Substance Use Therapists in San Diego, CA
My name is Megan Elliott, and I am an LMFT. I believe therapy is most successful when a healthy alliance is formed between the therapist and the client. My goal is to create a safe space for the client to bring whatever is most pressing for them and to support them with creating tools to manage the challenges and stressors they may be experiencing. I am trauma-focused on my training, as well as experience with anxiety/panic, and depression. I work primarily with people who have symptoms/issues related to trauma, ranging from anxiety and depression to substance use, to thought and mood disorders.
My name is Megan Elliott, and I am an LMFT. I believe therapy is most successful when a healthy alliance is formed between the therapist and the client. My goal is to create a safe space for the client to bring whatever is most pressing for them and to support them with creating tools to manage the challenges and stressors they may be experiencing. I am trauma-focused on my training, as well as experience with anxiety/panic, and depression. I work primarily with people who have symptoms/issues related to trauma, ranging from anxiety and depression to substance use, to thought and mood disorders.
I specialize in addressing issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders.
I am interested in learning about you, your struggles and strengths. I can help you by providing a compassionate, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment to express your deepest thoughts and feelings in order to explore ways to resolve the problems you encounter. As we build our therapeutic relationship, I will deliver honest, direct therapy to you. Ideally reducing defensiveness and allowing you to hear what you need to hear. Together, we will help you recognize your strengths, identify new perspectives, and develop healthy coping skills so that you can maximize your personal potential.
I specialize in addressing issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders.
I am interested in learning about you, your struggles and strengths. I can help you by providing a compassionate, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment to express your deepest thoughts and feelings in order to explore ways to resolve the problems you encounter. As we build our therapeutic relationship, I will deliver honest, direct therapy to you. Ideally reducing defensiveness and allowing you to hear what you need to hear. Together, we will help you recognize your strengths, identify new perspectives, and develop healthy coping skills so that you can maximize your personal potential.
Welcome! My name is Gaëlle Carey and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked with all types of people, from CEOs to stay-at-home parents. My ideal client is anyone who is interested in empowering their life. I am a direct person and like to get right down to business, but I also genuinely care about my clients' success. I have experience providing clinical assessment and therapeutic care to adolescents and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, anger management, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Personality Disorders, ADHD management, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Welcome! My name is Gaëlle Carey and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked with all types of people, from CEOs to stay-at-home parents. My ideal client is anyone who is interested in empowering their life. I am a direct person and like to get right down to business, but I also genuinely care about my clients' success. I have experience providing clinical assessment and therapeutic care to adolescents and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, anger management, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Personality Disorders, ADHD management, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Caroline Ridout Stewart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
I work with and advocate for patients with substance use disorders providing both clinicians and a clinical case manager to help patients and family members access resources.
I particularly enjoy working with individuals who are creative yet highly anxious and depressed. Innovators find an improved capacity to create with informed anxiety management. I am a harm reductionist who embraces the belief that addiction is a brain disease and not a character defect and that persons with addictive illness need more clinically-informed care. I support authenticity for both the client and the therapist, understanding that little can hurt us when we are at peace with the truth of our own stories.
I work with and advocate for patients with substance use disorders providing both clinicians and a clinical case manager to help patients and family members access resources.
I particularly enjoy working with individuals who are creative yet highly anxious and depressed. Innovators find an improved capacity to create with informed anxiety management. I am a harm reductionist who embraces the belief that addiction is a brain disease and not a character defect and that persons with addictive illness need more clinically-informed care. I support authenticity for both the client and the therapist, understanding that little can hurt us when we are at peace with the truth of our own stories.
Together, let's find your path! I am an LMFT and a substance use counselor with extensive personal and professional experience in addiction.
Being addicted to alcohol or drugs is like being in a dark pit where you do not know what is up and what is down. It is cold and lonely, and you can feel hopeless about finding any escape. Being the family member of a loved one who is struggling with addiction is scary and can leave you sad and in a constant state of uncertainty. You are always asking yourself why is your loved one pushing aside the life ring you toss out and grabbing the anchor of drugs and alcohol over and over and over again. You see they are drowning and feel you cannot save them. Addiction is insidious, but there are paths to recovery.
Together, let's find your path! I am an LMFT and a substance use counselor with extensive personal and professional experience in addiction.
Being addicted to alcohol or drugs is like being in a dark pit where you do not know what is up and what is down. It is cold and lonely, and you can feel hopeless about finding any escape. Being the family member of a loved one who is struggling with addiction is scary and can leave you sad and in a constant state of uncertainty. You are always asking yourself why is your loved one pushing aside the life ring you toss out and grabbing the anchor of drugs and alcohol over and over and over again. You see they are drowning and feel you cannot save them. Addiction is insidious, but there are paths to recovery.
Center for Motivation and Change:California
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
CMC:CA currently offers therapy to support all stages of change and goals, EMDR, exposure therapy, and help for the loved ones of those facing substance use concerns.
The Center For Motivation and Change (“CMC”) is a unique outpatient private group practice with locations in NYC, Long Island, DC and San Diego. We are a team of experienced psychologists who are driven by an optimism about people’s capacity to change as well as a commitment to the science of change. Our clinicians are all deeply trained in research-supported therapies that target substance use/compulsive behaviors patterns as well as mental health issues such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)/complex trauma and anxiety/mood disorders. The cornerstone of our approach is motivational.
CMC:CA currently offers therapy to support all stages of change and goals, EMDR, exposure therapy, and help for the loved ones of those facing substance use concerns.
The Center For Motivation and Change (“CMC”) is a unique outpatient private group practice with locations in NYC, Long Island, DC and San Diego. We are a team of experienced psychologists who are driven by an optimism about people’s capacity to change as well as a commitment to the science of change. Our clinicians are all deeply trained in research-supported therapies that target substance use/compulsive behaviors patterns as well as mental health issues such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)/complex trauma and anxiety/mood disorders. The cornerstone of our approach is motivational.
Anna Ponder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92107 (Online Only)
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, substance use, self-esteem and life transitions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about serving college students and young adults (ages 18-35). Are you feeling overwhelmed, chaotic, stuck, and purposeless? Asking yourself questions like “Who am I?” and “What do I want my life to look like?” I understand the unique challenges young adults face today. Therapy can be a helpful platform to ease emotional burden and increase balance and fulfillment in life. I want to work alongside you towards pursuing a life that inspires you as you become your favorite version of yourself.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, substance use, self-esteem and life transitions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about serving college students and young adults (ages 18-35). Are you feeling overwhelmed, chaotic, stuck, and purposeless? Asking yourself questions like “Who am I?” and “What do I want my life to look like?” I understand the unique challenges young adults face today. Therapy can be a helpful platform to ease emotional burden and increase balance and fulfillment in life. I want to work alongside you towards pursuing a life that inspires you as you become your favorite version of yourself.
Dr. Joshua Morrison
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Finding and embracing an authentic self is one of the core missions of adult life. What too often corrupts this search, though, is the phenomenon of shame - a destructive force if there ever was one. Shame can contribute to substance use, depression, anxiety, interpersonal struggles, poor health outcomes, maladaptive trauma responses, and, at extremes, psychosis and suicidal ideation. Such maladies, when approached in the context of a compassionate and trusting therapeutic relationship, can be transformed into signs pointing the way toward a meaningful and fulfilling sense of self.
Finding and embracing an authentic self is one of the core missions of adult life. What too often corrupts this search, though, is the phenomenon of shame - a destructive force if there ever was one. Shame can contribute to substance use, depression, anxiety, interpersonal struggles, poor health outcomes, maladaptive trauma responses, and, at extremes, psychosis and suicidal ideation. Such maladies, when approached in the context of a compassionate and trusting therapeutic relationship, can be transformed into signs pointing the way toward a meaningful and fulfilling sense of self.
My name is Amy Modlin. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have 15 years of experience providing therapy for individuals facing a variety of issues. I specialize in addictions/ substance use, depression/anxiety, trauma/PTSD, grief/loss, work-life stressors and life transitions. My approach to therapy is person-centered. I use a variety of modalities, including CBT, ACT, DBT, MI, and Mindfulness to help my clients develop the coping skills they need to manage their symptoms and achieve goals of overall well-being. I walk alongside my clients to guide the process of growth, healing, and increased insight.
My name is Amy Modlin. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have 15 years of experience providing therapy for individuals facing a variety of issues. I specialize in addictions/ substance use, depression/anxiety, trauma/PTSD, grief/loss, work-life stressors and life transitions. My approach to therapy is person-centered. I use a variety of modalities, including CBT, ACT, DBT, MI, and Mindfulness to help my clients develop the coping skills they need to manage their symptoms and achieve goals of overall well-being. I walk alongside my clients to guide the process of growth, healing, and increased insight.
I specialize in providing evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, for individuals with OCD, anxiety and problematic substance use.
I help individuals who are feeling stuck or disconnected explore what's getting in the way, and create a life that they find meaningful and fulfilling. I do this using evidence based methods that are tailored to the person's specific values, preferences, and needs. I believe that identifying your strengths and what drives you is as important as pinpointing problem areas. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and judgment-free atmosphere so you can connect with your purpose, your most authentic self, and in turn, with others in your life.
I specialize in providing evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, for individuals with OCD, anxiety and problematic substance use.
I help individuals who are feeling stuck or disconnected explore what's getting in the way, and create a life that they find meaningful and fulfilling. I do this using evidence based methods that are tailored to the person's specific values, preferences, and needs. I believe that identifying your strengths and what drives you is as important as pinpointing problem areas. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and judgment-free atmosphere so you can connect with your purpose, your most authentic self, and in turn, with others in your life.
Shawanda Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117 (Online Only)
My experience includes working with a variety of populations including individuals diagnoses with a variety of mental health issues including Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, and Substance Use Disorder; Corrections, and inpatient and outpatient clinics.
Hello. My name is Shawanda Powell. I am currently an Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I received my Masters Degree in Social Work from Mississippi Valley State University, and have been practicing social work for over 10 years in the states of Mississippi, California, and Arkansas. I have experience in providing services to both children and adults in-patient and out-patient.
My experience includes working with a variety of populations including individuals diagnoses with a variety of mental health issues including Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, and Substance Use Disorder; Corrections, and inpatient and outpatient clinics.
Hello. My name is Shawanda Powell. I am currently an Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I received my Masters Degree in Social Work from Mississippi Valley State University, and have been practicing social work for over 10 years in the states of Mississippi, California, and Arkansas. I have experience in providing services to both children and adults in-patient and out-patient.
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I offer individual mental health and/or substance use counseling in both English and Japanese.
I believe therapy begins within a genuine connection where your unique story can truly be heard and validated. My role as a therapist is to provide space and support with attunement, compassion, and sensitivity to your specific needs. I believe that change occurs within the context of a trusting, respectful, and collaborative relationship in which you feel safe to speak freely about the challenges you are facing.
I offer individual mental health and/or substance use counseling in both English and Japanese.
I believe therapy begins within a genuine connection where your unique story can truly be heard and validated. My role as a therapist is to provide space and support with attunement, compassion, and sensitivity to your specific needs. I believe that change occurs within the context of a trusting, respectful, and collaborative relationship in which you feel safe to speak freely about the challenges you are facing.
I have a passion for helping clients strengthen their relationships with themselves as well as the relationships of those around them. I emphasized a client-centered approach and utilized psychoeducation, and skill-building to help clients practice skills that support their goals. Before private practice, I worked with adults, adolescents, families, and couples with dual diagnoses (e.g. substance use and mental health disorders) while in recovery. Through compassion, motivation, and collaboration, we’ll celebrate the wins and reflect on the progress and the challenges experienced.
I have a passion for helping clients strengthen their relationships with themselves as well as the relationships of those around them. I emphasized a client-centered approach and utilized psychoeducation, and skill-building to help clients practice skills that support their goals. Before private practice, I worked with adults, adolescents, families, and couples with dual diagnoses (e.g. substance use and mental health disorders) while in recovery. Through compassion, motivation, and collaboration, we’ll celebrate the wins and reflect on the progress and the challenges experienced.
Michele Hodelin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Michele and I'm very glad to meet you. I am a licensed social worker in Florida and California specializing in substance use disorders, psychiatric/mental health disorders, and the treatment and recovery process. Together we will walk the road toward your recovery, health, and healing. I believe in You! With each session, my hope is that you will leave with less turmoil, fear, and hurt; and more understanding, motivation, and hope than you entered with. I see clients via Telehealth throughout California & Florida.
Hello! I'm Michele and I'm very glad to meet you. I am a licensed social worker in Florida and California specializing in substance use disorders, psychiatric/mental health disorders, and the treatment and recovery process. Together we will walk the road toward your recovery, health, and healing. I believe in You! With each session, my hope is that you will leave with less turmoil, fear, and hurt; and more understanding, motivation, and hope than you entered with. I see clients via Telehealth throughout California & Florida.
Connie Padera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with substance use or disordered eating habits? Or maybe you need some guidance on self-esteem or relationship issues? It's okay to not be okay, and I'm here to help you through whatever life has brought your way. I believe in treating each these issues from a whole person perspective, and will work with you to enrich all areas of your well-being. Through openhearted and compassionate communication, we will create a safe space for you to mindfully explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and identify which among them no longer serve you.
Are you struggling with substance use or disordered eating habits? Or maybe you need some guidance on self-esteem or relationship issues? It's okay to not be okay, and I'm here to help you through whatever life has brought your way. I believe in treating each these issues from a whole person perspective, and will work with you to enrich all areas of your well-being. Through openhearted and compassionate communication, we will create a safe space for you to mindfully explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and identify which among them no longer serve you.
Emily Todd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109 (Online Only)
Holistic Psychotherapy, Psychedelic Integration and Coaching addressing Mental Health and Substance Use Issues. Providing online service for anywhere in the world.
Holistic Psychotherapy, Psychedelic Integration and Coaching addressing Mental Health and Substance Use Issues. Providing online service for anywhere in the world.
Michelle MacPherson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182 (Online Only)
I treat substance use.
Hello! Many of my clients feel "stuck", like they're not Iiving their best life. I help my clients manage negative thoughts, provide clarity and support during transitional life and relationship issues, address self-sabotaging behaviors and increase coping skills. I provide a therapeutic space to help get you “unstuck”, enhance your motivation and navigate the stressors of life with improved overall functioning. Enhancing overall physical, mental and emotional health is the most rewarding aspect of my practice. and I rely heavily on the latest advances in behavioral science to provide the best therapeutic services available.
I treat substance use.
Hello! Many of my clients feel "stuck", like they're not Iiving their best life. I help my clients manage negative thoughts, provide clarity and support during transitional life and relationship issues, address self-sabotaging behaviors and increase coping skills. I provide a therapeutic space to help get you “unstuck”, enhance your motivation and navigate the stressors of life with improved overall functioning. Enhancing overall physical, mental and emotional health is the most rewarding aspect of my practice. and I rely heavily on the latest advances in behavioral science to provide the best therapeutic services available.
I have extensive experience working with military and veteran populations to support transition, Veteran Affairs navigation, substance use, anxiety, stress management, emotional regulation, and trauma.
Accepting the responsibility to change is a difficult task but once you take the initiative, it is highly rewarding. Sometimes we need to take a step back to reflect on a new way to approach situations when "our way" seems to be getting in our way. These are common responses to trauma, depression, and many other conditions that we can't always think our way out of, despite our best efforts.
I have extensive experience working with military and veteran populations to support transition, Veteran Affairs navigation, substance use, anxiety, stress management, emotional regulation, and trauma.
Accepting the responsibility to change is a difficult task but once you take the initiative, it is highly rewarding. Sometimes we need to take a step back to reflect on a new way to approach situations when "our way" seems to be getting in our way. These are common responses to trauma, depression, and many other conditions that we can't always think our way out of, despite our best efforts.
Educating what negative effects brought on by trauma have become a new unwelcomed reality as well as how the extensive substance use has caused you to be damaged rather than healed.
I am a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor with 8 years of experience. I have a diverse professional background, specializing in substance abuse, mental health, anger management, self-worth. When trauma occurs it affects you to the core. Every part of you is on edge and in fear of the known or unknown. Difficult memories become so overwhelming that your only way of managing is with alcohol and substances. What starts as a temporary relief from reality can turn into an overwhelming cycle of despair and struggle. Your new trauma is now an addiction to alcohol or substances and all of the hopelessness that comes along with it.
Educating what negative effects brought on by trauma have become a new unwelcomed reality as well as how the extensive substance use has caused you to be damaged rather than healed.
I am a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor with 8 years of experience. I have a diverse professional background, specializing in substance abuse, mental health, anger management, self-worth. When trauma occurs it affects you to the core. Every part of you is on edge and in fear of the known or unknown. Difficult memories become so overwhelming that your only way of managing is with alcohol and substances. What starts as a temporary relief from reality can turn into an overwhelming cycle of despair and struggle. Your new trauma is now an addiction to alcohol or substances and all of the hopelessness that comes along with it.
Vincente Mozell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101 (Online Only)
No worries, I Got U! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, aka psychotherapist, with more than 15 years of working in Behavioral Health. I provide therapeutic interventions that address depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, and Substance Use disorder, to name a few. My clinical practice embraces a strengths-based approach to overcoming your challenges, and my therapy style is pretty laid back. I have been described as supportive and an active listener with a good sense of humor.
No worries, I Got U! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, aka psychotherapist, with more than 15 years of working in Behavioral Health. I provide therapeutic interventions that address depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, and Substance Use disorder, to name a few. My clinical practice embraces a strengths-based approach to overcoming your challenges, and my therapy style is pretty laid back. I have been described as supportive and an active listener with a good sense of humor.
See more therapy options for San Diego
Nearby Substance Use Therapists Searches for San Diego
- Chula Vista
- Coronado
- Del Mar
- El Cajon
- Imperial Beach
- La Jolla
- La Mesa
- Lemon Grove
- National City
- Poway
- Santee
- Spring Valley
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.