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Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in La Mesa, CA

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Top addiction and substance use disorder therapists and psychiatrists in La Mesa, CA

La Mesa residents can connect with compassionate providers trained in substance use disorder treatment, recovery coaching, and relapse prevention within days. Headway accepts 70+ insurance plans nationally and offers free intake consultations to help you find the right fit for your recovery journey.

Bart Liles

Bart Liles

Therapist

Virtual • California


I believe everyone needs help from time to time.

I specialize in evening and weekend appointments. Later appointments are available, please request your needs.

I am a friendly goal-oriented therapist who believes strongly in positive self-reinforcement. I have a Master's degree from La Tech University with a background in private practice for over 20 years. I am Licensed in Louisiana and Texas as a professional counselor. I am also Licensed as a marriage and family therapist in Louisiana.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Ramanpal Punia

Ramanpal Punia

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I strive to cultivate a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where patients feel supported, informed, and empowered.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Shannon Baird

Shannon Baird

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am dedicated to helping individuals make meaningful, lasting changes by developing coping skills that fit their unique life experiences. With over 20 years of experience in addiction treatment and mental health services, I bring a grounded, compassionate, and client‐centered approach to therapy. I believe that you know yourself better than anyone else, and my role is to support you in uncovering your strengths, healing from past experiences, and building a life that feels more balanced and fulfilling.

My specialties include substance use disorders, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, and co‐occurring mental health challenges. I am committed to helping clients improve their relationships, reduce stress, and strengthen their sense of self‐worth. I focus on the whole person—mind, body, and environment—because growth in one area naturally supports growth in all others.

Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Ashley Dunn

Ashley Dunn

Therapist

Virtual • California


I'm invested in helping you find value and joy in your life!

For over the past decade in this field, I have assisted clients at all stages of life. I prefer to show up with humility, humor, and genuine humanity.

Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Hector Montes

Hector Montes

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“I am certified in TF-CBT (trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy), CPP (child parent psychotherapy)...”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Energetic, Inquisitive
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Arturo Morales

Arturo Morales

Therapist

Virtual • California


“After 24 years of service in the United States Marine Corps, including combat deployments, I transitioned into clinical work, earning a master's degree in Clinical Psychology (MFT) from Pepperdine University.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Alexander Sanchez

Alexander Sanchez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness to help you identify unhelpful thought patterns while building greater awareness and self-compassion.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Sharon Lavin

Dr. Sharon Lavin

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Los Angeles, CA


“I strongly believe that collaboration between a client and the client's therapist allows for the exploration of difficult parts of life.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Diabetes
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Rachel Zaremba

Rachel Zaremba

Therapist

Virtual • Fresno, CA


I have extensive experience and training in the area of trauma and substance abuse. Prior to building my private practice I provided mental health to youth in the child protective services then later I provided therapeutic services in an inpatient residential treatment center for substance abuse. I am trauma informed and specialize in processing traumatic memories utilizing EMDR and integrated fragmented parts of the self by using IFS therapy.

Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Rhonda Sloan

Rhonda Sloan

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is collaborative, strength-based and rooted in the belief that you already carry the resources you need - sometimes we just need to uncover them together.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Jeaneen Johnson

Jeaneen Johnson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I focus on building a trusting, down-to-earth relationship where you feel safe, respected, and encouraged to speak up for what you need.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Bailey Gibson

Bailey Gibson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Clients can expect to be greeted with warmth, curiosity, and compassion, whether it is our first or final session.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Energetic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Stephanie Straeter

Dr. Stephanie Straeter

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“Specifically, you will learn how and when to use strategies to manage stress, emotions, self-destructive behaviors, impulses and habits.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Ifunanya Ifeacho

Ifunanya Ifeacho

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My work sits at the intersection of psychiatry, primary care, and behavioral health — because I believe that true healing requires treating the whole person, not just a diagnosis.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Thomas Moore

Thomas Moore

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m Thomas Moore, LPCC, a licensed professional clinical counselor providing therapy for individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, emotional overwhelm, identity development, and complex relational patterns. Many of the people I work with feel stuck in repeating cycles such as overthinking, people pleasing, emotional shutdown, intense reactions, or difficulty maintaining stable relationships even when they logically understand what they should do. My goal is to help you translate insight into real change.

My approach is structured and compassionate. I integrate evidence based methods including cognitive restructuring, emotional regulation training, interpersonal effectiveness skills, and trauma informed therapy. Sessions focus on understanding why your brain reacts the way it does and building practical tools you can actually use outside the therapy room. This is not only about talking through problems but learning how to respond differently when they show up in real life.

I work well with clients who want more than passive support and are ready to build skills, increase self awareness, and interrupt patterns that no longer serve them.

What clients should know before starting

Therapy with me is collaborative and active and you will learn strategies rather than only venting. We will work on understanding both the emotional and neurological side of your reactions. Sessions focus on present day functioning while also addressing past experiences that still affect you. I may gently challenge patterns when it supports growth while maintaining a supportive and respectful space. Progress often comes from small repeated changes rather than sudden breakthroughs.

If you are looking for therapy that combines validation with practical change, we will likely work well together.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Sally Flores

Sally Flores

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My initial approach to therapy is to learn as much as I can about the client and begin formulating a trusting relationship.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
James Wagner

James Wagner

Therapist

Virtual • California


Do you struggle with feeling like you belong? Are you carrying hurts and wounds from your family of origin or other close relationships? Do you wonder about your purpose and the meaning of your life? Or maybe you have worked hard on yourself throughout your life, but still struggle to connect with others or lead a life that has intention and meaning. I would be happy to meet with you and hear more about your situation and what you believe is blocking you. Together we can explore what holds you back and create a plan to engage your life in a way that feels more purpose driven and connected to your unique soul.

Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, End of life care, Family issues
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Festus Obonna

Festus Obonna

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Los Altos, CA


“I am empathetic and professionally driven, paying close attention to your unique needs in terms of mental health to assist you in overcoming challenges and achieving mental well-being.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Benjamin Murphy

Benjamin Murphy

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My own healing journey through therapy, recovery, and personal growth shaped my belief that change is possible when we learn how to understand ourselves with honesty and compassion.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Family issues
Participatory, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Joelle Maletis

Joelle Maletis

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Joelle is proactive, dynamic, & compassionate while addressing her client's individual needs. By offering a safe space, Joelle works with a diverse clientele that includes C-suite executives, active and retired military personnel, first responders,...”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Inquisitive
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Shawna Cobabe

Shawna Cobabe

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I challenge clients in a loving and compassionate way. Essentially, you will get out of therapy what you are willing to put in, and I will help you along the way.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Nicole Santos

Nicole Santos

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I have over 15+ years experience as a nurse working in various departments, working hands on with patients, as well as leadership and management roles.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Dr. Sam Alibrando

Dr. Sam Alibrando

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Pasadena, CA


“I strongly believes in a process of "collaborative healing" where the client and the professional team-up to bring about a therapeutic and growing process together.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Nicko Jaeger

Dr. Nicko Jaeger

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hello,

I am Dr. Jaeger and I welcome you to my practice. I look forward to sitting with you, hearing your story, and developing a plan to help you with your concerns and needs.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Jessica La Rocca

Jessica La Rocca

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a space where you can feel emotionally safe, deeply understood, and supported without judgment.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Energetic, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Lorraine Crockford

Dr. Lorraine Crockford

Therapist

Virtual • St. Helena, CA


“I chose to earn my doctorate in human development so that I can focus on the process of humanistic recovery from trauma experience...”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Grief or loss, Identity issues, Panic disorders
Inquisitive, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Leslie Taylor

Leslie Taylor

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that therapy should be based on mutual respect and curiosity - you are not just the client, you are the agent of the change that you crave.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Sara Rader

Sara Rader

Therapist

Virtual • California


My name is Sara. I have been working in the field for over 7 years. I am currently finishing up my PhD in Mindful Andrological practices. I consider myself a very down-to-earth, gentle, and holistic person.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Michael Whitman

Michael Whitman

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I have significant experience working with depression and anxiety, addiction, and relationship problems.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Men's issues
Humorous, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Brandy Hardy

Brandy Hardy

Therapist

Virtual • California


“As a Black woman and mental health practitioner, I understand how healing is layered — especially when we're carrying the weight of generational trauma, daily stress, and the pressure to keep going, no matter what.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Alex Melkumian

Alex Melkumian

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I use an empathic and empowering approach, blending insights from sports psychology, traditional therapy, and financial wellness practices.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Kathryn Capeto

Kathryn Capeto

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have been trained in CBT, psychodynamic, attachment theory, and working with clients who experience severe mental health issues such as psychosis and suicidal ideation.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Creative, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Shannon Amabile

Shannon Amabile

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is solution-focused and grounded in practical behavioral strategies that help clients build resilience and create sustainable balance...”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Creative, Inquisitive, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Nicholas Seibel

Nicholas Seibel

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe the most transformative healing happens in relationship through empathy, attunement, and having the space to be fully yourself, without the need for code-switching, masking, or minimizing any part of your experience.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, LGBTQIA+, Men's issues, Trauma
Affirming, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Emily Miles

Emily Miles

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I view therapy as collaborative. I'm an avid reader and love sharing a laugh when needed or appropriate.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Erick Magana

Erick Magana

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I became a therapist because I believe every person has untapped strength and potential to overcome challenges.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Kelsey Louderback

Kelsey Louderback

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a California LMFT with several years of experience in community mental health and private practice settings. I help support people through challenges such as chronic "stuck" mood states, family dynamics, and trauma. Much of my work focuses on helping clients better understand themselves within the context of their own lives. I value warmth, curiosity, and open inquiry as foundations for meaningful therapeutic work.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Maternal mental health
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Catherine Udave

Catherine Udave

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you notice patterns, challenge unhelpful thoughts, and build tools that support real change.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tara Beach

Tara Beach

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I will always be me and believe that this helps people feel safe when building a connection with me, a human being rather than a blank slate expert.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Winfred Alarcon

Winfred Alarcon

Therapist

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“I work to nurture my clients' sensitivities, strengths, hopes, and desires for a meaningful and fulfilling existence.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

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