Admissions
Detox
Programs
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Staff
Dennis Larkin, C.A.T.C., C.C.D.C. - Executive Director
 "In my search for an answer I have found no single treatment method that is appropriate for all individuals. I have found that an East meets West approach works best to address both the cause and the symptom."
"We now have nearly 15 years continuous experience in creating innovative programs where a blend of clinical, holistic and spiritual approaches to addiction are our focus. In my effort to provide a healing environment for the chemically dependent individual that would encompass mind, body and spirit, we have come to explore the practical part of getting a life and living in our society on its terms as well as the spiritual aspects of treatment intervention that meet the unique demands for quality specialized care for each individual."
"I believe the human spirit is an essential and critical contributor to our health and our recovery; the basic model we work from has created a focus on the body and mind functioning like a garden that is alive and always growing. I use my personal experience in both addiction and recovery to plant seeds that grow into a better life of physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing - one that cultivates hope, purpose, meaning and personal responsibility. Our program has now become one that is truly about living."
Dr. Michael Rudolph, M.D. – Consulting Physician
 “As individuals recover from the disease of addiction, they need personal and professional dedication. Individual attention and care is an integral part of the healing process at SouthCoast Recovery.”
Dr. Rudolph received his Medical Degree from Columbia University in 1981 and has since worked in emergency medicine and addiction medicine. He is also active in teaching emergency medicine at Western University and a member of the American Society of Addiction Medicine and California Society of Addiction Medicine.
“Participating in each client’s recovery is so exciting and the compassion in this program is unparalleled.”
Howard Larkin, C.D.C. - Director of Operations
 "I never understood the value of recovery until the Synergy Treatment program saved my life. We instill hope in people who thought there was none." Howard has worked in the field of recovery for 8 years. After graduating our program, he went to Saddleback College to obtain his Chemical Dependency Counselor credentials. As the Director of Operations, he supervises Resident Advisors and controls housing and transportation. "I am happy to now give back what was freely given to me - the gift of sobriety."
Ernest Templeton– Sales Manager
 "Having graduated from Synergy Treatment, I know that the program works to restore lives and dreams. I am living proof!" Ernie manages the sales here at Synergy. This is his way of giving back to the program that helped him get back on his feet. He had 20 years of experience in technology sales and marketing prior to bringing his talents to the team here. Holding a Bachelor's Degree from California State University, Long Beach, Ernie values the opportunity to be active in the 12-step recovery community. "Bringing others into the 12-step community is one of the greatest gifts I could give. I am proud to be reaching out to others in need."
Morgan Richardson – Intake Coordinator
 "The Synergy Treatment program gave me willingness and showed me that I have the power to change the way that I look at myself and the world." Morgan helps individuals and families begin healing by informing them about recovery. A Human Services graduate, he is certified in Conflict Resolution and Mediation, Denial Management, Recovery Coaching M.L.E. and Spirit Recovery. He is also trained in Meditation, is currently interning for his C.A.T.C. and is working toward his Marriage and Family Therapist certification in the addiction field. Morgan is active in Cocaine Anonymous, Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous and volunteers at a local homeless shelter. "My job is great! I get to save lives by sharing the message of recovery."
Ryan Schrier - Intake Coordinator
 "Synergy Treatment changed my life and gave me back the relationships and goals I had lost in my active addiction." In 17 years of addition, Ryan lost everything - his wife, his son, his career and his soccer scholarship. When he surrendered and became willing to accept the help of his family and the Synergy program, he turned his life around. He now answers the Synergy hotline to help people who are looking for the same thing he was - freedom from active addiction and alcoholism. Ryan is trained in Meditation and is active in Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous and Cocaine Anonymous. He also speaks on H & I and detox center panels. "Getting others into recovery to build their new life gives me purpose."
Dr. Bob Buley, P.H.D. - Clinical Psychologist
 "The basis of my work is LOVE. I believe it is the most important component of the rehabilitation process and at Synergy Treatment, it is REAL!"" A therapist for 44 years, Dr. Bob began his career founding a gang center in Los Angeles then ran a school for disturbed teens. He served as Clinical Director for Shasta County Substance Abuse before obtaining his P.H.D. and license in Clinical Psychology. Dr. Bob has worked primarily with sexually, physically and emotionally abused adults. Recently, Dr. Bob has served rehabs in Orange County, concentrating on depression and anxiety as precursors to addiction. "Working at Synergy, I am able to embrace a spirit, believe in love and find my happiness with staff and clients. I cherish helping clients do the same."
Helen Bergenfeld, M.F.T. – Marriage and Family Therapist
 It is a privilege for me to be a part of the dedicated team at SouthCoast Recovery. Graduating from UCLA I taught adolescents and their parents in the field of caring, communication, and organizational skills. Unable to help with more difficult issues, I returned to Phillips Graduate Institute and earned my LMFT. As a therapist, my philosophy is to create a safe environment whereby the clients can begin to untangle issues that led them to where they are today. Through trust and understanding the clients open their hearts and are able to do the all important work that helps them begin the healing proces, strengthens their core by finding their true-self and understanding that who they are is "a great thing".
Grant Collins – Acupuncturist, Oriental Herbalist
 "The clients at Synergy Treatment have a special place in my heart. It is great to watch the transformations that occur as a result of such an amazing program." Grant graduated with a Master of Science in Oriental Medicine from the Southwest Acupuncture College. He is California Board Certified and has been in private practice sine 2003. His administration of acupuncture allows clients reduced cravings, reduced chance of relapse, better sleep and a calmer mind. Grant has also spent many years instructing and competing in martial arts. He is a member of the Elite Doctor's Speakers Bureau, educating the public on health and nutrition. "It is a joy to help clients achieve optimum health through Chinese Medicine."
Celeste Seller – Massage Therapist
 "No other program that I have worked for can match Synergy Treatment's revolutionary holistic approach to rehabilitation." Celeste, owner of A Touch of Heaven Massage and Holistic Healing, has witnessed the devastating effects of addiction on the body, mind and spirit both in her family and her clientele for years. These events inspired her to bring her gift of touch to all those struggling with this disease. Celeste specializes in "detoxification massage", Ayruvedic and Oriental techniques and nutritional therapy. These methods restore proper organ function, relieve pain and get clients back in touch with their bodies. "It's great working in a program where clients get real skills to change their lives."
Krishna Jessick, C.A.T.C. – Program Director
 "My mission is to gather an exceptional staff to make Synergy Treatment the most outstanding program available with healing and wellness as our focus." With 11 years of experience, Krishna designs our unique treatments to create a structured and progressive program administered with each client's individual success in mind. She is a graduate in Human Services, Drug and Alcohol, is C.A.T.C. certified and is active in and C.A.A.D.E and H & I service. She is also trained in Crisis Intervention, Recovery Coaching M.L.E., Relapse Prevention, Denial Management and Primordial Sound Meditation. "Helping others achieve their goals and dreams nourishes my soul; it motivates me and cultivates spiritual growth in my personal recovery."
Christa L. Olds, C.A.T.C. - Intake Counselor, Case Manager
 "I am so proud to be part of an exceptional treatment team at Synergy Treatment where all clients can experience total mind, body and spiritual healing." Christa utilizes her strength and mindfulness within her own recovery to help clients live each moment fully, clean and serene. She has 7 years of experience in drug and alcohol treatment and is C.A.T.C. certified. She is a graduate in Drug and Alcohol Studies as well as Corrections and Criminal Justice. She is also trained in Crisis Intervention, Relapse Prevention, Denial Management and Meditation. She is active in H & I service and a C.A.A.D.E. member. "I aspire to help each individual reach the goals they set for themselves and assist each client on their journey towards purpose, fulfillment and self-actualization."
Matthew Lovacheff – Christian Counselor
 "SouthCoast Recovery is the most comprehensive program I've ever seen." Matthew has been in recovery 9 years and has served in the United States Navy. He's a deacon in the International Church of Christ and has lead its chemical recovery ministry for the last 5 years. He recently received hi B.S. in Human Services with a concentration on Substance Abuse Treatment and is working toward his CATC. "I'm proud to serve the recovering alcoholic and addict alongside compassionate and experienced professionals."
Tim Best, D.A.S.C. – Counselor
 "I believe my higher power placed me at Synergy Treatment where I get to serve our clients beside a loving, considerate, hard-working staff." Tim imparts to clients that, through a series of small obtainable goals, one can find their own positive life path. Tim has 2 years of experience as a chemical dependency counselor and holds his D.A.S.C. He is an active member of C.A.A.D.E. and is currently studying for his C.A.T.C. certification. Tim is also trained in Meditation and Kriya Yoga, offering a unique blend of Eastern Theosophy and spiritual beliefs. He is also active in the 12-step community. "It is an honor to be part of an innovative team with such an extensive program that keeps their prices affordable. We're truly here for our clients."
Don Keith – Counselor
 "I am grateful to be part of the solution here at Synergy Treatment, helping clients from varied pasts build a new, bright future." Don brings the special gift of humor to our clients and keeps everybody laughing. He has spent the past 15 years working in the Social Service/Human Service field, including 6 years working for the Orange County Probation Department. He is currently working on his C.A.T.C. at Saddleback College. Don is trained in Primordial Sound Meditation; is active in his 12-step program; and shares his experience, strength and hope. "I really appreciate the compassion and understanding our clients receive. They are all treated with dignity, no matter who they are or where they come from."
Kona Larkin, D.O.G. – Unconditional Love Specialist
 "It has been my experience that a little affection can go a long way here at Synergy Treatment. Everybody could use a healing lick." Kona has been in recovery for 8 years and is Synergy's trainer in unconditional love. To help clients through their ruff recovery, Kona employs a softfur approach. He takes the time to listen intently, without judgment, when anyone needs an ear. He is always there to share a pet, a cuddle or a stress-relieving walk. Kona is trained in Meditation, Spirit Recovery and Pet Therapy. He is also L.I.C.K.S. certified and is active in the recovery community. "I'm here to lend a paw to ensure our clients don't roll over on their recovery. Woof!"
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