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Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in Pasadena, CA


Top addiction and substance use disorder therapists and psychiatrists in Pasadena, CA
Pasadena residents dealing with substance dependence, nicotine addiction, or compulsive behaviors can find compassionate, solution-oriented providers on Headway. Our network specializes in withdrawal management, cravings support, and evidence-based modalities to help you achieve lasting recovery and stability.
If you're a woman feeling stretched thin by the relationships in your life — a partner, your family, the demands of parenting — you don't have to sort through it alone. I help women navigate relationship stress, anxiety, grief, and the harder seasons of life: losing someone you love, adjusting to a health condition, or facing a change you didn't choose. I hold a Master of Science in Clinical Social Work from Azusa Pacific University, and my goal in every session is simple: you leave feeling heard, understood, and a little more capable than when you arrived.
I believe therapy works best when you feel safe, understood, and genuinely supported. My approach is warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental, and I strive to create a space where you can be yourself. People often describe me as easy to talk to, and I believe that compassion—and even a little humor when appropriate—can make the healing process feel more comfortable. We'll work together to build on your strengths and help you create meaningful, lasting change.
I’m a doctoral-prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with clients across the lifespan. I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Arizona and have experience caring for individuals in outpatient, intensive outpatient, and higher-acuity mental health settings. My background includes treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma-related concerns, OCD, mood disorders, and substance use. I take a thoughtful, practical, and individualized approach to care, with the goal of helping clients feel understood, safe, supported, and comfortable being honest when feeling emotionally vulnerable.
I'm Michael, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about providing integrated care for complex mental health challenges, including ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD and trauma, schizophrenia and psychosis disorders, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, mood disorders, and bipolar conditions. My practice recognizes that these conditions are deeply interconnected in ways requiring specialized understanding.
I chose to specialize across this broad spectrum because I understand how neurodivergence intersects with trauma responses, how personality patterns emerge as adaptive mechanisms, how substance use can complicate other presentations, and how psychotic symptoms may develop in vulnerable individuals. Whether you're in recovery while managing other conditions, discovering neurodivergence later in life, or dealing with multiple diagnoses that influence each other, I bring the expertise needed to see the complete picture.
My approach emphasizes both evidence-based treatments and the healing power of being truly understood by someone who isn't intimidated by complexity. I recognize that seeking help for multiple or stigmatized conditions takes tremendous courage, especially after disappointing experiences with other providers who may have felt overwhelmed by your needs.
What you can expect from our collaboration is a thorough assessment, personalized treatment planning, and ongoing support as we navigate your unique mental health journey. My goal is to help you build resilience, develop effective strategies, and create the fulfilling life you deserve. You are full of possibilities. Together, we'll work at your pace, honoring your experiences while moving toward meaningful change.
For up-to-date availability, please visit our website at mentalhealthpractitioners.com or call/text us at 415-968-6515. Thank you for reading!
I am open, approachable, and committed to listening carefully to your experiences without judgment. I believe that each person carries a unique story, and my goal is to provide a supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and encouraged as you navigate life’s challenges and opportunities for growth. Together, we can explore what is most important to you and work toward creating a life that feels meaningful, authentic, and aligned with your values.
My background includes earning a Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley, along with a lifelong appreciation for personal growth, nature, and the healing power of connection. Growing up learning to surf fostered a deep respect for the ocean and the lessons it offers about resilience, balance, and adapting to life's changing conditions. These experiences have shaped my belief in the importance of honoring each individual’s journey and recognizing that growth often comes through both challenge and reflection.
For nearly 13 years, I worked as a psychotherapist at a mens' long term substance abuse treatment program, The Fellowship Center, Inc. in Escondido California. I obtained several certifications as a drug and alcohol counselor, but I relied primarily on my training as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist to perform individual psychotherapy for residents in the treatment program.
I also have obtained training in Eye Movement Desentitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which I believe provides a robust treatment intervention for trauma. I now have 10 years experience using EMDR both in person and by telehealth with more than one hundred fifty clients.
I also have a strong interest in mindfulness and somatic interventions which I believe are essential in the integration of the treatment of both substance abuse and trauma.
In addition to trauma and substance abuse, I most frequently work with clients suffering from anxiety, depression, or complex grief.
Finally, I enjoy working with clients who are struggling in the midst of major life transitions.
Hi! Im Mike Strauss and I specialize in anxiety, PTSD, depression and substance abuse. With my own background as an addict now with 17 years clean and sober, I organically found my purpose as a clinician. What initially started with drug and alcohol counseling immediately turned into something bigger, as I pursued a master’s degree in social work. Understanding that addiction is but a symptom of underlying fears and traumas resulting in mood disorders, I was able to REALLY look at myself as I encourage my clients to do during their journeys toward self-realization.
Marche Williams is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, accomplished behavioral health leader, and Founder of SOZO Child & Family Wellness. With more than ten years of direct clinical experience, Marche has dedicated her career to supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families navigating complex behavioral health, emotional, and life challenges.
Marche’s professional mission is rooted in a simple belief: meaningful change occurs when people are given the right combination of support, practical tools, accountability, compassion, and hope. Whether leading behavioral health programs, developing clinicians and staff, or building innovative services through SOZO, she remains committed to helping individuals and families move beyond surviving toward healing, growth, and lasting transformation.
I bring a wealth of experience from my work in child welfare for nearly 10 years, which has shaped me into a deeply trauma-informed practitioner. Over the years, I have supported clients of all ages and walks of life, including individuals facing complex socioeconomic stressors and diverse life circumstances. I am comfortable working with a wide range of mental health concerns, from mood disorders like anxiety and depression to more complex personality-based struggles. No matter your background or the challenge you are facing, I offer a stable, professional, and non-judgmental presence designed to help you process your experiences and move toward a healthier future.
I believe that therapy is a partnership, and my goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel truly heard. As a licensed clinical social worker, I specialize in supporting individuals as they navigate life’s transitions, stress, and anxiety. My approach is rooted in compassion and evidence-based practices, primarily utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and a client-centered perspective to help you develop practical tools for your daily life. I am dedicated to working alongside you to build on your existing strengths, foster resilience, and help you create the change you are seeking. You don’t have to navigate these challenges alone; I invite you to reach out so we can start this work together.
I have been a psychologist for 44 years and worn many hats: schools, private practice, clinics and agencies. Experience counts for a lot! I am dedicated to my patients reducing their suffering.
About our therapists who can help with addiction and substance use located within 20 miles of Pasadena, CA



- 100%Substance use / addiction
- 95%Anxiety
- 95%Relationship issues
- 93%Depression
- 90%PTSD

- 100%Aetna
- 76%Anthem Blue Cross California
- 73%Carelon Behavioral Health
- 54%Cigna
- 51%Providence Health Plan

- 98%English
- 15%Spanish
- 10%Armenian
- 5%Russian
- 2%Arabic

- 98%In-person or online
- 2%In-person only

- 51%Man
- 46%Woman
- 2%Non-binary

- 41%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
- 20%Clinical Psychologist
- 20%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
- 10%Nurse Practitioner
- 7%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor

- 100%Individual therapy
- 41%Family therapy
- 27%Couples therapy
- 17%Child or adolescent therapy
Frequently asked questions


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 Pasadena
Searching for addiction therapists in Pasadena starts with finding someone whose experience matches the type of support you want. Addiction care can include support for alcohol use, substance use, nicotine dependence, gambling, compulsive behaviors, and related concerns like anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship stress. As you compare therapists, look for listed specialties and approaches that fit your needs, 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.
Pasadena has a smaller local therapy market than nearby Los Angeles, so virtual appointments can expand your options while still keeping care accessible from home. You may want an in-person therapist near Old Pasadena, Playhouse Village, South Lake, or another nearby area, or you may prefer virtual sessions that fit around work, school, or caregiving schedules. Recovery can change over time, so it helps to look for a therapist who describes a non-judgmental style and experience with harm reduction, relapse prevention, or long-term support. Reading therapist bios can help you compare approach, communication style, availability, and whether a free phone consultation is offered before you book.
Therapy in Pasadena can be a significant investment without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to lower out-of-pocket session costs and make ongoing care easier to plan for. Headway helps you find addiction therapists, check your coverage and estimated costs for your specific plan before booking, and book directly with therapists who are accepting new patients. You can browse therapists, review bios, and choose a time 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
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