800-784-1361
I had been to over 20 treatment centers in my long road to recovery. SCC IS WHERE I GOT SOBER and turned my life around.
About South Coast Counseling
The program provides a full range of treatment programs focusing on long-term care. Their program doesn’t have a set schedule for completion. Services include inpatient treatment, a partial hospitalization program (PHP), an intensive outpatient program (IOP), and standard outpatient treatment.
The inpatient program is a form of live-in treatment where clients reside at the facility for the duration of treatment. Staff are present 24 hours a day to provide support and supervise clients. Treatment focuses on different forms of therapy and psychological testing. Clients learn more about the nature of addiction and begin developing healthy life and coping skills.
The PHP is a transitional step following inpatient treatment. Clients live at home at this point while spending much of their day in treatment at the facility. The focus on therapy continues as clients reacclimate to their responsibilities outside of treatment.
The IOP typically follows PHP completion. It is very similar to the PHP but, as a step down, meets less often or for shorter sessions. At this point, clients spend more time learning and practicing coping skills.
The standard outpatient program is the final phase of treatment. This phase focuses on preparing clients for their post-treatment life. One of the goals of the outpatient program is connecting clients with community recovery resources (such as support groups), so they’ll have resources to help sustain recovery after treatment.
Clients should confirm coverage with their insurance provider before enrolling in treatment, as in network and out of network benefits can vary.
Fact checked and written by:
Terri Beth Miller, PhD
Edited by:
Kerry Nenn, BSW
Latest Reviews
Wonderful experience being there I highly recommend this place for anyone wanted to get sober
Response from the owner1 week ago
Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We’re truly grateful for your kind words and are honored to have been part of your journey. Your recommendation means a lot to our team. We wish you continued strength and success moving forward.
Wonderful and kind care for my daughter. Kind and helpful staff that communicated well and were always accessible and helpful. Multimodal care that helped my daughter find love and acceptance for herself. The right combo of firm love and structure with a lot of kindness sprinkled in. Thanks for helping my family.
Response from the owner1 week ago
Thank you so much for your heartfelt words. We’re truly honored to have supported your daughter and your family. Our team is committed to providing compassionate, structured, and individualized care, and it means a great deal to hear that this made a positive difference. We appreciate your trust in us and wish your daughter continued growth, healing, and confidence moving forward. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your family’s journey.
You’re reading this for a reason! Whatever that reason is, my hope is that when you finish you will seek help today, whether for yourself or someone you care for.
If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve read a few other reviews for treatment centers. At this point, you’re almost certainly tired of reading, “This place saved my life”, over and over and over. The phrase starts to lose gravity. The truth for me, however, is that SCC did not save my life. That would be too simple an explanation of what SCC did for me. SCC didn’t sanded my life, they armed me with the necessary weaponry to walk into battle, to save my own life, and to continue living with honesty, integrity, and self-worth.
SCC has something special. Whether you know it or not, you want it too, trust me. Some of the luxuries of private treatment are there, but that’s not it. What’s special at SCC is the authentic warmth, care, and concern of all the staff. Most of them are in recovery themselves, and ALL of them have been affected by addiction in some way or another and have chosen a path of helping others. This is reflected in the general attitude of the clients, and I can say that when i was there, I felt truly safe. I felt genuinely cared for, and I did not feel like a number or a dollar sign. That’s a huge deal! Just as huge a deal, is the clinical staff’s ability and knowledge, as well as their skill in delivery of information in a way that everyone can understand. The groups were super engaging and current. SCC is one of the few places that really understands the nature of group therapy, and does not execute it like a class or a lecture. Groups at SCC are interactive and interesting and there’s a healthy lean towards peer support and feedback.
Another thing that’s different about SCC, is that they accept private insurance, but they are also a nonprofit so they accept some different types of health insurance you might not expect, and sometimes they do things like scholarships for people in need of treatment that might not have the necessary resources. For example, when I was seeking treatment I had a difficult time finding a good treatment center that would take my health insurance because it was through Covered California. SCC was one of the few places that accepted my Blue Shield of CA PPO, and I know they also accepted my friends Blue Shield HMO too, which is amazing! The best thing I could suggest is if you’re in need of help, no matter what insurance you have, just call SCC and ask! The admissions women are outstanding human beings, and whether or not SCC is able to help you, they will help you find a place that’s right for you! That’s pretty incredible if you ask me.
Here’s the point… if you want to go to treatment and sit around and wait for them to save your life, don’t call SCC, but if you’re looking for a great group of people that care about what they do, if you’re thinking you might need a little help, and you’re willing to do a little work, SCC is your spot! The rewards you experience will be indescribable, I promise you that.
We’re honored to have been part of your journey and proud of the work you’ve done for yourself. Your message will no doubt inspire others who are searching for hope and direction. Thank you for not only sharing your story, but for reminding others that recovery is possible—and worth it.
We’re cheering you on, always.
— The SCC Team
Response from the owner1 week ago
Thank you for such a powerful and beautifully written review. Your words truly capture the heart of what we strive to offer at South Coast Counseling. We believe in empowering our clients—not just to recover, but to reclaim their lives with strength, purpose, and self-worth. It’s incredibly meaningful to hear that you felt safe, supported, and genuinely cared for during your time with us.We’re honored to have been part of your journey and proud of the work you’ve done for yourself. Your message will no doubt inspire others who are searching for hope and direction. Thank you for not only sharing your story, but for reminding others that recovery is possible—and worth it.
We’re cheering you on, always.
— The SCC Team
Rehab Score
Our Methodology
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 Methodology
8.2 / 10
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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.
Sliding scale payments are based on a client's income and family size. The goal is to make treatment affordable to everyone. By taking these factors into account, addiction recovery care providers help ensure that your treatment does not become a financial burden to you or your family, eliminating one barrier to care.
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.
Military members, veterans, and eligible dependents have access to specific insurance programs that help them get the care they need. TRICARE and VA insurance can help you access low cost or no cost addiction and mental health treatment. Programs that accept military insurance often have targeted treatment focused on the unique challenges military members, veterans, and their families face.
Addiction Treatments
Levels of Care
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.
Inpatient rehab provides intensive treatment for clients exiting detox, those in early recovery, and those at an elevated risk of relapse. Unlike outpatient drug rehab, clients receiving inpatient care reside at the facility for the duration of the program. The length of stay may range from two weeks to 18 months or more, depending on the client's needs and the program's design. Inpatient treatment typically involves extensive addiction education and recovery-focused life skills training.
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.
Rehab aftercare programs offer clients in addiction recovery a robust continuum of care after clients have completed active treatment. These services address recovery as a life-long process and are designed to evolve with clients' changing needs. Clients may partner with their case managers and/or addiction recovery team to identify the rehab aftercare services that are right for them. They may receive career counseling, housing assistance, peer coaching, 12 step program induction, among many other services.
Participants engaged in 12 step programs receive intensive peer coaching (sponsorship) and community support. Spiritual development as a means of achieving psychological and emotional healing and growth is the cornerstone of 12 step recovery, but religious affiliations are not required. Meetings are free, anonymous, and open to the public, though specialized formats are available, including groups for seniors, teens, and family members. Evening, night, and day meetings are conducted year-round in most communities.
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.
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is a short-term form of intensive rehab, usually for those with acute symptoms that are hard to manage but don’t require 24-hour care. PHPs have structured programming (i.e. individual and/or group therapy), and usually meet 3-5 days a week for around 6 hours (i.e. 9am-3m). Some PHPs are residential (patients sleep on site) and some are not, so patients sleep at home. PHPs can last from 1-6 months, and some offer transportation and meals.
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.
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.
A combined mental health and substance abuse rehab has the staff and resources available to handle individuals with both mental health and substance abuse issues. It can be challenging to determine where a specific symptom stems from (a mental health issue or an issue related to substance abuse), so mental health and substance abuse professionals are helpful in detangling symptoms and keeping treatment on track.
Opioid rehabs specialize in supporting those recovering from opioid addiction. They treat those suffering from addiction to illegal opioids like heroin, as well as prescription drugs like oxycodone. These centers typically combine both physical as well as mental and emotional support to help stop addiction. Physical support often includes medical detox and subsequent medical support (including medication), and mental support includes in-depth therapy to address the underlying causes of addiction.
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.
Serving in the military is both mentally and physically challenging, and can result in trauma that persists even after combat ends. Military programs are tailored to the specific and often complex needs of active duty personnel, veterans, and military families. Clients often access these programs through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Clinical Services
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a therapy modality that focuses on the relationship between one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is used to establish and allow for healthy responses to thoughts and feelings (instead of unhealthy responses, like using drugs or alcohol). CBT has been proven effective for recovering addicts of all kinds, and is used to strengthen a patient's own self-awareness and ability to self-regulate. CBT allows individuals to monitor their own emotional state, become more adept at communicating with others, and manage stress without needing to engage in substance abuse.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a modified form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a treatment designed to help people understand and ultimately affect the relationship between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. DBT is often used for individuals who struggle with self-harm behaviors, such as self-mutilation (cutting) and suicidal thoughts, urges, or attempts. It has been proven clinically effective for those who struggle with out-of-control emotions and mental health illnesses like Borderline Personality Disorder.
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.
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a clinical approach to helping people with substance abuse issues and other conditions shift behavior in positive ways. It is more goal-oriented than traditional psychotherapy, as MI counselors directly attempt to get clients to consider making behavioral change (rather than wait for them to come to conclusions themselves). Its primary purpose is to resolve ambivalence and help clients become able to make healthy choices freely.
Trauma therapy addresses traumatic incidents from a client's past that are likely affecting their present-day experience. Trauma is often one of the primary triggers and potential causes of addiction, and can stem from child sexual abuse, domestic violence, having a parent with a mental illness, losing one or both parents at a young age, teenage or adult sexual assault, or any number of other factors. The purpose of trauma therapy is to allow a patient to process trauma and move through and past it, with the help of trained and compassionate mental health professionals.
Whether a marriage or other committed relationship, an intimate partnership is one of the most important aspects of a person's life. Drug and alcohol addiction affects both members of a couple in deep and meaningful ways, as does rehab and recovery. Couples therapy and other couples-focused treatment programs are significant parts of exploring triggers of addiction, as well as learning how to build healthy patterns to support ongoing sobriety.
EMDR is a therapeutic modality originally developed to help process trauma. In an EMDR session, a patient is prompted to undergo eye movements that mimic those of REM sleep. This is accomplished by watching a therapist's finger move back and forth across, or following a bar of light. The goal is repetitive sets of eye movements that help the brain reprocess memory, which can significantly reduce the intensity of remembered traumatic incidents. Associated memories can heal simultaneously, leaving patients significantly calmer, more stable, and more emotionally relaxed.
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.
Nutrition therapy, aka medical nutrition therapy (MNT), is a way of treating physical, emotional, and medical conditions through diet. Specific dietary plans are designed by professional nutritionists or registered dietitians, and patients follow them in order to positively affect their physical and mental health.
Creativity is inherently healing, and can help those in recovery express thoughts or feelings they might not otherwise be able to. Creative arts therapy can include music, poetry/writing, painting, sculpting, dance, theater, sandplay, and more. Unlike traditional art, the final product matters far less than the experience of creation and expression itself.
Experiential therapy is a form of therapy in which clients are encouraged to surface and work through subconscious issues by engaging in real-time experiences. Experiential therapy departs from traditional talk therapy by involving the body, and having clients engage in activities, movements, and physical and emotional expression. This can involve role-play or using props (which can include other people). Experiential therapy can help people process trauma, memories, and emotion quickly, deeply, and in a lasting fashion, leading to substantial and impactful healing.
Amenities
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Private Transportation -
Wifi -
Residential Setting -
Private Rooms
Staff & Accreditations
Staff
Tom Nemat
Chief Executive Officer
Joe Milligan
CFO
Allyson Pelletier, LMFT
Clinical Director
Katie Scheu
Director of Admissions
Lawrence V. Tucker
Medical Director
Accreditations
The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) is a non-profit organization that specifically accredits rehab organizations. Founded in 1966, CARF's, mission is to help service providers like rehab facilities maintain high standards of care.
CARF Accreditation: Yes
State Licenses are permits issued by government agencies that allow rehab organizations to conduct business legally within a certain geographical area. Typically, the kind of program a rehab facility offers, along with its physical location, determines which licenses are required to operate legally.
State License: California
License Number: 300012BN
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
Accreditation Number: 582105
Contact Information
693 Plumer Street
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Get Help Now - 949-484-8743
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