Addiction Treatment Program in California

At our Forest Knolls campus, we provide personalized support for adults age 18 and older who are struggling with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health concerns. 

Our three main levels of care include: 

• Detoxification: On-site medical detox to help clients safely stop using drugs or alcohol 

• Residential program: An intensive therapeutic setting that promotes emotional healing, knowledge enhancement, and personal growth  

• Extended care: Further assistance after the residential stay to reinforce and sustain recovery efforts 

We also offer family programming to involve and educate loved ones, as well as an alumni program to encourage continued progress and community building. 

Under the supervision of our skilled medical director, residents receive expert care as they begin their recovery journey. Our detox program involves: 

• A thorough evaluation conducted by a physician 

• Customized care plans based on individual needs 

• Medication management for optimal comfort 

• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) as necessary 

• Constant monitoring to address withdrawal symptoms 

The residential program at Serenity Knolls features a structured curriculum that incorporates these core components: 

Individual therapy: Residents can receive individualized support in weekly one-on-one sessions with: 

• A licensed therapist for in-depth therapeutic work 

• A certified drug and alcohol counselor for recovery support 

• A case manager for care coordination 

Group therapy: We offer multiple groups each week, encompassing: 

• Process-oriented sessions that encourage respectful sharing and empathetic listening among peers  

• Psychoeducation, facilitated by trained professionals, to enhance understanding of recovery topics 

• Community support meetings, including Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) 

Experiential activities: To promote self-awareness and stress relief, we provide experiential activities like:  

• Art therapy 

• Yoga and mindfulness practices 

Evidence-based practices: Our program incorporates a range of evidence-based practices to support long-term recovery. These include: 

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) 

• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) 

• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) 

• Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) 

• Internal family systems (IFS) 

• Somatic therapy 

• Seeking Safety 

Skill development: Through these various therapy methods and modalities, clients can learn practical strategies for: 

• Preventing relapse 

• Managing emotions 

• Setting healthy boundaries 

• Improving communication 

The typical length of stay in our residential program is around 28-56 days, with the option for extended care if needed. By creating a focused and dynamic environment, we aim to guide each client on their unique journey toward recovery. 

Our extended care program is available for residents who wish to continue strengthening their skills over a longer stay. Key features of this program include: 

• Monthly equine therapy 

• Advanced psychoeducational groups 

• Peer-led groups 

• Off-site exposure therapy activities 

• Comprehensive discharge planning 

• Connections with local resources 

• Free lifetime alumni support 

Recognizing the vital role of family members in the recovery process, we offer weekend family programming. Available as an ongoing resource for those who participate, these services include:  

• Family circle group: Aimed at strengthening family dynamics, this group focuses on identifying problematic behavior patterns, confronting denial, and accepting responsibility. 

• Partners in recovery group: Designed for anyone close to a person in recovery, this group helps participants understand addiction, navigate complex emotions, and maintain healthy relationships. 

The stories of our alumni highlight the transformation that’s possible at Serenity Knolls. We are committed to nurturing their success through our lifetime alumni program, offered at no cost for those who have completed their stay with us.  

To foster sustained engagement and collaboration, we host weekly alumni meetings in both virtual and in-person formats. These sessions explore vital topics, including: 

• Relapse prevention 

• Establishing and maintaining support 

• Coping skills 

• Emotion regulation 

• Overcoming obstacles 

• Setting goals 

Additionally, our monthly chip night is an opportunity for alumni to come together and celebrate their recovery milestones. 

Discharge planning begins at the time of admission and continues throughout the treatment journey. As residents near the end of their stay, we work with them to create a detailed aftercare plan, which may include: 

• Referrals to transitional housing 

• Recommendations for outpatient services 

• Connections with local AA meetings and potential sponsors 

• Access to our alumni network  

Nestled within the rolling hills of Marin County, California, Serenity Knolls is a peaceful retreat for those who are seeking recovery. Residents who come to us for help can benefit from the following: 

• Tailored care plans to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of each individual 

• Highly experienced team members who provide compassionate support every step of the way 

• Comprehensive therapies to address addictions as well as mental health and trauma-related concerns 

• A welcoming community where healing and growth flourish 

• Skill-building exercises that help clients prepare for life outside of programming 

• Educational and supportive resources for friends and family to strengthen their role in the recovery process 

• Wellness amenities, including an on-site gym, a yoga studio, and walking trails, to promote physical health and relaxation  

With these combined elements, we aim to empower clients to cultivate resilience and build the foundation for a healthier future. 

Taking the first step toward recovery can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Contact us today to speak with an admissions counselor, who can discuss our program options and connect you with the support you deserve.  

At Serenity Knolls, our team is here to listen and guide you on the path forward. With our help, you can rediscover your inner strength and unlock your true potential. 

This content was written on behalf of and reviewed by the clinical staff at Serenity Knolls.