Substance Use Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA
I offer an in-depth, personalized therapy experience, supporting individuals facing stress and anxiety, finding work-life balance, dealing with life changes, recovering from recent or past trauma, or reducing their substance use, as well as those wishing to deepen their relationships.
Openings available this week with my team of therapists at Thrive SLO. I work with college students and adults feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and/or anxious. Need balance in your life? Facing grief, past trauma, or coping with difficult family situations? Or maybe you are thinking about coming out to your family and friends? I offer expertise, guidance and support for you to navigate these challenges. I'm passionate about the personal transformation that comes through therapy. I love working with curious individuals who want to better understand themselves, their emotions, & their relationships.
I offer an in-depth, personalized therapy experience, supporting individuals facing stress and anxiety, finding work-life balance, dealing with life changes, recovering from recent or past trauma, or reducing their substance use, as well as those wishing to deepen their relationships.
Openings available this week with my team of therapists at Thrive SLO. I work with college students and adults feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and/or anxious. Need balance in your life? Facing grief, past trauma, or coping with difficult family situations? Or maybe you are thinking about coming out to your family and friends? I offer expertise, guidance and support for you to navigate these challenges. I'm passionate about the personal transformation that comes through therapy. I love working with curious individuals who want to better understand themselves, their emotions, & their relationships.
I specialize in depression, bipolar and anxiety along with substance use and PTSD.
Hi! My name is Kristina and Congratulations on possibly your first step towards reaching your goals. Has life become too overwhelming? Confused about what your next step is or how to overcome a current life challenge and feel as if you are stuck? Therapy can be a great starting point. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist practicing since 2010; working with individuals, couples, families and teens.
I specialize in depression, bipolar and anxiety along with substance use and PTSD.
Hi! My name is Kristina and Congratulations on possibly your first step towards reaching your goals. Has life become too overwhelming? Confused about what your next step is or how to overcome a current life challenge and feel as if you are stuck? Therapy can be a great starting point. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist practicing since 2010; working with individuals, couples, families and teens.
Danielle Atencio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I enjoy working with children, teens and adults with a diverse range of mental health and/or substance use issues.
“Look beside you, and I’ll be there;” this is my credo, both as an individual and as a therapist. Life can be difficult; there are always challenges and struggles and in many instances, it is the connection and support that one person gives another that makes the difference. I use a client-centered, strength-based approach to therapy. We will focus processing through life challenges and build skills to identify your own personal strengths and unique goals for treatment. I will support you through difficult and/or uncomfortable emotions to learn effective coping and interpersonal skills that will help you throughout your life.
I enjoy working with children, teens and adults with a diverse range of mental health and/or substance use issues.
“Look beside you, and I’ll be there;” this is my credo, both as an individual and as a therapist. Life can be difficult; there are always challenges and struggles and in many instances, it is the connection and support that one person gives another that makes the difference. I use a client-centered, strength-based approach to therapy. We will focus processing through life challenges and build skills to identify your own personal strengths and unique goals for treatment. I will support you through difficult and/or uncomfortable emotions to learn effective coping and interpersonal skills that will help you throughout your life.
Deborah (Debbie) Jeanne Whitney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I'm experienced/trained in treating anxiety, depression, life transitions, postpartum, anger, substance use, trauma and improving relationships, seeing both children & adults.
Hello! Looking for a confidence booster, a sounding board, someone to listen to your story? Experiencing coping issues, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? Struggling in a relationship with others, yourself? The possibility for relief awaits discovery. Research claims that much of our pain and suffering comes from our past experiences which may influence how we think and feel about ourselves, life. Therapy can be a place to work through and shift these thoughts and help discover your true Self in the world. I believe our strongest resources for survival and living life are hiding within us, waiting to be revealed.
I'm experienced/trained in treating anxiety, depression, life transitions, postpartum, anger, substance use, trauma and improving relationships, seeing both children & adults.
Hello! Looking for a confidence booster, a sounding board, someone to listen to your story? Experiencing coping issues, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? Struggling in a relationship with others, yourself? The possibility for relief awaits discovery. Research claims that much of our pain and suffering comes from our past experiences which may influence how we think and feel about ourselves, life. Therapy can be a place to work through and shift these thoughts and help discover your true Self in the world. I believe our strongest resources for survival and living life are hiding within us, waiting to be revealed.
Margaret Shepard-Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
I am experienced in treating co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, addiction, anxiety, depression, phobias, OCD, bipolar disorder, voices/visions, and trauma.
Whether it's your relationships with others, your relationship with food or alcohol, healing past wounds so you can move past the "stuck," feelings of anxiety, depression, self-doubt, or something else, I'm here to help. Utilizing a variety of evidence-based techniques, we will work together to overcome the issues and challenges getting in the way of you living a life you want and deserve.
I am experienced in treating co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, addiction, anxiety, depression, phobias, OCD, bipolar disorder, voices/visions, and trauma.
Whether it's your relationships with others, your relationship with food or alcohol, healing past wounds so you can move past the "stuck," feelings of anxiety, depression, self-doubt, or something else, I'm here to help. Utilizing a variety of evidence-based techniques, we will work together to overcome the issues and challenges getting in the way of you living a life you want and deserve.
Mackenzie McFarland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
My name is Mackenzie McFarland and I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in San Luis Obispo, California. I got my education from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo for BA in Psychology and MS in Clinical Psychology. I have multiple years experience working with those struggling with substance use / recovery, mood disorders (Bipolar), anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, change of life phases, and trauma.
My name is Mackenzie McFarland and I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in San Luis Obispo, California. I got my education from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo for BA in Psychology and MS in Clinical Psychology. I have multiple years experience working with those struggling with substance use / recovery, mood disorders (Bipolar), anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, change of life phases, and trauma.
M. Lynn Grizzard
Marriage & Family Therapist, BA, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93406
I have expertise in helping clients discover how to reduce unwanted symptoms, including anxiety; depression; impulsivity; trauma-triggered reactivity; phobias; substance use; and low self esteem.
Welcome! Please take your time to review my information in order to make an informed choice of therapists to meet your current needs. I recently retired from SLO County Behavioral Health where I provided therapy and case management services to clients since 1989, and am now in private practice in Atascadero. I would be happy to assist you in discovering how to improve your mood, your relationships, and your life. Initial phone consultations are free, so you can decide if I am the right therapist for helping you along your journey.
I have expertise in helping clients discover how to reduce unwanted symptoms, including anxiety; depression; impulsivity; trauma-triggered reactivity; phobias; substance use; and low self esteem.
Welcome! Please take your time to review my information in order to make an informed choice of therapists to meet your current needs. I recently retired from SLO County Behavioral Health where I provided therapy and case management services to clients since 1989, and am now in private practice in Atascadero. I would be happy to assist you in discovering how to improve your mood, your relationships, and your life. Initial phone consultations are free, so you can decide if I am the right therapist for helping you along your journey.
Paula Boucher Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Feeling lost or overwhelmed by life's uncertainties is a common experience, but you don't have to navigate it alone. Whether you're struggling with relationships, navigating the complexities of childhood or adolescents, feeling stuck in unhealthy patterns, grappling with fear, or facing work-related issues, I'm here to walk with you towards clarity and empowerment. As a therapist specializing in anxiety, trauma healing, substance use disorders, life transitions, and issues specific to children and teens, I provide a supportive non-judgmental space where we can openly and collaboratively address your concerns.
Feeling lost or overwhelmed by life's uncertainties is a common experience, but you don't have to navigate it alone. Whether you're struggling with relationships, navigating the complexities of childhood or adolescents, feeling stuck in unhealthy patterns, grappling with fear, or facing work-related issues, I'm here to walk with you towards clarity and empowerment. As a therapist specializing in anxiety, trauma healing, substance use disorders, life transitions, and issues specific to children and teens, I provide a supportive non-judgmental space where we can openly and collaboratively address your concerns.
Monica Nunez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 (Online Only)
” My expertise is in: private sector, corrections, county programs, first responders, substance use, education, crisis mgt, inpatient.
Telehealth appts available now anywhere in CA! I'm a psychoanalyst certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Eating Disorders. My niche is couples, control issues, communication issues, intimacy issues, guilt, anger, codependency, and trying to please others. My mission is to help you achieve self actualization!
” My expertise is in: private sector, corrections, county programs, first responders, substance use, education, crisis mgt, inpatient.
Telehealth appts available now anywhere in CA! I'm a psychoanalyst certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Eating Disorders. My niche is couples, control issues, communication issues, intimacy issues, guilt, anger, codependency, and trying to please others. My mission is to help you achieve self actualization!
Rebecca Brewster
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I specialize in working with trauma, child-parent issues, anxiety, depression, substance use, and self-esteem issues.
At any age, life can become overwhelming and challenging to navigate. Whatever pain or suffering that brought you here today, I am ready to work with you on finding a way through the muddiness of your life’s obstacles. I work from a depth-oriented Somatic psychotherapy lens and believe that you hold the answers that need to be uncovered. We will work with the nervous system and understand how the body, emotions, and brain interact.
I specialize in working with trauma, child-parent issues, anxiety, depression, substance use, and self-esteem issues.
At any age, life can become overwhelming and challenging to navigate. Whatever pain or suffering that brought you here today, I am ready to work with you on finding a way through the muddiness of your life’s obstacles. I work from a depth-oriented Somatic psychotherapy lens and believe that you hold the answers that need to be uncovered. We will work with the nervous system and understand how the body, emotions, and brain interact.
The Art of Healing
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
With specialties in addiction and dual diagnosis; including depression, anxiety and trauma history, I take an integrated, holistic approach to care. The therapeutic relationship is one in which optimum healing is, as a result of the reciprocal bond, between the therapist and the client. One can only be open to the experience of change and improvement in their life if they feel safe. This is the therapy space that I provide in order to help shape authentic, loving and accurate self-awareness. I provide nurturance, guidance, affirmation and compassionate reflection in order to help clients feel grounded in their own decision-making.
With specialties in addiction and dual diagnosis; including depression, anxiety and trauma history, I take an integrated, holistic approach to care. The therapeutic relationship is one in which optimum healing is, as a result of the reciprocal bond, between the therapist and the client. One can only be open to the experience of change and improvement in their life if they feel safe. This is the therapy space that I provide in order to help shape authentic, loving and accurate self-awareness. I provide nurturance, guidance, affirmation and compassionate reflection in order to help clients feel grounded in their own decision-making.
15 Second Videos
The Art of Healing
Family Therapy Solutions, INC.
Karen Schneller
Marina Resa
Sacred Path Holistic Therapy
Tricia Parido
Elexia Estrada
Cat Shaw
Ketamine Assisted Therapy
Turning Leaves Recovery Life & Wellness Coaching
Jennifer Woodward
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal clients are LGBTQI, gender variances, alcohol and addiction ,parents of children with problem behaviors, young adults and adults, deal with realities of love whomever that light might shine. I enjoy working with couples; you didn't get the manual with your relationship but it's not too late. I also love working with individuals on the path to spiritual awakening.
My ideal clients are LGBTQI, gender variances, alcohol and addiction ,parents of children with problem behaviors, young adults and adults, deal with realities of love whomever that light might shine. I enjoy working with couples; you didn't get the manual with your relationship but it's not too late. I also love working with individuals on the path to spiritual awakening.
Desiree Troxell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Welcome to wellness. You have taken the first step toward exploring your full potential. Embarking on a path of self discovery enables you to unearth your hopes for yourself, your relationships, and your future. Authenticity, communication, forgiveness, love and humor are essential to living a healthy life. Knowing yourself allows you to have healthier relationships with your family, friends and colleagues. I have experience helping people who are encountering grief, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, marital difficulties, life transitions, family conflict, relationship conflict, stress, self harm, and substance abuse.
Welcome to wellness. You have taken the first step toward exploring your full potential. Embarking on a path of self discovery enables you to unearth your hopes for yourself, your relationships, and your future. Authenticity, communication, forgiveness, love and humor are essential to living a healthy life. Knowing yourself allows you to have healthier relationships with your family, friends and colleagues. I have experience helping people who are encountering grief, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, marital difficulties, life transitions, family conflict, relationship conflict, stress, self harm, and substance abuse.
Thank you for considering me as a potential partner in your journey of healing & self-discovery. I have over 14 yrs. of clinical experience in the mental health field working primarily with adults & college-age students struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, family/relationship problems, trauma, life-transitions, personal growth, & self-acceptance. I was born and raised in Europe & am open to also working with clients who are from a wide range of countries & are experiencing difficulties in adjusting to life in the U.S. I am warm, caring, non-judgmental, & able to provide you a safe space to address today's stressors.
Thank you for considering me as a potential partner in your journey of healing & self-discovery. I have over 14 yrs. of clinical experience in the mental health field working primarily with adults & college-age students struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, family/relationship problems, trauma, life-transitions, personal growth, & self-acceptance. I was born and raised in Europe & am open to also working with clients who are from a wide range of countries & are experiencing difficulties in adjusting to life in the U.S. I am warm, caring, non-judgmental, & able to provide you a safe space to address today's stressors.
Mandi jo Blake
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC II
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional clinician and I have worked in the field of addiction treatment for over 20 years. I have extensive experience in interventions, detox support, residential treatment, intensive outpatient treatment, life coaching, owning and managing sober living homes, working with the mentally ill, criminal justice system and the homeless population. I have amplified love and passion for those who suffer from the disease of addiction. I also specialize in addiction behaviors such as, gambling, pornography, sex and love addiction.
I am a licensed professional clinician and I have worked in the field of addiction treatment for over 20 years. I have extensive experience in interventions, detox support, residential treatment, intensive outpatient treatment, life coaching, owning and managing sober living homes, working with the mentally ill, criminal justice system and the homeless population. I have amplified love and passion for those who suffer from the disease of addiction. I also specialize in addiction behaviors such as, gambling, pornography, sex and love addiction.
Emily Maddox
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, CRC, M-RAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Challenging experiences often lead us to a feeling of being stuck, confused and frustrated. We can feel lost and unfulfilled trying to find purpose, meaning and happiness. Emily provides, a place to explore these questions and sort through the confusion and conflict, clearing the path to more fulfilling, satisfying experiences. Emily's approach is supportive, down to earth, and always interested in harnessing your strengths and resiliency.
Challenging experiences often lead us to a feeling of being stuck, confused and frustrated. We can feel lost and unfulfilled trying to find purpose, meaning and happiness. Emily provides, a place to explore these questions and sort through the confusion and conflict, clearing the path to more fulfilling, satisfying experiences. Emily's approach is supportive, down to earth, and always interested in harnessing your strengths and resiliency.
Anxiety, Depression and Substance Abuse have reached epidemic proportions in today's world. They have become a way of life for many, causing undue anguish and pain, and jeopardizing the well-being of millions as well as the significant relationships in their lives. For over 25 years I have been helping people find a way back to themselves and on a path to living healthier and happier lives. It would be an honor to help you.
Anxiety, Depression and Substance Abuse have reached epidemic proportions in today's world. They have become a way of life for many, causing undue anguish and pain, and jeopardizing the well-being of millions as well as the significant relationships in their lives. For over 25 years I have been helping people find a way back to themselves and on a path to living healthier and happier lives. It would be an honor to help you.
At New Start Recovery Solutions we provide access to personalized medically managed Detox and Dual Diagnosis Residential and Intensive Outpatient Treatment. We treat the Whole Person. Our approach is highly individualized with an array of options customized in a treatment plan specifically for you or a loved one. We believe in order to recover successfully - old habits and behaviors must be replaced with new healthy ones. Mindfulness is a core element in our treatment plans. Our complete continuum of care ranges from intervention to addiction treatment to personalized continuing care plans after treatment is completed.
At New Start Recovery Solutions we provide access to personalized medically managed Detox and Dual Diagnosis Residential and Intensive Outpatient Treatment. We treat the Whole Person. Our approach is highly individualized with an array of options customized in a treatment plan specifically for you or a loved one. We believe in order to recover successfully - old habits and behaviors must be replaced with new healthy ones. Mindfulness is a core element in our treatment plans. Our complete continuum of care ranges from intervention to addiction treatment to personalized continuing care plans after treatment is completed.
Rachael Henze
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
As a compassionate and empathetic human, I am interested in supporting individuals, couples, and families facing diverse challenges. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking greater self-awareness, I am here to listen without judgment and support you every step of the way. My priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
As a compassionate and empathetic human, I am interested in supporting individuals, couples, and families facing diverse challenges. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking greater self-awareness, I am here to listen without judgment and support you every step of the way. My priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
Family Therapy Solutions, INC.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, CADC-II, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
I am a mediator, translator, and witness. I can help clients rewrite their narratives, fostering growth and healing. I attend workshops, read, and learn from my clients to stay atop of the latest information and cultural norms. Together, you can learn to hold space for transformation and healing. In a first session, I would hope to teach you how to navigate the therapeutic process, go over expectations, and your personal goals. Eventually, I hope therapy feels as comfortable as eating pizza in your sweatpants & chatting with a trusted friend (with real science going on in the background).
I am a mediator, translator, and witness. I can help clients rewrite their narratives, fostering growth and healing. I attend workshops, read, and learn from my clients to stay atop of the latest information and cultural norms. Together, you can learn to hold space for transformation and healing. In a first session, I would hope to teach you how to navigate the therapeutic process, go over expectations, and your personal goals. Eventually, I hope therapy feels as comfortable as eating pizza in your sweatpants & chatting with a trusted friend (with real science going on in the background).
See more therapy options for San Luis Obispo
Nearby Substance Use Therapists Searches for San Luis Obispo
- Arroyo Grande
- Atascadero
- Grover Beach
- Lompoc
- Los Osos
- Morro Bay
- Nipomo
- Orcutt
- Paso Robles
- Pismo Beach
- Santa Maria
- Templeton
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.