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Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in Pittsburgh, PA


Top addiction and substance use disorder therapists and psychiatrists in Pittsburgh, PA
Recovery from substance use disorder, alcohol addiction, or behavioral addiction is supported through Headway's network of compassionate providers across Pittsburgh who specialize in relapse prevention, 12-step facilitation, and dual diagnosis treatment. Sessions are available as soon as tomorrow with providers ready to help.
I specialize in helping adults and young adults manage anxiety disorders, panic attacks, chronic stress, and burnout using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based approaches. I also support clients experiencing depression, trauma-related symptoms, and life transitions that feel overwhelming or hard to manage alone.
Many of the people I work with are functioning well but internally overwhelmed—dealing with constant worry, racing thoughts, physical symptoms of anxiety, or a persistent sense of being “on edge.” Others notice anxiety affecting their sleep, focus, relationships, or ability to relax and enjoy life.
Hi, I’m Sarné (Shar-nay), a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of nursing and psychiatric experience. I believe mental health care should feel supportive, collaborative, and free of judgment. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, stress, and life transitions.
As a professional, mother, and caregiver myself, I understand how overwhelming life can become. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to move toward lasting emotional wellness.
I am committed to lifelong learning and providing care grounded in the latest evidence. I have completed the Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional (CIMHP) training through the Nutritional and Integrative Medicine for Mental Health Professionals program. This advanced training has expanded my knowledge of nutrition, sleep, physical activity, stress management, gut health, and other evidence-informed lifestyle approaches that can complement traditional psychiatric treatment when appropriate. These strategies are thoughtfully integrated into care and are intended to support—not replace—evidence-based psychiatric treatment, including medication management, psychotherapy, and collaborative care.
Whether you’re seeking support for the first time or looking for a provider who takes a whole-person approach to mental health, I look forward to partnering with you on your journey toward healing, resilience, and lasting wellness.
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
I bring 20+ years of experience and a genuine belief that every person has the capacity for change. I'm direct but compassionate — I'll be honest with you, and I'll always be in your corner. I don't believe in labeling people or fitting you into a box. You are a whole, complex human being, and that's how I'll treat you. I also have experience working with dually diagnosed individuals and those navigating substance use alongside other mental health challenges, so no matter what you're carrying, I've likely sat with someone in a similar place.
My name is Lynn Johnson, LCSW and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work degree and extensive experience supporting individuals navigating mental health, addiction recovery and life’s most challenging transitions. Throughout my career, I have worked with diverse populations in both community and clinical settings, helping clients address concerns such as Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, substance use and recovery, relationship difficulties, life stressors and emotional wellness. My background in addiction recovery and mental health treatment has provided me with a deep understanding of the complex factors that influence healing, resilience and long-term personal growth. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative, supportive and empowering experience. My approach is grounded in compassion, authenticity, and evidence-based practices that help clients identify strengths, overcome barriers and develop practical tools for Jason’s change. Whether you are facing a difficult life transitions, working through emotional pain, rebuilding after addiction, or seeking greater balance and fulfillment, I am committed to providing a safe, nonjudgmental space where healing and growth can occur.
With over 20 years of experience supporting individuals through a wide range of life’s challenges, I know how difficult the decision to seek help can often be. I have helped clients with issues from day-to-day stressors to the complexities of serious mental illness and addiction. I work with clients 13+ with a wide variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, and compulsive behavior, among others.
I specialize in working with Christians who desire to integrate their faith into their treatment. This brings the best in evidence-based practice in line with the essential role of faith in their lives.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with extensive experience supporting adolescents, adults, and older adults through life’s most challenging transitions. My background spans mental health therapy, crisis intervention, trauma recovery, child welfare, and geriatric care, which allows me to work with clients from a holistic, compassionate, and well-rounded perspective.
I use a strength-based, trauma-informed, and person-centered approach, meeting each client where they are and honoring their unique experiences. My clinical work integrates evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), DBT-informed skills, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, and mindfulness-based practices. I work collaboratively with clients to set meaningful goals, build coping skills, and create sustainable change.
I have experience helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, stress, emotional regulation, self-esteem, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. I also bring a strong background in crisis support and safety planning, ensuring clients feel supported, grounded, and safe throughout the therapeutic process.
Above all, I strive to provide a warm, non-judgmental, and culturally responsive space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. Therapy with me is collaborative and paced to your needs, with a focus on helping you reconnect with your strengths and move forward with greater clarity and confidence.
I’m Dr. Carly Ellman, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and sports social worker with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals, families, and athletes across a wide range of life transitions.
My therapy style is warm, honest, collaborative, and grounded in compassion. I believe you are the expert of your own life, and my role is to help you build clarity, confidence, and tools that support your wellbeing both inside and outside the therapy room.
Whether you’re navigating anxiety, burnout, life transitions, relationship challenges, sport-related stress, or a desire for deeper self-understanding, you’ll find a safe, non-judgmental place to explore and grow.
My background includes clinical practice, college teaching, and working directly with youth, parents, and coaches to strengthen mental health, resilience, and relationships through evidence-based approaches.
I’ve also earned a Sports Social Work Certificate and serve on the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee Mental Health Registry, where I work with athletes navigating performance pressure, identity, anxiety, and stress.
Hi, I’m a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from Drexel University with my Master's degree in Nursing. I then completed my Post-Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over twenty years of experience working in healthcare. Psych has always been my passion. My experiences encompass working with clients across the life span, including Child and Adolescents, Adult, and Geriatric patient populations. I’ve provided services to clients presenting with many psychiatric disorders, such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and more. I’m in the belief that mental health wellbeing is a priority. Human beings are resilient. Holistic care is the key to promoting better patient outcomes. Therefore, I believe that with an evidence-based practice treatment plan consisting of psychotherapy and/or a combination of psychotherapy and medication management, one will be able to control their mental health.
I’m a very compassionate, caring, and empathetic person. I strive to provide holistic care and collaborate with my clients to develop a treatment plan that they are comfortable with.
Hi, I’m Eric, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania. I work with adults, including older adults (65+) who are navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, addiction, anger, grief, life transitions and ongoing stress.
Many of the people I work with feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward during life transitions or later stages of life. I hold a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and have experience in outpatient and private practice settings. My approach is supportive, practical, and focused on helping clients regain clarity, strengthen coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change.
About our therapists who can help with addiction and substance use in Pittsburgh, PA



- 100%Substance use / addiction
- 98%Anxiety
- 96%Depression
- 90%Stress management
- 82%Trauma

- 99%Aetna
- 95%Cigna
- 91%Carelon Behavioral Health
- 84%Capital Blue Cross Pennsylvania
- 74%Independence Blue Cross Pennsylvania - Virtual National Network

- 99%English
- 5%Spanish
- 1%French
- 1%Yoruba
- 1%Haitian Creole

- 86%Online only
- 14%In-person or online

- 72%Woman
- 27%Man
- 1%Non-binary

- 50%Licensed Professional Counselor
- 30%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
- 14%Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner
- 3%Licensed Psychologist
- 2%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist

- 99%Individual therapy
- 36%Family therapy
- 27%Couples therapy
- 12%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 Pittsburgh
Finding addiction therapists in Pittsburgh starts with naming the kind of support that fits your needs. Addiction care can include support for alcohol use, drug use, behavioral addictions, relapse prevention, and co-occurring concerns like anxiety, depression, or trauma. As you compare therapists, look for listed experience with substance use, counseling and recovery guidance, individual drug counseling, or therapy for substance use disorder. Some therapists use approaches like motivational interviewing or cognitive behavioral therapy for substance use. Some people may also work with a prescriber as part of their care team.
Pittsburgh has many therapy options across neighborhoods like Shadyside, Squirrel Hill, Oakland, and the South Side, as well as nearby communities across Allegheny County. Your best fit may depend on practical details, including appointment times, whether virtual care is available, and whether the therapist is accepting new patients. Recovery can include changes over time, so it helps to look for a therapist who describes a clear, non-judgmental approach and experience with harm reduction frameworks. Read therapist bios before booking to see how they describe their style, specialty experience, and what sessions may look like.
Therapy in Pittsburgh can be a significant investment without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs and see your estimated cost before you book. Headway helps you search for addiction therapists, check available insurance coverage for your specific plan, explore virtual or in-person appointments, and find providers who are accepting new patients. You can compare profiles, filter by preferences, 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
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