Substance Use Therapists in Oakland, CA

Photo of Mehera Reiter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mehera Reiter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
Are you curious about having a better understanding of who you are? I work with teens, young adults, women, LGBTQI+, and frontline health workers. My expertise is in helping people navigate life challenges: trauma (past or present), anxiety, depression, or substance use/misuse. I support health workers in strengthening self care and managing countertransference through a lived experience lens. I have over ten years experience in community mental health in the Bay area. I provide consultation and clinical supervision to social workers , especially clinicians working with unhoused or dually diagnosed populations.
Are you curious about having a better understanding of who you are? I work with teens, young adults, women, LGBTQI+, and frontline health workers. My expertise is in helping people navigate life challenges: trauma (past or present), anxiety, depression, or substance use/misuse. I support health workers in strengthening self care and managing countertransference through a lived experience lens. I have over ten years experience in community mental health in the Bay area. I provide consultation and clinical supervision to social workers , especially clinicians working with unhoused or dually diagnosed populations.
(628) 230-4098 View (628) 230-4098
Photo of Jayme Frihart - Creature Comforts Therapy , LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Creature Comforts Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
Welcome! My experience and education are rooted in working with individuals from various backgrounds to help them identify a path towards feeling more safe in their own bodies. I have vast experience working with substance use disorders or folks that are supporting a loved one with a substance use disorder. I also help individuals focusing on harm reduction efforts. I have a passion for helping individuals to identify stressors in their lives and help them manage their experiences of depression, burn out, stress, trauma, anxiety, grief, and loss more effectively.
Welcome! My experience and education are rooted in working with individuals from various backgrounds to help them identify a path towards feeling more safe in their own bodies. I have vast experience working with substance use disorders or folks that are supporting a loved one with a substance use disorder. I also help individuals focusing on harm reduction efforts. I have a passion for helping individuals to identify stressors in their lives and help them manage their experiences of depression, burn out, stress, trauma, anxiety, grief, and loss more effectively.
(341) 234-3148 View (341) 234-3148
Photo of Sukhpreet Kaur, APCC
Sukhpreet Kaur
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I have experience working with individuals with a variety of challenges that include trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem issues, emotional challenges, attachment issues, and substance use.
Welcome! My name is Sukhpreet Kaur, and I am a first generation American. I believe that we are the key to our own healing, therefore it is important to me to hold a space for you that is safe, collaborate, and empowering for healing and exploration.
I have experience working with individuals with a variety of challenges that include trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem issues, emotional challenges, attachment issues, and substance use.
Welcome! My name is Sukhpreet Kaur, and I am a first generation American. I believe that we are the key to our own healing, therefore it is important to me to hold a space for you that is safe, collaborate, and empowering for healing and exploration.
(510) 892-4399 View (510) 892-4399
Photo of Stefanie Schlief, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Stefanie Schlief
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618  (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 Sayrah Garrison, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sayrah Garrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94605  (Online Only)
I am a California licensed clinical social worker with nearly 20 years of clinical experience. I specialize in working with individuals presenting with anxiety, depression, substance use and mood disorders. My approaches include CBT, DBT and mindfulness to name a few. Clients describe me as being collaborative, clear and compassionate in my communications.
I am a California licensed clinical social worker with nearly 20 years of clinical experience. I specialize in working with individuals presenting with anxiety, depression, substance use and mood disorders. My approaches include CBT, DBT and mindfulness to name a few. Clients describe me as being collaborative, clear and compassionate in my communications.
(341) 888-6820 View (341) 888-6820
Photo of Kate Franza - Group Practice of Kate Franza LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Group Practice of Kate Franza LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605  (Online Only)
My name is Kate Franza, and I am a licensed therapist, providing services in both California and New York. I am originally from New York, where I received my MSW degree from Fordham University. My practice is grounded in my community mental health background, with a focus on LGBTQ issues, anxiety, depression and substance use. My clients experience relationship struggles, trauma, chronic relapse, and many are interested in exploring and understanding their sexuality and gender identity. I use a harm reduction approach and I draw from a range of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive and mindfulness-based skill building.
My name is Kate Franza, and I am a licensed therapist, providing services in both California and New York. I am originally from New York, where I received my MSW degree from Fordham University. My practice is grounded in my community mental health background, with a focus on LGBTQ issues, anxiety, depression and substance use. My clients experience relationship struggles, trauma, chronic relapse, and many are interested in exploring and understanding their sexuality and gender identity. I use a harm reduction approach and I draw from a range of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive and mindfulness-based skill building.
(312) 548-8813 View (312) 548-8813
Photo of Sally C. Cohen, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sally C. Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94603
Are you someone who is struggling with depression, substance use, self harm, negativity, isolation, loss, social anxiety, or anger? I offer a safe place to discuss and explore your thoughts and feelings.
As an experienced therapist in private practice, I work with people of all ages who are struggling with a wide variety of challenges through different stages of the life cycle. I work collaboratively to help people reach their goals while offering insight and support. I offer a unique and thoughtful approach, developed through years of experience working with hundreds of individuals, teens and parents.
Are you someone who is struggling with depression, substance use, self harm, negativity, isolation, loss, social anxiety, or anger? I offer a safe place to discuss and explore your thoughts and feelings.
As an experienced therapist in private practice, I work with people of all ages who are struggling with a wide variety of challenges through different stages of the life cycle. I work collaboratively to help people reach their goals while offering insight and support. I offer a unique and thoughtful approach, developed through years of experience working with hundreds of individuals, teens and parents.
(510) 648-3202 View (510) 648-3202
Photo of Rori Sante, ASW
Rori Sante
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
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 View (415) 496-4897
Photo of Erica Saini, PsyD, Psychologist
Erica Saini
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94608
I approach the topic of substance use with a deep sensitivity to the intersecting dynamics surrounding how people use substances, what they use, and why.
A licensed clinical psychologist, I provide psychodynamic psychotherapy to individuals and couples throughout California. I offer compassion, patience, and safety as we endeavor to better understand what has brought you to therapy, and how to move through to something new. My work is trauma-informed and grounded in principles of empowerment.
I approach the topic of substance use with a deep sensitivity to the intersecting dynamics surrounding how people use substances, what they use, and why.
A licensed clinical psychologist, I provide psychodynamic psychotherapy to individuals and couples throughout California. I offer compassion, patience, and safety as we endeavor to better understand what has brought you to therapy, and how to move through to something new. My work is trauma-informed and grounded in principles of empowerment.
(510) 491-9476 View (510) 491-9476
Photo of Jason Wu, PhD, Psychologist
Jason Wu
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618  (Online Only)
My specialties include complex trauma, childhood abuse/neglect, healing from narcissistic/abusive relationships, codependency and relationship problems, substance use disorders, masculinity and men's issues, parenting, and working with Asian American/minority issues such as family conflict, intergenerational trauma, cultural identity & racism.
Though I work with most issues, I specialize in helping people recover from complex trauma. People with narcissistic, abusive, or neglectful parents or partners sometimes develop issues with trusting themselves, have difficulty maintaining close relationships, struggle with an inner critic, vacillate often between depression and anxiety, lack a solid sense of identity, or feel a sense of emptiness when their lives seem great on paper. Sometimes that trauma can even become part of one's identity - I work with clients to build insight, boundaries, self-compassion, and acceptance to free themselves from it & live more fulfilling lives.
My specialties include complex trauma, childhood abuse/neglect, healing from narcissistic/abusive relationships, codependency and relationship problems, substance use disorders, masculinity and men's issues, parenting, and working with Asian American/minority issues such as family conflict, intergenerational trauma, cultural identity & racism.
Though I work with most issues, I specialize in helping people recover from complex trauma. People with narcissistic, abusive, or neglectful parents or partners sometimes develop issues with trusting themselves, have difficulty maintaining close relationships, struggle with an inner critic, vacillate often between depression and anxiety, lack a solid sense of identity, or feel a sense of emptiness when their lives seem great on paper. Sometimes that trauma can even become part of one's identity - I work with clients to build insight, boundaries, self-compassion, and acceptance to free themselves from it & live more fulfilling lives.
(415) 423-2518 View (415) 423-2518
Photo of Sergio Ruiz - Sergio Ruiz Psychotherapy, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Sergio Ruiz Psychotherapy
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
I want to assist you in examining why you feel like your life is not where you think or sense it should be. Why you have a nagging feeling that perhaps you're wasting time and not living your life in a more deep and fulfilling manner. You may think you're “not good enough,” or “if only this would have/not have happened," life would be different. The activities you do feel banal, going to work/school is dreadful, relationships and family are difficult, and the values and beliefs that once held you have lost their ground. You feel lonely, depressed, anxious, and perhaps substance use is worsening. You’re wondering about doing therapy.
I want to assist you in examining why you feel like your life is not where you think or sense it should be. Why you have a nagging feeling that perhaps you're wasting time and not living your life in a more deep and fulfilling manner. You may think you're “not good enough,” or “if only this would have/not have happened," life would be different. The activities you do feel banal, going to work/school is dreadful, relationships and family are difficult, and the values and beliefs that once held you have lost their ground. You feel lonely, depressed, anxious, and perhaps substance use is worsening. You’re wondering about doing therapy.
(408) 868-2217 View (408) 868-2217
Photo of Kurt Vaillancourt, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kurt Vaillancourt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618  (Online Only)
For nearly 20 years, I have worked with adults, families, and couples both individually and in group settings. Some of the areas I have provided treatment for include substance use/abuse, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and adjustment disorders due to life transitions. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California and obtained a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) in 2005.
For nearly 20 years, I have worked with adults, families, and couples both individually and in group settings. Some of the areas I have provided treatment for include substance use/abuse, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and adjustment disorders due to life transitions. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California and obtained a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) in 2005.
(408) 340-9952 View (408) 340-9952
Photo of Shawna B. Adkins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shawna B. Adkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Thank you for being here! Do you want to improve your emotional well being or to learn other ways of relating to life stressors, anxiety, depression or addiction? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have nearly a decade of experience supporting adults and specialize in the treatment of substance use and addiction. I am also a certified mindfulness meditation teacher
Thank you for being here! Do you want to improve your emotional well being or to learn other ways of relating to life stressors, anxiety, depression or addiction? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have nearly a decade of experience supporting adults and specialize in the treatment of substance use and addiction. I am also a certified mindfulness meditation teacher
(510) 738-0362 View (510) 738-0362
Photo of Sara Nevius, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sara Nevius
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Do you want to recover the parts of you that feel stuck? Are you longing to find a place of inner calm and contentment? Looking to to free yourself up to live more authentically? Everyone has an authentic self that is calling them home. Sometimes, this self gets buried or forgotten, leading to symptoms like anxiety, a lack of purpose, unfulfilling relationships, or substance use and addiction.
Do you want to recover the parts of you that feel stuck? Are you longing to find a place of inner calm and contentment? Looking to to free yourself up to live more authentically? Everyone has an authentic self that is calling them home. Sometimes, this self gets buried or forgotten, leading to symptoms like anxiety, a lack of purpose, unfulfilling relationships, or substance use and addiction.
(415) 301-4039 View (415) 301-4039
Photo of Rebecca Martinez-Thomas - Alchemy Arts Therapy, Rebecca Martinez-Thomas, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alchemy Arts Therapy, Rebecca Martinez-Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
Everybody has a story to tell, and I want to hear yours. I work with adults & teens struggling with a range of issues (anxiety, depression, trauma, neuroatypical related challenges, disordered eating, body image issues, substance use, and burnout/perfectionism). Whether you are experiencing a challenge or you are interested in finding more balance in your life, I am here to support you. My clients often to come from a variety of marginalized communities: LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, Latinx/e, bi/multi-racial/cultural, Fat, neurodivergent, kinky, poly/ENM, people who use alcohol/drugs, performers/creatives, black sheep, brujx and witchy folk.
Everybody has a story to tell, and I want to hear yours. I work with adults & teens struggling with a range of issues (anxiety, depression, trauma, neuroatypical related challenges, disordered eating, body image issues, substance use, and burnout/perfectionism). Whether you are experiencing a challenge or you are interested in finding more balance in your life, I am here to support you. My clients often to come from a variety of marginalized communities: LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, Latinx/e, bi/multi-racial/cultural, Fat, neurodivergent, kinky, poly/ENM, people who use alcohol/drugs, performers/creatives, black sheep, brujx and witchy folk.
(415) 634-1049 View (415) 634-1049
Photo of Steve Cutshall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steve Cutshall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
I am a person in long-term recovery providing psychotherapy to people with substance use disorders. I am familiar with many treatment centers and recovery fellowships in the Bay Area. I provide a nonjudgmental, direct approach and a sense of humor to address addiction and its root causes. If recovery through abstinence is your goal, I am able to tailor a relapse prevention plan to your specific needs.
I am a person in long-term recovery providing psychotherapy to people with substance use disorders. I am familiar with many treatment centers and recovery fellowships in the Bay Area. I provide a nonjudgmental, direct approach and a sense of humor to address addiction and its root causes. If recovery through abstinence is your goal, I am able to tailor a relapse prevention plan to your specific needs.
(510) 544-6370 View (510) 544-6370
Photo of Marissza Cavin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marissza Cavin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I work with those struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use, and relational issues. I use a variety of approaches to build understanding of your inner dialogue, your values, and how to create more fulfillment in your life. While working with couples, I support building trust through assertion practice, role playing, shifting toward appreciation, and improving communication techniques especially when in conflict.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I work with those struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use, and relational issues. I use a variety of approaches to build understanding of your inner dialogue, your values, and how to create more fulfillment in your life. While working with couples, I support building trust through assertion practice, role playing, shifting toward appreciation, and improving communication techniques especially when in conflict.
(510) 480-3987 View (510) 480-3987
Photo of Kelly Albrecht, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelly Albrecht
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
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) 855-7073 View (415) 855-7073
Photo of Marie Sarte, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marie Sarte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
As a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, my practice specializes in working with people who struggle with depression, unresolved trauma, anxiety, family and relationship issues, and life transitions. Effective therapy starts with a trusting relationship. In a safe space where you feel understood and accepted, we will work toward your goals so that you feel empowered to change and can begin to make positive changes in your life. Practice specialties: Teens, Young Adults, Depression, Anxiety, Relationship and Family Issues, Stress, Life Transitions, Trauma, and Substance Use.
As a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, my practice specializes in working with people who struggle with depression, unresolved trauma, anxiety, family and relationship issues, and life transitions. Effective therapy starts with a trusting relationship. In a safe space where you feel understood and accepted, we will work toward your goals so that you feel empowered to change and can begin to make positive changes in your life. Practice specialties: Teens, Young Adults, Depression, Anxiety, Relationship and Family Issues, Stress, Life Transitions, Trauma, and Substance Use.
(510) 401-3186 View (510) 401-3186
Photo of Cheryl Feldman, PhD, LMFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cheryl Feldman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
I teach substance use at the Masters level.
Children and teens are more aware of their own internal states and the world around them than ever before, while the family unit takes on more stress. This combination can create anxiety, depression, acting out behaviors, confusion, and educational struggles for many. Through a strength-based perspective I focus on communication, relationships, boundaries, and self-care. I work with youth (and families) to explore their patterns of interactions with others and encourage self-awareness and growth in these areas. Developing a relationship with a child or teen takes time and care, both of which I have done for nearly twenty years.
I teach substance use at the Masters level.
Children and teens are more aware of their own internal states and the world around them than ever before, while the family unit takes on more stress. This combination can create anxiety, depression, acting out behaviors, confusion, and educational struggles for many. Through a strength-based perspective I focus on communication, relationships, boundaries, and self-care. I work with youth (and families) to explore their patterns of interactions with others and encourage self-awareness and growth in these areas. Developing a relationship with a child or teen takes time and care, both of which I have done for nearly twenty years.
(510) 256-7864 View (510) 256-7864
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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.