Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in Santa Cruz, CA

I've built my career working in adult medicine, with a deep focus on addiction and medication assisted treatment. Anxiety and depression are areas where I find this work especially rewarding. Regardless of what brings you here, I come to every session with genuine curiosity and a commitment to building real rapport. I see clients virtually, and I keep afternoon and evening hours on weekdays so scheduling can work around your life. Strong patient retention has always been a hallmark of how I practice, and I look forward to building that same kind of relationship with you.

I am a LCSW. My background includes working in the prison system, medical social work, school social work and the foster care system. I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ people, veterans, trauma victims, first responders, and survivors of domestic abuse.

I have always had a deep passion for working with children, teens, and their families. With nearly 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I bring a compassionate, collaborative approach to therapy. I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology, which I earned in 2012. Since then, I’ve dedicated my career to supporting young people through many of life’s challenges.

One of my greatest strengths is my ability to connect with individuals across ages, cultures, and experiences. This connection is grounded in authenticity and relatability, which is nurtured through a strong therapeutic alliance. I believe therapy offers a safe space to explore, learn, and grow—and I strive to help clients build resilience, strengthen relationships, and develop into their best selves.

My name is Gerardo Salinas. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social worker and therapist for more than 13 years. I have worked with adults, youth, and families from varied life experiences. I enjoy working with clients from diverse backgrounds.

My goal is to provide a space that feels warm, non-judgmental and more importantly helpful. I work with adults, adolescents and adults who are experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and many of the other effects and challenges.

Thank you for considering me. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I have a Masters in Social Work from the University of Southern California where I studied Adult Mental Health an Wellness and Military Social Work. I specialize in the Veteran and First Responder populations.

My patients can expect me to be warm, empathetic, and genuinely interested in their story. I take time to understand not just current struggles, but also personal history and experiences that have shaped who they are. I believe that mental health is deeply connected to overall health, and treating psychiatric conditions can positively impact all areas of life. I work with all patients and conditions, and I always meet people where they are. If someone isn’t ready for medications, I fully support their choice and will be there to provide guidance, education, and care until the time feels right for them. Above all, I listen, I value each person’s perspective, and I aim to create a safe space where patients feel truly heard.

Hey there! You being here is huge, and I am honored to partner with you on your journey toward wellness. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and U.S. Navy veteran, having earned both my BA and Master of Social Welfare from UCLA. My professional background includes extensive experience with the Department of Veterans Affairs and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, specializing in helping individuals navigate complex psychosocial needs, trauma, and substance use. Ultimately, I am deeply committed to helping you break down life's barriers, adapt to major transitions, and successfully reclaim your stability

Melinda Fay is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a specialty in Art Therapy. I received my MA in Psychology from Phillips Graduate Institute in 2002 and I have been licensed since 2008.