Cliffside Malibu – Luxury Addiction Treatment

Cliffside Malibu – Luxury Addiction Treatment

29160 Heathercliff Road, Suite 100
Malibu, CA 90265
Phone icon Call Now (424) 346-9026
One of our pools at our residential location

About Cliffside Malibu – Luxury Addiction Treatment

This luxurious and scenic location offers a lot to those suffering from drug and alcohol addictions with its vast offering of residential and detox services. Their modalities of treatment include dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, family systems therapy, and somatic experiencing.

If you want to detox in a safe and comfortable environment, it doesn’t get too much more luxurious than Cliffside. This holistic center will have you spending time with your psychotherapist and joining different therapy sessions meant to help you reach sobriety and a happier life. All of your therapy will be completely personalized to fit your specific needs. A day of therapy here looks like roughly four to six hours of sessions. This includes acupuncture, medication, yoga, and other spiritual practices. They put serenity as a priority when seeking a life without drugs or alcohol.

Facility Overview

Dollar icon $790
Avg Cost per Day
Debra Smith
3 weeks ago on Google
5
I recently completed treatment at Cliffside Malibu, and I can say without hesitation that it is one of the most clinically sophisticated and compassionate programs in the country. When I first called, Admissions told me they were ranked #1 in the state — and after experiencing the quality of care firsthand, I understand exactly why. The program not only met those expectations, it surpassed them. From day one, the clinical team demonstrated a level of expertise, structure, and individualized attention that I’ve never seen anywhere else. Every therapist, every group, every touchpoint felt intentional and grounded in evidence-based care. You can feel how much time and thought goes into their curriculum and how deeply the staff understands trauma, addiction, and whole-person recovery. What stood out the most was how aligned the entire team is — admissions, nursing, therapists, case management, and operations all move in the same direction. There’s a sense of steadiness and professionalism in everything they do. I never felt like “just another client.” They knew my history, tracked my progress, and actively worked with me to rebuild structure, tools, and long-term stability. Cliffside creates an environment where safety, dignity, and real clinical work can happen. It’s not just beautiful — it’s purpose-built for healing. If you’re looking for a program with depth, integrity, and proven outcomes, Cliffside Malibu absolutely lives up to its reputation. I’m grateful for the care I received, and I would recommend it wholeheartedly to anyone who truly wants to change their life.
Response from the owner 2 days ago
We are thrilled to hear about your transformative experience with our clinically sophisticated and compassionate program. Your feedback validates our commitment to evidence-based care.
Kelli Vargo
1 month ago on Google
5
After 11 wonderful years at Cliffside, moving on has been one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made. Cliffside has truly been the best company I’ve had the privilege to work for. The leadership genuinely cares about their staff, and I’ve been fortunate to work alongside an incredible team of dedicated professionals who always put clients first. I’m so grateful for the experiences, friendships, and growth I’ve gained during my time here.
Response from the owner 3 days ago
We are honored to hear about your wonderful experience over 11 years. Your dedication and growth mean everything to us.
Kendall DiNardo
1 month ago on Google
5
Cliffside Malibu provides the best luxury recovery and is in my opinion has the most compassionate and professional staff. What sets Cliffside apart is the dedicated team, from the therapists and clinicians to the supportive techs who are professional, highly knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in your success. If you or a loved one are ready to make a positive, lasting change, I wholeheartedly recommend this facility. It is more than just a rehab facility it is a sanctuary!
Response from the owner 2 days ago
Thank you immensely for calling us a sanctuary and recognizing our dedicated team's compassionate, professional care in your recovery journey.
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Rehab Score

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Scoring is assigned by a proprietary system which helps surface key metrics that determine quality. The 10-point scale factors in categories such as operations, customer satisfaction, and trust metrics. Read Full MethodologyCaret icon
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7.2 / 10

Accepted Insurance

Please contact to verify your specific insurance provider.

Cliffside Malibu – Luxury Addiction Treatment works with several private insurance providers, please contact to verify your specific insurance provider.

Medi-Cal

Other Forms of Payment

Private insurance refers to any kind of healthcare coverage that isn't from the state or federal government. This includes individual and family plans offered by an employer or purchased from the Insurance Marketplace. Every plan will have different requirements and out of pocket costs so be sure to get the full details before you start treatment.

Self-pay involves paying for treatment out of your own pocket. You can use savings or credit, get a personal loan, or receive help from family and friends to fund your treatment. If you don't have insurance or your insurance plan doesn't cover a specific program, self-pay can help ensure you still get the care you need.

Medicaid is a state based program that helps lower-income individuals and families pay for healthcare. Medicaid covers addiction treatment so those enrolled can use their coverage to pay for rehab. When a program accepts Medicaid the client often pays very little or nothing out of their own pocket.

Medicare is a federal program that provides health insurance for those 65 and older. It also serves people under 65 with chronic and disabling health challenges. To use Medicare for addiction treatment you need to find a program that accepts Medicare and is in network with your plan. Out of pocket costs and preauthorization requirements vary, so always check with your provider.

Addiction Treatments

Levels of Care

Residential treatment programs are those that offer housing and meals in addition to substance abuse treatment. Rehab facilities that offer residential treatment allow patients to focus solely on recovery, in an environment totally separate from their lives. Some rehab centers specialize in short-term residential treatment (a few days to a week or two), while others solely provide treatment on a long-term basis (several weeks to months). Some offer both, and tailor treatment to the patient's individual requirements.

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) are for those who want or need a very structured treatment program but who also wish to live at home and continue with certain responsibilities (such as work or school). IOP substance abuse treatment programs vary in duration and intensity, and certain outpatient rehab centers will offer individualized treatment programs.

Intervention services helps family or friends of addicts stage an intervention, which is a meeting in which loved ones share their concerns and attempt to get an addict into treatment. Professional intervention specialists can help loved ones organize, gather, and communicate with an addict. They can guide intervention participants in describing the damage the addict's behavior is causing and that outside help is necessary to address the addiction. The ideal outcome of an intervention is for the addict to go to rehab and get the help they need

Drug and alcohol addiction often takes a heavy toll on one's body. Over time, a physical dependence can develop, meaning the body physiologically needs the substance to function. Detox is the process of removing drugs and/or alcohol from the body, a process that can be lethal if mismanaged. Medical detox is done by licensed medical professionals who monitor vital signs and keep you safe, healthy, and as comfortable as possible as you go through detox and withdrawal. The length of stay at the detoxification program is determined according to the specific needs of the patient.

Outpatient Programs (OP) are for those seeking mental rehab or drug rehab, but who also stay at home every night. The main difference between outpatient treatment (OP) and intensive outpatient treatment (IOP) lies in the amount of hours the patient spends at the facility. Most of the time an outpatient program is designed for someone who has completed an inpatient stay and is looking to continue their growth in recovery. Outpatient is not meant to be the starting point, it is commonly referred to as aftercare.

Treatments

The goal of treatment for alcoholism is abstinence. Those with poor social support, poor motivation, or psychiatric disorders tend to relapse within a few years of treatment. For these people, success is measured by longer periods of abstinence, reduced use of alcohol, better health, and improved social functioning. Recovery and Maintenance are usually based on 12 step programs and AA meetings.

Drug rehab in California teaches participants constructive ways to stay clean and sober. Treatment revolves around helping individuals stop using the substance they are addicted to and learn healthy habits to avoid relapse.

Many of those suffering from addiction also suffer from mental or emotional illnesses like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, or anxiety disorders. Rehab and other substance abuse facilities treating those with a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder administer psychiatric treatment to address the person's mental health issue in addition to drug and alcohol rehabilitation.

Substance rehabs focus on helping individuals recover from substance abuse, including alcohol and drug addiction (both illegal and prescription drugs). They often include the opportunity to engage in both individual as well as group therapy.

Programs

Adult rehab programs include therapies tailored to each client's specific needs, goals, and recovery progress. They are tailored to the specific challenges adult clients may face, including family and work pressures and commitments. From inpatient and residential treatment to various levels of outpatient services, there are many options available. Some facilities also help adults work through co-occurring conditions, like anxiety, that can accompany addiction.

Young adulthood can be an exciting, yet difficult, time of transition. Individuals in their late teens to mid-20s face unique stressors related to school, jobs, families, and social circles, which can lead to a rise in substance use. Rehab centers with dedicated young adult programs will include activities and amenities that cater to this age group, with an emphasis on specialized counseling, peer socialization, and ongoing aftercare.

Clinical Services

Research clearly demonstrates that recovery is far more successful and sustainable when loved ones like family members participate in rehab and substance abuse treatment. Genetic factors may be at play when it comes to drug and alcohol addiction, as well as mental health issues. Family dynamics often play a critical role in addiction triggers, and if properly educated, family members can be a strong source of support when it comes to rehabilitation.

Group therapy is any therapeutic work that happens in a group (not one-on-one). There are a number of different group therapy modalities, including support groups, experiential therapy, psycho-education, and more. Group therapy involves treatment as well as processing interaction between group members.

In individual therapy, a patient meets one-on-one with a trained psychologist or counselor. Therapy is a pivotal part of effective substance abuse treatment, as it often covers root causes of addiction, including challenges faced by the patient in their social, family, and work/school life.

Amenities

  • private iconPrivate Setting

Staff & Accreditations

Staff

Kelly Stephenson

CEO

Dane Fisher

COO

Matthew Ruble, MD

Chief Medical Officer

Karen Rubenstein

Chief Clinical Officer

Mathew Malloy

Director of Operations

Accreditations

The Joint Commission, formerly known as JCAHO, is a nonprofit organization that accredits rehab organizations and programs. Founded in 1951, the Joint Commision's mission is to improve the quality of patient care and demonstrating the quality of patient care.

Joint Commission Accreditation: Yes

Reviews of Cliffside Malibu – Luxury Addiction Treatment

3.98/5 (198 reviews)
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Google Reviews

3.979797979798 (198 reviews)
Stevie S
1 week ago
1

Review deleted

Debra Smith
3 weeks ago
5

I recently completed treatment at Cliffside Malibu, and I can say without hesitation that it is one of the most clinically sophisticated and compassionate programs in the country. When I first called, Admissions told me they were ranked #1 in the state — and after experiencing the quality of care firsthand, I understand exactly why. The program not only met those expectations, it surpassed them. From day one, the clinical team demonstrated a level of expertise, structure, and individualized attention that I’ve never seen anywhere else. Every therapist, every group, every touchpoint felt intentional and grounded in evidence-based care. You can feel how much time and thought goes into their curriculum and how deeply the staff understands trauma, addiction, and whole-person recovery. What stood out the most was how aligned the entire team is — admissions, nursing, therapists, case management, and operations all move in the same direction. There’s a sense of steadiness and professionalism in everything they do. I never felt like “just another client.” They knew my history, tracked my progress, and actively worked with me to rebuild structure, tools, and long-term stability. Cliffside creates an environment where safety, dignity, and real clinical work can happen. It’s not just beautiful — it’s purpose-built for healing. If you’re looking for a program with depth, integrity, and proven outcomes, Cliffside Malibu absolutely lives up to its reputation. I’m grateful for the care I received, and I would recommend it wholeheartedly to anyone who truly wants to change their life.

Response from the owner
We are thrilled to hear about your transformative experience with our clinically sophisticated and compassionate program. Your feedback validates our commitment to evidence-based care.
Kelli Vargo
1 month ago
5

After 11 wonderful years at Cliffside, moving on has been one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made. Cliffside has truly been the best company I’ve had the privilege to work for. The leadership genuinely cares about their staff, and I’ve been fortunate to work alongside an incredible team of dedicated professionals who always put clients first. I’m so grateful for the experiences, friendships, and growth I’ve gained during my time here.

Response from the owner
We are honored to hear about your wonderful experience over 11 years. Your dedication and growth mean everything to us.
Kendall DiNardo
1 month ago
5

Cliffside Malibu provides the best luxury recovery and is in my opinion has the most compassionate and professional staff. What sets Cliffside apart is the dedicated team, from the therapists and clinicians to the supportive techs who are professional, highly knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in your success. If you or a loved one are ready to make a positive, lasting change, I wholeheartedly recommend this facility. It is more than just a rehab facility it is a sanctuary!

Response from the owner
Thank you immensely for calling us a sanctuary and recognizing our dedicated team's compassionate, professional care in your recovery journey.
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