You need to upgrade your Flash Player to at
least version 8 to view this video content.
Meet Our Staff
The majority of staff at SouthCoast Recovery is in recovery.
This allows us an informed perspective having “been there and done that.”
|
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 combining the finest Western medicine available with the essence of the great Eastern healing traditions works best to address both the cause and the symptoms of addiction.” “SouthCoast now has 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 to explore the practical part of getting a life and living in society on its terms. The spiritual aspects of treatment intervention must meet the unique demands of quality, specialized care for each individual.” Dennis Larkin is the founder and developer of SouthCoast Recovery as well as two additional enterprises at the forefront of addiction and recovery services. He is a Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor C.C.D.C., Certified Life Coach M.L.E & E.L.E and Certified Addiction Treatment Counselor C.A.T.C. Dennis holds certificates in Drug and Alcohol Studies, Family Services, Victim Services, Corrections and Criminal Justice Studies and is Gorski Trained in Relapse Prevention and Denial Management. He is an active member of C.A.A.D.E. and is trained in mediation and yoga. Dennis resides in Dana Point, California with his Golden Retriever, Kona. |
|
 |
Krishna Jessick, C.A.T.C. – Program Director “My mission is to gather an exceptional staff to make SouthCoast Recovery 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.” |
|
 |
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.” |
|
 |
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 SouthCoast Recovery, 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 SouthCoast, 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.” |
|
 |
Kim Young, B.S. – Marriage and Family Therapy “I am passionate about helping clients at SouthCoast Recovery face the issues driving their addiction to instill renewed hope in each life.” Kim obtained her Bachelors of Science Degree in Psychology at the University of Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. She has worked in the field of drug and alcohol addiction for 2 years and is currently gaining hours under the supervision of Dr. Bob Buley while completing her Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy at Pepperdine University. “I am honored to be a part of our clients’ healing process and I greatly respect the courage it takes to face this disease.” |
|
 |
Grant Collins – Acupuncturist, Oriental Herbalist “The clients at SouthCoast Recovery 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 Seiler – Massage Therapist “No other program that I have worked for can match SouthCoast Recovery’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.” |
|
 |
Christa L. Olds, C.A.T.C. – Intake Counselor, Case Manager “I am so proud to be part of an exceptional treatment team at SouthCoast Recovery 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.” |
|
 |
Joe White, C.D.A.A.C. – Counselor “I was attracted to SouthCoast Recovery by the sincere desire to treat clients with fairness and integrity. This special quality is reflected in the entire staff.” In recovery for 24 years, Joe has his C.D.A.A.C. with Marriage and Family Counseling Endorsement. He has been educated at the University of Missouri, Catholic Parish Leadership Program; Charleston Southern University; Billy Graham's Training Center, The Cove; and the A.C.A.D.C. He has also worked with max security and death row inmates through KAIROS Prison Ministry. Joe was a Sergeant in the Marine Corps and served in Vietnam. His experience, including recovery from P.T.S.D., is invaluable when working with other victims of trauma. “I am helping change lives. What could be better than that?” |
|
 |
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". |
|
 |
Tim Best, D.A.S.C. – Counselor “I believe my higher power placed me at Southcoast Recovery 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 SouthCoast Recovery, 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 SouthCoast Recovery. Everybody could use a healing lick.” Kona has been in recovery for 8 years and is SouthCoast’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!” |
|
 |
Tom Petersen, J.D. - Court Liaison Tom spent the last eleven years as a criminal defense attorney before losing that license to the disease of addiction. Tom tried several approaches to recovery before coming to SouthCoast including recovery facilities costing 6 times as much before finding true recovery here. Now in recovery, Tom helps bring SouthCoast's unique program to the spotlight. Tom says "My life used to be about how much I could take for myself. Now I think about others and how I can be of service to them. Each client deserves individual attention and time. My biggest reward is to see a client succeed!" |
|
 |
Ernest Templeton– Sales Manager “Having graduated from SouthCoast Recovery, I know that the program works to restore lives and dreams. I am living proof!” Ernie manages the sales here at SouthCoast. 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 through my work.” |
|
 |
Morgan Richardson – Intake Coordinator "The SouthCoast Recovery 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 “SouthCoast Recovery 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 SouthCoast program, he turned his life around. He now answers the SouthCoast 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.” |
|
 |
Matthew Lovacheff – 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." |
|
 |
Chris "Kapena" Jensen, C.C.H. – Counselor "Having interned at South Coast Recovery during my studies at Saddleback College, I was drawn to their holistic approach to addiction recovery. I truly believe that the true key to long term addiction recovery is the healing of the "Whole Person", body, mind and spirit." Chris brings to SouthCoast Recovery his experiences of long term recovery. Chris is a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist and is trained in NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) and Life Coaching. He is an active member of C.A.A.D.E. and is currently working on his C.A.T.C. at Saddleback College. He is active in his 12-step program, sharing his experience, strength, and hope. "it is truly a privilege to be part of the team at SouthCoast Recovery, guiding our clients on their journey to long term recovery." |