Addiction can be complicated.

Recovery doesn’t have to be.

Serving all California residents with telehealth appointments.

Your addiction has left you feeling trapped.

You are looking for relief, but the substance is no longer providing the comfort it once did.

You’ve lost yourself, your relationships, and your sense of purpose.

You have lost control of your life.

Living with addiction can feel like a constant weight on your shoulders. The fear of judgment, the shame of past actions, and the uncertainty of recovery can keep you stuck in a painful place, where hope feels out of reach.

It doesn’t have to be this way.

Your pain is real, but so is the possibility of recovery.

Addiction is more than just a struggle with substances.

It is a profound battle that affects every aspect of an individual's life. It can sever relationships, destroy careers, and lead to severe health problems. Addiction infiltrates the mind, clouding judgment and eroding the essence of who a person is. The emotional, financial, and psychological toll can also be devastating, creating a cycle of pain that feels impossible to break.

The ripple effects of addiction extend far beyond the person suffering from it, impacting loved ones who watch helplessly as someone they care about transforms under the weight of dependency. Families are torn apart, friendships are strained, and the individual is often left feeling isolated and powerless.

I understand the complexities of addiction and its far-reaching impacts. My compassionate approach to recovery aims to heal not just the individual, but to restore your relationships and rebuild your life. I am here to guide you through the journey towards recovery.

Invest in Taking Control of Your Life Again

By committing to and embracing the journey of therapy, you're opening the door to lasting recovery and a more fulfilling future. The dedication you bring to this process can lead to meaningful outcomes: rediscovering your sense of purpose, nurturing stronger connections with loved ones, and building the resilience to navigate life's challenges with confidence and without the need for substances. I am here to guide you on this journey.

  • Gain insights about your relationship with substances and answer the question, “Do I have an addiction?”

  • Learn essential skills to prevent relapses and maintain your progress. This includes exploring your patterns of substance use, learning and craving management skills, building a recovery community.

  • Develop the strength to face challenges and maintain long-lasting recovery.

  • Reconnect with your loved ones and mend relationships strained by addiction. I help families heal the wounds caused by substance abuse and create a supportive environment for recovery.

Addiction Counseling

Treatment for individuals and their loved ones suffering from the consequences of drug and/or alcohol use.

Dual Diagnosis

Individualized treatment for those who experience both substance use and mental health disorders.

Co-Dependency

Support for people whose loved ones are struggling with substance use.

Hello, I’m Dr. Caitlin Allaway.

I am a seasoned clinical psychologist with over a decade of specialized expertise in addiction medicine and co-dependency. With a distinguished career that includes pivotal roles at Kaiser Permanente Addiction Medicine and Recovery Services, San Francisco VA Medical Center, and UC Santa Barbara, I have consistently demonstrated my expertise in both clinical practice and supervision of psychologists-in-training. I have trained under some of the leading experts in the field, which allowed me to hone my clinical acumen. My deep commitment to addiction and recovery is reflected in my ability to guide individuals and families through the most challenging aspects of their journeys, using a combination of compassionate support and evidence-based interventions. My unwavering dedication to my clients' well-being positions me as a trusted leader in the field of addiction medicine.

Your Journey to Recovery,

One Step at a Time.

Services

  • Addiction Counseling for those experiencing consequences related to their substance use. You will be provided with the space to explore the patterns of your addiction, develop coping strategies, and build a path towards lasting recovery. You will be supported in learning relapse prevention techniques as well. Together, we'll navigate the challenges and celebrate the triumphs.

  • Dual diagnosis treatment is crucial because it addresses the complex, interwoven nature of mental health disorders and substance use disorders. These conditions often fuel each other, creating a challenging cycle where one worsens the other, making recovery seem out of reach. This integrated treatment plan ensures that underlying psychological issues are addressed alongside addiction, leading to more effective and enduring recovery. You will learn healthier coping mechanisms to manage mental health issues, stress, triggers, and cravings. This approach reduces relapse rates, improves overall mental health, and significantly enhances the quality of life.

  • Support for people whose loved ones are struggling with substance use. We will identify unhealthy patterns, establish boundaries, and cultivate self-esteem. Together, we can explore the patterns and behaviors that put your wellbeing on the back burner.

  • We will work together to develop strategies for managing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other personal issues. Therapy sessions are tailored to your unique needs, ensuring a holistic approach to your mental health. Together, we'll work to uncover your strengths, overcome obstacles, and cultivate resilience, empowering you to create the fulfilling life you deserve.

  • Therapy for neurodivergent people with various types of learning styles. This type of therapy will help you to better understand the behaviors and processes associated with ADHD. Similarly, improving your executive functioning skills will help with navigating daily activities, as well as completing tasks and improving self-regulation. Through a combination of education, support, and practical strategies, you will learn to overcome challenges, improve focus, and unlock your true potential.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • I am an out-of-network provider, so I do not bill insurances. At the end of each month, I will provide you with a superbill that can be used to file a claim requesting reimbursement. Please check with your insurance directly and ask about the reimbursement options for out-of-network services.

  • Services may be covered fully or partially by your health insurance or employee benefit plan. Please check your coverage carefully by asking the following questions:

    • Do I have mental health benefits?

    • What is my deductible and has it been met?

    • How many sessions per year does the insurance cover?

    • What is the coverage amount per therapy session?

    • Is approval required from a primary care physician?

    I am happy to provide all the documentation for clients to obtain reimbursement.

  • Before your first appointment, you will receive a text notification requesting that you put a credit card/FSA card on file. Your card will be charged at the end of each therapy session.

  • There is no definitive answer to this question. Some people find a few sessions to be sufficient for their needs, while others choose to continue long-term. People often continue in therapy as additional concerns arise in their lives. Overall, there is not necessarily a correct answer, but we can collaborate to help you make the best choice for yourself.

  • Yes! I will have you complete a Release of Information form for the provider you are requesting coordination with. Once that is complete, then I can reach out to the provider to discuss treatment needs.

Let’s talk about your recovery!

I’ll be with you every step of the way.