Addiction Treatment

Substance abuse treatment in San Francisco to help you stop problematic substance use and address the underlying cause of addiction.

Services offered:

  • individual and group substance abuse treatment for people who want to change or stop their substance use

  • individual therapy and support groups for friends and family of people with addiction

  • consultations for those who aren’t ready to commit to substance abuse treatment or for loved ones who want more information about addiction and how they can help

  • compassionate interventions based on a scientific understanding of addiction

  • professional trainings and workshops

  • todos servicios son disponible en español

How I Work

I approach addiction as a biopsychosocial phenomenon and help my patients understand the biological, emotional, and behavioral factors of their drug use using evidence-based interventions such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness, and insight-oriented therapies. I believe an effective substance abuse treatment also examines the relationship or attachment one has formed with the drugs they use, e.g. what needs are being met by your use? I work from a harm reduction philosophy which allows room for abstinence and moderation management.

My therapeutic style is compassionate and non-judgmental but I will also be direct and challenge you to deeply examine your choices. One of my main objectives is creating a safe, confidential environment where you feel comfortable to explore your choices. Collaboration is the best approach to substance abuse treatment: you are the expert on yourself and I act as a guide to help you get in touch with your true needs and desires.

 

Ways I can help

  • reducing consequences associated with the use of alcohol and drugs

  • treating co-occurring disorders such as depression, grief, anxiety, trauma, or personality disorders

  • teaching mindfulness skills to slow down and interrupt the desire for immediate gratification

  • addressing feelings of shame and guilt about substance use

  • integrating psychedelic experiences

  • establishing practices to cope with difficult emotions such as anger and grief

  • developing alternatives to substance use

  • improving the quality of your relationships, including the one with yourself

  • teaching substance use skills, e.g. responsible drinking and moderation management

  • planning substance use strategies for special events (“I’m going to Burning Man this year and don’t want to overdo it on the drugs.”;  “My daughter is getting married and I want to control my drinking at her wedding.”)

  • lifestyle planning to ensure most of your needs and wants are being met

  • working with friends and families to help them understand addiction and address co-dependency