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Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in San Francisco, CA

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

San Francisco residents struggling with substance use, alcohol, or behavioral addiction can find compassionate providers specializing in recovery strategies including harm reduction, relapse prevention, and 12-step facilitation. Headway offers flexible scheduling with free consultations available.

Vanessa Jiroutek

Vanessa Jiroutek

Therapist

Virtual • California


I earned my Master of Arts degree in psychology with a focus on marriage and family therapy to pursue my passion for helping others navigate life's challenges, achieve personal growth, and heal. My education and training have equipped me with the knowledge and skills to provide effective, evidence-based therapy to my clients.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Jack Bowman

Jack Bowman

Therapist

Virtual • California


I have 40 years experience in the mental health field in multiple roles, I believe listening and believing in the person is the most important way to practice therapy.

Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Cathy Christensen

Dr. Cathy Christensen

Therapist

Virtual • California


I specialize in helping people feel better, function better, and live more fulfilling lives. If you and/or your family are in transition, whether it be an individual issue, a couples issue, your kids exhibiting stess, managing and adjusting with aging family members, divorce/separation, a simple communication breakdown, changing the effects of multigenerational trauma...call me. I have been working with all this and the symptoms of all this like depression, anxiety, relationship distress, substance misuse, anger, for many years. My work rangesb from short term adjustments, to longer term in depth psychotherapy.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Direct, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Zach Englund

Zach Englund

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am bipolar and have navigated my own journey through psychiatric institutions, giving me deep insight into the challenges and triumphs of living with mental health conditions.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Bipolar disorder, PTSD
Creative, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Gina Muro

Gina Muro

Therapist

Virtual • California


I graduated from Fresno Pacific University-Biblical Seminary in 2014 and obtained my license as a LMFT in 2018. My experience has been working with children, adolescents, families (4 years) and adults (11.5 Years). I have 11.5 years' experience with co-occurring disorders to include severe mental illness and trauma. I have utilized but not limited to the following evidence practices and modalities -ACT, Strength-Base, Family psychoeducation, DBT, CBT, and person centered. I am currently expanding my education/training in Internal Family Systems.

Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Adara Reyes

Adara Reyes

Therapist

Virtual • California


Welcome!

As a licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT), I believe in prioritizing out mental health as a way to live a happy and balance life. Reaching out for help can be one of the hardest things a person can do, great job on taking that step! I’ve been practicing for 10 years, but in the field for 20 plus years. In the last 6 years I have shifted my main focus to adults 18 plus who are struggling with trauma and substance use.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Eleanor Raymond

Eleanor Raymond

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi I'm Eleanor! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California and New Mexico. I am passionate about empowering people to build self-trust and self-acceptance. Most of my clients come to therapy because they want to make a change or cope with a change that they did not choose.

Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Abbie Porter

Abbie Porter

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I take an individualistic, collaborative approach to treatment. I will work with each individual to identify their goals for coming to treatment and base my strategy off of that.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Grace Nelson

Grace Nelson

Therapist

Virtual • California


My approach to clients is to see them both as individuals and also within the systems they operate in: familial, community, work-related, societal, or other. I help clients address personal issues in the context of their interpersonal relationships. I strive to support my clients in bringing to light their impact on others, and others’ impact on them while giving clients the skills to heal relational wounds and build healthier, meaningful connections. I work to help her clients connect with their values and find joy.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Direct, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
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
Kristie Walthard

Kristie Walthard

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach to therapy is trauma-informed, incorporating an attachment lens and client centered practices to create a safe, supportive environment for my clients.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Margaret Chao

Margaret Chao

Psychologist

Virtual • California


Dr. Margaret Chao is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience working in the field of psychology. She received her doctorate in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Health Psychology. She specializes in working with high achievement oriented professionals navigating important life transitions, career decisions, romantic relationships, friendships, and adjustment to change.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Yaifeh Chafeh

Yaifeh Chafeh

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hi, I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes everyone deserves to feel heard, supported, and treated with kindness. I create a warm, welcoming, and judgment-free space where you can feel comfortable being yourself. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, mood changes, and other mental health concerns. Along with medication management, I also use supportive therapy techniques, including CBT and motivational interviewing, to help clients build healthy coping skills and feel more confident in their daily lives.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Michael Nicholas

Michael Nicholas

Therapist

Virtual • Grand Terrace, CA


“My goal is to help clients strengthen resilience, re-author limiting narratives, and move toward greater emotional balance and connection in their personal and relational lives.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Challenging, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Kathleen Palma

Kathleen Palma

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, and a Psychodynamic approach to help my clients discover their inner strengths so they can increase their sense of well-being.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Carol Michaelis

Carol Michaelis

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


“My approach is holistic—considering the whole person rather than just a client's symptoms—while providing a safe space for healing.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jasmine Sanders

Jasmine Sanders

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My work is grounded in a client-centered, supportive style that prioritizes connection, trust, and real dialogue.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Relationship issues
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Siavash Shakeri

Siavash Shakeri

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe meaningful change happens when clients feel safe enough to explore difficult patterns without shame and supported enough to build something healthier in their place.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Belinda Reser

Belinda Reser

Therapist

Virtual • California


I offer a supportive, affirming space where clients can show up authentically. I guide individuals in rediscovering themselves and taking meaningful steps toward a more purposeful and aligned life.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Stella Eliboh

Stella Eliboh

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


“My approach to care is collaborative, compassionate, and individualized. I work closely with clients to understand their experiences, goals, and concerns while using evidence‐based practices to guide treatment decisions.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Ryan Rickert

Ryan Rickert

Therapist

Virtual • California


“For over 20 years, I have supported people through depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, dream analysis, sex therapy, and the deeper questions of meaning, purpose, and identity that can arise when life feels uncertain.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dia Yang

Dia Yang

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi, I’m Dia Yang, LCSW, and I’m licensed in California with over 12 years of experience supporting individuals across a range of ages and life stages. I believe mental health is an important part of overall wellness and balance. I help clients working through depression, anxiety, relationship or parenting challenges, grief and loss, low motivation, life transitions, confidence, personal growth, and day-to-day stress.

Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Jeffrey Mcnamara

Jeffrey Mcnamara

Therapist

Virtual • California


Life is filled with ups and downs, which can seem overwhelming at times for many of us. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, going through a stressful transition in life, or getting stuck in negative thoughts or beliefs, I am here to help you get unstuck.

I communicate in a direct but supportive manner, fostering an environment where you feel heard. Through active listening and structured feedback, we'll work as a team to identify challenges and set clear, achievable goals. Expect me to be understanding yet focused on guiding you to develop resilience and coping skills to overcome difficulties.

My goal is to work collectively as a team with you to identify current difficulties and assist your efforts to overcome these difficulties in a healthy environment where you feel heard and supported. Measurable treatment goals will be established and take priority for each client I serve.

Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Challenging, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Sherry Watts

Sherry Watts

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


I am a PMHNP, dedicated to working collaboratively with all clients with medication or therapy to navigate challenges and achieve success.

Education

  • Norwich University, Post Grad PMHNP, Graduated 2024
  • Chamberlain University, MSN-FNP, Graduated 2019
  • Western Governors University, BSN Graduated 2014
  • San Jacinto College RN, Grad 2009
  • University of Texas, Information Systems, Graduated 2001

Specialties and Expertise

Expertise

  • ADHD
  • Anger Management
  • Anxiety
  • Behavioral Issues
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Chronic Impulsivity
  • Coping Skills
  • Depression
  • Dissociative Disorders (DID)
  • Dual Diagnosis
  • Grief
  • Impulse Control Disorders
  • Life Transitions
  • Medication Management
  • Mood Disorders
  • Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
  • Personality Disorders
  • Psychosis
  • Relationship Issues
  • Self Esteem
  • Self-Harming
  • Sleep or Insomnia
  • Substance Use
  • Suicidal Ideation
  • Trauma and PTSD

Treatment Approach

Types of Therapy

  • Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
  • Compassion Focused
  • Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
  • Emotionally Focused
  • Integrative
  • Intervention
  • Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Person-Centered
  • Positive Psychology
  • Strength-Based
  • Trauma Focused
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Zita Benjamin

Dr. Zita Benjamin

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My approach is warm and patient-centered, focusing on both symptoms and the underlying factors that affect emotional well-being.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Tatiana Bustamante

Tatiana Bustamante

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I show up for you as a calm, patient, and empathetic partner, rooted in the absolute belief that you already hold the capacity for lasting change.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, End of life care
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Tanya Carrell

Tanya Carrell

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I also have extensive experience in working with adults who are survivors of domestic violence (DV), intimate partner violence (IPT), and those who are suffering from symptoms of PTSD.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Shalom Spencer

Shalom Spencer

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 28 years of experience in the mental health field. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Hunter School of Social Work and have lived and practiced in California for over three decades. My professional background includes extensive work with older adults, individuals experiencing homelessness, and adults living with severe and persistent mental illness. I am known for my patient, compassionate, and attentive approach, and I strive to be fully engaged and present with every client I serve. My goal is to provide thoughtful, individualized support that helps clients feel understood and empowered in their therapeutic journey.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Depression, Grief or loss, PTSD
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Haig Barsegian

Haig Barsegian

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Book knowledge is helpful, but life experience is invaluable. I spent over 30 years in sales and management in the airline industry before becoming a therapist...”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Direct, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Rita Lekhtsikava

Rita Lekhtsikava

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship is central to meaningful work, and I approach each session with honesty, compassion, and care.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Heather Rogers

Heather Rogers

Therapist

Virtual • California


I can understand first-hand how difficult it can be to reach out for help for the first time. I believe in the importance of "practicing what you preach" and I have been the client in the room who needs extra support. I invite you to give yourself a chance, try something new, and gain a healthy perspective on how to address complicated moments in your life.

Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Giovanna Nicola-Menke

Giovanna Nicola-Menke

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness practices, I help clients build awareness around their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and develop practical skills for coping and growth.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Panic disorders, Relationship issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Dr. Tracy Griffith

Dr. Tracy Griffith

Therapist

Virtual • California


Seeking help can be the first step to acquire greater understanding and insight into our lives and relationships.

Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Lisa Vancil

Lisa Vancil

Therapist

Virtual • California


“By integrating evidence-based tools like CBT and ERP with a compassionate, strengths-based perspective, I help my clients achieve meaningful behavioral change.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Challenging, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Allison Gentz

Allison Gentz

Therapist

Virtual • San Francisco, CA


“Her therapeutic approach is collaborative, hands-on, and client-centered. Allison integrates evidence-based practices with clear, direct communication and practical tools clients can apply outside of sessions.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Energetic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Jacqueline Palmer

Jacqueline Palmer

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


My clients should know that I truly care about their well-being and take the time to listen. I want them to feel comfortable, respected, and never rushed. I believe in providing care that is compassionate, thorough, and personalized to their needs. I also value honesty, trust, and clear communication, so clients feel informed and supported every step of the way.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Chronic conditions, Depression, PTSD
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Cori Johnson

Cori Johnson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work from a trauma-informed, systemic lens — which means I understand that what you're carrying didn't appear out of nowhere.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Angela Garcia

Angela Garcia

Therapist

Virtual • California


My name is Angela and I have over a decade of experience in working with families and individuals in a therapeutic setting. I am fluent in Spanish and have a diverse background. I take a client-centered, humanistic approach to treatment. I am fluent in CBT, psychodynamic therapy, and have a specialty in family dynamics.

Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Energetic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Christina Edwards

Christina Edwards

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I practice through a client-centered, nonjudgemental lens and really emphasize building a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Direct, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Meridian Brady

Meridian Brady

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I bring a warm, friendly, curious, and interactive energy to our sessions. I am here to listen and also to ask questions as well as point out blind spots.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Grief or loss, Panic disorders
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 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 Francisco

Finding addiction therapists in San Francisco starts with knowing what kind of support fits your needs. Addiction care can include support for alcohol use, drug use, substance use concerns, and behavioral patterns related to gambling, sex, or internet use. Many therapists list approaches such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy for substance use, harm reduction, or coordination with medication-assisted treatment when a prescriber is part of your care team. As you compare therapists, look for training and listed specialties that match what you want to work on.

San Francisco has many therapists across neighborhoods like the Mission, SoMa, the Richmond, and the Castro, which can make it harder to narrow your options. Consider whether an office location fits your commute, whether virtual appointments work better with your schedule, and whether the therapist is accepting new patients. Recovery can move in different directions over time, so it can help to read bios for signs of a nonjudgmental approach, experience with harm reduction frameworks, and a communication style that feels clear to you.

Therapy in San Francisco can be a significant expense without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs and understand what you may pay before care begins. Headway helps you search for addiction therapists who match your location, preferences, schedule, and insurance plan. You can review therapist bios, see estimated costs after entering your insurance details, 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.