Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in Escondido, CA

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.

I’m a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who provides therapy in both Spanish and English, from colloquial to professional levels. My work has included supporting individuals facing HIV/AIDS-related challenges, domestic violence, substance use, loneliness, suicidal thoughts, dual diagnosis, sexuality-related concerns, aging-related issues, and the broader impact these experiences can have on families and support systems. Across community, academic, and clinical settings in Mexico and the U.S., I’ve built a strong foundation in helping people navigate both personal suffering and societal distress.

Hello!

My name is Aldemar. I have 30 years of experience in the field of mental health, in various capacities. I have a degree in Psychology from Sonoma State University and a Master's degree from Sacramento State University. I specialize in trauma work, Anxiety, Couples therapy, and substance use issues.

I am glad you are here. I commend you for having taken the difficult step to ask for support! I do know that it can feel overwhelming to start therapy, yet here you are; congratulations!

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Orange County, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, relationship issues, substance abuse/addiction, and trauma.

My communication style is calm, accommodating, and reassuring. I want my clients to feel comfortable talking with me about anything, and I pride myself on my ability to listen without judgment.

I decided to become a therapist because I have always wanted to help people. Whether it was as an epidemiologist working with the physically ill, mentoring high school students in relational and life decisions, or being a loyal friend, I have always naturally been drawn to helping people through difficult times. Now, as a therapist, I get to enjoy seeing people realize their full potential, heal from their pain, and identify and begin working toward a new future of hope for themselves.

I truly believe we are all connected in some way. Systemically, there are many ways to improve the way we relate to our own self, and with others. My philosophy is when I improve, everyone else around me improves. My own experiences have informed the way I approach problems and seek solutions, with the goal of being happier and performing better. Throughout my life, I’ve been in the service of others. I am a US Army Veteran and have many years experience training/development of others.

I am a board certified, doctoral prepared PMHNP. I completed my post graduate at National University in Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I earned my DNP from Azusa Pacific University and graduated from CSUSB MSN program. I have been a faculty at CSUSB since 2014. Extensively trained and a certified Trauma-Informed specialist. I diagnose and treat mental disorders including medication-assisted treatment along with counseling for chemical dependency and substance use disorders.

I specialize in supporting adolescents, adults, and families navigating trauma, systemic stress, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. With 11 years as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I’ve worked across diverse communities, including Black, Native American, Veteran, and criminal justice-involved populations. Clients often describe me as grounded, direct, and compassionate, and I bring deep respect for each person’s lived experience into the work we do together.

I am Licensed MFT and I have been in the field for twenty plus years. I help my client to explore their behaviors, thoughts, and emotions in a safe and confidential space. The goal is personal growth and improve mental wellbeing and navigate the client through anxiety, depression, addiction and relationship issues, through collaborative work my client able to gain the tools and insight to deal with the at hand problems and future issues. Developing rapport with my clients is a primary focus and understanding their struggles in their own words, by providing them with safe and nonjudgmental environment.

I believe people carry far more strength, clarity, and resilience than they often realize. My role is to help you understand the emotional patterns and internal narratives that shape your experience, so you can move through life with greater freedom and self‐trust. I’m engaged, attuned, and honest in the room — offering reflection, insight, and steady collaboration as we explore what’s happening beneath the surface. We work at a pace that feels grounded for you, creating space for real change to germinate.

Welcome! I’m a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), passionate about providing holistic, solution-oriented care to individuals of all ages. I earned my degree from the University of South Alabama, and my approach is rooted in compassion, active listening, and evidence-based treatment tailored to your unique needs.

I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy for a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia, and mood disorders. Whether you’re a child, young adult, or part of the older adult population, my goal is to create a safe, supportive space where healing and growth can thrive.

I believe in treating the whole person, not just symptoms. Together, we’ll develop a personalized plan to help you regain balance and move forward with confidence. I look forward to supporting you on your mental wellness journey!

IMPORTANT: For current availability, visit https://mentalhealthpractitioners.com/ or call/text us anytime at 415-968-6515—we make it super easy! Intake forms are required before your first appointment and will be emailed to you when you book online. Please be sure to send us a picture of your insurance information and photo ID!

I'm Stephanie Patrick-Calvillo, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who believes mental health care should be accessible, compassionate, and tailored to each individual. Over the past 15+ years, I've worked with diverse populations—from adolescents facing their first mental health crisis to adults navigating complex psychiatric conditions, and seniors experiencing cognitive and emotional challenges.

My practice is grounded in the belief that effective treatment goes beyond symptom management. I take time to understand your unique story, your strengths, and the factors that shape your mental health. Whether you're dealing with a new diagnosis or have been managing symptoms for years, I meet you where you are with respect and without judgment.

I specialize in treating mood disorders, anxiety, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, substance use concerns, and behavioral issues related to dementia. I've completed advanced certification training because I'm committed to staying current with evidence-based treatments—ensuring you receive care that reflects the latest research.

Beyond clinical work, I'm passionate about mentoring the next generation of healthcare providers. I've mentored nursing and nurse practitioner students from multiple universities, which keeps me grounded and reminds me why this work matters.

When you work with me, you're getting someone who genuinely cares, who's seen mental health challenges from many angles, and who believes deeply in your capacity for healing and growth.