Table of Contents
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Patrick Santosuosso | Chief Executive Officer/Co-Founder
Bio Coming SoonPatrick Santosuosso
Michael Clark | President & Co-Founder
Bio Coming SoonMichael Clark
Mark Santosuosso | Chief Operating Officer
Bio Coming SoonMark Santosuosso
James Miller | Chief Administrative Officer
Bio Coming SoonJames Miller
Ryan Higgins | Chief Financial Officer
Bio Coming SoonRyan Higgins
Dr. Eric Chaghouri , MD | Medical Director
Dr. Eric Chaghouri is a 2007 graduate from the University of California, Los Angeles, where he earned his B. A. in Biology with Summa Cum Laude honors. While at UCLA, he helped the men’s varsity volleyball team earn a National Championship in 2006. He was named the UCLA Scholar-Athlete of the Year in 2007.
He earned his medical degree from the Keck School of Medicine in 2011. He completed his internship training in 2008 at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and the remaining three years of residency in general adult psychiatry at the Los Angeles County and University of Southern California Medical Center. He served as the Chief Resident in psychiatric emergency services during his fourth year of residency. He also served as Resident Clinical Instructor and Volunteer Faculty in the Department of Psychiatry at the Keck School of Medicine.
After completing residency, Dr. Chaghouri accepted a fellowship position in forensic psychiatry at the prestigious USC Institute of Psychiatry and Law. His scholarly activities included publishing in Legal Digest and presenting research findings at the Keck School of Medicine annual conference.
Since completing his forensic psychiatry fellowship, he has established a successful and thriving practice in Southern California, focusing on treatment of co-occurring psychiatric and addictive disorders. He has developed a strong clinical team of practitioners who share similar goals and philosophies regarding psychiatric treatment, including providing cutting-edge interventional treatments for psychiatric conditions. He works in an array of capacities with attorneys, courts, and other parties in actual or potential litigation. He also has extensive experience consulting and providing opinions on psychiatric issues for major television networks. Dr. Chaghouri’s interests include addiction medicine, substance use disorders, forensic psychiatry, medical ethics, psychological autopsy, gender wellness, and evidence-based treatment of psychiatric conditions.
Dr. Eric Chaghouri , MD
Ari Labowitz , LMFT | Clinical Director
Ari approaches therapy from a strengths-based perspective, incorporating a humanistic approach to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to grow. With a diverse background in working with individuals, couples, and families, Ari tailors his therapeutic approach to each person, addressing their unique challenges while emphasizing their strengths.Ari’s expertise is deeply rooted in the drug and alcohol treatment field. With extensive experience and knowledge in recovery, he has contributed his expertise to numerous treatment centers, offering consultation and direct support.
Ari holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology (MA) and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California and Idaho. He is also a member of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. Beyond his private practice, Ari has worked in high schools, counseling centers, and corporate settings, providing therapy to a diverse range of clients.
Ari Labowitz , LMFT
Desiree Bishop , AMFT | Primary Therapist
Desiree Bishop, a dedicated primary therapist, brings over 12 years of experience in addiction treatment to her role at a detox residential treatment center. With a diverse background that includes positions as a case manager and behavioral health technician, Desiree Bishop has gained a comprehensive understanding of client needs at every stage of the recovery process. While advancing her education, she remained deeply involved in the field, combining practical experience with academic knowledge to refine her therapeutic approach.Desiree Bishop holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy with a current AMFT. She is also a Certified Addiction Treatment Counselor (CATC IV) and has completed training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), equipping her to address the complex trauma often associated with substance use disorders.
At the treatment center, Desiree Bishop facilitates both group and individualized psychotherapy, using evidence-based practices to guide clients through detoxification and early recovery. Her approach is rooted in empathy, empowerment, and the belief that each client has the potential to achieve lasting change. She is committed to helping clients maintain abstinence from substances and rebuild fulfilling lives by addressing underlying trauma, enhancing coping skills, and fostering resilience. Desiree Bishop is passionate about supporting individuals and families through the healing journey, providing the tools and guidance needed to overcome addiction and thrive in recovery.
Desiree Bishop , AMFT
Daniel Dooley , LVN | LVN
Daniel Dooley is a dedicated Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) with five years of professional experience, including three years specializing in substance abuse care. Daniel has cultivated a strong foundation in patient care planning and medication management, delivering compassionate and effective support to individuals navigating the challenges of recovery. Throughout his nursing career, Daniel has been driven by a deep commitment to making a meaningful impact on the lives of those he serves. His approach combines clinical expertise with genuine empathy, ensuring that patients feel not only well cared for but also truly supported as they embark on their recovery journeys. By fostering trust and understanding, he works to create an environment where healing and growth can flourish.In his role, Daniel excels in medication management, ensuring precision and consistency while tailoring care plans to meet each patient’s unique needs. His attention to detail and dedication to excellence contributes to positive health outcomes and reinforces the critical role of individualized care in substance abuse treatment.
Daniel views his work as more than just a career, it is a calling to empower patients on their paths to recovery. He strives to build partnerships with those he serves, offering encouragement, guidance, and unwavering support through every step of their healing process. As a passionate advocate for patient-centered care, Daniel is committed to staying informed about the latest advancements in nursing and addiction treatment. His dedication to professional growth ensures he can continue providing the highest quality of care to his patients, helping them reclaim their lives with dignity and hope.
Daniel Dooley , LVN
Darren Piatkowski | Program Director
Darren serves as the Program Director with over 10 years of dedicated experience in addiction treatment. His expertise spans house management, behavioral health technician roles, and operations management, showcasing his multifaceted knowledge and leadership abilities in the field.Darren is deeply committed to serving clients, ensuring their comfort, and addressing their individual needs with empathy and professionalism. Having been with the company since its inception, he has played a vital role in its growth and success, exemplifying what it means to be a true team player. Darren’s dedication to fostering supportive and effective treatment environment highlights his passion for making a positive impact on the lives of clients and staff alike.
Darren Piatkowski
Natashia Morales | Case Manage
Natashia Morales is a dedicated case manager in the field of addiction treatment, bringing a unique blend of professional expertise and personal experience to her role. Her journey into this line of work is deeply personal, shaped by her own path through addiction and recovery. Having navigated the challenges of struggle, self-discovery, and transformation, she is passionate about helping others find their way to healing and growth.Natashia’s own experience of feeling lost and unsure of where to turn for support has given her a profound understanding of the journey her clients face. Through perseverance, the support of others, and a commitment to change, she rebuilt her life into one she is proud to live. This transformative experience not only gave her a second chance but also inspired a deep passion for guiding others toward their own recovery. In her role as a case manager, Natashia is committed to supporting clients as they navigate the complexities of recovery and life beyond addiction. She believes in the unique strengths of every individual and sees her mission as helping to uncover and nurture those strengths. She approaches her work with empathy, respect, and an unwavering belief in each person’s potential for growth and change.
For Natashia, recovery is about more than overcoming addiction—it is a journey of rediscovery, rebuilding, and embracing the opportunities that come with a fresh start. Her goal is to serve as a guide and source of encouragement for her clients, helping them face their challenges and celebrate their victories, no matter how big or small. Natashia finds daily inspiration in the strength and resilience of the human spirit. Her personal journey fuels her passion and dedication, and she considers it a privilege to walk alongside her clients as they create brighter, more fulfilling futures for themselves.
Natashia Morales
Kaylee Smelser | Lead Behavioral Health Technician
Kaylee is a compassionate and dedicated Behavioral Health Technician who brings personal experience and deep empathy to her work with individuals in recovery. Her journey through personal growth and healing has shaped her understanding of the challenges faced by those battling addiction, inspiring her to become a steadfast advocate for patient care. With a unique ability to connect with patients on a personal level, Kaylee provides a nurturing and supportive presence to those she serves. Her firsthand experience with recovery allows her to approach everyone with genuine empathy and an unwavering belief in their capacity to overcome obstacles and achieve lasting change. In her role as a lead behavioral health technician, Kaylee is committed to fostering a safe and compassionate environment where patients can focus on their healing. She ensures that care is delivered with respect, kindness, and a focus on each person's unique journey. Her dedication to patient care extends beyond clinical responsibilities, as she takes the time to understand and support the emotional and mental well-being of those in her care. Kaylee’s leadership is rooted in her ability to inspire both patients and colleagues alike, demonstrating the power of compassion and resilience in recovery. Her work reflects a deep commitment to helping individuals rediscover their strength, embrace hope, and move toward brighter futures. Kaylee’s personal journey fuels her passion for making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. She views her role not just as a job but as an opportunity to guide, support, and celebrate each step her patients take toward healing and growth.Kaylee Smelser
Contact Us for Addiction Treatment in Orange County
Surf City Detox Accepts Insurance
We accept many insurance plans to help cover the cost of addiction treatment. Contact your provider to get more information or call our office to reach an intake specialist.
