About Us | MHS Rehab | Addiction Treatment in San Francisco, CA

Our Story

MHS Rehab was founded in 2021 by a group of addiction medicine specialists and recovery advocates who saw a critical gap in comprehensive, evidence-based treatment options in the San Francisco Bay Area. Having witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of the opioid crisis and rising substance use disorders across the region, they set out to create a facility that combined clinical excellence with genuine compassion.

Our home in the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood carries deep significance. This historic district, once at the center of counterculture movements, has long been intertwined with the story of substance use in America. By establishing our center here, we honor that history while offering a new chapter of hope and healing to individuals and families affected by addiction.

In just five years, MHS Rehab has grown from an ambitious vision into a trusted treatment center that has served over 3,200 patients. Our 46-bed facility and team of 91 dedicated professionals continue to set the standard for addiction care in Northern California.

Our Mission

Our mission at MHS Rehab is to provide accessible, evidence-based addiction treatment that empowers individuals to achieve lasting recovery and rebuild meaningful lives. We are committed to treating every patient with dignity, respect, and clinical excellence, regardless of their background or circumstances.

We strive to be a beacon of hope in the San Francisco community, reducing the stigma surrounding addiction and mental health while delivering measurable outcomes through innovative, patient-centered care. Every member of our 91-person team shares this commitment, from our physicians and therapists to our support staff and alumni coordinators.

Treatment Philosophy

At MHS Rehab, we view addiction as a chronic medical condition that requires a comprehensive, multi-dimensional approach. Our treatment philosophy is rooted in three core principles: clinical rigor, individualized care, and whole-person healing.

We integrate evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) into every patient's care plan. At the same time, we recognize that lasting recovery extends beyond clinical intervention. Our programs incorporate mindfulness practices, nutritional counseling, fitness activities, art therapy, and family involvement to address the physical, emotional, and social dimensions of recovery.

We also specialize in dual diagnosis treatment, recognizing that many individuals struggling with addiction also face co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. By treating both conditions simultaneously through integrated care, we help our patients build a stronger foundation for sustained sobriety.

Our Team

Dr. Rebecca Okafor, MD, FASAM

Medical Director

Board-certified in addiction medicine and internal medicine, Dr. Okafor brings over 15 years of experience treating substance use disorders. She oversees all clinical operations at MHS Rehab and leads our medical detox program, ensuring patients receive safe, compassionate care from their first day.

James Whitfield, PsyD

Clinical Director

Dr. Whitfield specializes in trauma-informed care and dual diagnosis treatment. With a doctorate in clinical psychology and over a decade of experience in residential addiction treatment, he leads our therapy team and develops individualized treatment plans for every patient at our facility.

Maria Gonzalez, LCSW, CADC

Director of Outpatient Services

Maria manages our IOP and PHP programs, drawing on her extensive experience in community behavioral health. A licensed clinical social worker and certified addiction counselor, she is passionate about helping patients transition from residential care to sustainable, independent recovery.

Daniel Park, RN, BSN

Nursing Director

Daniel leads our 24/7 nursing team, coordinating medical care for all patients in detox and residential treatment. With specialized training in addiction nursing and crisis intervention, he ensures our clinical staff delivers consistent, high-quality care around the clock.