What is addiction medicine?

I am the president of the California Society of Addiction Medicine, and board certified by the American Board of Preventive Medicine in Addiction Medicine, and am a distinguished fellow of the American Society of Addiction Medicine. Addiction medicine is now an American Board of Medical Specialties certified medical specialty. It recognizes addictive illnesses as brain-based, chronic conditions and promotes evidence-based, empathic counseling, and medication treatments. Recovery depends on an integrative approach that with care and respect addresses a person's psychology, relationship, spirit, and whole health needs. This matches my treatment philosophy.

My addiction treatment approaches

I can consult with you or treat, if you are suffering from alcohol or drug problems, or gambling, food, internet or sexual compulsivity. I take a non-judgmental, compassionate approach that is individualized to each person's needs. It may include psychodynamic, harm-reduction, relapse prevention, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness practice, trauma recovery, 12-step support and pharmacology approaches.

If you have a loved one suffering from an addictive illness, I can provide you consultation or therapeutic support.

My goal is to meet you wherever you are at:
  • You are unsure if you or a loved one have an addictive illness.
  • You are unsure of the level of treatment you may need.
  • You have another mental health condition that intersects with your addiction.
  • You want a psychiatrist to work side-by-side with your counselor.
  • You need medication and counseling support for relapse prevention
  • You want a clinician who respects your individual recovery choices, whether it be 12-step work, or other approaches.

My addiction psychiatry qualifications
The wound is the place where the light enters you.
  Rumi