Making the decision to get help for a drug or alcohol problem is one of the hardest – and most commendable – things you can do. You’ve acknowledged that you have a problem and are prepared to do what it takes to turn your life around. Now comes a step that’s almost as important as deciding to find help: choosing a treatment facility. Unfortunately, not all of these places are created equal. Like any major life decision, it’s best to know what you’re getting into before you commit. Don’t just pick somewhere that happens to be nearby that has pretty pictures on their website. You probably did some research before you bought your last computer or picked out a new washing machine; why wouldn’t you do the same for something as life-changing as rehab?
Consider, for example, an operator of sober living homes in Costa Mesa (Orange County), California called Morningside Recovery. A civil nuisance abatement was filed by the City of Costa Mesa in January 2018. Civil abatement, sometimes known as third-party policing, seeks non-criminal remedies for behaviors that violate ordinances or pose a threat to public safety. In this case, Morningside was in violation of the city’s sober living home ordinances, as well as having failed to apply for certain permits, and as a result they were forced to shut down their three sober living homes as well as pay $20,000 to the city. Originally, six facilities were included in the action, but three had already closed.
Morningside’s troubles go back years. In 2013, after six years of litigation, they were forced to move their 36 clients to Costa Mesa and other nearby cities from Newport Beach after a variety of complaints, including improperly handled prescriptions, providing medical services outside the scope permitted, and exceeding the maximum number of beds allowed in one facility.
The first and easiest thing you can do when looking for a treatment facility is a simple Google search. See if any news articles pop up, either positive or negative. You can also read reviews online. Another thing to check for is whether a facility is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). CARF is an independent, nonprofit body founded in 1966 that looks at everything from clinical practices, business practices, policies and procedures, market and strategic planning, retention and recruitment efforts, quality assurance, safety standards, advocacy initiatives, employee credentialing, and information management.
If you or a loved one need help with quitting drugs or alcohol, consider Asana Recovery. We offer medical detox, along with both residential and outpatient programs, and you’ll be supervised by a highly trained staff of medical professionals, counselors, and therapists. Our treatment program, known as the “Asana Way,” is licensed, certified, and CARF accredited. We’re located in Costa Mesa, in California’s beautiful, sunny Orange County. Our program includes both traditional therapies and alternative methods, and you’ll have access to chef-prepared, nutritious meals and various recreational activities. Call us any time at (949) 438-4504 to get started.
