Addiction and Mental Health Treatment Northern California
Addiction and Mental Health
Treatment Northern California
Northern California Addiction and Mental Health Treatment
In This Article:
Each May, Mental Health Month serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental wellness and the need for accessible, compassionate mental health care.
In 2025, the message is clearer than ever: mental health is a pivotal component of overall health and wellness.
At Stark Medical, we’re proud to provide evidence-based, whole-person-centered, dual diagnosis addiction medicine treatment that supports recovery and promotes lasting wellness.
And we provide support for mental health issues – including grief, depression, anxiety, and more.
For individuals and families navigating substance use disorders – mental health support is not optional: it’s essential.
Addiction Treatment and Counseling sessions are available at Stark Medical via telehealth.
This allows our patients across the state of California to receive medical and addiction treatment care via telemedicine.
Need to know more or need an Appointment?
Understanding the Link Between Mental Health and Addiction
Substance use and mental health challenges are often deeply intertwined. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, more than half of people with a substance use disorder also have a co-occurring mental health condition such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder.
These conditions can fuel addiction, complicate recovery, and increase the risk of relapse if not addressed holistically.
That’s why our approach at Stark Medical is integrated care.
Dr. Brandon Stark, a Board-Certified Addiction Medicine physician and Fellow of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (FASAM), implements Stark Medical addiction treatment and addiction counseling with expertise, empathy, and compassion.
We recognize the complex interplay between mental health and substance use. Each patient care plan addresses the unique needs of the individual.
Stark Medical Addiction Medicine Treatment Services
Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, Stark Medical has a full range of addiction medicine services – all delivered with respect, compassion, and clinical excellence.
We serve patients throughout California with secure, confidential telemedicine treatment.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution to addiction treatment. We begin each patient’s recovery journey with a comprehensive evaluation to understand their mental health, substance use history, physical health, and social circumstances.
From there, Dr. Stark develops a personalized addiction treatment plan based on the latest research and evidence-based practices in addiction medicine.
Need to know more or need an Appointment?
Stark Medical Telehealth Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidenced based, whole person approach, utilizing medication in combination with counseling, behavioral therapies, and peer support for the treatment of substance use disorders. For those with an opioid use disorder (OUD), medication addresses the physical difficulties a person may experience when they stop taking opioids. MAT can help to reestablish normal brain function, reduce substance cravings, and prevent relapse.
In 2025, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is now recognized as the ‘gold standard’ treatment for effective and sustainable recovery for opioid use disorders OUD.
Our Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) methodology combines medications with behavioral therapies and counseling. This integrated treatment addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.
By combining FDA-approved medications like buprenorphine (Suboxone) with behavioral therapies, MAT reduces cravings, prevents withdrawal symptoms, and improves long-term outcomes. Studies have shown that MAT can reduce the risk of fatal overdose by over 50% and increase treatment retention significantly.
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)—a combination of psychosocial therapy and U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved medication—is the most effective intervention to treat opioid use disorder (OUD) and is more effective than either behavioral interventions or medication alone.
Pew Research, ‘Medication-Assisted Treatment Improves Outcomes for Patients With Opioid Use Disorder‘
At Stark Medical, MAT Medication-Assisted Treatment is provided by Dr. Stark – ensuring safe, effective care for every patient. Dr. Stark customizes each MAT plan to the individual, monitoring progress closely and making adjustments to support optimal recovery.
Whether a patient is just beginning treatment or transitioning from inpatient care, MAT provides a stabilizing foundation that makes it easier to engage in addiction counseling, rebuild relationships, and reintegrate into daily life.
We understand that some stigma and misinformation about MAT may persist. In 2025, research consistently affirms its benefits. MAT is not “replacing one drug with another”.
Medication-assisted Treatment MAT is a medically supported pathway to sobriety that helps individuals regain control of their lives. It allows the brain and body to heal while patients work on the psychological and behavioral aspects of addiction.
Our telehealth model ensures that MAT treatment is accessible to patients across California.
Medication management appointments, refills, and ongoing addiction counseling support are available at Stark Medical – with compassionate guidance at every step of the way.
Need to know more or need an Appointment?
Telemedicine Addiction Counseling and Support
Mental and substance use disorders often occur together.
Dual diagnosis means that you have both a mental disorder and a substance use disorder (SUD), either with alcohol or drugs. A dual diagnosis is a type of comorbidity, which is when someone has two disorders at the same time. Another name for this is co-occurring disorders … Common risk factors can contribute to both mental disorders and SUDs. These factors include: Genetics, Stress, and Trauma (especially in childhood). Veterans and others with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are also at a higher risk for developing SUDs.
Therapeutic support for dual diagnosis is vital in addressing the emotional roots of addiction and developing healthier coping mechanisms.
At Stark Medical, our behavioral health counseling services for addiction recovery patients with dual diagnosis help individuals to sustainably recover from alcohol and drug addiction.
Some of the emotional issues that we support that are often comorbid (occurring at the same time) with alcohol and drug addiction include:
- Processing past trauma and grief
- Anxiety and depression
- Strengthen Resilience and Self-worth
- Rebuild relationships and communication skills
Need to know more or need an Appointment?
Referrals to Inpatient Detox, Rehabs and Sober Living
For individuals who need more intensive care than our telemedicine treatment can provide – we work closely with California DHCS licensed inpatient rehabilitation centers throughout the state.
When needed, Stark Medical can refer patients to inpatient detox facilities, residential addiction treatment providers, and sober living options.
Our team facilitates smooth transitions and stays connected with patients during and after rehab to ensure continuity of care.
Recovery doesn’t end after detox or inpatient rehab.
Sober living environments offer structure, accountability, and peer support – all critical ingredients for long-term addiction recovery success. We help patients find reputable sober living homes tailored to their recovery goals and needs. And we provide guidance on what to expect and how to thrive in these communities.
Telehealth Access Anywhere in California with Stark Medical
One of the most powerful ways we’re expanding access to opioid addiction and alcohol recovery care is through telehealth.
Stark Medical provides secure, HIPAA-compliant virtual telemedicine appointments to residents anywhere in California.
Whether located in San Francisco, San Diego, the Central Valley, or a rural Sierra Nevada community – Stark Medical patients receive expert addiction care without leaving their homes.
Telehealth removes barriers like transportation, work schedules – and stigma. This makes starting (and sticking with) addiction recovery treatment easier.
Need to know more or need an Appointment?
Why Choose Stark Medical for Mental Health & Recovery Support
- Expertise You Can Trust: Dr. Brandon Stark is a leader in addiction medicine with board certification and fellowship status in the American Society of Addiction Medicine.
- Whole-Person Care: We treat the mind and body together, addressing both the symptoms and root causes of addiction.
- Compassionate, Judgment-Free Approach: Our patients are met with empathy and dignity, no matter where they are in their recovery journey.
- Flexible, Accessible Services: With telehealth and monthly in-person visits at our Chico clinic, we’re here when and where you need us.
Stark Medical: Your Provider for Telemedicine Addiction Treatment
If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use and mental health challenges, this Mental Health Month is the perfect time to take the first step toward healing.
You’re not alone and don’t have to do it alone.
At Stark Medical, we support your addiction recovery journey with expert care, flexible access, and unwavering compassion.
Let 2025 be the year you invest in your physical and mental health and reclaim your life.
Need to know more or need an Appointment?
Stark Medical Primary Care is committed to providing compassionate, accessible care for every stage of life.
From chronic disease management to preventive checkups and mental health care to addiction support, our telemedicine services are here for you in the comfort of your home — wherever you are in California.
Call 530-514-0904 to schedule your telehealth appointment.
Let Stark Medical be your trusted partner in better health and wellness.