Scott Novotny

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in San Francisco with experience working with clients who struggle with addictions, depression, anxiety and other distressing experiences. Although I use a variety of therapeutic interventions, I find myself most often using ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) because it focuses more on goal orientated actions, rather than just symptom suppression. With ACT we will establish values, goals, and plan actions/behaviors which move you towards your desired goals. Together we will look at how thoughts, feelings, and emotions work against your goals as well as which are assets. If you’re looking for just general talk therapy or task/solution focused therapy, I can do that as well. I believe in client centered therapy, which means we work together and in a direction that you feel comfortable with. I have a strong background in Substance Use Disorder treatment and I’m both harm reduction and 12-step friendly. I am not the type of therapist who will require ,or push, you to stop using substances if that is not something that you want. I believe that clients can choose their own relationship with substances, including abstinence, while also working on other areas of life and functioning. When working with clients with substance concerns, I view substance use as a relationship between the person and the substance. As with any relationship we will look at what is working and what is not. We will set goals for a new relationship and work together to make that relationship work. AVAILABILITY: I am only available to meet with client Tue/Wed/Thu between 6-9pm. If those times don’t fit your schedule, it would be best to find one of the other great therapists on this platform.