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California Addiction Treatment Guide
Your complete resource for finding drug and alcohol rehab programs throughout the Golden State.
Resources for People in Recovery and their Loved Ones
Recommended Reading List
Never Enough by Judith Grisel
The Addiction Solution by Lloyd Sederer
The Forever Fight: On Drugs, Alcohol and the Cycle of Addiction by KJ Gordon
Blackout: Remembering the Things I Drank to Forget by Sarah Hepola
Unbroken Brain: A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction by Maia Szalavitz
Helpful Phone
Apps
Sober Sidekick
I Am Sober
Sober Grid
Recovery Today Magazine
Recovery Box
Emergency Information to Save in Your Phone
Directions to the Closest Hospital
Poison Control Center
National Crisis Hotline
Addiction Support Lines
Emergency Contacts
Therapist Details
Where to Find Narcan

Tapping into Your Community Resources
Research consistently shows that individuals with strong support networks have better outcomes in maintaining long-term sobriety. Building these connections not only reduces isolation – a common trigger for relapse – but also provides practical benefits like shared experiences, coping strategies, and accountability.
Support communities come in many forms. While traditional 12-step groups remain a cornerstone of recovery support, many people find additional strength through alternative paths like SMART Recovery, Refuge Recovery, or secular organizations for sobriety. The key is finding environments where you feel understood and accepted, whether that’s in structured support meetings, informal sober social gatherings, or volunteer opportunities.
Recovery thrives when you’re connected to others who understand your journey. Whether you’re personally in recovery or supporting a loved one with addiction, the local community offers numerous ways to find strength, understanding, and belonging.
Best Practices for Building Your Support Network
Attend local support groups
Join AA, NA, Al-Anon, or SMART Recovery meetings. These groups offer both in-person and virtual options to fit your schedule.
Find ways to serve
Volunteer at local recovery organizations or community centers. Helping others strengthens your own recovery while creating meaningful connections.
Join recovery-focused activities
Participate in sober sports leagues, recovery yoga classes, or wellness workshops where you can meet others committed to healthy living
Connect with family support groups
If you're supporting a loved one, organizations like Learn to Cope and Parents of Addicted Loved Ones (PAL) provide understanding and guidance.
Join online communities
Local recovery Facebook groups and forums can help you stay connected between in-person meetings and find resources.
Attend community events
Look for recovery-friendly gatherings and substance-free social events where you can build your sober network.
Types of Addiction Treatment
Your path to recovery will be unique to your situation, and treatment programs offer different levels of support to match your specific needs. You can either start at the level that fits your circumstances or move through different levels as you progress in your recovery.
Our state-of-the-art facility in San Juan Capistrano combines clinical excellence with the healing power of nature. The modern, open design creates a calming atmosphere that promotes recovery, while our proximity to the beach allows clients to incorporate therapeutic outdoor activities into their treatment. Our experienced staff includes licensed therapists, addiction specialists, and mental health professionals who provide individualized care using evidence-based practices. We maintain low client-to-staff ratios to ensure each person receives the attention and support they need:

Residential Treatment
Think of residential treatment as pressing pause on your regular life to focus completely on recovery. You'll live at the treatment center, receiving around-the-clock support in a structured, substance-free environment. This intensive level of care is often best for those who need a fresh start away from daily triggers and stresses, or for those with severe substance use issues who need consistent medical supervision.
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Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
PHP offers the intensity of residential treatment while allowing you to return home each night. You'll spend most of your day at the treatment center participating in therapy and recovery activities but still maintain the comfort and connection of sleeping in your own bed. This option works well if you have a stable home environment but need significant support in your recovery.
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Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
IOP provides structured support while letting you maintain your daily responsibilities. You'll attend treatment sessions several times a week while continuing to work, attend school, or care for your family. This level works well if you have a strong support system at home or are transitioning from more intensive treatment.
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Aftercare and Sober Living
Recovery doesn’t end when formal treatment concludes. In fact, this is when the real work of building a sustainable sober life begins. Having a strong aftercare plan and continued support system significantly increases your chances of maintaining long-term sobriety and navigating the challenges that arise in early recovery.
Sober living homes offer a transitional environment between treatment and independent living. These structured residences provide a substance-free setting where you can practice recovery skills while gradually returning to work, school, or family responsibilities. Living among others committed to sobriety creates a supportive community and accountability as you build confidence in your recovery.
A comprehensive aftercare plan typically includes ongoing therapy sessions, regular support group meetings, and connections with sober peers. Many treatment centers in California provide alumni programs, offering continued support through group meetings, social events, and mentorship opportunities.
Choosing a Drug Rehab and Mental Health Treatment Center
Finding the right treatment center is crucial for successful recovery. By carefully evaluating your specific needs and circumstances, you can select a facility that provides the most appropriate care for your situation. Here are key factors to consider when choosing a treatment center:
Level of care needed
Determine whether you require residential treatment, partial hospitalization, or intensive outpatient based on your addiction severity and life circumstances.
Dual diagnosis treatment
If you're struggling with both mental health and addiction, ensure the facility specializes in treating co-occurring disorders.
Insurance coverage
Verify which facilities are in-network with your insurance provider to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Location
Consider whether you prefer treatment close to home for family involvement or out of the area for a fresh environment.
Treatment approaches
Look for evidence-based therapies and treatment methods that align with your preferences and beliefs.
Staff credentials
Research the facility's accreditation and the qualifications of their treatment team.
Family programs
Consider centers that offer family therapy and support if involving loved ones is important to your recovery.
Length of program
Ensure the program duration (30 days, 60 days, etc) aligns with your needs and circumstances.
Aftercare planning
Look for facilities that provide comprehensive discharge planning and ongoing support.
