Charting a New Course

Overcoming Substance Abuse with David Smith

David Smith Season 1 Episode 14

Ever wonder if we’re getting anywhere with substance abuse treatment? In this episode, Murray and Brendon talk with David Smith, the Founder of the Haight Ashbury Free Clinics of San Francisco. David provides an empathetic journey through the history of substance abuse treatment, as well as a look at the evolution of medicine to treat mental illness and addiction.


David has a rich and diverse background in Addiction Medicine. He’s served as Fellow and Past President of the American Society of Addiction Medicine; he was the former President of the California Society of Addiction Medicine; as well as the past Medical Director for the California State Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs. Additionally, David has served as Medical Director for the California Collaborative Center for Substance Abuse Policy Research, and is a former adviser to the Betty Ford Center.