Clarifying your goals
Your goal may be abstinence, moderation, a break, relapse prevention, or understanding the pattern more clearly.
Substance use therapy in Pacifica
Substance Use Therapy in Pacifica, CA
You do not have to wait for a crisis or reach a particular version of rock bottom to ask for help. Therapy can help you look honestly at substance use, its impact, and the kind of change that fits your goals.
A grounded place to begin
Therapy with Brenda Hidalgo (she/her/they), AMFT
Collaborative, trauma-informed care in Pacifica and online throughout California.
Meet BrendaIs this for you?
Support that starts with your actual life.
- People questioning how alcohol or other substances fit into their lives
- Clients trying to change use, take a break, reduce harm, or sustain recovery
- People whose use is connected with anxiety, trauma, grief, or relationships
- Loved ones seeking support around boundaries and communication
How we can work
A collaborative approach to meaningful change.
Brenda draws from motivational interviewing and harm-reduction principles while respecting your autonomy. If a higher level of care, medical support, or withdrawal management is needed, she can help identify the right next step.
Finding what use manages
Explore the emotions, situations, and needs that show up before and after using.
Building practical support
Focus on coping skills, boundaries, accountability, recovery supports, and repairing trust.
Practical details
Starting can be simple.
- In-person sessions are available in Pacifica, with telehealth available throughout California.
- Individual sessions are 45-50 minutes and cost $130; a sliding scale is available.
- Brenda Hidalgo is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, AMFT #160629, practicing under supervision.
- Therapy is not a substitute for medically supervised detoxification or emergency care.
Take the next step
You do not have to figure it out alone.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to be completely sober to start therapy?
No. You can begin by talking about your use and goals. Brenda will help assess what support is appropriate and safe.
What if I am not sure I want to stop?
Uncertainty is a valid place to begin. Therapy can help you explore motivation and make informed choices without judgment.
Can therapy support recovery after a relapse?
Yes. A setback can be explored as information, with attention to safety, triggers, support, and the next workable step.
What if I need more support than weekly therapy?
Brenda can discuss referrals or coordination with medical, psychiatric, recovery, or higher-level-of-care providers when needed.