Meet Our Staff
The majority of staff at SouthCoast Recovery is in recovery.
This allows us an informed perspective having “been there and done that.”
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Dennis Larkin, 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 combining the finest Western medicine available with the essence of the great Eastern healing traditions works best to address both the cause and the symptoms of addiction.” “SouthCoast 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 to explore the practical part of getting a life and living in society on its terms. The spiritual aspects of treatment intervention must meet the unique demands of quality, specialized care for each individual.” Dennis Larkin is the founder and developer of SouthCoast Recovery as well as two additional enterprises at the forefront of addiction and recovery services. He is a Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor C.C.D.C., Certified Life Coach M.L.E & E.L.E and Certified Addiction Treatment Counselor C.A.T.C. Dennis holds certificates in Drug and Alcohol Studies, Family Services, Victim Services, Corrections and Criminal Justice Studies and is Gorski Trained in Relapse Prevention and Denial Management. He is an active member of C.A.A.D.E. and is trained in mediation and yoga. Dennis resides in Dana Point, California with his Golden Retriever, Kona. |
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Edward Kaufman, M.D. – Consulting Psychiatrist With more than 30 awards, publications, and academic appointments to his name, as well as, an extensive career that has spanned over 45 years, Dr. Kaufman has made some of the most important and creative contributions to the treatment of substance abuse in the last hundred years. Dr. Kaufman's combination of a deep understanding of the psychology of those stuggling with addiction and great insight into the process of dynamic psychotherapy make him an asset to anyone seeking help with substance abuse. |
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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 SouthCoast 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 SouthCoast, 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.” |
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Dr. Michael Rudolph, M.D. – Consulting 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 SouthCoast Recovery.” Dr. Rudolph received his Medical Degree from Columbia University in 1981 and has since worked in emergency medicine and addiction medicine. He is also active in teaching emergency medicine at Western University and a member of the American Society of Addiction Medicine and California Society of Addiction Medicine. “Participating in each client’s recovery is so exciting and the compassion in this program is unparalleled.” |
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Krishna Jessick, C.A.T.C. – Program Director “My mission is to gather an exceptional staff to make SouthCoast Recovery the most outstanding program available with healing and wellness as our focus.” With 14 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.” |
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Christa L. Olds, C.A.T.C. – Intake Counselor “I am so proud to be part of an exceptional treatment team at SouthCoast 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.” |
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Mary McKenzie, L.M.F.T., M.Ed. "It has been a long time dream of mine to work at a center where caring, respect, and treatment of the whole person is the bottom line. This climate creates a place of safety, where causes, as well as symptoms, can be explored and healed. I have found that home, and am thrilled to be a part of the exceptional treatment team at SouthCoast Recovery." In the counseling field for 20 years, Mary received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology/creative writing from Lewis-Clark State College, and a Masters of Education in Counseling and Human Services from the University of Idaho. Mary is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. "Empowering other in their healing and recovery is on of my life's greatest joys." |
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Wendy Buchholz, M.A. I am a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern and Adjunct Professor of Psychology at Concordia University Irvine. I have training in Domestic Violence, Substance Abuse, PTSD, Emotional Coaching, and Codependency. My Master’s degree (M.A.) in Marriage and Family Therapy is from Alliant International University in Irvine, California. I am a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist and recently co-founded the AAMFT-CA Orange County Networking District, a division of the national professional organization of American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. "My goal is to help individuals access their inner resources and find strength through life’s challenges." |
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Tim Best, C.A.T.C - Extended Care Program Supervisor I believe my higher power placed me at South Coast Recovery where I am privileged to serve our clients beside a loving, compassionate,hard working staff. Tim imparts to clients that through a series of small obtainable goals, one can be placed on their own positive life path. Tim has 3 years experience as a chemical dependency counselor, graduate of Saddle Back College , and is a Certified Addiction Treatment Counselor. Trained in primordial sound meditation and Kriya Yoga, specializing in Eastern Studies. An active member of the 12 step community, with a heavy emphasis on life skills. "It is an honor to be part of an innovative team with such an extensive program, that keeps their prices affordable. WE are truly here for our clients." |
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Morgan Richardson, C.A.T.C., C.C.J.P - Intake Coordinator, Counselor "The SouthCoast Recovery program gave me willingness and showed me that I have the power to change the way that I look at myself and the world.” Morgan helps individuals and families begin healing by informing them about recovery. A Human Services graduate, he is certified in Conflict Resolution and Mediation, Denial Management, Recovery Coaching M.L.E. and Spirit Recovery. He is also trained in Meditation, as a Certified Addiction Treatment Counselor, and as a Certified Criminal Justice Professional and is working towards his Marriage and Family Therapist license in the addiction field. Morgan is active in Cocaine Anonymous, Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous and volunteers at a local homeless shelter. “My job is great! I get to start the recovery process by sharing the gift of recovery.” |
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Don Keith, C.A.T.C-i - Counselor “I am grateful to be part of the solution here at SouthCoast 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.” |
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Grant Collins, M.S. – , Acupuncturist, Oriental Herbalist “The clients at SouthCoast 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.” |
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Celeste Seiler – Massage Therapist “No other program that I have worked for can match SouthCoast 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.” |
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Taylor Sakimae – Executive Chef A graduate of North Seattle Culinary College, Chef Sakimae has more than ten years experience in the culinary field having starting working in the kitchen at age 14 in Kuai, Hawaii. Having previously trained under such notable master chefs as Mark Oyama, Kevin Nakata, and Aaron Arizo, Chef Taylor has mastered cooking every style from Pacific Rim cuisine to Traditional French cooking and takes a special pride in presenting culinary delights that showcase contemporary flavors. "In some cases, our clients haven't had proper nutrition or even eaten in a while due to the depths of their addictions and as the Executive Chef for SouthCoast Recovery, I make it my goal to ensure that our clients are provided with the best tasting, most nutritious, and highest quality meals that they have ever had." |
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Kona Larkin, D.O.G. – Unconditional Love Specialist “It has been my experience that a little affection can go a long way here at SouthCoast Recovery. Everybody could use a healing lick.” Kona has been in recovery for 8 years and is SouthCoast’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!” |
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Ernest Templeton – Intake Director “Having graduated from SouthCoast Recovery, I know that the program works to restore lives and dreams. I am living proof!” Ernie manages the sales here at SouthCoast. This is his way of giving back to the program that helped him get back on his feet. He had 20 years of experience in technology sales and marketing prior to bringing his talents to the team here. Holding a Bachelor’s Degree from California State University, Long Beach, Ernie values the opportunity to be active in the 12-step recovery community. “Bringing others into the 12-step community is one of the greatest gifts I could give. I am proud to be reaching out to others in need through my work.” |
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Ryan Schrier – Intake Coordinator “SouthCoast Recovery changed my life and gave me back the relationships and goals I had lost in my active addiction.” In 17 years of addiction, Ryan lost everything – his wife, his son, his career and his soccer scholarship. When he surrendered and became willing to accept the help of his family and the SouthCoast program, he turned his life around. He now answers the SouthCoast hotline to help people who are looking for the same thing he was – freedom from active addiction and alcoholism. Ryan is trained in Meditation and is active in Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous and Cocaine Anonymous. He also speaks on H & I and detox center panels. “Getting others into recovery to build their new life gives me purpose.” |
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Jacque Tahuka-Nunez A California Indian whose ancestors built the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Jacque has made a successful career out of sharing her Acjachemen culture, history, and love of the creator. Recently chosen by the state of California as the 2009 Indian Educator of the Year, Jacque prides herself on preserving and passing her culture along through the oral Native American tradition of storytelling. "When Creator opens a door for a person to use their God Given gifts whether it's Native American basket weaving, soapstone carving, or traditional shell necklace making it is important to let the craft making open the clients heart to honest communication and the healing of the soul. In our sessions we give the clients another avenue to reach for their Higher Power. It is an honor to be a part of the Staff at South Coast Recovery path as clients move towards sobriety." |
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Peter Macias A Drug and Alcohol Counseling certificate recipient, Pete's primary focus is on Alcohol relief, Pete feels that spiritual ceremonies have many healing properties, believing that old traditions can help people get back to their roots. Pete is a member of the Pala band of Mission Indians and works on healing and recovery through traditional Native American ceremonies. |
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Samanatha Crane - Administrative Assistant Samantha Crane grew up on the Umatilla (Cayuse-Umatilla-Walla-Walla) Indian Reservation near Pendleton, Oregon, and joins the SouthCoast family as an administrative assistant at the Green Level Resource Center. “I was living in San Francisco when my sister and my Mom found SouthCoast Recovery through the AAIR program. I really didn’t want to come here.” When Samantha finally arrived after months of hesitation, the staff members were pleasantly surprised. She initially agreed to one month and stayed for three months. “It was the first time I’d been sober since I was 15-years-old. I started listening and learning a lot about myself.” Samantha volunteered at Big Sur where she helped make clients more comfortable through the initial detox phase before working at the Green Level center. “Initially I was hesitant but once I started working here, I liked the environment and the ability to give back what was freely given to me. I said, ‘I think I’ll stay.’” |
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Lisa Burdick, Certificate Candidate - Drug/Alcohol Studies, Victim Services, Criminal Justice Lisa worked in the Entertainment Industry for 28 years as a SAG franchised talent agent, instructor, and child's advocate. During Lisa's time in the Entertainment Industry, she referred numerous clients and other members of the industry into recovery for Drug or Alcohol abuse, eventually discovering that she wanted to work in the field of Recovery. "I'm using my education and personal experiences to serve the community to help promote wholeness, for the body, soul, and spirit through counseling. My goal is to assist other to achieve their most important life goals." Lisa has a Certificate in Christian Counseling Pyschology from Saddleback Church of Lake Forrest and is First Aide CPR Certified. Currently, she is pursuing her Certificate in Drug and Alcohol Studies from Saddleback College. |
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Jesus Magana “I always had a passion for helping others. It’s what I was meant to do and I knew I definitely had the experience.” Jesus joins SouthCoast at the Green Level Resource Center. He took the route to recovery through legal intervention and a hard knocks treatment program, which he credits for getting him to the point of surrender. “I was tired of the lifestyle…my next step was to die.” Jesus cut off all contact with his old friends and made new friends with people in recovery. His hard work paid off and he’s only months away from receiving his CAADAC certification. “I’ve found working at SouthCoast to be beneficial in every area of my life in terms of working with different clients and programs – the dual diagnosis and holistic treatment has expanded my horizons. Learning what I have has helped me grow as a person and overcome a lot of my fears so I can help others do the same.” |
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Lori Cattern, C.A.T.C. - Counselor “I’ve always had the passion to help people and have found that my gift lies in the ability to empathize with any situation while gently leading someone to find their way.” Lori is a native of the south Orange County area who found her way into the recovery field when a moment of clarity led her to realize that she was not the person she was capable of being. Prior to joining SouthCoast Recovery as a CATC Counselor, Lori worked in behavior medicine at SouthCoast Hospital for six years as well as various treatment centers and is referred to by co-workers as a crisis intervention specialist. “I see my purpose as leading an individual back into an integrated person through mind, body and spirit – with my focus being on the spirit.” Lori focuses on incorporating realistic thinking with building self esteem, finding balance and setting goals with clients at the Green Level Resource Center. |
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Donna Walli - M.S. Psych - Case Manager After starting as a volunteer in the Counseling office, Donna is now the Case Manager at the Red Level center. "I'm so grateful every day that I get to work with the wonderful staff and clients that I've come to know at SouthCoast Recovery. I see my position as one in which I can share my experience, strength, and hope with our clients, along with assisting them whenever I can so that they are able to keep their full focus on recovery." Donna earned her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in psychology, which lead to an interest in addiction treatment, and she is currently working on her C.A.T.C. certification. She also brings her experience as a long-term active member of Alcoholics Anonymous. "I got into recovery as a teenager. Now, I get to work in recovery on a daily basis. To be able to work here at SouthCoast Recovery is an incredible gift." |
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Bernie Wolfe, Certified Trainer and Nutritionist An International Sports Sciences Association Certified Fitness Trainer for the last 18 years, Bernie Wolfe believes in "Developing your fitness from the inside out". Bernie will work on not only the proper exercise program to get you looking better, but also the proper course of diet to help you start feeling better. In addition to Bernie's work as a Personal Trainer and Nutritionist, over the last 25 years Bernie has been working in the Fitness and Nutrition fields while concentrating on Afro and Latin-American studies. Bernie's study of Afro-American and Latin-American cultures led him towards the world of percussion, a result of which has brought Bernie around the world as an instructor to students interested in traditional forms of drumming. As the leader of SouthCoast's drum circles, Bernie brings both his background as a Afro-Cuban based drumming expert, as well as a key awareness to cultural sensitivity necessary for making a drum circle experience more spiritual for its participants. |
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Thurman Hines, Counselor Thurman says that addiction gave him the gift of complete desperation which caused him to completely cease fighting anyone and anything. Working a 12-step program provided structure and discipline so he could effect positive change. He has a strong foundation both with SouthCoast and with the A.A., N.A. and C.A. community as a whole. His real world experience makes him excel at dealing with all clients still in the infancy of recovery. |
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