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Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in San Diego, CA

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Top addiction and substance use disorder therapists and psychiatrists in San Diego, CA

Whether you're navigating recovery from drug addiction, alcohol use disorder, or behavioral addictions in San Diego, Headway's network of compassionate providers offers personalized treatment plans including harm reduction, SMART recovery, and 12-step facilitation therapy. With 70+ insurance plans accepted and average savings of 75% on sessions, support for your sobriety journey is accessible.

Michael Wood

Michael Wood

Therapist

Virtual • Laguna Niguel, CA


My style is collaborative, client-centered, positive-energy, and solution-focused. I support my clients in developing solutions based on their goals and aspirations. My ideal client is one who is willing to "go deep," to learn about aspects of personality, behavior, and character that can contribute to developing a more profound sense of joy and fulfillment. Many of my clients are searching for meaning and purpose of in their lives. Its exciting and rewarding work. On a personal level, I am warm, caring, compassionate, and non-judgmental. I read widely and draw from the fields of neurobiology, addiction medicine and positive psychology.

I love working with couples experiencing relationship distress, communication challenges, and seeking improved emotional intimacy. I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with addictions of all kinds, both substance and behavioral. I work well with individuals seeking to lower their anxiety, tackle their depression, and recover from grief and trauma.

If you are experiencing relationship issues, the aftermaths of trauma, depression, or anxiety, please reach out; you can feel better and achieve a greater degree of self-acceptance, self-esteem, and discover your purpose and meaning in life.

I have personal experience in the business world and artistic expression.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Tene Rodgers

Tene Rodgers

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


“I'm here to support people in moving forward, finding their footing, and doing the work of healing and growth-at their own pace, in their own way.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Hilary Malloy

Hilary Malloy

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


I have a Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work, and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), working in private practice as a Psychotherapist. I live in Los Angeles, and work in-person or hybrid, with adults, teens, couples and the aging population. I specialize in anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, work stress/dissatisfaction, career goals, sleep disorders, substance use, trauma (ptsd/complex/acute), obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD/OCPD), attention deficit disorders (ADD/ADHD). In addition I deal with grief, isolation, and breaking creative blocks.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Mercy Flores Isaac

Mercy Flores Isaac

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm direct, warm, and genuinely collaborative. I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, so I'll adapt our work to what actually fits your life, your pace, and your goals.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Direct, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ana Del Nogal

Ana Del Nogal

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi my name is Ana, I'm a dedicated mental health professional specializing in comprehensive biopsychosocial assessment, strategic treatment planning, and collaborative care. Life can feel overwhelming at times, especially when you are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, or major life transitions. You may be feeling emotionally exhausted, disconnected, stuck in unhealthy patterns, or simply wanting a safe space to process what you’ve been carrying. My goal is to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change. Together, we can work toward helping you build resilience, improve emotional well-being, strengthen relationships, and reconnect with yourself.

Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Jeremy Larson

Jeremy Larson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is structured, direct, and compassionate. I incorporate evidence-based strategies, relapse prevention planning, and emotional regulation skills...”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Men's issues, PTSD
Holistic, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Bita Rivas

Dr. Bita Rivas

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that growth comes from acknowledging our vulnerabilities, strengths, and relationships with honesty in a safe space...”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Steven "Kyle" Cardwell

Steven "Kyle" Cardwell

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm passionate about helping people understand themselves more fully and make meaningful, lasting change.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Komalpreet Aulakh

Komalpreet Aulakh

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and client-centered, with a strong emphasis on creating a safe and nonjudgmental space for healing.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Cecelia Lipscomb-Hammond

Cecelia Lipscomb-Hammond

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment where patients feel heard, supported, and actively involved in their care.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Shari Mosley

Shari Mosley

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I set a calm, soothing and peaceful environment for each individual to thrive towards their therapeutic goals.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Aaron Ruiz Zuniga

Aaron Ruiz Zuniga

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have extensive history working with individuals experiencing psychotic symptoms and crisis situations.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Participatory
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Dr. Shiva Ghaed

Dr. Shiva Ghaed

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I will help you uncover your true potential so that you may lead a life that is more fulfilling and meaningful.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Nimish Chakarwarti

Nimish Chakarwarti

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I provide medication management alongside supportive therapy-informed care. My approach is comprehensive and collaborative...”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Matthew Nickle

Matthew Nickle

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My focus is on providing my clients with a new approach to themselves that will help them gain insight and reach their true potential.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Megan Williamson

Megan Williamson

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi,

I’m Megan , an LMFT , licensed in California. I am an easy going , kind and compassionate psychotherapist who provides a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to process life’s challenges and grow in self awareness . I empower clients to find their peace and restore balance.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Humorous, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Arianna Zabriskie

Dr. Arianna Zabriskie

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I believe that meaningful change happens when we address both the practical patterns of thoughts and behaviors that affect daily life, and the deeper, often unconscious processes that shape our sense of self and belonging.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Creative, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
James Witmer

James Witmer

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“I approach our time together with openness, humility, acceptance, and free of pre-conceived judgement.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Laurie Eaton

Laurie Eaton

Therapist

Virtual • California


I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 28 years. I have worked in a Foster Care agency, as a Clinical Supervisor at a Children's Clinic in East LA and at a Drug, Alcohol, and Mental Health Facility. I also provided therapy for our military.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Melody Claiborne

Melody Claiborne

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


I'm Melody Claiborne, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Washington and California. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, and depression, offering thorough diagnostic evaluations and personalized medication management for adults. I believe in care that sees the whole person — not just a diagnosis. Having witnessed patients go unheard during their most vulnerable moments, I built my practice around genuine advocacy and connection. I work at your pace, in a safe and supportive environment where your concerns are fully heard and your goals guide your treatment.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Marcela Malcolm

Marcela Malcolm

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Camarillo, CA


“I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is essential for healing, and I bring authenticity, compassion, and honesty into every session.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Thai Le

Dr. Thai Le

Psychologist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


“I offer a collaborative and nonjudgemental space for discovering strengths and with helping you feel empowered.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Energetic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kimberly Herrera

Kimberly Herrera

Therapist

Virtual • California


I work with individuals, couples, and families seeking meaningful change in their lives. I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process that is supportive, empathetic and nonjudgmental. My role is to provide practical tools, insight, empowerment, and encouragement as you build emotional resilience, resolve internal and interpersonal conflicts, and move toward greater well-being.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Chartia Byrdsong-Flowers

Chartia Byrdsong-Flowers

Therapist

Virtual • California


Welcome, and thank you for considering me as a partner in your wellness journey! My therapeutic style is warm, gentle, and supportive, while also being direct and accountability focused. I believe meaningful change happens when compassion and honesty work together. In our time together, we will explore what’s getting in the way of your well-being and identify practical, sustainable ways to improve your daily functioning and overall quality of life.

With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I bring a grounded, steady presence to the therapeutic space. I support clients through life transitions, emotional challenges, and periods of feeling stuck, always meeting you where you are while helping you move toward where you want to be. Therapy with me is collaborative, intentional, and centered on your goals, your values, and your lived experience. Together, we’ll work toward clarity, resilience, and growth at a pace that feels both supportive and empowering.

Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, LGBTQIA+
Affirming, Direct, Inquisitive
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Tanya Dantus

Tanya Dantus

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe healing is not just about fixing what's broken—it's about reclaiming your voice, vitality, and sense of wholeness.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Mahsan Behnoud

Mahsan Behnoud

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Irvine, CA


“Together we can identify mental/emotional blocks, reprocess past disturbing memories, and develop mental agility to experience the life you deserve to flourish in.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Energetic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Matthew Darst

Matthew Darst

Therapist

Virtual • California


I'm Matt Darst, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker trained at the University of Southern California, with advanced training in military and veteran clinical social work. I work with adults who are motivated to change but feel stuck — navigating trauma, addiction, mood disorders, OCD, grief, or the kind of cumulative pressure that quietly builds until something gives.

My clients tend to be high-functioning people who look fine from the outside but are carrying more than they let on. That includes professionals managing stress and burnout, veterans and first responders, and anyone who's ready to do honest, purposeful work — regardless of background or title.

I bring a direct, warm style grounded in kind accountability. I'm not here to tell you what you want to hear. I'm here to help you move.

Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Monica Brown-Hall

Monica Brown-Hall

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach to therapy is from a listener and strengths perspective, meeting clients where they are, validating, providing resources, support, and a person-centered approach.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Carmen Cuevas

Dr. Carmen Cuevas

Therapist

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“My goal is to provide a supportive, culturally responsive space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to build on their strengths and create meaningful, lasting change.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
John Schempf

John Schempf

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I've focused on providing care to individuals/couples/families experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, crises, substance abuse and anger management.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Energetic, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Elsie Iwegbu

Elsie Iwegbu

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hi, I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I offer a supportive and judgment-free space to help you manage anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, and mood disorders. I work with children, adolescents, and adults using evidence-based care that’s tailored to your needs. My goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and empowered within the family. Let’s walk this journey together, one step at a time.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Energetic, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Anastasia Grace

Anastasia Grace

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that therapy is not just about healing what hurts, but about expanding your capacity for connection, clarity, and a more meaningful life.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Rebeca Zaragoza

Rebeca Zaragoza

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a licensed therapist who specializes in anxiety depression and behavioral addictions such as gambling, gaming, shopping, and technology use. I became an LCSW because, quite simply, I love people and have the deepest respect for all living things. I have a masters in Social work and background in Psychology, Sociology and Education. I believe that every individual has innate strengths and my goal is to help you tap into yours. Whether you are in a difficult life transition, navigating healthy relationships, or looking to understand yourself more deeply, I am here to empower you so that you can move from feeling "stuck" to feeling capable.

Outside of the therapy room, I am a proud mom and dedicated reader. As someone who identifies as a lifelong learner, I will bring curiosity and warmth to every session. In addition to my private practice, I am a crisis clinician. This background has sharpened my ability to remain grounded, and provide a safe, stable space even when a situation may feel the most chaotic.

Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Brandon Steele

Brandon Steele

Therapist

Virtual • San Rafael, CA


“To feel at home in yourself, with loved ones, and in this world, you need to find ways to settle your emotions and relax in your body.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Challenging, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Merilyn Rosado

Merilyn Rosado

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My hope is that our time together becomes the one place in your week where you're not the one holding everything together - where you get to just breathe, be honest, and figure out what balance actually looks like for you.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Alexander Schwarz

Alexander Schwarz

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Clients can expect to feel supported, understood, and find relief to their negative feelings while learning new techniques to manage life situations.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Jose-Antonio Aguilar

Dr. Jose-Antonio Aguilar

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to create a space where you do not have to manage how you are perceived — just show up and feel genuinely understood.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Megan Quinn

Megan Quinn

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy works best when it's built around you, not a template, and that growth looks different for every person.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 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 6 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 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

Frequently asked questions

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Find the right addiction counselor for you

Headway makes it easier to find support for overcoming addiction — from finding the right provider, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Addiction Therapist in San Diego, CA

Finding addiction therapists in San Diego starts with knowing what kind of support fits your needs. Addiction care can include support for alcohol use, drug use, prescription substance concerns, gambling, compulsive behaviors, and co-occurring concerns like anxiety, depression, or trauma. As you compare therapists, look for training that matches your goals, such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy for substance use, harm reduction, or coordination with a prescriber when medication management may be part of your care team.

San Diego has many therapists across neighborhoods like Hillcrest, North Park, La Jolla, and Chula Vista, which can make the search feel broad. Location matters, especially if you prefer in-person sessions near work, school, transit, or home. Virtual appointments can also expand your options if schedule, commute, or privacy matters most. As you narrow your search, review whether each therapist is accepting new patients, offers appointment times that fit your calendar, and has experience with addiction recovery. Reading bios can help you understand how a therapist talks about relapse, harm reduction, accountability, and long-term support.

Therapy in San Diego can be a significant investment without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs and make ongoing support easier to plan. Headway helps you find addiction therapists, see estimated costs before you book, compare available appointment times, and confirm coverage for your specific plan on Headway. You can browse therapists, review bios, and book directly when you’re ready.

If you or someone you know is experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms — especially from alcohol or benzodiazepines — talk to a medical provider or seek emergency care before starting outpatient therapy. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or substance use and is in a crisis, immediately reach out to:

* 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — call or text 988 * SAMHSA National Helpline — 1-800-662-HELP (4357), free, confidential, 24/7 * Crisis Text Line — text HOME to 741741

Find a provider - your way

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1 Cost may vary based on your location, age, and insurance coverage.