What is addiction medicine?

I am the president-elect of the California Society of Addiction Medicine, and board certified by the American Board of Preventive Medicine in 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