Thelma McMillen Recovery Center

3333 Skypark Drive, Suite 200 Torrance, CA 90505
Outpatient
Thelma McMillen Center CA 90505

About Thelma McMillen Recovery Center

Thelma McMillen Recovery Center in Torrance, California is an intensive drug and alcohol treatment center for adults and teens. They provide outpatient treatment and medication assisted treatment as well as aftercare support through alumni programming. They have day and night options available to make treatment easier on your schedule.

The outpatient program is structured to guide teens through three phases over six months. The adult program lasts for nine months. You’ll start by attending five sessions a week, then four, then one before exiting the program. You’ll transition gradually as you make progress and develop an understanding of recovery concepts.

The aspect I like most about their program is the mindfulness based relapse prevention strategies. Relapse prevention can take many forms, but incorporating mindfulness promotes a greater sense of self awareness that you can apply to all areas of your life. I think it helps reinforce the idea that recovery takes place in all areas of your life and needs to be continually practiced.

Latest Reviews

Alison Hamilton
4 years ago on Google
5
I wanted to update my review of the Thelma McMillen Recovery Center. During the pandemic, their services have been delivered virtually without interruption and with the same quality they have always rendered. I am aware that they take special care to assist clients (especially those who might be technologically challenged) to navigate virtual treatment. Finally, I want to share a situation that I'm personally aware where Dr. Watson (Program Director) worked tirelessly to assist a client and family locate the appropriate level of care even though the client wasn't a good fit for their center. This is the type of professional integrity and compassion for others that makes this center a beacon in the recovery community.I have been familiar with the work of the Thelma McMillen Recovery Center for almost 10 years. I m impressed with their use of evidence based programs such trauma-informed, mindfulness and Medicated Assisted Treatments and family-involvement for teen and adult programs, respectively. Additionally, their community efforts conducting workshops and hosting world class presentations are exemplary. I ve worked collaboratively with the Center leadership in crafting timely discussions impacting teens and adults. Their professional integrity is beyond reproach. I would highly recommend them to anyone considering help with Substance Use Disorders.
David Williams
5 years ago on Google
5
The healthiest one
Christopher Kobel
5 years ago on Google
5
When my family member began outpatient treatment for drug abuse, my wife and I were lost as far as understanding what addiction is and does. The doctors, counselors, and staff were patient with us and provided a clear, much needed education in how we could best support their recovery. I'm thankful for the Center's caring attitudes and honesty in supporting us as well as our family member.
Rehab.com icon

Rehab Score

Question iconOur Methodology
Scoring is assigned by a proprietary system which helps surface key metrics that determine quality. The 10-point scale factors in categories such as operations, customer satisfaction, and trust metrics. Read Full MethodologyCaret icon
Gauge icon
8 / 10

Location

Accepted Insurance

Thelma McMillen Recovery Center works with several private insurance providers and also accepts private payments when possible, please contact to verify your specific insurance provider.

Other Forms of Payment

Private insurance refers to any kind of healthcare coverage that isn't from the state or federal government. This includes individual and family plans offered by an employer or purchased from the Insurance Marketplace. Every plan will have different requirements and out of pocket costs so be sure to get the full details before you start treatment.

Self-pay involves paying for treatment out of your own pocket. You can use savings or credit, get a personal loan, or receive help from family and friends to fund your treatment. If you don't have insurance or your insurance plan doesn't cover a specific program, self-pay can help ensure you still get the care you need.

Medicare is a federal program that provides health insurance for those 65 and older. It also serves people under 65 with chronic and disabling health challenges. To use Medicare for addiction treatment you need to find a program that accepts Medicare and is in network with your plan. Out of pocket costs and preauthorization requirements vary, so always check with your provider.

Addiction Treatments

Levels of Care

outpatient iconOutpatient
Outpatient Programs (OP) are for those seeking mental rehab or drug rehab, but who also stay at home every night. The main difference between outpatient treatment (OP) and intensive outpatient treatment (IOP) lies in the amount of hours the patient spends at the facility. Most of the time an outpatient program is designed for someone who has completed an inpatient stay and is looking to continue their growth in recovery. Outpatient is not meant to be the starting point, it is commonly referred to as aftercare.
intensive-outpatient iconIntensive Outpatient
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) are for those who want or need a very structured treatment program but who also wish to live at home and continue with certain responsibilities (such as work or school). IOP substance abuse treatment programs vary in duration and intensity, and certain outpatient rehab centers will offer individualized treatment programs.
12-step icon12-Step
12-step programs are addiction recovery models based on Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). A number of substance abuse programs (including some drug and alcohol rehab centers) use the 12 steps as a basis for treatment. Beginning steps involve admitting powerlessness over the addiction and creating a spiritual basis for recovery. Middle steps including making direct amends to those who've been hurt by the addiction, and the final step is to assist others in addiction recovery in the same way. 12-Step offshoots including Narcotics Anonymous (NA), Cocaine Anonymous (CA), Dual Recovery Anonymous (DRA), Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous (SLAA) and Gamblers Anonymous (GA).
aftercare iconAftercare Support
Completing a drug or alcohol rehab program shouldn't spell the end of substance abuse treatment. Aftercare involves making a sustainable plan for recovery, including ongoing support. This can include sober living arrangements like halfway houses, career counseling, and setting a patient up with community programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA).
heart-hands iconIntervention Services
When an individual is in denial about their substance use disorder, their loved ones may organize a drug intervention in California. This effort involves gently but assertively confronting the individual about their substance use and sharing how it has affected those who care about them. A professional interventionist may also attend this gathering. Their expertise with intervention services can prove helpful in guiding the conversation to a positive result.

Treatments

The goal of treatment for alcoholism is abstinence. Those with poor social support, poor motivation, or psychiatric disorders tend to relapse within a few years of treatment. For these people, success is measured by longer periods of abstinence, reduced use of alcohol, better health, and improved social functioning. Recovery and Maintenance are usually based on 12 step programs and AA meetings.

Drug rehab in California teaches participants constructive ways to stay clean and sober. Treatment revolves around helping individuals stop using the substance they are addicted to and learn healthy habits to avoid relapse.

Opioid rehabs specialize in supporting those recovering from opioid addiction. They treat those suffering from addiction to illegal opioids like heroin, as well as prescription drugs like oxycodone. These centers typically combine both physical as well as mental and emotional support to help stop addiction. Physical support often includes medical detox and subsequent medical support (including medication), and mental support includes in-depth therapy to address the underlying causes of addiction.

Substance rehabs focus on helping individuals recover from substance abuse, including alcohol and drug addiction (both illegal and prescription drugs). They often include the opportunity to engage in both individual as well as group therapy.

Programs

adult-program thumbnail image
Adult Program
Adult rehab programs include therapies tailored to each client's specific needs, goals, and recovery progress. They are tailored to the specific challenges adult clients may face, including family and work pressures and commitments. From inpatient and residential treatment to various levels of outpatient services, there are many options available. Some facilities also help adults work through co-occurring conditions, like anxiety, that can accompany addiction.
young-adult-program thumbnail image
Young Adult Program
Young adulthood can be an exciting, yet difficult, time of transition. Individuals in their late teens to mid-20s face unique stressors related to school, jobs, families, and social circles, which can lead to a rise in substance use. Rehab centers with dedicated young adult programs will include activities and amenities that cater to this age group, with an emphasis on specialized counseling, peer socialization, and ongoing aftercare.

Clinical Services

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a therapy modality that focuses on the relationship between one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is used to establish and allow for healthy responses to thoughts and feelings (instead of unhealthy responses, like using drugs or alcohol). CBT has been proven effective for recovering addicts of all kinds, and is used to strengthen a patient's own self-awareness and ability to self-regulate. CBT allows individuals to monitor their own emotional state, become more adept at communicating with others, and manage stress without needing to engage in substance abuse.

Experiential therapy is a form of therapy in which clients are encouraged to surface and work through subconscious issues by engaging in real-time experiences. Experiential therapy departs from traditional talk therapy by involving the body, and having clients engage in activities, movements, and physical and emotional expression. This can involve role-play or using props (which can include other people). Experiential therapy can help people process trauma, memories, and emotion quickly, deeply, and in a lasting fashion, leading to substantial and impactful healing.

Group therapy is any therapeutic work that happens in a group (not one-on-one). There are a number of different group therapy modalities, including support groups, experiential therapy, psycho-education, and more. Group therapy involves treatment as well as processing interaction between group members.

In individual therapy, a patient meets one-on-one with a trained psychologist or counselor. Therapy is a pivotal part of effective substance abuse treatment, as it often covers root causes of addiction, including challenges faced by the patient in their social, family, and work/school life.

Nutrition therapy, aka medical nutrition therapy (MNT), is a way of treating physical, emotional, and medical conditions through diet. Specific dietary plans are designed by professional nutritionists or registered dietitians, and patients follow them in order to positively affect their physical and mental health.

Family therapy offers a platform for members to have an open dialogue about the challenges that addiction has placed on the family unit. Through guided sessions, therapists can help families develop healthy communication skills and address unresolved issues. By working together toward a common goal, they help to support their loved one's sobriety.

While participating in dialectical behavior therapy in California, you'll focus on four key areas of skill development: mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. Treatment includes weekly individual and group sessions.

For clients who are struggling with ambivalence toward change, motivational interviewing in California can help strengthen their commitment to change. Using a conversational method, the therapist helps you explore your motivations and empowers you to make the changes you desire.

Trauma therapy is a structured approach used by therapists to help you heal from a past traumatic event. Your therapist works with you to identify the traumatic memory and process the information so you experience emotional healing and a sense of safety and stability.

Amenities

  • spa2 iconYoga Studio
  • weight iconGym

Accreditations

The Joint Commission, formerly known as JCAHO, is a nonprofit organization that accredits rehab organizations and programs. Founded in 1951, the Joint Commision's mission is to improve the quality of patient care and demonstrating the quality of patient care.

Joint Commission Accreditation: Yes

State Licenses are permits issued by government agencies that allow rehab organizations to conduct business legally within a certain geographical area. Typically, the kind of program a rehab facility offers, along with its physical location, determines which licenses are required to operate legally.

State License: California

Contact Information

Phone icon (310) 784-4879
Building icon

3333 Skypark Drive
Suite 200
Torrance, CA 90505

Fact checked and written by:
Terri Beth Miller, PhD
Edited by:
Kerry Nenn, BSW

Reviews of Thelma McMillen Recovery Center

3.7/5 (12 reviews)
0
Staff
0
Amenities
0
Meals
0
Value
0
Cleanliness
5
8
4
0
3
0
2
0
1
4

Reviews

Overall Experience
Date Submitted
Reviewer

Google Reviews

3.7 (12 reviews)
Alison Hamilton
4 years ago
5

I wanted to update my review of the Thelma McMillen Recovery Center. During the pandemic, their services have been delivered virtually without interruption and with the same quality they have always rendered. I am aware that they take special care to assist clients (especially those who might be technologically challenged) to navigate virtual treatment. Finally, I want to share a situation that I'm personally aware where Dr. Watson (Program Director) worked tirelessly to assist a client and family locate the appropriate level of care even though the client wasn't a good fit for their center. This is the type of professional integrity and compassion for others that makes this center a beacon in the recovery community.I have been familiar with the work of the Thelma McMillen Recovery Center for almost 10 years. I m impressed with their use of evidence based programs such trauma-informed, mindfulness and Medicated Assisted Treatments and family-involvement for teen and adult programs, respectively. Additionally, their community efforts conducting workshops and hosting world class presentations are exemplary. I ve worked collaboratively with the Center leadership in crafting timely discussions impacting teens and adults. Their professional integrity is beyond reproach. I would highly recommend them to anyone considering help with Substance Use Disorders.

David Williams
5 years ago
5

The healthiest one

Christopher Kobel
5 years ago
5

When my family member began outpatient treatment for drug abuse, my wife and I were lost as far as understanding what addiction is and does. The doctors, counselors, and staff were patient with us and provided a clear, much needed education in how we could best support their recovery. I'm thankful for the Center's caring attitudes and honesty in supporting us as well as our family member.

Lisa Marie
5 years ago
5

The Thelma McMillen Recovery center is a beacon of excellence in the fast changing recovery field. The staff under the leadership of Dr. Watson and Dr. Gelbart deal with this chronic illness in a straightforward yet compassionate manner. Their goal is to assist patients and families to identify the best treatment options whether it be with them or another level of care. Their professional integrity is beyond reproach. As is the case in any process, you might not be the best match for their program but they insure you receive the care you need. Some of their staff have years of their own personal recovery which gives another level of hope. They also provide trauma, mindfulness, medication assisted treatment and stellar family counseling and support. Their community involvement is evident by the number of no cost endeavors they provide to citizens of the South Bay.

Lesley Nolen
5 years ago
5

Thelma McMillen Center is a wonderful place and they do such good work. Dr. Watson is amazing and really cares for the clients. I work in the industry and we refer clients all the time to TMC and get nothing but rave reviews about the treatment they received.

Colleen Capistrano
5 years ago
5

I would highly recommend Thelma McMillen Center for people who struggle with drugs and alcohol. They have been a resource for the community for over 25 years and part of Torrance Memorial Medical Center. As a professional working in Behavorial health, I would not hesitate in sending clients and families who need support with substance abuse.

Lee Ann Harris
5 years ago
5

Barbara Meier
5 years ago
1

This facility is set like Alcoholics Anonymous but with a very expensive price tag, even after insurance. My co-pays were going to be around $1,400.00 with a $10.00 copay per visit. There is no assistance with detox other than talking about your feelings. Additionally, a doctor they referred me to for outpatient detox would not accept my insurance because this center referred me to him. His name is Dr. Darren Neal, DO in Torrance, CA. Mind you, if this center had not referred me to him he would have accepted my insurance. Because of this alliance & referral system, Dr. Neal requested cash payments of $160.00 for the initial visit & $150.00 for each subsequent visit. What a racket! You can go to Alcoholics Anonymous for free. Do yourself a favor & don t fall for the glitz & attractive little folder they provide you with. Honestly, this is shameful!

Dance 1
5 years ago
5

John Wike
6 years ago
1

Talitha Leah
6 years ago
1

This is not a research based treatment center, it is a faith based program. There s more discussion of god and spirituality than addiction and the ever growing body of science surrounding it. If you want therapy not prayers, look elsewhere.

Shannon
6 years ago
1

I would not recommend this program to anybody, it s an expensive way to get you into a twelve step program that is free. Counselor Jodie and rude, abrasive and does not keep confidential information like a professional should.

Overall Experience
Date Submitted
No reviews matching the selected filter!
Get Help Now
Question iconWho Answers?
Phone icon 800-784-1361
Left arrow iconBack

Write a review for Thelma McMillen Recovery Center

Sharing your insights and experiences can help others learn more about this rehab center.

Title of Your Review
This is a required field
Your Review

Reviews comments must comply with our Review Policy Content Standards. Please do not use names (job titles / positions are acceptable) of any individual or identifying features, abusive remarks, or allegations of negligence or criminal activity.

A minimum of 200 characters and max of 2,000 characters required.
This is a required field
How would you rate the facility on the following?*
Overall Experience
Must select a star rating
Accomodations & Amenities
Must select a star rating
Meals & Nutrition
N/A
Must select a star rating
Treatment Effectiveness
Must select a star rating
Admissions Process
Must select a star rating
Staff & Friendliness
Must select a star rating
Cleanliness
Must select a star rating
Value for Cost
Must select a star rating
What is your connection to this facility?
This is a required field
Your First Name*
This is a required field
Your Last Name*
This is a required field
Your Phone Number
This is a required field
Your Email*
This is a required field
This is a required field
Spinner icon Submitting your review...
Thumbs up icon Your review was successfully submitted.

Nearby Featured Providers

Jewish Family Service – West Hollywood Comprehensive Service Center
West Hollywood, CA (323) 851-8202

Jewish Family Service – West Hollywood Comprehensive Service Center

Jewish Family Service - West Hollywood Comprehensive Service Center provides... read more.
Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital – Behavioral Health
Santa Barbara, CA (805) 682-7111

Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital – Behavioral Health

Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital - Behavioral Health offers inpatient and outp... read more.
Get Help Today Phone icon 800-823-7153
Question iconWho Answers?