Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital - Cottage Residential Center

Coastal Residential Treatment with Medical Support

The center provides 24/7 residential treatment near the Santa Barbara shoreline, offering a calmer setting within city access. As part of Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, the program includes medically supervised care and full medical assessments at intake, including physical exams, substance use screenings, and metabolic monitoring. This structure is especially helpful for adults experiencing withdrawal risk, co-occurring health concerns, or the need for timely medication adjustments. Private rooms are available, giving clients a quieter space to rest after full therapy days. The residential environment emphasizes routine, safety, and access to hospital resources when needed.

Evidence-Based Therapies and MAT

Treatment includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, 12-step facilitation, and relapse-prevention counseling. The center also supports medications for addiction treatment (MAT) when needed to help reduce cravings, ease early withdrawal, or support relapse prevention. The program also provides nicotine-replacement therapy and medication for co-occurring mental health conditions. Therapists collaborate with medical staff to monitor progress and adjust treatment when needed, helping clients maintain stability.

Family Engagement

Family participation is built into the program through family counseling, education sessions, and coordinated discharge planning. These services help families understand substance use disorders, learn communication skills, and support healthier routines at home. For many clients, involving loved ones early in treatment builds a more stable foundation for long-term recovery and reduces misunderstandings that can complicate returning home. Staff also provide guidance on continuing family involvement after residential care.

Wellness Activities

The program integrates wellness activities such as yoga, mindfulness-based relapse prevention, and community outings. Clients participate in group and individual counseling, coping-skills development focused on stress tolerance and emotional regulation, and spirituality-in-recovery activities for those who find this helpful. Daily schedules are highly structured, supporting people who benefit from predictable routines as they reduce substance use and rebuild daily habits.

Integrated Care and Transition Planning

Because the center is part of a hospital system, clients have streamlined access to medical providers, psychiatric care, and referrals when additional services are needed. Discharge planning begins early and includes connections to outpatient programs, community therapists, or support groups to maintain momentum after residential care. Staff also provide naloxone education to help clients and families understand overdose risks during early recovery.

Client Reviews

Clients often highlight Cottage Residential Center’s caring staff, structured programming, and strong recovery community. A few reviews raise concerns about consistency in rules and client conduct.

• Staff & Care Experience (80% positive): Many clients describe the team as compassionate, knowledgeable, and committed to supporting recovery. A few note inconsistent boundaries or communication. "The staff…had so much passion."
• Treatment Quality & Outcomes (80% positive): Numerous reviewers credit CRC with life-changing help and solid recovery tools. A small number report feeling dismissed or discharged unexpectedly. "This program worked for me after three attempts."
• Support & Community: Alumni support, peer connection, and family involvement are frequently praised as motivating and helpful during and after treatment.
• Facility & Environment: Reviewers mention a calm setting close to the ocean and a generally safe environment. A few describe periods when client behavior felt disruptive. "It’s the most beautiful and amazing place to get sober."