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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.

James Gonzales, Lmft

James Gonzales, Lmft

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable being open and honest.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Identity issues
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Sharon Walsh

Sharon Walsh

Therapist

Virtual • California


I believe the best work happens when you feel comfortable, understood, and supported. My goal is to create a space where you can be yourself—no pressure, no judgment, and no need to have everything figured out before you start. We’ll work together to explore what’s bringing you in, what matters most to you, and what you’d like to change or better understand.

I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all approaches. Each person is different, so our work will be tailored to your needs, your goals, and your pace. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, going through a transition, or simply wanting to better understand yourself, I’m here to help you move forward in a way that feels manageable and authentic.

What I Bring to Our Work

  • A welcoming, nonjudgmental space
  • Thoughtful listening and honest, compassionate feedback
  • A balance of insight and practical tools you can use outside of sessions
  • Support that’s personalized to you, not a preset formula

If you’re looking for someone who is easy to talk to, genuinely supportive, and invested in your growth, I’d be glad to work with you and see if we’re a good fit.

Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Diana Garcia

Diana Garcia

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of social work experience and 5 years of experience as a psychotherapist. My experience ranges from treating children ages 5 and older to treating geriatric individuals aged 70+. I am a bilingual, Latina therapist and I conduct therapy in both English and Spanish. I have worked in a variety of settings including community mental health and private practice treating a range of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, co-occurring disorders, and more. Much of my work has been focused on working with the Latino community in Southern California as well as disadvantaged communities of color.

Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Dr. Juan Perez

Dr. Juan Perez

Psychologist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


“I create a nonjudgmental space where you can show up as you are and explore what you want to change.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Fidelis Azeke

Dr. Fidelis Azeke

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Sacramento, CA


Dr. Fidelis Azeke is a University of the Pacific, Sacramento graduate and a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in treating patients of all ages. He has 13 years of nursing experience, and over 6 years of specialization in the practice of psychiatry, overseeing the care of patients - infants, children, adults, through the lifespan. Dr. Azeke is a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in California, Utah, Washington State and New York State.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Erica Metu

Erica Metu

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My communication style is warm, empathetic, and collaborative. In sessions, I create a tone that is open and nonjudgmental, so patients feel safe sharing their experiences honestly.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Patricia Meyer

Patricia Meyer

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“In my practice, I bring both clinical rigor and genuine warmth — creating a space where clients feel truly heard and supported as we work toward meaningful change together.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Energetic, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Future Ogbebor

Future Ogbebor

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Long Beach, CA


I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) degree from the University of Massachusetts Global. I have experience working with adolescents and adults in multiple settings facing various complex mental health issues, including OCD, depression, anxiety, ADHD and mood disorders.

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Peter Cabrera-Nguyen

Dr. Peter Cabrera-Nguyen

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I aim to create a warm, collaborative space where you feel supported, understood, and empowered to make meaningful change.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
James Milner

James Milner

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Using a client-centered, cognitive behavioral approach, I work collaboratively with you to better understand patterns, build practical coping tools, and create meaningful change.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Direct, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
Lauren Bittner

Lauren Bittner

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • San Jose, CA


“I work with adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, trauma, identity, and the complex terrain of relationships and life transitions.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Alexis Forgnone-Judd

Dr. Alexis Forgnone-Judd

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe in being genuine and honest in treatment. My goal is for you to feel like you can show up, just as you are.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Faith Ogala

Faith Ogala

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“Faith is empathetic, knowledgeable, and patient. She takes the time to listen to her patients, so they feel heard and understood.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Juliana Malaveci

Juliana Malaveci

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a firm believer in human resilience and an individual's ability to thrive, persevere, and navigate life's deepest challenges, especially when offered a non-judgmental, caring, empathic environment, which is what I aim to offer to all of my...”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Christine Barnett

Christine Barnett

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Our work together will revolve around the essential philosophy that all beings can heal and succeed, no matter what adversity has come before.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Creative, Humorous, Participatory
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Amber Smith

Amber Smith

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I aim to communicate in a direct yet non-judgmental way. My style is to listen intently, ask clarifying questions, and offer insights to help you gain new perspectives.”
Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Julia Davis

Julia Davis

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Creating meaningful connections and a more satisfying life experience can be achieved with healthy conversation that gives you permission to be yourself and connect with others authentically.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Jeffrey Maloney

Jeffrey Maloney

Psychologist

Virtual • California


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.

Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Travis Brown

Travis Brown

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My approach centers on a strong therapeutic relationship — a space where you feel heard, respected, and involved in every decision about your treatment.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Kimberly Kaestner

Kimberly Kaestner

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I've worked closely with those navigating substance use recovery, mood instability, trauma-related symptoms, and treatment-resistant depression.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
J. Paul Gatdula

J. Paul Gatdula

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I became drawn to psychiatry after seeing how often people felt rushed or unheard in the system, and I try to do things differently.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Paul Oglesby

Paul Oglesby

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Albany, CA


“I focus on building a strong, trusting bond with my clients that serves as a foundation for exploration and change.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Gary Seguin

Gary Seguin

Therapist

Virtual • California


I have two graduate degrees in the field (Behavioral Medicine/Health Psychology and Professional Counseling) and am a licensed behavioral health clinician in both Texas & California. My experience includes working with individuals and groups with a wide range of mental health, substance use, and basic counseling issues. I believe we all need help at points of our life and, if we are willing to ask for it, the support and guidance can be invaluable.

Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Dr. Richard Lautenbacher

Dr. Richard Lautenbacher

Psychologist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“Dr. Lautenbacher focuses on compassionately building rapport and adapting to your unique needs and goals.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Dr. Meghan Fuller

Dr. Meghan Fuller

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Oakland, CA


“My work is grounded in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic approaches, with careful attention to development, attachment, trauma, and the complexity of each individual's inner life.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
James Soltis

James Soltis

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My background as an LMFT, Registered Nurse (18 years), former Coast Guard member (6 years), and addiction counselor (4 years) gives me a unique perspective on stress, resilience, trauma, health concerns, relationships, and major life transitions.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Najwa Azizi

Najwa Azizi

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hello! I’m Najwa Azizi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion and support. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, stress, and burnout through a personalized and collaborative approach to care. With a background in both behavioral health and critical care nursing, I understand the importance of treating the whole person — emotionally, mentally, and physically. My goal is to create a welcoming, judgment-free space where clients feel safe, heard, and empowered to grow, heal, and reach their full potential.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Bianca Martinez

Bianca Martinez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I see the therapeutic space as a puzzle that begins with the pieces you put on the table but slowly comes together, through our work, to see the final clearer image.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 14 insurance carriers
Jonathan Goelz

Jonathan Goelz

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & depression.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Angela Rollisson

Angela Rollisson

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“Drawing from extensive experience in high-acuity psychiatry, addiction treatment, and recovery-focused care, I utilize a highly individualized, evidence-based approach...”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Pierre Yeremia

Pierre Yeremia

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I'm compassionate, relatable, and a good listener who wants you to feel genuinely understood not rushed or reduced to a diagnosis.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Glenda Love

Glenda Love

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over twenty years experience. I have a Master's Degree in Social Work with focus on Children and Families, a Master's Degree in Sociology with a Certificate in Criminology and Corrections, and a PhD in Social Work (all but dissertation) with focus on trauma, sexual abuse and assault, and domestic violence. I was the Director of a private, non-profit Foster Care and Adoption Agency, I worked in a women's shelter for domestic violence and sexual assault. I worked in a Level 4 men's prison, and I worked as a Supervisor for mental health therapists serving school systems. I have always had a private practice as well. I have worked in teletherapy for approximately 8 years.

Substance use / addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Delia Acosta-Perez

Delia Acosta-Perez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My therapeutic approach is client-centered and strength-based, rooted in empathy, active listening, and unconditional positive regard.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Jennifer Eastman

Jennifer Eastman

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Bakersfield, CA


“I take real, unhurried time to truly hear your story—what brought you here, what challenges you are facing, and which goals matter most to you.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Tania Brunner

Tania Brunner

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Irvine, CA


I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity, confidence, and self-compassion. I work with adolescents and adults who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, low self-worth, family conflict, and major life transitions.

My approach is both compassionate and collaborative. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and not judged. I believe that therapy is not one-size-fits-all, so I tailor my work to meet your unique needs and goals. Together, we’ll explore patterns, build healthier coping strategies, and work toward meaningful, lasting change.

I have experience supporting clients through complex family dynamics, cultural expectations, and identity development. I also work closely with individuals dealing with disordered eating and body image concerns, helping them develop a more balanced and trusting relationship with themselves.

Clients often describe me as warm, direct, and thoughtful. I will meet you with empathy while also gently challenging you when needed to help you grow.

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. My goal is to walk alongside you as you build insight, resilience, and a life that feels more aligned with who you are.

Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tali Maouda

Tali Maouda

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“My goal is to help you process your experiences so you can recognize and overcome the obstacles standing in the way of you living a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life.”
Substance use / addiction, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Jennifer Miller

Dr. Jennifer Miller

Psychologist

Virtual • California


Dr. M., here to help. For over 25 years, I've enjoyed collaborating with folks, building skills to help them live their best lives, and clearing paths for growth. I offer trauma-informed talk therapy, mindfulness training, and Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy tailored specifically to your needs/goals. I invite you on the journey to your true self. It is my pleasure to be your guide. To learn more about my background, treatment approaches, and fee schedule, please visit my website www.drjennifermiller.com or my profile on Psychology Today.

Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Brent Petersen

Brent Petersen

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe you are the expert on your own life, and my role is to walk alongside you with curiosity and without judgment.”
Substance use / addiction, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

About our therapists who can help with addiction and substance use located within 20 miles of San Diego, CA

Number of therapists within 20 miles of San Diego, CA
There are over 22 therapists in San Diego, CA accepting new patients.
22+
Average years in practice
Watercolor illustration of a bookshelf
11 years
Top specialties offered
Watercolor illustration of specialties
  • 100%Substance use / addiction
  • 100%Depression
  • 95%Anxiety
  • 91%Stress management
  • 91%Trauma
Insurances accepted
Watercolor illustration of insurance cards
  • 100%Aetna
  • 68%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 68%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 55%Providence Health Plan
  • 50%Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts
Languages spoken
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  • 86%English
  • 18%Spanish
  • 5%Korean
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 95%In-person or online
  • 5%In-person only
Provider gender
Watercolor illustration of gender identity
  • 55%Woman
  • 45%Man
License types
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  • 36%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 36%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 18%Clinical Psychologist
  • 5%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
  • 5%Nurse Practitioner
Treatment approaches
Watercolor illustration of treatment approach
  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 36%Family therapy
  • 23%Child or adolescent therapy
  • 23%Couples therapy

Frequently asked questions

Therapy Chair

Happy patient looking away

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

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

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