ATA remains open and will support you during COVID-19. Call today at (925) 750-7682
ATA remains open and will support you during COVID-19. Call today at (925) 750-7682
Feedback is very important to us. Nothing makes us happier than when clients tell us about the positive changes that have happened in their lives as a result of their treatment at ATA. We hope these reviews and testimonials can serve as a source of encouragement and inspiration to others needing relief from Substance Use.
My goal was to complete a two years IOP and OP treatment program for alcohol as mandated by the courts for a DUI, but what I received was much more than that. From the moment I called ATA I was immediately put at ease. I walked into my first meeting with Brian McGowan, who would be my counselor for the next 2 years, filled with anxiety, apprehension, and hopelessness. These initial feelings were based on my experience at previous treatment centers and rehab that had been prescribed to me prior: a lot of time and money wasted. I had a full time job, a family, raising a young child and new to the community; I didn’t think I would be able to commit to a typical long term program.
However, I came to find the uniqueness of ATA’s program in that it is designed for working adults. In previous treatment centers, I felt I was just going through the motions so I could simply get my legal case cleared, however, ATA developed a personalized program that would allow me to have a life while working on the issues that brought me here.
In every session we dove deep into my underlying issues. We discussed matters in
my family dynamics, significant life events, and my career which all caused me tremendous anxiety (issues I had been dealing with for decades). I came to understand my triggers and was given tools to rethink some of my false perceptions. There was always a meaningful assignment every week which tied into each theme of our discussions.
I came to find that the one-on-one interactions were so much more meaningful than the group sessions I had previously attended that hadn’t compelled me to open up. These weekly, then biweekly meetings were personalized for me. Outside of the sessions, Brian was always available when I was having a “crisis” or needed to talk. I always felt supported and that I was a priority.
Brian really helped me change my life. After almost two years, I am a different person than when I walked into my first meeting. I feel healthy, clear headed, And confident. My relationship with my family has improved significantly (some of it was nonexistent). I am making good choices in my career and excelling in my job. I’ve also learned to take care of myself and that my mental, spiritual, and physical health are important in my continued development. I feel a valuable member of my new community.
The difference between ATA and other treatment centers I’ve been to is that ATA’s core is positivity versus the fear. Walking out of each session with a positive affirmation and encouragement would make my week and encouraged me to continue with my development. Thank you, Brian, for being a part of my journey. I feel everything happens for a reason and looking back, I needed this. I would highly recommend Brian and ATA to anyone struggling with substance or other issues If the desire is to make a lifelong change.
-Grateful in Pleasanton
I could stay sober for a few months and would then resort back to my addiction. I didn't think I could get what I was looking for in AA, so I turned to Brian to understand why I feel the desire to drink. Right away I knew I had made the right decision as I was able to relate to Brian from the start. I am not a very open person (which is part of my problem) but was able to start the process of learning how to open up and express what's going on inside. Brian's program has helped me get on the right track and his understanding of what I'm going through has helped keep me there. He has helped me understand what it means to be truly honest with yourself and when he speaks about his own experience, it helps me to realize certain things about myself and that I am not the only one out there with an addiction. His willingness to help, understand, and keep me on track could not be appreciated more. My outlook on life, my relationship with my wife and family, and my relationship with myself, have all improved tremendously. I am finally fully happy with myself and could not be happier with the direction I continue to go. Without Brian's help, I would never have understood how great I could feel physically and mentally and the appreciation of each day being sober." — MN
The guys at ATA— they get it. When it comes to substance abuse & addiction, it helps immensely when the person you’re talking to has an idea where you’re coming from. But Mike and Brian’s skills and teamwork aren’t so surface deep. In nine months, working with Brian, I’ve been armed with not only a new framework for viewing myself and the world, but the tools to interact with it. My family dynamic, which had remained unchanged for as long as I could remember, was able to progress to a point that we could all tolerate. Being sober— being in recovery isn’t all roses, anyone who tells you so is lying— but I’ve ran the gauntlet over the years with other counselors, psychiatrists, and on my own— Brian is hands down the best counselor I’ve ever had the opportunity to interact with. ATA doesn’t just give you the tools to succeed as a recovering addict; what I’ve learned with & from Brian has helped me take control of myself and my life for what feels like the first time, in ever." — RR
I’m forever grateful in finding Brian and ATA at what was one of the darkest times of my life. My addiction had reached a point where I had no one to turn to, let alone no clue how to reach out to for help. Who knew that a single phone call in March of 2018 would have singularly changed my life. I called with no knowledge of the firm, its therapists or what talk therapy really was. All I know was I needed help. It was either the desperation in my voice or his willingness to take the extra step to help someone in need… that I was offered a slot the following day. Within one week I had gained the courage to check myself into detox and have not looked back since. If not for such a short timeline, I’m not sure I ever would have followed-up. I’ve been sober and with ATA going on five months and continuously impressed with the level of caring, understanding and a deep sense of knowledge and non-judgment that their approach provides. There’s a level of kindness that I doubt exists in many other places. For the first time in my life, I was instantly comfortable. I’ve learned far more about myself beyond my addiction and recovery journey.
Early on in my recovery, for a variety of reasons, I quickly realized that AA was not for me, and am thankful that there is an outlet that I can turn to on a weekly (if not more) basis to talk on a more personal level. And it’s not just the “one hour on the couch” that ATA offers, it’s a sense of commitment and caring that reaches far beyond the time in the office. By far the biggest lesson I’ve learned is that getting sober was “the easy part”. I couldn’t agree more. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, I highly recommend ATA. Make that call." AB
"Addiction Treatment Alternatives takes a different, more personalized approach to recovery and the subsequent life-building process which follows substance addiction. ATA takes pride in treating people in need as human beings and caters to their recovery needs on a case by case basis, providing sound life advice, strategies and tools for success in recovery, and techniques to prevent unwanted relapses. What really blew me away about this service is the emphasis on helping a newly recovered client adjust to a world without drugs or alcohol. I have noticed a significant change in myself through utilizing this service. Not only am I sober, other areas of my life begin to fall into place thanks to ATA's excellent counseling, and for the first time in years I am optimistic about my future! ATA is an extremely helpful service. Through their one on one approach to recovery they are changing lives. If you are struggling with addiction of any sort and want to get better but are finding that other programs and groups are not doing to trick for you, I highly recommend ATA's personalized recovery counseling. Sobriety as it turns out, is a whole lot better than it would seem".
GN
"I have been working with ATA for the past 4 months and have been impressed with their approach and my results. They have developed a proactive and personal/hands-on program delivered in a way that is tailored for each client. Each session is built on previous sessions giving you the tools for self-assessment and a path forward. This includes both live discussions where you apply the tools as well as written material/exercises for reference and structure.
I specifically appreciate the personal approach Brian utilizes to create a positive relational aspect to recovery. This has directly led to my personal success and discovery of a healthier way to approach recovery. I am now more confident in my recovery and more importantly the tools and structure to continue in my recovery".
RJK
"Let me first start off by saying I have been to many other programs with counseling sessions involved and this is by far, the best program out there. Not only is the ATA philosophy amazing, but my counselor Brian, is one of the best. He is very understanding and very easy to get along with. He has helped me understand more about myself than I could have ever asked for. This program helps you dive into your problems without you having to think what it is that troubles you, or why you are the way you are. He helps you figure out what you need in order to have a positive successful life of being clean and sober. It is a very easy-going program with all the right tools to help you get your life back on track and stay on track. I wouldn’t be where I am today without my counselor Brian and the ATA program. Thank you"
Taylor T
"I have been working with Brian for the past 3 months and have been impressed with his approach and my results. I first called Brian after been sober for 2 weeks and was able to see him the same day. When I first came to him, I was confused, scared and unwilling to open up to anyone. After only few appointments I was able to trust him with my recovery and I look forward to our meetings every week.
Brian helped me get in touch with my inner self and helped me improve my relationship with my family. I owe my success in recovery to Brian and I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a successful path to recovery".
MM
"I have been very happy with how much Mike has helped my husband overcome his addiction. He is a straight shooter and tells you from his own experiences. I would highly recommend Mike for anyone struggling with addiction".
Janee W.
"ATA has been fantastic for my mom! Nothing short of miraculous with her response. Highly Recommended".
Nick S.
"Professional, welcoming, knowledgeable, flexible, courteous, understanding and helpful. Five stars for ATA. Exceptional service and a beacon of light to those struggling. Especially for those working FT with families - ATA really goes the extra mile to accommodate schedules, so you are still able to balance life while seeking treatment. Calm setting where you can talk through things in a 1:1 basis. I found this to be a more successful approach vs medical treatment or group settings".
L.B.
"I have been to many counselors over the past several years and Mike at ATA is definitely the best I have worked with. I always walk away from our sessions feeling better, and he has helped me a lot with my addiction and mental health issues. The offices are very comfortable and professional. I’d highly recommend ATA for anyone struggling with addiction/alcoholism, mental health, or any other life issues".
Josie H.
"If you are ready to make a change in your life and move away from addiction and unhealthy behavior, consider ATA as a very valuable resource for personalized, supportive counseling and coaching that will walk with you as you change the path you have been following to this moment in life.
As a professional who had a lifelong daily drinking “habit” and thought he had it under control, I realized I was way off base. I was lucky, my wake-up moment did not come in the form of a tragedy or serious personal mess up. But my day came and when I was done drinking and wanted to move on in life, I found ATA and chose them as my partner in recovery. ATA offered a private, one-on-one personalized format that worked for who I was and what I wanted. The support and coaching has been fantastic. Of course, it starts with my commitment to change, sobriety and a desire for a better way of life. With that, ATA is my support resource to make this all come to fruition. Thank you, Brian and ATA, for what you do. I will pay it forward on my new path in life".
Douglas S.
"When I first met with Brian at ATA I was hesitant to share my struggles and anxieties with a stranger. I had previously been to a 3-month rehabilitation program that had done nothing but provide a clean environment and minimal 1 on 1 counseling time. This was unsuccessful, discouraging, and I wasn’t ready to quit my addiction after the program ended.
Brian really helped me become much more honest and humble. The 1 on 1 counseling allowed me to focus on everything in life that I was taking for granted, abusing, and not balancing properly. Brian is relatable and truly listens. He does not judge nor make you participate in anything you aren't comfortable with.
I give credit to my parents for locating ATA and to Brian for showing me that I can sustain. Thanks Brian."
JP
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