Healthy Relationships in Recovery

Table of Contents

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Are you or a loved one on the journey to recovery from addiction and mental health challenges? At OC Revive, our dual diagnosis treatment center in Lake Forest, CA, we understand that recovery is not just about abstaining from substances or managing mental health symptoms. It’s also about rebuilding your life, which includes fostering healthy relationships. In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore the profound importance of relationships in recovery, provide insights on how to nurture them and delve deeper into the complexities of this transformative process.

Why Relationships Matter in Recovery

  1. Support and Accountability: Building and maintaining positive relationships can provide the unwavering support and crucial accountability needed during the recovery process. Trusted friends and family members can encourage you to stay on track and make healthy choices, ensuring that you’re not alone on this challenging path.
  2. Reduced Isolation: Addiction and mental health issues often lead to overwhelming feelings of isolation. These struggles can alienate you from your loved ones, making you feel disconnected from the world. Forming new connections or repairing damaged relationships can effectively combat this loneliness, ultimately helping you feel more connected and grounded.
  3. Emotional Well-being: Healthy relationships play an instrumental role in your emotional well-being. They offer a profound sense of belonging, reduce stress, and provide a safe space to express your feelings without judgment or criticism. This emotional support can be a lifeline during the ups and downs of recovery.
  4. Positive Influence: Surrounding yourself with people who not only support your recovery goals but also embody a healthy, positive lifestyle can have a profound influence on your choices and behaviors. These relationships can serve as role models and sources of inspiration.

Nurturing Relationships in Recovery

  1. Communication: Open and honest communication is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship. Share your thoughts, concerns, and progress with your loved ones. Keep the lines of communication open to ensure that everyone is on the same page and aware of your journey.
  2. Setting Boundaries: Establishing boundaries is a crucial component of protecting your sobriety and mental health. Let others know what you need and expect from them. It’s essential to communicate your boundaries clearly and assertively, reinforcing the importance of your recovery journey.
  3. Trust and Forgiveness: Rebuilding trust may take time, patience, and consistent effort. Both you and your loved ones may have experienced hurt and disappointment during the darkest moments of addiction. Practice forgiveness and be patient with yourself and others as you work towards rebuilding trust.
  4. Building New Connections: In addition to reconnecting with existing relationships, it can be incredibly beneficial to join support groups or attend therapy sessions to meet individuals who understand your journey and share similar goals. These new connections can provide additional support and camaraderie.
  5. Self-Care: Prioritize self-care as an integral part of maintaining your emotional and physical well-being. Remember that a healthy you can contribute to healthier relationships. Self-care includes practices such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, mindfulness, and adequate rest.
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Seek Help with OC Revive Today!

At OC Revive, we specialize in dual diagnosis treatment for both teens and adults. Our compassionate and experienced team is dedicated to helping you or your loved one on the path to recovery. Whether it’s substance abuse or mental health challenges, we offer personalized treatment plans that address both issues simultaneously, ensuring comprehensive care and support. For immediate assistance and to start your journey to recovery, call us at 844-954-3890. Our dedicated team is available around the clock to provide the support and guidance you need, so you don’t have to face this journey alone.

FAQ's

Yes, with time, effort, and a commitment to your recovery, it is possible to rebuild and repair damaged relationships. It may be challenging, but it’s a worthwhile endeavor.

Open communication is key. Explain your boundaries clearly and assertively, and seek support from a therapist if needed. Remember, setting boundaries is an essential part of protecting your well-being.

Yes, many support groups, such as Al-Anon or NAMI Family Support, are available for family members seeking guidance and support. These groups offer a safe space for loved ones to share their experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges.

Therapy can provide valuable tools and strategies for improving communication, resolving conflicts, and rebuilding trust in relationships. It offers a safe and structured environment to work through issues with the guidance of a trained therapist.

Not necessarily. It depends on your personal circumstances and triggers. Setting boundaries and having a support system in place is crucial for maintaining your recovery. You may need to distance yourself from certain individuals temporarily or permanently if they pose a threat to your sobriety or mental health. Ultimately, the decision should prioritize your well-being and recovery journey.

Johnny Pickett

Patient Advocate

Jamie Nelson

Case Manager

Stephen Carmel

Co-Founder & CFO

I began my journey to recovery back in 2011 when i moved to California from New York.Along with my recovery and beginning a new way of life, I began to develop a heart for others struggling with sobriety.My journey to California was filled with many trials and lessons learned, but most of all, personal growth. I truly believe I would not have found success if I didn’t come to California.

I first opened an adult treatment center, California Prime Recovery(CPR) as a way to work with those struggling on a daily basis. Over the last 3 years, CPR has evolved into someting much more impactful and beautiful than i could’ve ever imagined. I have come to realize that my own happiness and growth depends on being involved in the lives of others in recovery. Helping people through recovery is a cornerstone of many 12 step programs, and it has become the most important aspect of personal life. Giving back to those still suffering is the only way not to lose what you have gained.

Throughout this journey, and by mentoring many adolescents, I realized i wanted to offer more to teens who were struggling just as i was. This is when i decided to start OC Revive. I had built many wonderful relationships throughout my professional journey and found two others who shared the same vision, and passion that i had for the youth. It didn’t take long for myself, Tyler Michaelis, and Derek Walsh to turn our dream into a reality. We are committed to providing the best possible treatment for adolescents and truly believe “their future is our collective responsibility”.

Derek Walsh

Co-Founder & COO

As Co-Founder & COO of OC Revive, Derek has a wealth of personal and professional experience dealing with the issues faced by today’s troubled teen. Throughout High School and College, Derek struggled with peer pressure, learning challenges, and substance abuse. Working with the support of family and friends, Derek set out to conquer those obstacles and find a richer, more fulfilling life.

On 15 October 2012, Derek overcame his own substance abuse problem and dedicated himself to help others work through their own addiction. A year later, Derek began a new journey and started his career in the recovery industry. Throughout his career, Derek has worked his way through numerous roles at top-rated treatment centers. While working at those treatment centers, Derek began to see a pattern that those struggling individuals would’ve benefited immensely from receiving earlier in life.

Derek decided that he wanted to be a part of the solution, and find a way to address those issues at an earlier age. He concluded that there needed to be interventions before adulthood, and he didn’t want to see anyone going through the same cycle that he did. That was when he and Tyler Michaelis decided to start OC Revive, to make sure teens get the help they need to find a purpose that leads them to a life of happiness and success.

Derek attended college at Orange Coast College and Santa Barbara City College.

Brittany Astrom

Clinical Supervisor

Brittany joins the OCR team with over 15 years of experience in the Mental Health adn Substance Abuse field. Brittany has been licensed for almost 8 years and has worked in various settings throughout her career, including inpatient psychiatric treatment, outpatient, residential treatment center, PHP and IOP settings. Brittany has been supervising Associate Marrige and Family Therapists and Associate Social Workers for almost 6 years and works in compiance and auditing to ensure that treatment centers are up to par with biling regulations. Brittany has worked with young adults and adolescents for most of her career.

Brittany earned her Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at California Baptist International University. Brittany enjoys working with adolescents and young adults and believes that ever single person has the ability to set goals and meet them, even when they can’t see it themselves. Brittany loves spending time with her family, traveling, good coffee, and being outdoors.

Patrick R. Smith

Program Director

Patrick is a mental health and addiction professional who has a passion for recovery and helping others. He was inspired and encouraged by his mentors to work with individuals and families that have been affected by mental health issues, and alcohol and drug addiction. He has been working in the field of addiction recovery for 23+ years and is an Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor through the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals. Patrick is also certified in Adult and Adolescent Anger Management. His career in addiction treatment began in 2001 at the Betty Ford Center in Rancho Mirage CA. as an Addiction Specialist working on the inpatient campus and is the co-creator of Betty Ford Center’s “Young Adult Track” specializing in work with 18-25-year-old Patients. He also excelled in working with addicted and impaired professionals in the “Relapse and Recovery Program”.

Patrick transitioned to Orange County in 2011 where he accepted a position as the Program Director for Orange County Recovery Services. Patrick is a gifted lecturer, group facilitator, and counselor with a passion for recovery who has been an active recovery member for over 25 years.

Anthony Fletcher

Director Of Business Development

Anthony is an Orange County local and has been a great addition to the Oc Revive team. Since 2015, Anthony has been working in the substance abuse field and has also pursued his drug and alcohol counseling license. Since being with Revive Anthony has established a relationship within the School Districts and serves as a voluntary speaker for substance abuse awareness in the community. By sharing his personal testimony, he has excelled in gaining trust and building rapport with others. He always seems to have a smile on his face and brings a positive vibe wherever he goes. With that being said, Anthony is very passionate about the work that he does and goes above and beyond to provide our struggling youth the care that they so desperately need.

Levi Sweet

Director of Operations

Brian Welsh

Director of Admissions

Chandra Medina

Lead Therapist

Kelly Pearson

Therapist

Christina Gherman

Therapist

Tyler Michaelis

Founder & CEO

Tyler is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to teens and their families. Once a teenager that struggled with addiction, mental health, and poor choices, Tyler is aware of the growing demand and need for early intervention in adolescents and young adults. Growing up in Orange County, he battled addiction and peer pressure all throughout high school and during his time at Saddleback College. During those troubled years, Tyler’s parents and family were emotionally drained and heavily impacted by his addiction. Unfortunately, they did not know where to turn for help nor did they have the courage to set boundaries with him.After 7 painful years, they finally forced Tyler out of the house and into treatment at the age of 23.

April 5th, 2010 is a date that Tyler and his family hold dear. On that date, Tyler enrolled in a 4-month treatment program which laid the foundation for his recovery. With the help of treatment professionals, supportive friends and family, Tyler was able to build a better version of himself. This started with slowly building his self-esteem, and growing a community of peers to support him throughout recovery.

In 2011,with the desire to help others struggling with addiction, he decided to start working in the addiction field. Tyler obtained his CADAC || Counselor certification and graduated from Cal Sate University of Long Beach with a degree in Health Care Administration. Since then, Tyler has worked all areas of treatment starting as a detox technician and working his way up to Program Director. Today, Tyler feels blessed and grateful for getting a second chanse at life. He has a great relationship with his family, is happily married and has a great group of friends. Once a lost teen, Tyler now has purpose and passion. He’s dedicated his life’s work to helping teens and their families. As the Founder, Tyler Michaelis is confident that OC Revive will renew the lives of struggling teens while bringing back hope to their families

Tylor Ramsey

Therapist

Patrick Fernandez-Her

AMFT Therapist

Steven Simon

Admissions

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Alejandro Alva, M.D.

Medical Director

Kayli Sullivan

Director of HR & Compliance

Carl Kutter

Operations Manager

Mustafa Stanizai

Case Manager

Allyson Lake

Case Manager

Ashley Becher

Admin Assistant

Kortnee Carralejo

Admissions

Madalyn Johnson

Case Manager

Matthew Lawler

Therapist - AMFT

Helen Riccobono

Therapist - AMFT

Rachel Dickinson

Therapist - AMFT

Max Howell

Case Manager

Leah Perle

Therapist

Angela Castellano

Case Manager

Tyler Michaelis

Founder & CEO

Tyler is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to teens and their families. Once a teenager that struggled with addiction, mental health, and poor choices, Tyler is aware of the growing demand and need for early intervention in adolescents and young adults. Growing up in Orange County, he battled addiction and peer pressure all throughout high school and during his time at Saddleback College. During those troubled years, Tyler’s parents and family were emotionally drained and heavily impacted by his addiction. Unfortunately, they did not know where to turn for help nor did they have the courage to set boundaries with him.After 7 painful years, they finally forced Tyler out of the house and into treatment at the age of 23.

April 5th, 2010 is a date that Tyler and his family hold dear. On that date, Tyler enrolled in a 4-month treatment program which laid the foundation for his recovery. With the help of treatment professionals, supportive friends and family, Tyler was able to build a better version of himself. This started with slowly building his self-esteem, and growing a community of peers to support him throughout recovery.

In 2011,with the desire to help others struggling with addiction, he decided to start working in the addiction field. Tyler obtained his CADAC || Counselor certification and graduated from Cal Sate University of Long Beach with a degree in Health Care Administration. Since then, Tyler has worked all areas of treatment starting as a detox technician and working his way up to Program Director. Today, Tyler feels blessed and grateful for getting a second chanse at life. He has a great relationship with his family, is happily married and has a great group of friends. Once a lost teen, Tyler now has purpose and passion. He’s dedicated his life’s work to helping teens and their families. As the Founder, Tyler Michaelis is confident that OC Revive will renew the lives of struggling teens while bringing back hope to their families