Rob Santel is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) at Guzman & Baker, working with individuals who are navigating depression, substance use challenges, and difficult behavioral patterns. Rob brings a direct, practical sensibility to therapy — he meets clients honestly, without judgment, and focuses on building the concrete skills and motivation needed to create real, lasting change. He understands that seeking help takes courage, and he respects that first step by working hard to make every session count.
Credentials
- Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
- Master of Social Work (MSW)
Specializations
Rob specializes in depression, substance use, and behavioral issues, helping clients build motivation and practical strategies for sustainable recovery and growth.
- Depression
- Substance use
- Behavioral issues
- Anxiety
Therapeutic approaches
Rob draws from approaches with strong evidence bases for the issues he treats:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) — targeting the thought and behavior cycles that maintain depression and addictive patterns
- Contingency Management (CM) — using positive reinforcement strategies to support recovery from substance use
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) — developing distress tolerance and emotional regulation skills for clients managing intense or overwhelming emotions
What to Expect
Rob’s sessions are practical and collaborative. He does not shy away from difficult conversations, but he approaches them with care and respect for each client’s autonomy. Whether you are working through a period of low mood, trying to change a pattern around substances, or struggling with self-destructive behaviors, Rob will help you identify what is getting in the way and build a realistic plan for change. He values accountability and consistency, and will work with you to stay on track between sessions. 
