Staff

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 an East meets West approach works best to address both the cause and the symptom."

"Surf Side 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 come to explore the practical part of getting a life and living in our society on its terms as well as the spiritual aspects of treatment intervention that meet the unique demands for quality specialized care for each individual."

"I believe the human spirit is an essential and critical contributor to our health and our recovery; the basic model we work from has created a focus on the body and mind functioning like a garden that is alive and always growing. I use my personal experience in both addiction and recovery to plant seeds that grow into a better life of physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing - one that cultivates hope, purpose, meaning and personal responsibility. Our program has now become one that is truly about living."


Dr. Daniel Brockett, M.D. – 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 Surf Side Recovery." Dr. Daniel Brockett received his B.A. in Psychobiology with a minor in Chemistry in 1996 and obtained his M.D. in 2002. He began his medical career 13 years ago as an E.M.T. and has since worked in internal medicine, urgent care, occupational medicine and addiction medicine. He is also active in medical research and a member of the A.M.A, C.S.A.M. and A.P.A. "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 Surf Side 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 Surf Side, 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 Surf Side 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 Surf Side 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 Seller – Massage Therapist

"No other program that I have worked for can match Surf Side 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."



Krishna Jessick, C.A.T.C. – Program Director

"My mission is to gather an exceptional staff to make Surf Side 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."



Christa L. Olds, C.A.T.C. - Intake Counselor, Case Manager

"I am so proud to be part of an exceptional treatment team at Surf Side 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 Surf Side 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?"



Kathie Hoh , C.A.T.S. - Counselor

"I came to Surf Side Recovery because I enjoy observing the amazing client transformations that are made possible by our exciting, innovative treatments." Kathie, our "denial-busting" counselor, leads educational groups, meditation and guided imagery. She has been in the field of chemical dependency for 23 years, is a C.A.T. Specialist, is a member of C.A.A.D.E. and is a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. Kathie led the True Vine Ministry at Calvary Chapel of Capistrano Beach and is in the process of achieving her Christian Counseling certification and her N.L.P. certification. She has helped create several Christian programs throughout the United States and is the anchor of our Christian track. "I delight in helping clients begin trusting and co-creating their new life."



Tim Best, D.A.S.C. - Counselor

"I believe my higher power placed me at Surf Side 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 Surf Side 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."



Roger Alejos "Dream Bear - Counselor

"It is a privilege to work at Surf Side Recovery, where we provide shelter from the storm of life and focus on real issues of addiction - mind, body and spirit." Roger has been in the addiction field for over 8 years and is working on his Drug and Alcohol Counselor and Registered Addiction Specialists certifications. He speaks Spanish, Apache and English and received the "Herman Jensen Award for Outstanding Work with Youth". He has addressed family interactions with gang members and at-risk youth and is gifted at performing crisis intervention. He is active in the 12-step Native American tradition of recovery and works with sweat lodge leaders to better equip Native people to address true-life recovery issues. "I value the opportunity to see spirit restored around me every day."


Kona Larkin, D.O.G. - Unconditional Love Specialist

"It has been my experience that a little affection can go a long way here at Surf Side Recovery. Everybody could use a healing lick." Kona has been in recovery for 8 years and is Surf Side'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!"