For almost a decade, Alex has worked in the addiction treatment & mental health communities helping young adults find new ways to live. Alex’s earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from San Diego State University and a Master’s Degree in Spiritual Psychology at the University of Santa Monica. Throughout his career, Alex has worked in various direct care and administrative roles including sober coaching and companion work, admissions, business development and outreach and as a residential mentor for a prominent treatment program in Colorado. As a featured speaker, Alex maintains a presence within the Recovery world sharing his experience, strength and hope with those still struggling with addictions. In 2013, Alex launched The Grounds Recovery in San Diego putting into action the skills and lessons he learned throughout his own personal and professional journey. As CEO at The Grounds, Alex personally oversees the admissions and business development departments and mentors Grounds members’ by sharing his passion for the outdoors, the ocean and yoga.
Raised in San Diego, Cannon has 10+ years of experience working within the recovery community. His extensive experience includes direct work with at-risk young adults through the City of San Diego, Veterans suffering with co-occurring substance abuse and mental health issues and the LGBT community where he received important trauma and tolerance training. He graduated with Honors from the University of California at San Diego’s Drug and Alcohol Certification Program. Cannon has been a leader in addressing the opioid epidemic by offering his knowledge and expertise to the FBI and San Diego’s Opioid Addiction Task Force. Cannon’s personal journey of recovery as a young adult offers him a unique perspective and understanding that provides hope and encouragement to The Grounds members. Cannon enjoys time with his young son and sharing his passion for the outdoors, rock music and surfing.
Rafael is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and as a bilingual/bicultural therapist he has delivered clinical and consultation services in both Mexico and the United States. He has over 15 years of diverse experience serving individuals, couples, families and groups. Rafael has a Masters of Arts in Counseling Psychology and an MBA from National University and he is a Certified Gestalt Therapist. His experience includes diagnosis and treatment of Mood Disorders , Anxiety Disorders, Addiction, Grief and Loss, Dual Diagnosis (Substance abuse and a mental health disorder), Trauma, LGBT and Transgender issues. Rafael has served as Lead Faculty member at the Humanistic Institute of Gestalt Psychotherapy and as a Marriage and Family Therapist at Sharp Mesa Vista Outpatient Dual Diagnosis Program, as a Staff Therapist at the LGBT Center, and as a Bereavement Counselor at San Diego Hospice.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and EMDR therapist, Alana’s holistic approach naturally compliments the recovery process. Alana draws from her diverse professional career of over 25 years which includes: private practice, individual & family therapy in residential chemical dependency treatment settings; mental health and addiction treatment, and career counseling within a Fortune 500 corporation; and clinical outreach/business development consultation for addiction treatment centers. In addition to her traditional education (a BS in Psychology and a Masters in Social Work, with strong CBT and psychodynamic influence), Alana has completed a 2-year post graduate Independent Intensive focused on holistic care including yoga teacher and yoga therapy training.
Ms. Myers has more than 28 years experience working with adolescents and adults with Mood Disorders, Addictions, Trauma and ADHD. She is a nationally recognized speaker and trainer in the area of Adolescent and Family Treatment and Addictions. She has a “personal authenticity” that is often referred to as part of her success with clients. She has a breadth of experience working in Corrections, State Health and Human Services, Inpatient and Outpatient Addiction Programs, Community Based Agencies and has developed two successful private practices.
Kathy holds a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology with undergraduate studies in Organizational Psychology. In addition to numerous experiential certifications and more than 30 years of equine experience, Kathy has worked in a number of different settings
including private practice, colleges, churches, and other non-profits, having great success with clients who have failed to thrive in the traditional "office therapy" environment. She has a long history of providing support within the community including counseling and outreach services to youth and adult survivors of trauma and abuse; those struggling to overcome addictions, mental illness, and eating disorders, couples and family therapy and equine-assisted therapy to the blind and disabled.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in men‘s sexual health, it is an honor to join the accomplished group of clinicians doing work with the residents of the Grounds for Recovery as of fall 2016. Since 2005, I have been doing counseling work with people who are better trying to understand how their sexuality and their mental health combine to help form a healthier version of themselves. As a group therapy leader at the Grounds for Recovery, it is an honor for me to deliver an evidence-based group therapy curriculum that asks young men to consider their sexual health in the context of their recovery from drugs and/or alcohol. I particularly enjoy this work because it is my personal and professional belief that there are precious few places on our planet where young men can speak honestly and vulnerably about their sexual development, sexual history and sexual health in ways that honor the complexity of male sexuality. The level of respect and commitment for the recovery process at the Grounds for Recovery are a perfect fit for giving young men a place to reflect on their sexual health as it relates to their recovery. Where sexuality was traditionally considered an off-limits topic in recovery, we now know that recovery without discussing relational ethics, sexual health principles and young men’s erotic selves leaves them lacking key resources for sustained sobriety. I look forward to continue to be a part of the team at the Grounds for Recovery.
Dr. Posner is a board certified psychiatrist in private practice in San Diego, California.
She completed her residency in Adult Psychiatry at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, which is consistently recognized as "one of America’s Best Hospitals" by U.S. News and World Report. She completed her medical school at Sackler School of Medicine. Living in various cities has helped to broaden her life experience and appreciation of various cultures and perspectives.
Identified as an eating disorder expert, she has been featured on national television and served as the president of the San Diego Chapter of the International Eating Disorder Association. She has also been published in a medical text on Impulse Control Disorders.
Currently, she maintains a private practice specializing in psychotherapy and medication management for adolescents and adults. Interests include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, chemical and process addictions, attention deficit disorder, and eating disorders. Dr. Posner utilizes pharmacogenomic testing in her practice when appropriate. She has advanced training in transference-focused psychotherapy for personality disorders.
Renee uses her gift of humor, coaching skills, personal experience in recovery and as a trauma survivor to empower people on their healing journey...and make it FUN. Renee has a Master‘s Degree in Spiritual Psychology and is a recovery and life coach. She spent more than a decade as a professional improv comedian. She’s also a National Speaker and an advocate for mental health awareness and trauma and addiction recovery. Renee also works in prisons to spread the message of recovery, hope, and healing.
Brandi has 20+ years’ experience working with at-risk adolescents, their families and the programs who aim to help them. As a consultant and coach, Brandi has supported wilderness, young adult, therapeutic boarding and chemical dependency programs, educational consultants and insurance underwriters with risk management, admissions & marketing, training, parent education, program development and executive leadership coaching. As a Certified Parent Coach, Brandi works privately with individuals and families in need with coaching, placement and Case Management.
Devin holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Point Loma Nazarene University and has worked in various financial roles throughout his career. Positions ranging from personal and business tax preparation to corporate accounting for a software development company. As a Competitive Jiu Jitsu practitioner and teacher, he understands the importance of discipline, responsibility and accountability. When not overseeing the accounting at The Grounds, Devin enjoys snowboarding and hiking.
Chef Darin has been in the culinary industry for over 20 years. His experience ranges from fine dining to golf fare to large family gatherings. He has trained and worked alongside some of the most talented chefs throughout Southern California and Hawaii. Using fresh ingredients and thoughtful preparation, Darin creates meals that are delicious and intentionally encourage conversation and relationship building. Combining flavor profiles and recipe development are his passions and he loves showing The Grounds members ways to make their “favorites” more nutritious, healthy and flavorful!
Originally from Vermont, TJ has a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Vermont and is a Certified Personal Trainer. TJ’s published research on Opioid Abuse makes him keenly knowledgeable on the effects and consequences of drug use and abuse. Combining his passion for healthy living, nutrition, and fitness, TJ is able to effectively guide and mentor Grounds members through this important time. Helping members develop personal fitness goals and healthy living habits, Tj teaches and models a life in balance. As a Senior Case Manager for the Step-Down House and post-Grounds members, TJ works alongside members to create personal life plans, explore career, vocation, and educational goals, put life skills into practice and prepare for the realities of independent living.
Cody obtained his first sponsorship for competitive surfing when he was 14 years old. After attending Mesa College, studying sports medicine and playing water polo, he traveled the world as a sponsored surfer. He’s surfed all over the world, including Hawaii, Mexico, Fiji and Australia. Once back in the states, he began a career in the treatment field working as a master guide for Aspiro Adventure Outdoor Therapy where he earned certifications in Wilderness First Responder, Motivational Interviewing and Self-Determination Theory. Cody worked with adolescents and young adults with a wide spectrum of behavioral and mental health issues such as drug and alcohol abuse, negative family relationships, Spectrum disorders, depression and self-harm. His biggest impact at The Grounds is helping members learn the basic skill of independent living as well as leading positive recreational activities like surfing, hiking and fishing.
Originally from Newfoundland, Canada, Mark comes to The Grounds with important life experience. Combining his educational experiences at Kennesaw State University, personal recovery journey and real-world work experience, Mark brings a perspective to Grounds members that they can relate to and connect with. Mark uses these experiences to guide and inform his Case Management responsibilities and support members in organizing and balancing their own goals, dreams, and responsibilities. On the golf course, on a surfboard or while strumming a guitar, Mark teaches the lessons of recovery and life balance.
Who can join The Grounds program?
The program is open to young men aged 18-30 who are ready to move forward in their recovery.
Why do you call residents of The Grounds, ‘members?’
When young men join our program they become members of a small community. There is a group support/brotherhood aspect, where they hold each other up and hold each other accountable. It’s more like a family than a facility, a home rather than a halfway house.
How long is the program?
The Grounds program is designed to be 6 months in length which includes 90 days in our Main House and 90 days in the Step Down House. Periodically, a member needs or wants additional time to get a little stronger or to coordinate with his independent living plans, we can usually accommodate this.
How much supervision do you provide?
At the Main House, we have staff on site 24/7 and many structured and required participation activities. After an initial orientation phase (approximately 7 days), members unsupervised time increases as they gain employment, show responsibility with program requirements and during free time blocks, work and other pursuits. At the Step Down House, we have a live-in house manager for check-ins and house meetings. All members (at both houses) have contact information for program administration in case of emergencies. Program participation requirements are significantly less for Step Down members as their programming shifts to self-directed and independent living but they are always welcomed and encouraged to participate in Main House activities as their schedule allows.
Does The Grounds drug test their members?
Maintaining a sober environment and accountability is critical to our work. The Grounds uses both urinalysis and breathalyzers weekly (more if necessary) to test all members for substance use.
What about transportation?
Transportation to programmatic activities is provided while at the Main House. Many members learn to use public transportation, skateboard, bike or walk to their jobs and other free time activities. At the Step Down House, members are permitted to have their own vehicles.
How are clinical services provided?
We require all members to participate in clinical services. All services are provided off-site with local professionals who we have long standing relationships and understand our mission. Licensed and credentialed clinicians offer a variety of services that can be matched to best support each member’s individual needs. Typical weekly services include; individual, family, group and equine therapy, psychiatric oversight and medication management. While Clinicians are independent from The Grounds, they are active and integral members of the treatment team. Clinicians participate and offer guidance with program planning, crisis intervention and family integration. As independent practitioners, members can continue receiving clinical services after their time at The Grounds.
Why is there a community service component to The Grounds?
We believe that service is a cornerstone to healthy living so we work alongside and contribute to numerous worthy, local organizations. Stepping outside of themselves, members gain new perspectives on their own life. Often times our members find community service a way of making amends to the larger community and maintaining the humility necessary for a sober and purposeful life.
What about educational pursuits?
Many of our members have had negative experiences relating to their education. Past failures, expulsions, substance use triggers and undiagnosed or unsupported learning issues are common. When members transition to the Step Down House we encourage them to develop an educational plan that supports their future goals to help re-write this part of their story. San Diego offers a variety of post-secondary options and resources including adult schools for high school completion, Junior colleges, vocational training courses and world renown Universities. Oftentimes, we encourage our members to engage educational consultants, tutoring organizations or other educational resources to make sure that they find the right fit for their needs.
Do Grounds members have to have prior work experience?
No, but work and employment is a primary component of our curriculum. We want members to experience the satisfaction of knowing they can support themselves. We’ll help you prepare by building a resume, performing mock interviews, and guiding you to seek employment that matches your skills, experience and interests.
Is there support after leaving the Grounds?
The main goal while in the Step Down House is creating a post-Grounds plan that fits your needs. We’ll help you pull the pieces together so that when you leave The Grounds you have a solid plan for your future that includes a budget, living arrangements and relapse prevention plan.
When do I get my phone, laptop and other electronics?
When members progress to Phase 1 from orientation (typically 7 days) they are eligible to have their phones, laptops and other electronics. In the Orientation Phase, we want members to be focused on acclimating to the new environment and getting to know staff and other members. The easiest way to do this is to minimize the distractions as much as possible. Many of our members have struggled with electronic over use and addiction. If warranted, we’ll ask members or parents to monitor or restrict usage temporarily if other responsibilities are goals are being neglected.
Can I smoke at The Grounds?
The Grounds has a designated, outdoor smoking area at both houses. There is no smoking or tobacco product of any kind allowed inside the houses. The State of California has mandated the legal smoking age at 21.
Do you allow members to be on medication?
Yes, under the supervision of a licensed physician. Most of our members transition to our local psychiatrist for on-going medication management. Medications that can be considered addictive or create dependency such as long-term stimulants medications often prescribed for ADHD and many opioid treatment medications such as Sub Oxone are not permitted.
