Be wary of one star reviews for treatment centers. There are some vindictive, bitter, angry clients who will blame anyone but themselves; and treatment centers and their staff tend to be a go-to target for abuse and retaliation.
In short, Annandale worked for me.
Short story made long: Like any treatment center, you will get out what you put in though. But a good treatment center will give you all the tools, support and understanding you need. And that is what Annandale provides: a structure and foundation for your success, which you build on once you leave.
All the various treatment center bells, whistles and accoutrements don’t matter without a good staff/therapists on hand to guide and support. Luckily, Annandale has both.
The program itself focuses not only on getting sober/maintaining sobriety, but also on modifying negative thought patterns and the troublesome behavior that arises as a result. They know that you must focus on the problem itself, not just the symptoms, in order to recover. Drinking is a symptom of a deeper rooted issue.
They also offer some unique elements to the program, such as equine therapy and soundbaths. I scoffed initially, but kept an open mind. And guess what? It was a great help. Other groups/activities included yoga, meditation, mindfulness walks, nature walks, art, gardening, etc. They take you to 12 step recovery meetings, but Annandale itself is non-denominational as far as I could gather. Which is a plus in my book.
Great location in Pasadena. Right up the street from the Rose Bowl, where you’ll take walks some days. Other walks go a block or two in the other direction and offer absolutely breathtaking panoramic views of the Rose Bowl, Pasadana and its environs, mountain ranges etc. It’s truly a sight to behold.
The house and its campus are extremely serene and quiet. The house is comfortable, a comfy “home” vibe with people that genuinely care. A special feeling to it. Doesn’t feel like some “facility”.
Private bedrooms with their own flat screen TVs. Almost all have their own private bathroom. You get to place takeout lunch and dinner choices (with a mind towards healthy options from some great restaurants) on the iPad every day (which is included with your stay).
But more than anything, it is the staff that makes or breaks the place. Darryl is the owner and possibly the first person you’ll speak to. a very kind, caring, genuine, astute and just cool guy. Very helpful and personable. I was in a bad way when I initially called and Darryl was an immeasurable help in easing my concerns and providing comfort in a very distressful time in my life. Remy, the on-site nurse, is extremely attentive and understanding. Dr Coe is one of the most brilliant doctors I’ve ever had the pleasure of speaking with—the guy pulled things out that shocked me, things that no doctor-therapist/psychiatrist has been able to reach or decipher in all my years. He gave me a true, unbridled diagnosis of where my issues stemmed from. My wife of 20 years co-signed what he said with a very troubling passion (haha). Said he was spot-on, and he was.
Roxanne is one of the kindest and most lovely people I’ve ever met. The most gentle eyes, emphatic tone — a truly calming presence who offered me immeasurable support so thank you 🙏. Jordan was relatable, friendly and easy to talk to. Very intelligent and understanding of how addiction and sobriety work. Kevin, one of the nicest guys I’ve ever met. Michael, who became a genuine friend and somebody I could always talk to — and was always willing to listen.
Becky, Carrie, Xenia, Alex, Chris and I know I’m missing a few, but really, everyone was great and offered their own unique approach/personality. This place quite literally saved my life. I was on death’s door and couldn’t even walk in my own when I went in. And walked out a “new’ man.
