Cliffside Malibu 3

Frequent Individual Therapy in a Small Residential Setting

A key feature of the program is the emphasis on consistent, one-on-one psychotherapy within a low-capacity residential environment. Clients typically meet individually with their primary therapist several times each week, allowing time to explore patterns, triggers, and underlying drivers of substance use in depth. Group therapy and family counseling are offered to reinforce insight among peers and communication between loved ones. Comprehensive assessments at admission guide care planning, with adjustments made as clinical needs and personal goals evolve.

Medically Supported Detox

Cliffside Malibu provides on-site withdrawal management services with 24-hour medical monitoring. The goal is to manage withdrawal safely while preparing clients to transition smoothly into residential treatment rather than treating detox as a stand-alone service. Medical and psychiatric oversight continues throughout the stay, supporting clients with co-occurring mental health conditions or physical concerns that may affect recovery. This integrated approach helps reduce disruption between phases of care and allows the clinical team to respond quickly as needed.

Trauma-Informed Care With Holistic and Experiential Support

Treatment is grounded in the belief that substance use is often connected to unresolved stress, trauma, or emotional pain. Clinical work may include a combination of evidence-based therapies focused on thought patterns, emotional regulation, and trauma processing, alongside relapse prevention and skill-building. Holistic services — such as movement-based practices, body-centered therapies, mindfulness, fitness training, and experiential activities — are woven into the schedule to support nervous system regulation and daily structure.

Aftercare Planning and Follow-Up

Planning for life beyond residential care begins early and may include ongoing therapy, structured outpatient care, sober living options, recovery coaching, and support meetings. The program also offers follow-up contact after discharge to help clients stay connected during transitions between levels of care. Practical support such as transportation assistance, housing connections, and employment-related resources may be part of discharge planning, depending on client needs.

Client Reviews

Clients frequently describe a caring, highly attentive program with a strong clinical foundation and a calm, scenic setting. Some note opportunities to improve admissions communication and consistency across shifts.

• Staff & Care Experience (90% positive): Many clients highlight compassionate, invested staff who help people feel safe, heard, and supported throughout treatment. A few reviews mention occasional communication gaps. “I felt genuinely cared for by everyone.”
• Treatment Quality & Outcomes (90% positive): Reviews often point to structured, evidence-based therapy, individualized plans, and meaningful progress in recovery. Some suggest group quality can vary by facilitator. “I left with real tools for lasting recovery.”
• Facility & Environment (85% positive): The setting is widely described as peaceful, clean, and restorative, with comfortable living spaces that help clients focus on healing. A few note unmet expectations regarding houses or amenities. “A calm place where real healing can happen.”
• Support & Community (85% positive): Alumni involvement, peer connection, and aftercare support are recurring strengths that help people stay engaged after discharge. “The alumni community kept me connected.”
• Access & Process (70% positive): Admissions and coordination are often praised for responsiveness. Some reviews describe inconsistent follow-up or clarity during intake and transitions.