Meet the team and tour our facility at Detox California.
Meet our team of dedicated and seasoned professionals.
At Detox California, our dedicated staff utilize a range of therapy modalities to support the diverse needs and challenges our clients face throughout their recovery journey.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a key part of our treatment approach, helping clients recognize and reshape negative thought patterns and behaviors. Through CBT, our staff guide clients in building practical coping skills to manage triggers and reduce the risk of relapse.
DBT helps clients build essential skills in mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. This therapeutic approach is especially useful for managing overwhelming emotions and fostering healthier relationships.
Trauma-informed therapy recognizes how past trauma can influence addiction and recovery. Our staff use this approach to create a safe space for clients to process difficult experiences, promote healing, and lower the risk of relapse.
Selecting a drug rehab in Orange County means choosing more than just a facility—it’s about embracing a serene, healing space defined by its coastal charm and exceptional care. Renowned for its top-tier addiction treatment centers, Orange County offers a nurturing, upscale environment ideal for those pursuing recovery.
At Detox California in Dana Point, you’ll experience a seamless integration of science-backed therapies and holistic practices, delivering a well-rounded path to overcoming addiction. From personalized counseling and group sessions to medical detox, all are set against the backdrop of Southern California’s tranquil beaches and picturesque landscapes. Whether you’re nearby or traveling from afar, Orange County creates the perfect setting for a transformative, lasting recovery journey.
Christine Hughes brings nearly nine years of dedicated experience to her role as Program Director at Detox California. A licensed EMT with a deep understanding of medical and behavioral health care, Christine is known for her calm leadership, compassion, and commitment to helping individuals begin their recovery journey with dignity and support.
Beyond her clinical expertise, Christine is a proud mother of three teenagers and finds balance and inspiration through her active lifestyle. An avid snowboarder and longtime member of the South Orange County sober community, she is passionate about creating safe, encouraging spaces where healing can happen.
Christine’s personal and professional life reflects her belief in resilience, connection, and the power of starting over—and she brings that spirit to everything she does at Detox California.
Stacey graduated with a Bachelors in Human Services with emphasis in Mental Health and Addiction treatment in 2009 from Cal State Fullerton and then Graduated with a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from Azusa Pacific University in 2012. She currently is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with the Board of Behavioral Health in California. Her previous experience includes working with the homeless population and individuals struggling from intimate partner abuse. She is a Certified Clinical Supervisor for post graduate students that are pursuing therapeutic licensure as Marriage and Family Therapists. Stacey brings experience to program development in dual diagnosis treatment programs and has worked as a therapist, clinical intake coordinator, and clinical director in multiple facilities. Services Stacey provides include individual therapy, assessment, family therapy, couples therapy, case management, supervision, and training, with modalities such as DBT, CBT, and working with family members with loved ones struggling with addiction issues.
Kassandra graduated from California State University of Long Beach with a Bachelors of Social Work and proceeded on to pursue a Master of Social Work at the University of Southern California, with a concentration in Adult Mental Health and Aging. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, she has the privilege of working with individuals with an array of mental health concerns. As a professional, her work experience consists of assisting individuals with adverse mental health concerns, substance abuse, homelessness, chronic health conditions, complex trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, work related stress and anxiety, and family conflicts. Her clinical modalities consist of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, EMDR, Brainspotting, Somatic Experiencing, TICBT, TFT and EFT. She is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional. Kassandra’s therapeutic approach consists of mutual understanding and collaborative efforts to help the individual with their identified needs with the intention is to cultivate a safe space for clients to foster personal growth, healing, and self-awareness while feeling supported each step of the way.
Hannah Mira is a clinical therapist specializing in trauma-focused psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, harm reduction, crisis oriented recovery services (CORS) and art therapy. Prior to completing her Master of Social Work degree at the University of Massachusetts as a member of the Phi Alpha Honor Society, Hannah obtained undergraduate and graduate degrees from University of California, Irvine. Hannah has worked previously as a teacher at a juvenile prison in Northern California and as a Registered Emergency Medical Technician in Orange County. In her free time, Hannah enjoys her role as an adoption coordinator at a local dog rescue, hosting themed dinner parties, and traveling with her husband and son.
Ben is a dedicated and passionate advocate for recovery, bringing both professional expertise and heartfelt commitment to his work. As a Certified Case Manager with CCAPP, he has spent the past three years providing compassionate counseling and case management services, guiding individuals on their path to sobriety. Ben’s love for recovery goes beyond his profession—it is a personal mission to help others reclaim their lives and discover the joy of a sober lifestyle. With an unwavering belief in the power of transformation, he strives to offer hope, support, and encouragement to those navigating their own journeys to freedom and healing.
Rachel is an experienced Operations Manager with a strong background in organizational efficiency and team leadership. She holds an A.A. degree in Psychology with a minor in Philosophy and is currently pursuing a B.A. in Psychological Science at U.C. Irvine. Outside of work, she enjoys crafting, A.A. Meetings, cooking, and playing video games with her partner in crime, Daniel.
With a heart dedicated to healing and a wealth of experience in the field of addiction recovery, Stacy is a passionate nurse committed to guiding individuals on their journey to sobriety. Armed with a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding alcohol and substance use disorders, she provides compassionate care that empowers patients to reclaim their lives.
Stacy holds a nursing degree from Center for Applied Technology North. She has over 30 years experience and has honed her skills in various healthcare settings, focusing on addiction recovery for the past 2 years. She believes in a holistic approach to treatment, combining medical expertise with emotional support to foster an environment of trust and healing.
In addition to her clinical skills, Stacy is an advocate for mental health awareness and works tirelessly to reduce the stigma surrounding addiction. She actively participates in community outreach programs, sharing knowledge and resources to help individuals and families affected by addiction.
When not at work, Stacy enjoys time with the AA fellowship and her 5 sons, which helps her maintain a balanced life and connect with others in meaningful ways. Her dedication to the field and genuine care for patients make her a vital asset in the fight against addiction.
Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or a loved one, Stacy is here to help navigate the path to recovery with empathy, expertise, and unwavering support.
Josh graduated from University of California, San Diego Extension in 2015 with a Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling. He graduated from Saddleback College in 2016 with an Associates of Arts in Psychology. He received a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology at California State University, Fullerton in 2020. Josh is a Certified Addiction and Dependence Counselor – Clinical Supervisor and Internationally Certified Clinical Supervisor (CADC-CS, ICCS). Josh has been working in recovery since 2013 and has served in multiple capacities in drug and alcohol treatment —as Resident Assistant, House Manager, Detox Resident Assistant, Court Liaison, Intake Assistant, Operations Supervisor, Drug and Alcohol Counselor, Case Manager, Director of Business Development, Clinical Supervisor, Clinical Director, and Program Director. He provides consulting for various behavioral health organizations on Start-Up, Licensing and Accreditation, Staffing, and general Program Development. Josh serves as our Chief Executive Officer. In his private life, Josh enjoys spending quality time with his son, watching sports, playing poker, and attending music festivals and concerts — Josh estimates he has seen between 1500 and 2000 live concerts.
Alex is a passionate and driven leader in the behavioral healthcare field, with a history of clinical work and a litany of experience through every role that exists in the world of treatment work. Alex has honed his skills over 7 years by working as a house manager, operations manager, drug and alcohol counselor, Director of utilization review, Admissions director, Business development director, executive director, and eventually arriving at the position of Chief operating Officer through years of dedication and strong work ethics for New Leaf. Alex is an Internationally certified Drug and alcohol counselor 2 (ICADC-II) and has spent years honing his clinical skill set. Alex is proud to represent New leaf Detox and treatment and dedicates a large amount of energy to ensuring the Quality of care and company culture remains at the highest of standards. In his free time Alex spends the weekends traveling to ride downhill mountain bikes and ski and is currently in education to be certified as an open water Rescue Scuba Diver. He maintains his motivation for work through providing a good life for his partner and his blue nose Pitbull named Benny.
Jason has been working in the treatment field for the last 9 years. After his own battles with addiction, he decided to dedicate his life to helping others regain control of their lives. He realized that beating addiction was possible with the support and guidance of those who have been in his shoes. As the “addiction epidemic” gets worse every year, we see the value in quality treatment. He personally credits his treatment experience for giving him back his relationship with family and friends. He personally believes in being available to help any and everyone struggling with addiction 24/7.
DJ is a dedicated Admissions Director with a deep passion for helping individuals on their journey to recovery. With a compassionate approach and a commitment to making a difference, he works tirelessly to connect people with the resources they need to reclaim their lives. Outside of work, DJ enjoys spending time on the golf course, where he finds both relaxation and challenge. Above all, he cherishes his role as a father to his 11-year-old daughter, embracing every moment of fatherhood with love and dedication. His commitment to both his family and the recovery community reflects his unwavering belief in growth, transformation, and second chances.
