From Our CARF Accreditation Survey Findings:

Venice Sanchez, MD, is a double board-certified physician, specializing in Psychiatry and Neurology as well as Addiction Medicine. She is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and the American Board of Addiction Medicine. Dr. Sanchez offers a holistic approach to patient care, integrating not only medication management and traditional medical treatments but also therapy, spirituality, healthy eating, exercise, and attention to social factors that impact well-being.

Dr. Sanchez earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Los Angeles, and her medical degree from Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. She completed her psychiatry residency at the University of California, Irvine, where she was honored with the Outstanding Resident of the Year Award in recognition of her dedication to education, patient care, and clinical work.

Her extensive training at multiple renowned facilities, under the guidance of experts in her field, has given her a broad and comprehensive skill set in treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions. Dr. Sanchez has worked at the Long Beach VA, various addiction rehabilitation centers, and San Diego detention facilities, gaining invaluable expertise in PTSD, substance abuse, and mood and thought disorders associated with substance use.

Due to her dedication and exceptional work in the field, Dr. Sanchez has been recognized as Women in Medicine Top Doctor 2024, as well as the Best of 2024 Newport Beach, Psychiatrist.

Dr. Scott has worked in the field of mental health and addiction treatment for 32 years. He has worked in a variety of mental health settings including licensed clinical work in a community hospital for 6 years, and 11 years on the North San Diego Drug Court team as a clinical therapist. His therapeutic approach tends toward discovering and strengthening one's clarity and insight with the objective of stabilization, balance, and centeredness, allowing the client to naturally move toward an increasingly loving life, creating joy in areas of relationship, finance, health, and community.

Nerice has been a therapist and healthcare professional for over 35 years. She specializes in dual diagnosis, grief and loss and relapse prevention. She has worked in a variety of settings as presenter, facilitator, individual and family counselor and spiritual consultant. This includes over one dozen in and outpatient recovery programs. In recovery herself, she has personally used, as well as taught, all traditional as well as current modalities, in particular cognitive behavioral tools for recovery.

Jon is a valued member of our clinical team, with years of experience in diverse treatment and recovery settings across all levels of care from detox and residential treatment to PHP/IOP, UR management, and managing men’s recovery centers. He specializes in working with adults afflicted with SUD, employing a direct, personalized and integrative counseling approach to meet each individual’s unique needs.

Jon's method combines humanistic, existential, and solution-focused techniques, emphasizing the development of self-esteem, internal motivation, self-efficacy, and personal agency. Through a strong therapeutic alliance, Jon supports individuals in increasing self-awareness, challenging limiting beliefs and maladaptive behaviors, identifying inner resources and motivations, developing meaning, and regaining control of their recovery and lives.

Jon holds a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from John F. Kennedy School of Psychology at National University. Outside of his professional life, Jon cherishes spending time with his family, surfing, traveling, and immersing himself in nature. He is dedicated to accompanying you on your recovery journey with compassion, understanding, honesty, and direct support.

Kathryn earned her Master’s of Education in Clinical Counseling from The Citadel in Charleston, SC and is a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. She considers it a privilege to work with individuals as they learn about addiction and begin their journey towards recovery. For over ten years Kathryn has utilized a variety of evidence based client centered approaches such as; Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, with a speciality in Experiential Therapy.

After starting his own journey into recovery, Nic realized he wanted to help others achieve sobriety. Having worked in the real estate industry, Nic is no stranger to fast-paced, ever-changing environments. Additionally, having been embroiled in the culture he helps others escape, he is uniquely positioned to understand the struggles and obstacles faced by those seeking sobriety. Nic is currently on his way to becoming a certified drug and alcohol counselor. With both anecdotal and professional experience, Nic uses his abilities to help others along the way to recovery.

Anthy holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Psychology from University of California, San Diego. After graduating in 2022, Anthy explored her interest in working within mental health related settings and decided on substance use treatment.

Despite being new to the realm of addiction and recovery, Anthy was motivated to challenge her perspective and gain hands-on practice while at Present Moments Recovery. Anthy gained proficient knowledge and skills to support individuals undergoing detox stabilization.

Anthy also became involved in administrative tasks and maintaining organization. Throughout the years of working across different levels of care, Anthy demonstrated her adaptability, growth, and dedication while aiding individuals in recovery and supporting fellow staff members.

Fay has been teaching Qigong in San Diego for over 20 years effectively applying modernized versions of ancient health practices into integrative programs at major medical institutions such as Scripps Center for Integrative Medicine, UCSD Center for Integrative Medicine, San Diego Cancer Research Institute, Silverado Senior Living for the Memory Impaired, Chopra Center, and Mind Body Medicine Mental Health program at Naval Medical Center San Diego.

Katherine Grey is a holistic health practitioner and CAMTC certified massage therapist. Massage therapy promotes a clear mind and relaxed body helping to reduce physical and mental stress while releasing the day-to-day ailments associated with pain and discomfort. Katie strives to provide a personalized massage experience that can positively impact your physical and emotional health.

“I love working with individuals on a more personal level as we are all unique and have different needs. As a massage therapist, I’m a big believer in the power of touch. My ultimate goal is to help you feel the best that you can while navigating the road of recovery. I’m here to provide a safe space for you to shine your brightest on your path to healing and self-empowerment. I absolutely love what I do and am overjoyed for the chance to be a part of your healing journey!”

Susie Orenstein, L.Ac, MPA was licensed by the California Acupuncture Board in November 2003.  She received her Masters degree in Traditional Oriental Medicine at the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in San Diego, CA.  She received her Masters degree in Public Administration from the Cornell University, Institute of Public Affairs where she studied health policy.

Susie currently offers acupuncture services at three drug rehabs: Ranch Creek Recovery in Temecula, Mindful Rejuvenation in Oceanside and Present Moments Recovery in Carlsbad. In addition she treats workers comp injuries at Concentra in Escondido.  Susie specializes in pain relief, addiction, PTSD, anxiety, and stress relief and offers Chinese herbal therapy and nutritional counseling.

Mary has  worked in Expressive Arts for over 15 years says, "I am so very grateful to be able to use what I have learned to promote healing and well being through visual art."

Mary's approach to facilitating art therapy allows participants to comfortably consider an idea - sometimes sparked by open-ended conversation.  During her sessions, the  setting becomes a relaxed, safe space of reflection and self expression.   In this supportive atmosphere, creative thoughts and  visualizations can evolve and be brought to life!

Mary lives with her husband of 46 years and their precious dog Kato.    She plays guitar, loves to cook, read, create jewelry and takes great joy in exploring nature.

Brandon and Wesley are two passionate musicians who share their message of hope and talent to inspire others in recovery. Brandon is a singer/songwriter from San Diego. He has been the key songwriter for Kut U Up and Yovee for over 15 years as well as toured with Green Day, Blink 182 and Jimmy Eat World.

Charlie recently moved to Carlsbad from suburban Philadelphia, where he owned a yoga studio and taught yoga and music therapy at a 120–bed inpatient treatment center for 15 years. Charlie aims to weave his experience, strength, and hope into his teachings to help the recovering person. His current passions are softball, bike riding, songwriting, and musical performance.

Teresa moved to Carlsbad from Philadelphia in 2022. The beautiful beaches and friendly people keep her on the west coast. Teresa found yoga in 1996 and has not stopped practicing. Yoga is an integral part of her day and life. She has spent the past 13 years dedicating her yoga practice to those in need of peace from addiction. She worked at The Malvern Institute and Mirmont Treatment Center before becoming part of the Present Moments community.

Present Moments Recovery is a residential and extended care treatment program located in San Diego North County helping men & women attain sobriety, achieve emotional balance and gain independent living skills devastated by the disease of addiction. Mark and Amy Gladden, a couple in long term recovery themselves, offer those suffering an opportunity to heal and grow in a loving, supportive environment. We’re honored and grateful for each person that chooses to share their journey of recovery with us. We set up a Drug Rehab in San Diego North County to support a community based treatment approach for long term recovery.