Behavioral Health Services is a not-for-profit community-based healthcare organization providing substance abuse, mental health, drug-free transitional living, older adult services, HIV/AIDS education and prevention, and other related health service to the residents of Southern California.
BHS' mission is to transform lives by offering hope and opportunities for recovery, wellness, and independence.
Since 1973, BHS has provided inpatient detoxification and residential and outpatient treatment services to substance abusers. Over the past thirty-four years BHS expanded services to meet the comprehensive needs of its clients, and now provides services from 11 sites located throughout Los Angeles County. These sites include two free-standing chemical dependency recovery centers with medical detoxification and residential/outpatient treatment, two residential treatment facilities, seven outpatient facilities, and two transitional living facilities. The BHS continuum of care includes four community assessment center sites, prevention programs for adolescents and older adults; geriatric case management and home care services for frail elderly and disabled adults.
BHS substance abuse programs are licensed and/or certified by the California Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs and accredited by CARF the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities.
For more information on our services please call (310) 679-9126.
'They were the best of times; they were the worst of times'. The holidays
really are the best of times in that they remind us to be thank-full for
what we have and where we are. They are a time for families to get together,
celebrate and remember that the most valuable thing we have is each other.
They are the best of times because we celebrate a huge variety of religious
occasions reminding us that there ought to be peace on earth and goodwill to
all. All of these prepare us for the coming of a New Year when we can 'start
afresh', make resolutions and begin another birthday cycle!
These are also difficult times of financial uncertainty which can create
tension on so many different levels that perhaps it feels like the worst of
times. Like all of your individual families, BHS has been a victim of these
tumultuous times. We are living without clear and final budget cuts from the
State and from the County. We know that we have to make adjustments and just
when we complete one round, we are told we need to make more or different
choices. People are scared, what about my job, will I be cut, will my program
be down sized?
How do we navigate all of this? Well, I hope that you know that we here at
the Home Office are doing EVERYTHING we can to keep BHS from having to
either cut staff or decrease our very necessary services. We are looking for
different funding sources and opportunities, we continue to make a clear
stand and will not cut benefits, we are looking for creative ideas from
people on all levels-from line staff to executive management. Together, as a
family with a tradition of caring, we will make it through these uncertain
time. We have before.
One of the strengths that we have at BHS is that we have top to bottom staff
who know what hard times are. We are creative, enduring, enterprising and
resourceful. Now is the time for us to use our strengths! As I have spoken
to staff around the agency, we all agree that sometimes during the hardest
times, when there were few dollars for toys we remembered and found the real
treasure of the Season, each other.
May God bless you, your family and loved ones, BHS and the people we serve.
Have a safe, happy and blessed holiday season.
Henry van Oudheusden MA, MSW
President/CEO
Behavioral Health Services Inc
In the early 1970’s a group of dedicated volunteers recognized the need to investigate the use of drugs and alcohol among adolescents. This work culminated in the incorporation of the Centinela Valley Drug Abuse Coalition in 1973, and the opening of our first outpatient substance abuse treatment facility in Inglewood, California. As we continued to grow, adding new services and opening in additional locations throughout Los Angeles County, we recognized that we were addressing far more than drugs and alcohol in our work; we changed our name to Behavioral Health Services, Inc. in 1975 to reflect the broader range of our work.
Since our inception we have grown to 14 locations throughout Los Angeles County providing an array of substance abuse, mental health, and other behavioral intervention services, with programs designed to serve women, parents and their children, adolescents, older adults, individuals affected by HIV and AIDS, individuals involved with the criminal justice system, and the homeless.
Click here for a detailed history of BHS
The mission of BHS is to transform lives by offering hope and opportunities for recovery, wellness and independence
We envision a comprehensive system of human services available and affordable to all through our model programs and a coalition of community partners
BHS substance abuse treatment programs maintain that addiction is a chronic relapsing disease. Therefore, recovery, living a clean, sober, and abstinent life, is a lifelong commitment. We define substance abuse as the continued use of mind-altering chemicals, including alcohol, despite negative consequences in any area of a person’s life. Addiction is a chronic disease for which there is no cure, but it can be arrested. In an arrested state, the substance abuser always faces the possibility of relapse. This is the basis of our commitment toward total abstinence and continued self-help support for the substance abuser or addict. Our overall goal is to provide treatment programs that will introduce recovery and aid individuals in achieving their best possible quality of life.
Recovery is the responsibility of the substance abuser. The treatment offered presents culturally relevant tools for maintaining and living a satisfying and productive life through education, individual and group counseling, employment skills training and job search, supportive leisure activities and Twelve Step program participation. As social beings, we recognize the effects substance abuse has on the family and significant others of the substance abuser. Our programs seek to involve the families and significant others of the substance abuser. We recognize that the involvement of the family or significant other can frequently improve the person’s success in treatment.
Compassion
Diversity
Dedication
Integrity
The Community Assessment Services Centers (CASC) are responsible for providing substance abuse and mental health assessments and referrals for DPSS' General Relief, CalWORKs Recipients, Proposition 36, and walk-in participants.
Services include:
*Initial screening: in person and by phone
* Provision of referrals to substance abuse and mental health
providers
* Maintenance of collaborative linkages with public or private and
other social, health, legal & vocational service providers
*Specialized HIV/AIDS services to include assessment, referral,
placement and follow-up
* The scheduling and coordinating of on-site supportive services
orientations to CalWORKs applicants at DPSS and GAIN regional offices
*Provision of ancillary referrals to individuals with substance
abuse and/or mental health problems, to include but not limited to
12-Step programs, support groups, vocational, public social services,
emergency housing, health, legal and food.
CASC Locations
BHS/CASC- Gardena
310-973-2272
BHS/CASC- Redgate
562-218-8387
BHS/CASC- Hollywood
323-461-3161
BHS/CASC- Inglewood
310-673-5750
BHS/CASC- Boyle Heights
323-262-1786
BHS/CASC- Wilmington
310-549-2710
Older adults use more drugs than any other age group and are at high risk for drug related problems. This unique health education program teaches older adults about the dangers of prescription and over-the-counter drug misuse in a four session series, entitled Take Charge of Your Health, presented at senior centers, retirement housing facilities, churches and other locations in Southern California. Additional health promotion classes are also presented at eligible sites.
For service providers who work with the older adults, the program
presents in-service training sessions and conferences to promote
increased awareness and encourage the development of prevention and
intervention strategies suitable for older clients.
The Medicine Education Program is accredited by CARF...The Rehabilitation Accreditation Commission.Classes and Training
TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR HEALTH: : Is a series of four 1-1/2 hour classes offered at senior centers, retirement housing facilities, churches, nutrition sites and other locations where older adults gather. The series is designed to impart information and skills to reduce the risk of alcohol and medication-related problems in adults 55+ throughout the South Bay and Westside areas of Los Angeles County. The four sessions are:
* Medicines: Friend or Foe: The dangers of medicine misuse
* Using Medicines Wisely: Critical drug information and reading labels
* Take Charge of Your Medicines: Preventing common errors
* Talking To Your Doctor: Making the most of limited time
BE HEALTH WISE: Once a site has completed the TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR HEALTH series, they are eligible to receive additional classes on health promotion topics of interest to older adults such as:
* Memory Enhancement
* Getting a Good Night's Sleep
* Dealing with Stress
* Osteoporosis
* Self Massage
TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR HEALTH CURRICULUM GUIDE
Our award-winning curriculum is now packaged to allow organizations to replicate the program. Includes information on how to schedule and conduct a series and camera-ready handouts. Click here to dowload more detailed descriptions (adobe format). Call for pricing.
MEP HEALTH WISE NEWSLETTER
Offered free to participants in our Take Charge of Your Health series, this quarterly newsletter offers important information on medicines and health topics of interest to older readers. Also available by annual subscription.
PASSPORT TO GOOD HEALTH
A pocket-sized personal health and medicine record, useful at doctor's offices, pharmacies and in case of emergency. Available in English or Spanish (Pasaporte a la Buena Salud). Available free to Take Charge of Your Health participants or through individual or bulk sales.
HEALTH PROMOTION CURRICULUM PACKAGES
Detailed content outlines plus camera-ready handouts are available on many health topics for older adults. Please click here for full listings of additional classes available (in adobe format). Call for more information.
BHS/Medicine Education ProgramThe Promotores de Salud Project is accredited by CARF...The Rehabilitation Accreditation Commission.
Based on a model whereby Latino adult volunteers are trained to work in their neighborhoods as lay health promoters ("Promotores de Salud" in Spanish), the Promotores de Salud para Nuestra Tercera Edad project seeks to overcome barriers Latino seniors face in accessing health services. The trained "promotores" provide counseling and health education in disease prevention and medication management and conduct basic screenings for high blood pressure and diabetes, make referrals to culturally appropriate local health resources, and make their communities, in general, more aware of the important role of prevention and healthy lifestyles in successful aging. Our goal is to prevent and reduce risk factors and complications for the chronic diseases that plague Latino older adults, including heart disease, diabetes and hypertension.
BHS/Promotores de Salud ProjectSouth Bay Senior Services links frail older and disabled adults and caregivers in the South Bay with services to help maintain independence and improve quality of life. Call for more information on services and eligibility.
CARE MANAGEMENT SERVICES
Home Based Needs Assessment Linkages and referrals to community resources Ongoing follow up and monitoring
HOME CARE REGISTRY
Pre-screened, qualified home care worker referrals Affordable workers provide light housekeeping, meal preparation, and personal care services You, the client, decide who to interview and hire Ongoing follow up and monitoring to ensure quality
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Telephone reassurance to homebound seniors, clerical, and office work
BHS/South Bay Senior ServicesBHS offers extended residential (client lives at the treatment location for the duration of treatment) services for men, women and their children up to the age of 10 years at four sites across Los Angeles County. Realizing that recovery is a life-long process, long-term residential services stress a completely drug/alcohol-free lifestyle, physical and spiritual recovery, employment readiness skills, parenting and social skills. Methods of care range from individual counseling, to group counseling, employment-seeking skills training, 12-step self help groups, varied sober social experiences and recreational therapy. BHS staff provides services to indigent clients, women and children, HIV+ patients and those who also have a mental illness in addition to their drug/alcohol addiction.
BHS treatment programs emphasize group interventions as the preferred mode of service. However, we realize there will be clients who are unable or unwilling to participate in a group setting. Clients who are unwilling or unable to participate during group will be seen by a counselor individually.
The residential centers employ professional and para-professional staff trained to screen, assess, and treat various chemical dependencies. Regular team meetings facilitate team interaction. BHS provides medical direction and clinical supervision on a continuous basis.
Residential treatment centers maintain paid staff coverage 24 hours per day seven days a week. At least one person is awake and on duty at all times. On-duty staff will include at least one person certified in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and First Aid.
BHS has two "free standing" chemical dependency recovery hospitals, both are licensed by the State of California Department of Health Services, certified by the State of California Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs, and accredited by CARF... The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. These programs provide detoxification and residential services.
American Recovery Center and Redgate Memorial Recovery Center provide innovative and effective treatment to individuals and families suffering from the severe disabling disease of chemical dependency. We also provide services for clients with HIV/AIDS, mental illness, and pregnant women.
American Recovery Center also offers outpatient treatment (including services for individuals covered under CalWORKs) and is a Drug Court provider.
Men and women 18 years of age and older are eligible for services. Individuals must be capable of self-care. Evaluation and admissions are available seven (7) days a week.
American Recovery Center also accepts men and women with dependent children. Please contact them directly for eligibility requirements.
Family programs, aftercare and alumni services, referrals to community services, inpatient detoxification for alcohol and other drugs, introduction to self-help groups, including AA, CA, NA and Al-Anon, trained counselors, nurses, and aftercare staff, individually tailored recovery programs, free confidential assessments, community speaking programs.
BHS operates two additional residential facilities focusing on alcohol and other drug rehabilitation services. We also provide services for clients with HIV/AIDS, mental illness, pregnant and postpartum women. Programs include short and long term residential services. Both residential programs are licensed and certified by the State of California Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs, and accredited by CARF...The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities.
American Recovery Center (ARC) is a free-standing Chemical Dependency Recovery Hospital licensed and certified by the State of California, and is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. ARC provides a comprehensive system of care, including detoxification from alcohol and other drugs, residential and outpatient treatment.
Our treatment is based on the disease concept of chemical dependency. Our goals are for individuals to return to society as productive members, maintain their abstinence, and actively participate in recovery support systems.
Special services are available for CalWORKS participants, Drug Court, Proposition 36, CARE, persons with HIV/AIDS, and persons with co-occurring mental health disorders. We provide the following services:
Pacifica House is a residential drug and alcohol treatment program licensed and certified by the State of California, and accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. Pacifica House provides a comprehensive system of care, including long and short term residential treatment.
Our treatment is based on the disease concept of chemical dependency. Our goals are for people to return to society as productive members, maintain their abstinence, and actively participate in recovery support systems.
Special services are available for Proposition 36 participants, persons with HIV/AIDS, and persons with co-occurring mental health disorders.
We provide the following services:
BHS/Patterns offers gender specific treatment services to women and women with dependent children in a safe and structured residential environment. Women with dependent children (up to age 10) can enter into the program as a family unit. Treatment starts at the initial assessment when participants and their counselor identify treatment needs and select their individualized course of treatment. Participants receive individual counseling and specialty groups that include trauma, parenting, domestic violence, health and wellness, 12-step, relapse prevention, empowerment, family and job preparedness.
BHS/Patterns works with many social service and correctional agencies assisting participants to address legal issues and allowing families to reunite while a women is in treatment. Individuals with co-occurring disorders, such as mental health and physical health, are also supported to identify and address related issues that may lead to relapse.
Through a network of community partners, individuals are supported to obtain employment, or enroll in school or vocational classes prior to discharge. Housing is also addressed for participants in need of stable living arrangements after treatment.
Recovery is a life-long process which is oftentimes successful when beginning in a safe and supportive environment. While receiving treatment at BHS/Patterns, women develop a sense of responsibility for themselves, their children and families while preparing for a successful transition to a clean and sober lifestyle in the community.
Redgate Memorial Recovery Center is a free-standing Chemical Dependency Recovery Hospital licensed and certified by the State of California, and is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. Redgate provides a comprehensive system of care, including detoxification from alcohol and other drugs, and residential treatment.
Our treatment is based on the disease concept of chemical dependency. Our goals are for individuals to return to society as productive members, maintain their abstinence, and actively participate in recovery support systems.
Special services are available for Proposition 36 participants, persons with HIV/AIDS, and persons with co-occurring mental health disorders.
We provide the following services:
BHS provides outpatient substance abuse treatment and mental health services to adolescents age 12 to 18. Adolescent treatment services include assessment, treatment planning, alcohol and other drug education, group, individual and family counseling and social/recreational activities. Program activities are provided after school hours and on Saturdays. The adolescent substance abuse treatment services are geared toward both adolescents identified as high risk for substance abuse and adolescents who have already developed patterns of abuse or addiction. Mental health services are provided for adolescents with co-occurring substance abuse and for adolescents eligible for Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT) under the California Medi-Cal program.
The Treatment Team
The treatment team works in collaboration with teachers, school counselors, probation authorities, and an array of local service providers. The treatment team, in a case management function, either directly provides or arranges for the provision of screening and assessment, outpatient, self-help and advocacy, relapse prevention, and education regarding alcohol and other drugs. Based on the services being provided, the treatment team may include, peer counselors, certified substance abuse counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT), Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) or Psychiatrists. BHS also employs MFT and LCSW interns working under clinical supervision.
Outpatient Services
Adolescents in California may admit themselves to drug abuse treatment or mental health services at the age of 12 without their parents consent. It is the position of BHS that family involvement is critical in the success of adolescents in treatment. Every attempt will be made to educate the adolescent to this fact and obtain the client’s authorization to involve their parents in the treatment plan.
Assessment
An assessment is conducted for each adolescent. In addition to the standard assessment, the adolescent assessment includes:
Background Checks
All staff in adolescent treatment programs have a criminal background check. The Chief Human Resources Officer will review the results of the criminal background check. Persons with a history of criminal convictions identified by the Department of Probation will be prohibited from employment in any program serving children or adolescents.
Lincoln Heights is a unique and innovative program specifically developed to offer an integrated and individualized approach to mental health and substance abuse disorders. We provide a comprehensive program of education, counseling, and intensive treatment for the most emotionally disturbed adolescents. Intensive services include psychotherapy and/or more frequent counseling visits with chemical dependency counselors. All services are directed at promoting lifestyle changes and restoration of maximal functioning.
Individuals are presented with knowledge and skills necessary for their recovery. Family and significant others are also provided with information and guidance to understand and support continued recovery. Services are available in the Spanish language.
Mental Health Services are also open to any adolescent experiencing some of the following issues: extreme mood swings, excessive anger/aggression, constant sadness and worry, exposure to trauma, poor grades, difficulties learning, isolating and having trouble getting along with family and friends.
We offer the following services:
Hollywood Family Recovery Center is a unique and innovation program specifically developed to offer and integrated approach to mental health and substance abuse disorders. Hollywood is certified by the State of California, and accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. We provide a comprehensive program of education, counseling and support services directed to promote lifestyle change, and restoration maximal functioning.
Individuals are presented the knowledge and skills necessary for their recovery. Family and significant others are provided information and guidance to unde3rstand and support continued recovery. Services are available in the Spanish language.
We offer the following services:
The primary purpose of the detoxification program is to prevent the pain, discomfort, and potential medical and psychiatric problems that can result from stopping the use of alcohol or drugs to which an individual is addicted. However, detoxification alone is usually of only temporary benefit in reducing drug abuse and its associated behaviors. For this reason, the detoxification program will also address the concepts of treatment as related to continued recovery, introduce the client to the self-help group network, and focus on discharge planning and aftercare to facilitate entry of the client into ongoing treatment. Detoxification of the addicted individual is an important step toward long-term treatment, not as the end point of treatment.
The inter-disciplinary team approach provides both a medically supervised detoxification, and competent and effective counseling which attempt to identify and address the complex underlying social and psychological factors that often cause individuals to relapse to the use of drugs or alcohol.
The initial period of detoxification is focused on completing the assessments of the client, and medically managing the drug withdrawal. The new client is expected to attend an orientation group and may attend the remaining groups offered, if he or she is able to function somewhat normally.
American Recovery Center (ARC) is a free-standing Chemical Dependency Recovery Hospital licensed and certified by the State of California, and is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. ARC provides a comprehensive system of care, including detoxification from alcohol and other drugs, residential and outpatient treatment.
Our treatment is based on the disease concept of chemical dependency. Our goals are for individuals to return to society as productive members, maintain their abstinence, and actively participate in recovery support systems.
Special services are available for CalWORKS participants, Drug Court, Proposition 36, CARE, persons with HIV/AIDS, and persons with co-occurring mental health disorders. We provide the following services:
Redgate Memorial Recovery Center is a free-standing Chemical Dependency Recovery Hospital licensed and certified by the State of California, and is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. Redgate provides a comprehensive system of care, including detoxification from alcohol and other drugs, and residential treatment.
Our treatment is based on the disease concept of chemical dependency. Our goals are for individuals to return to society as productive members, maintain their abstinence, and actively participate in recovery support systems.
Special services are available for Proposition 36 participants, persons with HIV/AIDS, and persons with co-occurring mental health disorders.
We provide the following services:
BHS mental health programs provide case management, medication management and mental health services in an outpatient setting. Services are provided under contract with the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health to Medi-Cal eligible adolescents and adults. Services are geared toward the promotion of optimal levels of behavioral and emotional functioning in safe, stable environments, and preparation of clients for more effective functioning in the community. Interventions available include thorough assessment by qualified staff, focused treatment in individual, family and group counseling, and collaboration with other community-based providers.
Mental Health Services are those individual and group therapies and education designed to provide improvement or maintenance of functioning consistent with the goals of learning, development, independent living and enhanced self-sufficiency. Service activities may include, but are not limited to, assessment, plan development, therapy, rehabilitation and collateral. Service activities include:
Therapy is a service activity that is a psychotherapeutic intervention focusing primarily on symptom reduction as a means to improve functioning. This service activity may be delivered to an individual client or group of clients and may include family therapy.
Individual therapy is a mental health service activity that is delivered to, or on behalf of one consumer. Family members and other people holding a significant relationship to the client may be present.
Group therapy is a face-to-face mental health service activity delivered to more than one client at the same time. This service is always face-to-face.
Medication Support Services are those services that include prescribing, administrating, dispensing and monitoring of psychiatric medications that are necessary to alleviate the symptoms of mental illness. The services may include evaluation of the need for medication, evaluation of clinical effectiveness and side effects, medication education and plan development related to the delivery of service and/or assessment of the client.
Examples of activities under this service include: coordinating services provided by other local agencies; establishing linkages with other local agencies; providing consultation and education; providing case management services to clients and their families when there is no open case with another local agency who is helping to plan services.
Hollywood Family Recovery Center is a unique and innovation program specifically developed to offer and integrated approach to mental health and substance abuse disorders. Hollywood is certified by the State of California, and accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. We provide a comprehensive program of education, counseling and support services directed to promote lifestyle change, and restoration maximal functioning.
Individuals are presented the knowledge and skills necessary for their recovery. Family and significant others are provided information and guidance to unde3rstand and support continued recovery. Services are available in the Spanish language.
We offer the following services:
Lincoln Heights is a unique and innovative program specifically developed to offer an integrated and individualized approach to mental health and substance abuse disorders. We provide a comprehensive program of education, counseling, and intensive treatment for the most emotionally disturbed adolescents. Intensive services include psychotherapy and/or more frequent counseling visits with chemical dependency counselors. All services are directed at promoting lifestyle changes and restoration of maximal functioning.
Individuals are presented with knowledge and skills necessary for their recovery. Family and significant others are also provided with information and guidance to understand and support continued recovery. Services are available in the Spanish language.
Mental Health Services are also open to any adolescent experiencing some of the following issues: extreme mood swings, excessive anger/aggression, constant sadness and worry, exposure to trauma, poor grades, difficulties learning, isolating and having trouble getting along with family and friends.
We offer the following services:
Pacifica House is a residential drug and alcohol treatment program licensed and certified by the State of California, and accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. Pacifica House provides a comprehensive system of care, including long and short term residential treatment.
Our treatment is based on the disease concept of chemical dependency. Our goals are for people to return to society as productive members, maintain their abstinence, and actively participate in recovery support systems.
Special services are available for Proposition 36 participants, persons with HIV/AIDS, and persons with co-occurring mental health disorders.
We provide the following services:
Redgate Memorial Recovery Center is a free-standing Chemical Dependency Recovery Hospital licensed and certified by the State of California, and is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. Redgate provides a comprehensive system of care, including detoxification from alcohol and other drugs, and residential treatment.
Our treatment is based on the disease concept of chemical dependency. Our goals are for individuals to return to society as productive members, maintain their abstinence, and actively participate in recovery support systems.
Special services are available for Proposition 36 participants, persons with HIV/AIDS, and persons with co-occurring mental health disorders.
We provide the following services:
Monday – Friday – 8:30 a.m. 8:30 p.m., Saturday - 7:00a.m. 3:30 p.m.
South Bay Family Recovery Center, located at 15519 Crenshaw Boulevard, in the city of Gardena, is one of the eight BHS outpatient treatment program located in and around the Los Angeles area. All BHS outpatient programs are certified to operate in the state of California.
Although BHS’s corporate office and other BHS services are located at the South Bay Site, The outpatient program is the only provider of treatment and other ancillary supportive services to SPA 8 and SPA 6 from this site.
South Bay Outpatient Program accepts adult men and women. Pregnant women are also accepted. Participants must be detoxified and capable of self care.
We offer the following services:
SBOP provides meeting space for recovery support groups such as Narcotic Anonymous.
SBOP collaborates with the local Lion’s Club, which we annually participated with in by co-operating a fireworks booth as a fundraising activity.
SBOP has collaborated with the RAND corporation in research studies; which according to early data, has proved to be supportive of the participant’s recovery efforts.
SBOP has annually been a participant in the Al-olimpics.
South Bay Family Recovery center is a culturally diverse facility, with counseling staff dedicated to providing service to its host community. Dedicated in doing so with compassion, dedication and integrity.
BHS offers non-residential (outpatient) treatment at eight locations throughout Los Angeles County. The California Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs certify all programs. Services include screening and assessment; drug-free counseling; random drug/alcohol testing; parenting education; domestic violence programs; anger management; and detoxification referrals. Treatment methods involve group counseling, educational services, individual counseling, HIV education, and referrals to other community-based services after discharge.
Adult and adolescent programs, assessments, information and referrals, health awareness and physical exams, family counseling, parenting classes, Proposition 36, DUI and PC 1000 groups, anger management groups, Domestic Violence groups, individual, group and family counseling. Specialized groups for men and women, introduction to 12-step programs, HIV/AIDS and drug education, and drug testing. Accessible to the handicapped, Bilingual (English-Spanish), gay/lesbian sensitive, culturally competent.
Boyle Heights is a community based program committed to the recovery of alcoholism, addition and related problems. Boyle Heights is certified by the State of California, and accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. We provide a comprehensive program of education, counseling and support services directed to promote lifestyle change. We provide services for CalWorks and CARE participants. Services are available in English and Spanish.
Based on a 12-step philosophy, individuals are presented the knowledge and skills necessary for their recovery, while their family and significant others are given information and guidance to understand and support their continued recovery.
We offer the following services:
East Los Angeles Recovery Center is a community based outpatient treatment program committed to the recovery of alcoholism, addiction and related problems. East Los Angeles is certified by the State of California, and accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. We proved a comprehensive program of education, counseling and support services directed to promote lifestyle change. Services are available in English and Spanish.
Based on a 12-step philosophy, individuals are presented the knowledge and skills necessary for their recovery, while family and significant others are give information and guidance to understand and support their continued recovery.
Proposition 36 allows first and second time, non-violent, simple drug possession offenders the opportunity to receive substance abuse treatment instead of incarceration.
We offer the following services:
Hollywood Family Recovery Center is a unique and innovation program specifically developed to offer and integrated approach to mental health and substance abuse disorders. Hollywood is certified by the State of California, and accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. We provide a comprehensive program of education, counseling and support services directed to promote lifestyle change, and restoration maximal functioning.
Individuals are presented the knowledge and skills necessary for their recovery. Family and significant others are provided information and guidance to unde3rstand and support continued recovery. Services are available in the Spanish language.
We offer the following services:
Lincoln Heights is a unique and innovative program specifically developed to offer an integrated and individualized approach to mental health and substance abuse disorders. We provide a comprehensive program of education, counseling, and intensive treatment for the most emotionally disturbed adolescents. Intensive services include psychotherapy and/or more frequent counseling visits with chemical dependency counselors. All services are directed at promoting lifestyle changes and restoration of maximal functioning.
Individuals are presented with knowledge and skills necessary for their recovery. Family and significant others are also provided with information and guidance to understand and support continued recovery. Services are available in the Spanish language.
Mental Health Services are also open to any adolescent experiencing some of the following issues: extreme mood swings, excessive anger/aggression, constant sadness and worry, exposure to trauma, poor grades, difficulties learning, isolating and having trouble getting along with family and friends.
We offer the following services:
Monday – Friday – 8:30 a.m. 8:30 p.m., Saturday - 7:00a.m. 3:30 p.m.
South Bay Family Recovery Center, located at 15519 Crenshaw Boulevard, in the city of Gardena, is one of the eight BHS outpatient treatment program located in and around the Los Angeles area. All BHS outpatient programs are certified to operate in the state of California.
Although BHS’s corporate office and other BHS services are located at the South Bay Site, The outpatient program is the only provider of treatment and other ancillary supportive services to SPA 8 and SPA 6 from this site.
South Bay Outpatient Program accepts adult men and women. Pregnant women are also accepted. Participants must be detoxified and capable of self care.
We offer the following services:
SBOP provides meeting space for recovery support groups such as Narcotic Anonymous.
SBOP collaborates with the local Lion’s Club, which we annually participated with in by co-operating a fireworks booth as a fundraising activity.
SBOP has collaborated with the RAND corporation in research studies; which according to early data, has proved to be supportive of the participant’s recovery efforts.
SBOP has annually been a participant in the Al-olimpics.
South Bay Family Recovery center is a culturally diverse facility, with counseling staff dedicated to providing service to its host community. Dedicated in doing so with compassion, dedication and integrity.
Wilmington Community Recovery Center is a community based program committed to the recovery of alcoholism, addition and related problems, and is certified by the State of California, and accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. Wilmington provides a comprehensive program of education, counseling and support services directed to promote lifestyle change. We also provide service for Proposition 36 and CARE participants. Services are available in the Spanish language.
Based on a 12-step philosophy, individuals are presented the knowledge and skills necessary for their recovery, while family and significant others are given information and guidance to understand and support their continued recovery.
We offer the following services:
Drug Abuse and Addiction
Signs, Symptoms, Effects and what you can do
Excerpted from (http://www.helpguide.org/mental/drug_substance_abuse_addiction_signs_effects_treatment.htm) with permission. Copyright Helpguide.org. All rights reserved
You might be wondering why on earth your loved seems to be choosing drugs over family. You might be struggling with finances, or even from the painful realization your loved one is in trouble with the law. Or you might be asking yourself why you are taking drugs again, when you swore just a few hours ago that you needed to cut down.
Drug abuse is not a matter of moral weakness or faulty willpower. It is a vicious cycle that actually causes changes in the brain, leading to stronger and stronger impulses to use. Without help, drug abuse destroys families and takes lives. But there is hope. Find out how to recognize the signs and symptoms of drug abuse or addiction in someone you care about or yourself. With the right support and treatment, the road to recovery is possible.
Drug abuse, also known as substance abuse, involves the repeated and excessive use of chemical substances to achieve a certain effect. These substances may be “street” or “illicit” drugs, illegal due to their high potential for addiction and abuse. They also may be drugs obtained with a prescription, used for pleasure rather than for medical reasons.
Different drugs have different effects. Some, such as cocaine or methamphetamine, may produce an intense “rush” and initial feelings of boundless energy. Others, such as heroin, benzodiazepines or the prescription oxycontin, may produce excessive feelings of relaxation and calm. What most drugs have in common, though, is overstimulation of the pleasure center of the brain. With time, the brain’s chemistry is actually altered to the point where not having the drug becomes extremely uncomfortable and even painful. This compelling urge to use, addiction, becomes more and more powerful, disrupting work, relationships, and health.
Prescription drug abuse is just as dangerous as street drug use. When used appropriately, prescription drugs can have beneficial effects medically or psychologically. Prescription drugs in the opiate family, such as vicodin (hydrocodone) and oxycontin, are often prescribed for chronic pain or recovery from surgery. Benzodiazapines, such as valium or Xanax, are prescribed to treat anxiety. The problem arises when these drugs begin to be used ‘off label’. Furthermore, prescription drugs provide an easy access point to other family members susceptible to abuse.
While legal, both alcohol and nicotine can be highly addictive and have serious health effects.
What makes one person abuse drugs to the point of losing their home, their family and their job, while another does not? There is no one simple reason. Drug abuse and addiction is due to many factors. A powerful force in addiction is the inability to self- soothe or get relief from untreated mental or physical pain. Without the self-resilience and support to handle stress, loneliness or depression, drugs can be a tempting way to deal with the situation. Unfortunately, due to the changes drugs make to the brain, it can only take a few times or even one time to be on the road to addiction. Some other risk factors include:
Family history of addiction. While the interplay between genetics and environment is not entirely clear, if you have a family history of addiction, you are at higher risk for abusing drugs.
History of mental illness. Drug abuse can worsen mental illness or even create new symptoms. See dual diagnosis for more information on mental illness and drug abuse.
Untreated physical pain. Without medical supervision, pain medications or illegal drugs like heroin can rapidly become addictive.
Peer pressure. If people around you are doing drugs, it can be difficult to resist the pressure to try them, especially if you are a teenager.
Signs and symptoms of drug abuse and addiction
How can I tell if I or a loved one has a drug abuse or addiction problem?
Although different drugs may have different effects on overall physical and mental health, the basic pattern is the same. Getting and using the drug becomes more and more important than anything else, including job, friends and family. The physical and emotional consequences of drug abuse and addiction also make it difficult to function, often impairing judgment to a dangerous level.
Physical signs of abuse and addiction
Drug abuse affects the brain and body directly. While high, the drug affects the entire body, from blood pressure to heart rate. Stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine “amp up” the body, increasing blood pressure, metabolism and reducing the ability to sleep. Drugs like opiates and barbiturates slow down the body, reducing blood pressure, breathing and alertness sometimes to dangerous levels. Some physical signs of abuse and addiction include:
Tolerance and withdrawal
Most abused drugs are not only mentally addictive but physically addictive as well. Tolerance is built up to the drug. More and more of the drug is needed to achieve the desired effect. As the body physically adjusts to the drug, trying to cut down or stop is unpleasant or even painful. These withdrawal symptoms, depending on the drug, can include shakes, chills, severe aches and pains, difficulty sleeping, agitation, depression, and even hallucinations or psychosis. Avoiding withdrawal adds to the urgency of keeping up drug abuse and increases drug dependence.
Mental and emotional signs of abuse and addiction
Abuse and addiction also affect mood, as drugs are abused for the temporary good feelings they provide. These feelings can vary depending on the drug used. Some mental and emotional signs include:
Teenagers and drug abuse
It can sometimes be hard for parents to tell if their teenager has a drug problem. After all, teenagers are notorious for oversleeping, being argumentative and pushing boundaries, or wanting their own privacy and space. If you suspect your teen has a drug problem, look for marked changes in behavior, appearance and health. Is your teen suddenly having trouble in school? Does he/or she seem more and more isolated, or have a new group of friends? A teen with drug problems may spend a lot of time sleeping- or be keyed up or unable to sleep. Have you noticed that money or objects that could be sold for drugs seem to be disappearing? Do prescription drugs seem to be used up too quickly?
Effects of drug abuse and addiction
What makes drug addiction problems so challenging to face, as opposed to other mental or physical problems? Drug abuse affects the person’s life in many ways, including health, finances and stability. But it also affects the entire family, friends, colleagues-- and even the community. What’s more, the strong denial and rationalization of the person using drugs makes it extremely difficult to get help, and can make concerned family members feel like they are the problem.
Health, employment and crime
Those who abuse drugs have a greater risk for health problems down the road, from neglecting their own health to risk of infectious disease like hepatitis or HIV from sharing needles. Heavy drug use directly affects health as well, including lung disease, arthritis, heart problems, brain damage and death from overdose. Productivity at work often suffers, and eventually trouble keeping a job or even homelessness can occur. The urge to use is so powerful that criminal activity for money or more drugs can be a strong temptation.
Staying addicted: Denial and rationalization
One of the most powerful effects of drug abuse and addiction is denial. The urge to use is so strong that the mind finds many ways to rationalize drug use. Someone abusing drugs may drastically underestimate the quantity of drugs they are taking, how much it is costing them, and how much time it takes away from their family and work. They may lash out at concerned family members, making the family feel like they are exaggerating and overstating the problem. What makes this so frustrating for family members is the person abusing drugs often sincerely believes they do not have a problem, and can make the family member feel like the dysfunctional one.
This denial and rationalization can lead to increased problems with work, finances and relationships. The person abusing drugs may blame an “unfair boss’ for losing her job, or a ‘nagging wife’ for why he is increasingly going out with friends to get high. While work and relationship stresses happen to everyone, an overall pattern of deterioration and blaming others may be a sign of trouble.Drug abuse and the family
Sadly, drug abuse and addiction doesn’t only affect the person abusing drugs. It affects friends, family and the entire society. Child abuse and neglect is much more common when there is drug abuse in the family. The abuser may neglect a child’s basic needs in the quest for more drugs, or lack of impulse control can lead to increased physical and emotional abuse. Drug abuse by a pregnant woman affects the developing baby’s health. Domestic violence also happens more frequently. Abusing drugs leads to higher risk of injuries and death to self and others in car accidents.
Family stress
If you have someone you love abusing drugs, it is an enormous emotional strain. You might feel obligated to cover for the abuser, cutting back from work to deal with the abuser’s problems— or working more to make financial ends meet. You might not be able to see friends and engage in hobbies, as coping with the abuse takes more and more time. The shame of drug abuse in the family stops many family members from asking for help, instead pretending nothing is wrong. The emotional toll can be overwhelming. Children are especially sensitive.
When someone you love has a drug abuse or addiction problem
You may not immediately realize that someone you love has a drug problem. It may have started slowly, and your loved one might also have tried to hide the extent of the drug use from you. You might have gotten so used to the drug abuse that coping with it seems almost normal. Or the realization that there is something seriously wrong is almost too painful to admit. Don’t be ashamed, and you are not alone. Drug abuse affects millions of families, from every socioeconomic status, race and culture. There is help and support available.
What the person abusing drugs might say if you confront them about their usage
“I can get sober any time I want to. I’ve done it lots of times”. The key to recovery is staying sober, not constantly cycling through the process. Even if the person abusing drugs is able to resist for a little while, usually the cravings are too strong to resist during times of stress.
“Why do you exaggerate so much? I’m hardly using at all!” Remember denial is a key part of drug addiction. The person using drugs might actually believe they are not using as much as they are.
“It’s your fault. If you wouldn’t stress me out so much, maybe I wouldn’t need to use drugs as often” It is never your fault that someone is using drugs. Even if they are feeling stressed, there are other coping skills they can choose to use.Understanding what is involved in recovery
- You cannot force someone you love to stop abusing drugs. As much as you may want to, and as hard as it is seeing the effects of drug abuse, you cannot make someone stop using. The final choice is up to them. The right support can help you make positive choices for yourself, and balance encouraging your loved one to get help without losing yourself in the process.
- Don’t expect your loved one to be able to quit without support. Withdrawal symptoms can be unpleasant, painful, and even deadly. While medical input is always a good idea, if your loved one is addicted to benzodiazepines or is a heavy drinker, withdrawal can be dangerous and should be done under medical supervision.
- Recovery will be an ongoing process. Someone who abused drugs will not suddenly be a cured person once sober. Drug use may have been masking painful feelings that will bubble up to the surface. Many in recovery experience depressed moods for up to a year or more as their brain reestablishes from the drug abuse. Learning new coping skills to resist cravings, and how to apply them in stressful situations, is an ongoing process. Ongoing support is crucial to work through those issues.
Finding support
A good place to start looking for support is through local support groups. Listening to others with the same challenges can be a tremendous source of comfort and support. Al-Anon is a free peer support group for families coping with alcohol abuse. It may be a good place to begin as these groups are the most numerous, and frequently alcohol is abused with other drugs as well. Similar to Al-Anon, there are several support groups for families coping with specific drug abuse as well. These include Nar-Anon, for families coping with narcotic abuse, and Co-Anon, for families coping with cocaine abuse. Information about these groups can be found in Related Links below. Other sources of help and support include trusted friends, a therapist, or a pastor or rabbi.
Keeping your family safe
Dealing with a loved one’s drug abuse can be emotionally draining and exhausting. But when the family is threatened with immediate violence, it’s time for immediate action.
Drug abuse can lower inhibitions and increase the possibility of violence. Stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine can also trigger delusions, paranoia, and agitation, making the person especially dangerous to be around. Getting the drug may also become so important that activities like caring for a child fall by the wayside, increasing the chance of child neglect.Starting down the road to recovery
If you are abusing drugs, even admitting that you may have a problem is a huge step. It takes tremendous strength and courage to admit that you are having trouble. Much as you may want to, don’t try to quit alone. Recovery is possible with the right medical help and social support. Without the right support, it is very easy to rationalize just one more hit or pill, and withdrawal symptoms can test the strongest resolve. The road to sobriety is rewarding but challenging. If you take the time to build a support network and learn your triggers for using, you will greatly reduce the risk of relapse.
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