Frequently Asked Questions
Does South Coast Counseling take both men and women? What about adolescents?
South Coast Counseling is a co-ed home for adult men and women over the age of 18. At maximum capacity, the home can hold up to 6 women and 8-10 men.
What is a “comprehensive social model” of recovery?
A comprehensive social model philosophy centers around several main tenets: It is community based, peer-orientated, supportive of individual recovery decisions, and it provides a structured, supportive and non-using environment for those seeking long term sobriety. It is quickly becoming recognized as a more realistic and successful alternative to long term recovery when compared to behavior modification and other models.
Is South Coast Counseling, Inc. a 12 Step Program?
In addition to its comprehensively social model philosophy, SCC’s residential treatment and After Care programs are centered around the 12 step program. Residents and clients are required to attend in-house and outside meetings and work with a sponsor as part of their program requirements.
I need a detox program… Can I come to South Coast Counseling?
No. SCC does not offer detox as part of its treatment program services. Residents entering South Coast Counseling must be sober for a minimum of 72 hours at intake.
I have to complete a 30 day residential treatment program… Can I come to South Coast Counseling?
No. SCC is a longer term rehabilitation program, with a minimum stay of 90 days up to a maximum of one year.
What does South Coast Counseling cost?
SCC offers one of the most affordable private pay residential treatment programs available today. See our Pricing page for more information.
Do you accept insurance?
No.
I have a court / criminal case… Will South Coast Counseling work for me?
Yes! South Coast Counseling works with clients that are seeking treatment voluntarily as well as those who are court mandated to a program for DUI or other criminal charges. Part of the services available to SCC clients in order to meet court requirements include progress review letters, drug and alcohol testing, additional counseling, and court appearances by a certified staff member. Contact us for more details.
I’m on formal probation / parole… Will South Coast Counseling work for me?
Yes. SCC is probation and parole approved in the state of California, and works closely with local probation departments and individual probation officers to ensure each client is fully in compliance with their probation terms. SCC residents on probation or parole are required to sign in and out of the house every time they enter and return in our log book. P.Os may visit you in the home announced and unannounced, and you are permitted to attend your regular face to face appointments with your P.O. In some cases, you may have less freedoms than other residents depending upon your individual case; contact us for details.
I live out of state and have a criminal case… Can South Coast Counseling work with me?
Yes, absolutely. SCC routinely works with clients seeking treatment from outside the state of California. We work closely with each individual client, the probation department and courts in your jurisdiction to ensure all your legal requirements are met and our program is approved. Contact us for more information.
I need treatment but I have a job I cannot lose… how can I make full time residential treatment work?
At South Coast Counseling, you can. The program encourages – in fact, requires – full time employment, school, or full time job search during regular business hours as part of our treatment program. If you are already employed, we work with you to ensure you have a seamless transition and are able to go to work from your first day of treatment. If you have court mandated class requirements, South Coast Counseling may be able to work with you.
I don’t have a car / I lost my license…. How will I get around?
SCC is very conveniently located in the heart of Costa Mesa, CA, just minutes from the beach. The house is within easy walking distance to major grocery and drug stores, banks, gyms, restaurants, the local library, DMV, and major bus routes.
Can I have visitors?
SCC sponsors regular recreational outings such as trips to the movies, bowling, amusement parks, picnics and other fun activities which family and friends are encouraged to attend. As a general rule, SCC does not allow outside visitors in the home; however, you are allowed to leave the home to visit your family and loved ones during your free time at the house in the evenings and on weekends. See our What to Expect and Residential Treatment Home pages for a weekly schedule and more information.
Can I have a cell phone?
Yes! You are permitted to bring your cell phone into the home with you. However, phones must be off and are not permitted at dinner time, during in-house meetings, after curfew, and during other house mandated activities. There is a pay phone in the home available to residents for personal calls as well.
Can I bring my computer?
Yes, you may bring a laptop computer with you into South Coast Counseling during your stay. Many bedrooms have a desk or open space for your computer or to use as a work area. SCC provides free wireless Internet access which is available during the house of 6 a.m. and 11 p.m.
What should I bring to the house?
See our What to Expect and What to Bring pages for a list of commonly brought items, prohibited items, and more information on the program in general.
Do you offer outpatient or after care services?
Yes! Alumni of our residential treatment program may also attend on a voluntary or as part of their legal requirements South Coast Counseling’s After Care Program. After Care consists of weekly in and out of home meetings, individual counseling sessions, and recovery goal setting and review. See our After Care Services page for more details.



