expertise in treating mental health symptoms and disorders relating to pregnancy/postpartum, perimenopause and PMDD. I also have training in a range of psychotherapeutic approaches, including psychoanalytic, Jungian, mindfulness-based, and psychedelic assisted psychotherapy. My last name was previously Hagstrom.
(415) 942-5772 View (415) 942-5772
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
San Francisco, CA 94118
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
Kalia Rothlind
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94709
I have extensive experience helping individuals with substance use issues and other mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, and eating disorders. Working with clients in a variety of settings such as withdrawal management, residential and outpatient treatment programs has allowed me to help people navigate the various stages of change and recovery. Whether you are seeking mental health care for the first time, are returning to care after time away, or are looking to continue care with a new perspective, I will take a nonjudgemental and therapeutic approach to help you create a path to better health.
I have extensive experience helping individuals with substance use issues and other mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, and eating disorders. Working with clients in a variety of settings such as withdrawal management, residential and outpatient treatment programs has allowed me to help people navigate the various stages of change and recovery. Whether you are seeking mental health care for the first time, are returning to care after time away, or are looking to continue care with a new perspective, I will take a nonjudgemental and therapeutic approach to help you create a path to better health.
(510) 973-4074 View (510) 973-4074
Photo of Genesis Javaherian, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Genesis Javaherian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Gene, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with clinical experience in diverse settings, including hospitals, community clinics, private practice and academic research. I received my degree from the University of California, San Francisco, and specialize in psychotic disorders, mood disorders, and substance use.
Hi, I’m Gene, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with clinical experience in diverse settings, including hospitals, community clinics, private practice and academic research. I received my degree from the University of California, San Francisco, and specialize in psychotic disorders, mood disorders, and substance use.
(415) 417-1929 View (415) 417-1929
Photo of Gene Vasconez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gene Vasconez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94112  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Genesis (Gene) Vasconez and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of clinical experience in the field. I specialize in psychotic disorders, dual diagnosis, and substance use. My approach follows a trauma-informed model; placing safety, communication, and healing at every step of the way. At the core of my care is cultural humility, acceptance, safety, and compassion. I approach each session with an aim to foster trust by listening to clients and ensuring they have a choice and voice.
Hi, I'm Genesis (Gene) Vasconez and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of clinical experience in the field. I specialize in psychotic disorders, dual diagnosis, and substance use. My approach follows a trauma-informed model; placing safety, communication, and healing at every step of the way. At the core of my care is cultural humility, acceptance, safety, and compassion. I approach each session with an aim to foster trust by listening to clients and ensuring they have a choice and voice.
(424) 436-3958 View (424) 436-3958
Photo of Jalia Kizito, DNP, MSW, FNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jalia Kizito
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSW, FNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Elk Grove, CA 95757  (Online Only)
I am a doctorally-prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual master’s degrees in nursing and social work. With a holistic approach, I collaborate with clients to diagnose and treat Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Substance use disorders and Trauma/PTSD.
I am a doctorally-prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual master’s degrees in nursing and social work. With a holistic approach, I collaborate with clients to diagnose and treat Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Substance use disorders and Trauma/PTSD.
(916) 520-1409 View (916) 520-1409
Photo of Martin Cunanan, DNP, AGNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Martin Cunanan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, AGNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
I am currently accepting new clients. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, stress, burnout, trauma, sleep/insomnia, alcohol/ substance use, and relationship and attachment concerns.
I am currently accepting new clients. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, stress, burnout, trauma, sleep/insomnia, alcohol/ substance use, and relationship and attachment concerns.
(415) 366-9924 View (415) 366-9924
Photo of Marie Magana - Madina House Clinic, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Madina House Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fremont, CA 94539  (Online Only)
I understand the complex nature of addiction and I can offer solutions for the physical burdens such as withdrawal syndromes and other complications related to substance use.
I am committed to creating an environment of safety and support where clients can heal and move forward in their journeys of recovery. I understand the importance of having to change in order to live in line with your own personal values. Throughout my years of education and nursing experience, I have come to realize that our mental health is fundamentally connected to caring for the mind, body, and soul of an individual. I hope to partner with you in developing a plan that works and benefits you and your lifestyle.
I understand the complex nature of addiction and I can offer solutions for the physical burdens such as withdrawal syndromes and other complications related to substance use.
I am committed to creating an environment of safety and support where clients can heal and move forward in their journeys of recovery. I understand the importance of having to change in order to live in line with your own personal values. Throughout my years of education and nursing experience, I have come to realize that our mental health is fundamentally connected to caring for the mind, body, and soul of an individual. I hope to partner with you in developing a plan that works and benefits you and your lifestyle.
(510) 544-3313 View (510) 544-3313
Photo of Edgaradrian Yepescorrea - Adrian Yepes, NP, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adrian Yepes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in the San Francisco Bay Area, with a background as a psychologist and advanced training from UCSF. I offer virtual and in-person visits for adults in California, providing psychiatric consultation, diagnostic evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy. I specialize in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, and bipolar disorder. My approach is compassionate and culturally sensitive, focusing on empowering you to take control of your mental health journey.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in the San Francisco Bay Area, with a background as a psychologist and advanced training from UCSF. I offer virtual and in-person visits for adults in California, providing psychiatric consultation, diagnostic evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy. I specialize in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, and bipolar disorder. My approach is compassionate and culturally sensitive, focusing on empowering you to take control of your mental health journey.
(415) 367-0299 View (415) 367-0299
Photo of Olga Jackson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olga Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Salinas, CA 93905  (Online Only)
I specialize in mental health medication management and counseling for individuals aged 12 and older struggling with mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), schizophrenia, and personality d/o.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I am fluent in English and Russian, and I have 15 years of experience in mental health care and nursing during which my focus has been improving the lives of my patients using highly effective treatments to include medication management and psychotherapy. In addition to utilizing mental health medication, I also use Motivational interviewing, Supportive Therapy, and Psychodynamic approaches to therapy and treatment.
I specialize in mental health medication management and counseling for individuals aged 12 and older struggling with mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), schizophrenia, and personality d/o.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I am fluent in English and Russian, and I have 15 years of experience in mental health care and nursing during which my focus has been improving the lives of my patients using highly effective treatments to include medication management and psychotherapy. In addition to utilizing mental health medication, I also use Motivational interviewing, Supportive Therapy, and Psychodynamic approaches to therapy and treatment.
(510) 616-7784 View (510) 616-7784
Photo of Bryan Hyler, MD, Psychiatrist
Bryan Hyler
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95128
I am a FDA authorized naloxone-buprenorphine prescriber for opiate and alcohol substance use disorders.
My working philosophy is simple, the patient comes first. That said, my approach to medicine is personalized, cordial, with a collaborative relationship and a touch of professional know how. My experience encompasses child, community, veteran and county mental health clinics. I also provide coverage for crisis houses, inpatient units, psychiatric emergency rooms and detention centers. I am a military veteran, UCLA alumni and Clinical Assistant Professor at University of California, Riverside. Call today for a free phone consultation for medication management of opiate addiction, manic, depressive, anxiety, psychotic and cognitive disorders.
I am a FDA authorized naloxone-buprenorphine prescriber for opiate and alcohol substance use disorders.
My working philosophy is simple, the patient comes first. That said, my approach to medicine is personalized, cordial, with a collaborative relationship and a touch of professional know how. My experience encompasses child, community, veteran and county mental health clinics. I also provide coverage for crisis houses, inpatient units, psychiatric emergency rooms and detention centers. I am a military veteran, UCLA alumni and Clinical Assistant Professor at University of California, Riverside. Call today for a free phone consultation for medication management of opiate addiction, manic, depressive, anxiety, psychotic and cognitive disorders.
(760) 840-5284 View (760) 840-5284

See more therapy options for Santa Cruz

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.