All postings last updated on 5/4/12
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Richard - Feb 22, 2012
Many thanks for the almost two years at Serene Center. You have been good to me, and for me. The stress that brought me there is gone, but I still miss the program. I am truly sorry for any problems I caused, and I appreciate the way you handled me with professionalism and caring.
Josephine - Feb 6, 2012
I want tot thank Serene Center for giving my son the chance he needed to boost his self esteem. He has become responsible and dependable. His journey toward sobriety has been tough, but with Serene Center's help he has been able to learn how to make good choices.
Tina - Dec 21, 2011
Serene Center gave my daughter hope and accountability after relapse after relapse. They gave her what I couldn't. They do great work.
PatPatMcD - Dec 16, 2011
So helpful, yet also based in reality. These people keep my head clear and my feet on the ground. I do the work, and I stay sober. This place helps me do that.
JennFab - Oct 2, 2011
Thanks again for a tremendous experience. I would not hesitate to recommend this facility to anyone in need. I have enjoyed and benefited greatly from my experience there.
David - Oct 2, 2011
You guys are awesome! I love that you work with Twin Town. You kept me honest, called me on my bull**** and left me no choice than to grow up. I needed that, and I appreciate how you did not give up on me. You turned a brat into an adult, and I owe you both my life.
Kris Terry - Sep 19, 2011
My son attended Serene Center for six months. When he returned home, he was a completely changed man. He tells me of his time there and raves about the cousneling services he received. He told me that some of the young people there spend their days trying to figure out how to cheat the drug tests, but inevetiable are caught and thrown out because they do not want recovery. However, my son tells me that if you do want recovery, the staff bends over backwards to offer support. I think my son is correct as I can see such drastic changes in his attitude and behavior. I also had many conversations with the Counselors and Program Director: they did not give up on my son or me. They all informed me of what I need to be doing and what my expectations should be. They even sent me articles and subscribed me to their magazine called Serene Scene. I am so grateful for their help and support.
Sober Boy - Mar 20, 2011
Serene Center in Long Beach, CA is NOT a place to reside if you are trying to find sobriety. It has revolved into a place where there is NO accountability or code of ethics what so ever. Counselors have their favorite members and engage in outside activities with them rather than stick to an ethical "counselor - patient" relationship. When it comes down to the Serene Center in Long Beach, CA it is a business and the top priority is to make money. Since there is NO accountability it has been my observation in the past several months that the relapse percentage has been extremely high. The Serene Centers solution to this problem is to only allow them back if they upgrade their membership to the next tier which is excess of $600 per month. The owner of the Serene Center stated "members here are addicts and you cannot trust what any addict has to say" Therefore problems or concerns will be overlooked when brought to staff/counselors attention and you can treat staff/counselors with utter disrespect without repercussion. I have seen with my own eyes members arrive at the Serene Center as alcoholics, relapse and become full blown heroin addicts which is heartbreaking. My advise is to think twice before moving here or sending your loved ones to the Serene Center to find sobriety and start a new life.
Feb 13, 2010
High quality Sober Living at an affordable price!!! Serene Center Long Beach is one of the nicest and affordable sober living facilities I have seen in the Southern California area. I was very impressed with all it had to offer and the very knowledgeable and friendly staff. It is centrally located in Long Beach with close access to transportation, shops and the beach. Apartments at Serene Center are clean and cozy with all the modern ammenities. A gym and computer lab are available for members and there is a laundry facility on site also. Meetings and workshops are available on site for members along with free weekly family workshops. Serene Center is serious about helping members and family in recovery!
Sep 18, 2009
Serene Center is more than sober living Serene Center goes well beyond customary sober living with outstanding apartment style rooms, a learning center, gymnasium, and a community center where they host meetings and educations. Serene Center also has transitional couseling services available: not like treatment, but designed to help people live life without stress. This is a well thought out and outstanding program.
LostSoul - Nov 15, 2011
Ulyses - Apr 2, 2011
TrustLink.org (BBB)
Ben J. 12/21/2011
The helpful staff and counseling at Serene Center allowed me to gain life skills and insight that I would not have otherwise acquired. I am very thankful! I also appreciate the help even after I have moved out of Serene Center. You said you would be there for me, and you are. I hope many others like me can find Serene Center and receive the help like I did.
William C. 9/23/11
My daughter was at Serene Center. She had trouble there, but they did not give up on her. Eventually she got with the program and finished up her AA degree at the local community college. She is currently employed and has more than 6 months clean. I am very proud of her. She tells me that she could not have done it if it were not for Serene Center and the coping skills counseling she received while there. She also tells me that the staff at Serene Center goes out of their way for anyone who truly wants sobriety, but immediately kicks people out when they do not want it. She said she stuck with the winners, and it sure does seem like she's a winner too.
Daniel T. 8/4/2011
I was a punk kid when I entered Serene Center, and I am almost an adult now. The people at Serene Center did not allow me to manipulate them or my parents, they called me on my rediculous thinking, and they gave me help to figure out direction in my life. I absolutely recommend this program to anyone who wants recovery and can't seem to get out of their own way to find it. I also made good friends at Serene Center as the facility is large. The rooms are nice and the staff is respectful and patient. Good Job Andrew, Bob and Charlie!
Maik K. 7/17/2011
I paid good money to be there for 6 months. I relapsed on alcohol and went back after one week. I have seen them take people back before, so I figured I was ok. They terminated me letting me know that they thought I was not serious about my recovery effort. At that time, they were right. These folks do a great job overall, and the facility is terrific.
Kristine T. 4/16/2011
My son was at Serene Center for 6 months. Since leaving, he has remained sober and has become a different person. He loves life now, he is able to express himself, and he helps other people instead of being withdrawn and isolating. I attribute all of these new behaviors to the tremendous work at Serene Center. Andrew Martin and the staff there were responsive, caring and very well educated in addiction. I am so glad to have my son back in my life, to not worry about whether he will live to see tomorrow. My son also raves about Serene Center. He loved it there. We are big fans.
Ulyses W. 4/2/2011
Serene Center and its staff has helped me to figure out a few things about myself. The counseling has been different than anything else I have experienced and I am holding on to my sobriety for longer than I ever have for the last 21 years. The environment, the counselors, and the accountability built into the program all make this place the best experience of my life.
Arthur C. 3/23/2011
I am currently at Serene Center and have been here for many months. I have much experience with all sorts of treatment programs and sober livings: this one is the best by far! Not only is the facility awesome, the staff is terrific too. I can talk to a counselor and they actually listen to me, and then they help me out. I have never been treated with such respect. They don't consider me an addict here, they consider me a human being that is sick. They drug test me every 3 days and they make sure i am working my program. This is just what I need, and it is working too. I am staying sober and I am learning how to deal with my life without drugging. Thank you Serene Center.
- Serene Center, Andrew M. 3/23/11
Thank you for your kind words. Serene Center was designed to help people help themselves to a better quality of life. It appears we are doing the job.
Local.Yahoo.com
by Daniel Terry
05/15/12
It has been a full year that I left the safety and support at Serene Center and I am still sober and living life to the fullest! I was thinking about Serene Center today after taking my 1 year chip. I think I am using all the tools I learned there on a daily basis. I don t know where I would be without their help. Actually, I do know where I would be, and it isn t pretty. Thank you Andrew for creating and running such a great program.
by Feguson
02/09/12
It is with great appreciation and intense sadness that I write this review. I have lost my beloved to the terrible disease of addiction. If not for Serene Center, I would not have found my own way to recovery and I think I would likely be dead with her. I learned to live my life for my health, and not to live my life for my beloved. I love her intensely, and I know now that she is in a better place. Thank God I have the folks at Serene Center and in my program to help prop me up in this difficult time. I will remember my tools, I will use them with dilegence. I will follow the philosphies of balanced center living and the 12 steps. I will persevere, and I have hope for the future. These things I would never have believed I would say, but with the caring and compassionate treatment I received at Serene Center I can now know that I will be OK.
by Melody 12/15/2011
I owe keeping my kids to Serene Center. I was on massive quantities of benzos daily and I was drinking like a fish. I had lost my husband, my family, and about to lose my kids. Dr. F. detoxed me and sent me to Serene Center. There I found guidance and the needed tools for my recovery. The counselors did not give up on me, even though I had given up on myself. They kept asking me questions - so many questions - and eventually I began to realize that I did have the answers, I just didn't know it. They were so kind to put up with my emotional havoc and my insane thinking. But they were right, I did clear up after a couple of months, and then I found how to live my life in recovery. I work a program and I have my kids too, all as a result of what I learned at Serene Center. For some reason, none of the other treatment program ever took the time to work with me on how to live my life in recovery, they only gave me information and did not let me practice anything. At Serene Center I practiced everything and they asked me about how it was working too. I am so grateful for Serene Center. I am so grateful for my life now.
by ArthurC2011 06/04/2011
This sober living is the best place I have ever been, and I have been at alot of places. They have counselors here that listen and help. They hold me accountable by drug testing me every three days and they make sure I am attending my meetings. They help me daily by giving me counseling so I can deal with my life instead of turning to my drug use. this place is keeping me sober and saving my life! Thank you!
by Dominica Geraldez 05/26/2011
When I was desperate to help my son, Serene Center and their counselors were there to provide guidance and hope. It is only with the honest feedback received that I found my way to get my own help. My son also was able to succeed at Serene Center.
by KrisTerry 04/16/2011
My son was at Serene Center for 6 months. Since leaving, he has remained sober and has become a different person. He loves life now, he is able to express himself, and he helps other people instead of being withdrawn and isolating. I attribute all of these new behaviors to the tremendous work at Serene Center. Andrew Martin and the staff there were responsive, caring and very well educated in addiction. I am so glad to have my son back in my life, to not worry about whether he will live to see tomorrow. My son also raves about Serene Center. He loved it there. We are big fans.
by MtnRider 03/22/2011
Serene Center is the best. They help my brother get back on track by holding him accountable for his actions through drug test and program monitoring. I know the counselors there to be firm and fair in their dealings with patients. I also know that decisions are always based upon what is best for the patient, not what is best for the pocket book. We have had dealings with the organization since it opened in 2008 and we have never experienced one instance of unethical or immoral operation. Quite simply - Serene Center is the best of the best!
by ArthurC2011 03/22/2011
This sober living is the best place I have ever been, and I have been at alot of places. They have counselors here that listen and help. They hold me accountable by drug testing me every three days and they make sure I am attending my meetings. They help me daily by giving me counseling so I can deal with my life instead of turning to my drug use. this place is keeping me sober and saving my life! Thank you!
- Comments (1) English - 04/02/11
Hey Arthur, you and I both know that Serene Center is brilliant. For those of us working our programs, this place is perfect.
by Robert 03/17/2010
Serene Center has an amazing program that integrates a safe and sober environment with counseling and family services. It is a completely secure facility that has 24 hour staff on site.
- Comments (1) ArthurC2011 - 03/22/11
I cannot agree more! this place is awesome.
by Joell 02/22/2010
Serene Center is a sober living community that promotes and assists males to live a clean and healthy life style. The counseling services offered right on site support each indiviual in their daily struggles and successes. Serene Center is dedicated to assisting indivuals that have a desire and a will to have a better future for themself.
by Deborah W 02/12/2010
Serene Center Long Beach is one of the best sober living facilities available in Southern California. It is centrally located with transportation, shops and the beach right at their door step. Serene Center's staff are knowledgeable, friendly and very helpful. The facility is clean and apartments are cozy and cute offering all the modern amenities. A computer lab and gym can be found on sight along with a meditation garden. Serene Center has on site laundy facilities and on site meetings. Family workshops are offered free weekly to both members and their families and to the public. Serene Center is commited to providing excellence to their clients recovery process.
by astonmartian67 11/25/2008
Serene Center transitional sober living community is the best: they trump all other sober livings. They provide counseling, new facilities, terrific living quarters, bicycles, telephone, cable tv in every room, a gym, computer lab, meeting room, AA & NA meetings on site, family workshops, drug testing every three days, and on and on. The counselors are great, and the management is fair. I highly recommend it.
Yelp.com
Tina C., Monterey, CA 5/4/2012
This plae is incredible! They saved my child and my relationship too. I cannot recommend them highly enough.
Melody B., Long Beach, CA 12/15/2011
I love being sober and taking care of my kids. I could not have done it if it were not for Serene Center. They took me under their wing and provided me with the support I needed to figure out how to live my life without making the same old decisions I used to make. I really got the message, it is up to me to make the changes I need to make. I am no longer a victim, and I am now participating in my own life. Thank you Serene Center for not giving up on me, and for giving me the direction I needed. I am so grateful that I was referred to you by Dr. F.
kourtnie g., Las Vegas, NV 11/14/2011
I was a client of the serene center in long beach and it was absolutely the worse sober living i have ever been in! the owner is a complete non professional and picks favorites! I lived there for two almost tree months there r mice rats and bed bugs! i would tell anyone andf eveyone who wants to pay for there kids or family members to go here not to waste your money!!!! there is so much drug use going on there and people being looked over when using while on the premisses that i relapsed bc everyone else was! please think twice before allowing ur family member to go there!
- Comment from Andrew M. of Serene Center 11/15/2011
We take pride in our resolve to terminate individuals who use drugs. Many times individuals who are terminated because they do use drugs will respond with viscous attacks because they want revenge: it is unfortunate that they will not dedicate that energy into their recovery programs. We also take pride in our facility pest control regimen which includes spraying for bugs every two weeks, regular inspection for bed bugs, and continual trapping for rodents. We have none of these pests in the facility, and we make sure we do not get them.
Dominica G., Long Beach, CA 9/23/2011
The counselors at Serene Center gave me honest information when I needed it most. I did not like hearing that I was enabling my son to continue using heroin, but they were right. With their help and the help of Al Anon I was able to change my actions. It almost killed me, but I detached from my son with love. When I did, he finally invested in his recovery effort and Serene Center provided him with a safe place to work on his sobriety. He is still sober and he is doing great.
Kristine T., Henderson, NV 9/18/2011
My son was at Serene Center for 6 months. He has been home for another six months, and he is a totally different person. When he went to Serene Center he was a complete jerk. Now, he has turned into a wonderful young man. He is sober, he contributes around the house, and he participates in life. I attribute all of his success to the wonderful work that Andrew and the counselors at Serene Center did with my son. I was in regular communication with them and they developed customized plans to deal with my son's learning problems and coping skills. These people returned my son to me and I am forever grateful.
Daisy O., Long Beach, CA 9/15/2011
This place is horrible. Go here if you want to continue to do drugs, and find more using friends. Staff is unprofessional, shady, money hogs. Owner is not an addict, and seems to know nothing of addiction. He is simply trying to fill his pockets with your money. Serene Center is an awful scary place.
- Comment from Andrew M. of Serene Center 9/15/2011
For every person who chooses to continue using drugs and alcohol which results in their termination from Serene Center, there are many more who truly want to find a recovery lifestyle that will bring them joy and happiness. I hope one day that Daisy O. may be able to find recovery as well, and find a life that is fulfilling and joyous.
Gaerick M., Bushmills, Moyle, UK
8/11/11
I paid the way for my son to attend Serene Center for nearly 6 months. My son has now returned home and he is doing grand. He is staying off the drink and he seems to have his life together. I attribute his success to the Serene Center. I think they did him a world of good, and they certainly did me a favor by taking on the challenge of my adult son.
Maik K., Carmel, CA 7/17/11
I paid good money to stay here for more than 6 months. I relapsed on alcohol and came back a week later and they did not let me back in. I have seen them let others back in after relapsing, so I don't understand why they are treating me different. However, I think they do a great job over all, and the facility is very nice.
Daniel T., Henderson, NV 6/27/11
I was here for six months. I found myself. These people rock! I was a brat kid with a drug addiction going in, all I wanted to do was hide until I could go back to my life. The counselors made me look at myself, and the other residents there showed me how to live in recovery. I have my life back, my family is in my life, my new girlfriend is awesome.
- Comment from Andrew M. of Serene Center 5/26/11
Congratulations Daniel T. I am so happy you are finding the lifestyle of recovery fulfilling and rewarding. Furthermore, I am very pleased Serene Center was able to be a part of your early efforts.
- Daniel T., Henderson, NV 4/19/11
I was here for six months. I found myself. These people rock! I was a brat kid with a drug addiction going in, all I wanted to do was hide until I could go back to my life. The counselors made me look at myself, and the other residents there showed me how to live in recovery. I have my life back, my family is in my life, my new girlfriend is awesome.
LM H., Long Beach, CA 6/24/11
Serence Center did NOT provide a safe atmosphere for our family member. The owner is now unprofessional with his comment and therein proves the point of the rating.
- Comment from Andrew M. of Serene Center 6/23/2011
This reviewer's previous review was removed for violation of the http://yelp.com policy that prevents inappropriate reviews. I am unable to disclose the details of this incident, however I can tell you that addiction and relapse can cause serious psychiatric problems. I pray for help for all those struggling on a daily basis.
- LM H., Long Beach, CA 6/10/2011 First to Review
As a family member of a previous resident, my rating says it all.
Ulyses W., Long Beach, CA 6/23/11
I was just contacted by a friend that also went through Serene Center. He recently had a slip in his recovery effort, and I told him to go back to speak with one of the cousnelors at Serene Center. He did go back, and he was immediately given assistance and is now back into his recovery program. The people at Serene Center are just brilliant.
- Comment from Andrew M. of Serene Center 6/23/2011
Congratulations! We are so pleased by your ongoing recovery. Your story inspires others that they too can find a long-term lifestyle of recovery if they are willing to do the work.
- Ulyses W., Long Beach 5/17/2011
Living at Serene Center is as good as it gets in a sober living facility. Plus, I get counseling too. They have helped me figure out a few things, and I am holding on to my sobriety for the first time in 21 years as a result. Thank you.
Arthur C., Long Beach, CA 6/23/11
Every day I am using the tools I learned at Serene Center. I am very confused as to why my reviews are not being posted. It seems like yelp is only interested in negative reviews, but this place is totally awesome and helpful. I just cannot say enough about Serene Center.
- Arthur C. Long Beach 4/19/2011
I was just contacted by a Serene Center counselor that was fired. She was trying to get me to write negative reviews against Serene Center. Unbelievable! Serene Center is the best place ever, and don't believe anything but the good comments.
- Arthur C., Long Beach 3/22/2011
I just read a couple of the negative reviews posted on Serene Center, and all I can say is that these must have been posted by some of the people that were kicked out because they were using drugs. I can tell you that serene Center is by far the most professional and well run sober living I have ever been at, and I have been at many. The management here is awesome, they actually listen to me and help me out: that cannot be said for most places I have been. I am treated fairly, drug tested every three days, and I am monitored for attending my meetings and following through on my treatment. This is everything I could hope for and I am staying sober as a result. I recommend Serene Center for you if you are serious, but if you want to use drugs and goof around, don't bother coming here or you will find yourself getting kicked out just like the people writing these negative comments.
Rhonda B., Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 6/3/11
My son was here about a year ago and did well. He went back to school to complete his degree and graduated last month. He celebrated by going out with his friends and drinking, which led to his smoking marijuana again. I called Serene Center immediately to find out what to do. They helped me to get my son back into treatment, without concern for his entering Serene Center. I am so impressed with the way this company is run. Their only concern is the health of my son and of our family. This type of operation is refreshing.
- Rhonda B., Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 4/9/2011
My son was at Serene Center for nearly 9 months. He recently graduated and went back to school. In his time there, he was able to mature and find his way to a sober lifestyle. I also participate int he series of family workshops and found themt o be outstanding. I learned that I was part of the problem as well, and I now attend Al-Anon regularly. I want to thank Serene Center for their help in saving our family.
Robert D., Garden Grove, CA 5/25/11
If you ever require sober living, this is the place. The staff are professional and experienced. You should do your homework when looking for a place that is safe and sober...this is one of those places!
david j., Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 5/24/11
I never in my life been away from my family for more than 2 weeks at a time, an because of my addiction I had no choice but to move into a residential home.
What a blessing from God! From the first day, the staff made me feel right at home. Andrew the director of the center was very helpful and provided me with a full understanding of how to use the center to my advantage. It was evident that he was more interested in how to help me than how much he should charge me.
The accomodations at the Serene Center are great. The unit I was in was very well maintained and I was matched with perfect roommates.
The staff was always there for me whenever I needed to talk about my recovery plan and more important they always asked me how they can be part of it in order to help me
For a first time visitor to residential housing I was very pleased and would always reccommend the Serene Center to the next person who
needs help along the way.
- Comment from Andrew M. of Serene Center 5/26/2011
Thank you so much for your kind comments David J. It is our job to help people help themselves to long term fulfilling lifestyles of recovery. When we hear from someone that we are truly helping, it means so much to all of us.
Mack L., San Marcos, CA 5/7/11
The only reason I am not giving 5 stars is because my roomate is a slob, but I suppose that is really not the fault of Serene Center.
I have been here for three months and I was a royal pain in the a** when I came in. These people did not give up on me, and eventually I realized I cannot drink and use any longer if I want a life. So, I started to listen and take direction and do my work. What do you know, this sobriety thing actually works!
Thank you to the counselors here. Thank you to Andrew for making a place like this. And thank you to my parents for not giving up.
- Comment from Andrew M. of Serene Center 5/26/2011
Thank you for your comments Mack L. As you know, we make every effort to try an motivate people to keep their living space neat and clean. When our yellow wanring cards do not work, we progress to a red warning card and then start to clean up the area for them while charging them for the service. Fortunately, the yellow warning cards are usually effective.
Megan A., Henderson, NV 4/19/11
My boyfriend attended Serene Center about 6 months ago. He came back home a totally different person. I love him now more than ever. He is sober, he treats me with respect, and he is motivated. He talks about Serene Center and what he learned there all the time. I know he still talks to a couple of friends he made there. I have used some of the articles off their website to help me out as well.
William C. Williams, AZ 4/19/2011
My daughter is at Serene Center. She had some trouble and went out to drink. Instead of klicking her out like most places, Serene Center sent her to detox then set up a treatment plan to deal with her relapse. I paid for her counseling services and it has really paid off. My daughter reports she is getting more out of Serene Center than any of the treatment programs she has been in before. I can tell that she is maturing as I do not get dramatic phones calls every hour. I speak with her every other day and she has even started up school to finish her degree. When I ask her about her challenges, she says she is being taught coping skills that are really helping her live life without drugs and drinking. Thank God!
Gary R., Pacific Palisades, CA 3/22/2011
Our expierience with Serene Center was professional and caring. The residents there are held accountable for their actions through drug test and program monitoring. The counselors there were firm and fair in their dealings with my brother and other patients. We also always felt that decisions were always based upon what is best for the patient, not what is best for the pocket book. We have had expierience with the organization since it 2009 and we have never seen one instance of unethical or immoral operation. Quite simply, Serene Center helped my brother on the road to recovery. Addiction is hard on all and people are unpredictible - Serene center does it best to keep all in line but sometimes and unfortunately some people are just broken.
P.H, Long Beach, CA 3/20/2011
This facility proved to be a poor choice for us. Would have been better off avoiding this establishment all together. Highlights include poor management, erroneous charges and unreturned phone calls.
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2 Previous Reviews:
3/20/2011
Warning - If you make this place your choice for sober living care for you or a loved one, read the contract very carefully. Do not give this establishment your credit card number or you will likely be very sorry. The facility appears concerned for your loved one but their real objective is to separate you from your money. Keep searching. Lots of wonderful facilities of this type around to choose from. Don't let them try to tell you otherwise.
3/18/2011
Unfortunate. The Owner Andrew fancies himself a psychologist. What an ego... Brought the family in to tell us our son was being kicked out and charged us an additional $170.00 just to tell us. ...Called it a family counciling session. Classes include the puffed up Andrew giving sermons to the residents from his home schooled credential in substance abuse. This facility seems more concerned about syphoning funds from grieving parents than helping your loved one in addition to giving Andrew a podium to, "Teach" from. Please do yourself a favor and stay far far away from this sober living facility!
Billy B., Long Beach, CA 3/18/2011
Serene Center in Long Beach, CA is NOT a place to reside if you are trying to find sobriety. It has revolved into a place where there is NO accountability or code of ethics what so ever. Counselors have their favorite members and engage in outside activities with them rather than stick to an ethical "counselor - patient" relationship. When it comes down to the Serene Center in Long Beach, CA it is a business and the top priority is to make money. Since there is NO accountability it has been my observation in the past several months that the relapse percentage has been extremely high. The Serene Centers solution to this problem is to only allow them back if they upgrade their membership to the next tier which is excess of $600 per month. The owner of the Serene Center stated "members here are addicts and you cannot trust what any addict has to say" Therefore problems or concerns will be overlooked when brought to staff/counselors attention and you can treat staff/counselors with utter disrespect without repercussion. I have seen with my own eyes members arrive at the Serene Center as alcoholics, relapse and become full blown heroin addicts which is heartbreaking. My advise is to think twice before moving here or sending your loved ones to the Serene Center to find sobriety and start a new life.
LosAngeles.CitySearch.com
by GaerickMcNally at Citysearch 8/11/11
I paid the way for my adult son to attend Serene Center's program for six months. My son came back home a changed man. They really whipped him into shape, I don't know what they did, but he is now off the drink and acting as a man. I am very happy with the result as my son is going to his alcoholics meetings and he is a changed person. Many thanks.
by KristineTerry at Citysearch 4/18/11
My son came back a chenged man, no longer a child. He was in and out of 4 different treatment programs, expensive well known programs too. He would graduate the program and be back to using heroin within days of leaving. He would blame everyone around him for his drug use, and he would manipulate everyone into giving him money and shelter and food. It is only after we sent him to Serene Center that he actually started to take responsibility. I think it is due to the unique coping skiils training that Serene Center provided with their counseling services. My son is now sober for the longest I can remember. I am so happy.
by SBPatios at Citysearch 4/17/11
My son attended Serenen Center for several months. I found Andrew Martin, the owner I think, to be professional and really know his stuff when it comes to addiction and the family. He told my husband and I what we needed to hear, not what we wanted to hear. We learned we are a part of the problem of addiction and that it was not all about my son. We now all work a program of recovery and my husband and I have never gotten along so well. My son remains sober and is a changed person: he acts as an adult now. I see him use his recovery tools, the tools he learned at Serene Center.
by UKWaters at Citysearch 4/2/11
Serene Center offers some counseling along with the sober living. The people here have helped me figure out a few things about myself, and I am now holding on to my sobriety for longer than I ever have: after 21 years.
by lmh01 at Citysearch 3/30/11
THE TRUTH....
If you wish to be ripped off at a time when your family is most vulnerable...by all means, go for the torture. What appeared to be on the surface, a professional atmosphere - quickly became a house of horrors.
DON'T SIGN ANYTHING, DON'T SUBMIT ANY CREDIT CARDS. You will be charged erroneously, in the thousands - all the while your family member doesn't even reside there.
You want serene? You want professional...skip this nazi camp that will cost your family endless heart ache. Off to the BBB on this racquet...and civil court! THIS IS A SCAM FOR SURE, ANDREW AND HIS 'ONLINE' CREDENTIALS!
by Terry Chern at Citysearch 3/24/11
I have personally known Mr. Martin for 5 years and everything he does is with the greatest care and attention to detail. He understands your needs always has a wonderful way about him that makes everything he touches better, Serence Center is the same, and imprinted with the same love and devotion. If you are seeking loving care and want to get well, then this is an excellent choice.
by DeirdreWC at Citysearch 3/24/11
My friend has been at Serene Center for a few months and I have already seen a complete change in his attitude and actions. He is now acting more appropriately and he has stopped all of the shenanigans with drinking and using drugs. He has been able to rebuild his relationship with me and I am starting to trust him again. Many times I tried to talk to the counselors at Serene Center and they could not talk to me because my friend did not sign some sort of confidentiality document; but when he finally did, I was able to learn about the progress he was making and the counselors gave me good feedback too. I have also attended a couple of their family workshops and found them to be incredibly informative and helpful. When I visited the property I was so impressed with the environment, it is clean and people there are very nice. The staff was professional and absolutely knows what they are talking about. I am so happy my friend is getting the help he needs at Serene Center.
by ArthurC2011 at Citysearch 3/22/11
Serene Center is keeping me sober. I came here after countless sober livings and treatment programs. After coming here, the counseling has helped me to figure out how to deal with my life instead of running away from it. I have no doubt that I would be back out drugging if it wasn't for this place. They drug test me every 3 days, they make sure I am going to meetings, and they are there for me whenever I ask. They listen to me, and they help me out. This place is awesome! don't pay any attention to the negative comments posted by people who were obviously cought using and were kicked out. I am sober, I am staying that way, and I am telling you the truth.
by Lauri D at Citysearch 3/20/11
This place is high on aesthetics and low on really delivering what they claim. The owner is a snob who thinks he can bully parents into paying more when their kids relapse. But our family recently found out that they never tried to help my family member stop using. They stood by and watched even after being warned by his girlfriend. He ended up overdosing and they charged us more for him to stay there. If you are looking to spend money without knowing how it is used then this place is for you.
by Sober Boy at Citysearch 3/19/11
Serene Center in Long Beach, CA is NOT a place to reside if you are trying to find sobriety. It has revolved into a place where there is NO accountability or code of ethics what so ever. Counselors have their favorite members and engage in outside activities with them rather than stick to an ethical "counselor - patient" relationship. When it comes down to the Serene Center in Long Beach, CA it is a business and the top priority is to make money. Since there is NO accountability it has been my observation in the past several months that the relapse percentage has been extremely high. The Serene Centers solution to this problem is to only allow them back if they upgrade their membership to the next tier which is excess of $600 per month. The owner of the Serene Center stated "members here are addicts and you cannot trust what any addict has to say" Therefore problems or concerns will be overlooked when brought to staff/counselors attention and you can treat staff/counselors with utter disrespect without repercussion. I have seen with my own eyes members arrive at the Serene Center as alcoholics, relapse and become full blown heroin addicts which is heartbreaking. My advise is to think twice before moving here or sending your loved ones to the Serene Center to find sobriety and start a new life.
YellowPages.com
Reviews from other sites that have been copied to YellowPages.com have been omitted as they are already on the Serene Center Reviews website.
Posted by KrisTerry on 04/18/2011
I also have a son who spent several months at Serene Center. He has been in and out of treatment centers 4 times since age 17, and every time re relapsed on heroin within a few days of graduation. Finally we found Serene Center who was referred to us by his last treatment center counselor. We told our son he had no choice but to attend Serene Center and he reluctantly went. The first month was tought, however we began to see changes. I think the coping skills counseling was an amazing technique that my son had not encountered before. He has remained sober and seems like a different person: he is actually matured into a man. I am so grateful.
Posted by SBPatios on 04/17/2011
My son attended Serene Center for several months. I found the management there to be communicative and helpful, not only for my son, but also for me and my husband. We learned that it was not only my son's problem, but we had a part in the addiction as well. Now we all work a program of recovery and we are doing great. My son remains sober, in large part due to the excellent work at Serene Center, and my husband and I are getting along better than ever. Andrew Martin, the owner, told us what we needed to hear, not what we wanted to hear. I think his skill as an addiction counselor and at running a professional organization is outstanding. I consider one of the best days of my life the day that we found Serene Center for my son.
Posted by UKWaters on 04/02/2011
The counseling staff at Serene Center have helped me to figure out a few things about myself. I am now sober for the longest time I can remember in the past 21 years. The rooms are great, the people here are genuinely interested in sobriety, and the location is convenient for my meetings. Sometimes people drink or use, and when they do the staff acts immediately and with the best interests of the addict. I am a huge fan of this place, it is the best.
Posted by ArthurC2011 on 03/22/2011
First off, don't pay attention to the negative reviews posted by people who get kicked out for using drugs. Second, Serene Center is without a doubt the best place I have ever been, and I have been in alot of places. This is the first place where they actually care enough to listen to me and help me out. the counselors and the owner Andrew are awesome! They did have a counselor for a short time who was causing big problems and she was fired. This place is helping me to stay sober one day at a time. When I have a problem, I can talk to them and they give me help. They drug test us every 3 days and they make sure I am working my program. I have never been treated this well in any other sober living. This place is awesome, and that is the truth!
HalfwayHouses.net
from Dominica Geraldez - Long Beach, CA - 09/12/2011 20:21:58
My son was lost in his addiction. He went to so many treatment programs and detox programs I cannot count them all. He finally found his way to Serene Center where he turned his attitude and his life around. I am confident that he would be dead if it were not for this place.
from Arthur Carney - Long Beach, CA - 03/22/2011 15:58:49
I am staying sober because of this place. The staff is helping me deal with my life rather than using drugs. I so appreciate how they actually listen to me and help me out. They drug test me, and they make sure I am following my program. They care.
from BD - Garden Grove, CA - 03/17/2010 18:53:00
What makes Serene Center unique in my opinion is the optional counseling services on-site as well as the family workshops which are free to members and family. It sets this center apart from the rest.
from J - Huntington Beach, CA - 02/22/2010 23:00:37
I recommended the Serene Center to a friend because it offers counseling services right on the property.
from Terrence - Los Angeles - 02/21/2010 20:44:12
Andrew Martin run's a tight ship. His passion and dedication to helping another human being and delivering a benefit are his first priority.
Kudzu.com
Reviews from other sites that have been copied to Kudzu.com have been omitted as they are already on the Serene Center Reviews website.
JFabbulous 3/15/12
Properly treated for my needs. I highly recommend Serene Center. They have a very powerful combination of transitional treatment services with a terrific sober living environment that allows people to succeed. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Serene Center and I continue to use the tools I learned there to live a much better life now.
MackLarson 8/4/11
When I arrived at Serene Center I was a punk kid that wanted to do eveything my way and I wanted everything right now. Serene Center caounsleors did not put up with my crap. The organized a unified front againt my addict behavior and thinking. I had to change to survive. They forced me to get out of my own way, and then I found recovery. Thank you so much for being there for me.
SBPatios 6/28/11
My son had been in and out of treatment programs and sober living facilities for years. He could not engage in sobriety for more than a month or two at a time. We sceptically placed him at Serene Center based on a trusted therapist's recommendation. A few months later my son had taken responsibility for himself, he found a job, and he was staying sober. I also found the family counseling at Serene Center to be superb. Andrew is a terrific counselor.
UKWaters 6/23/11
Having spent over a year in Serene Center, I think I am well qualified to inform all of you that the approach Serene Center has to building new coping skills works. I had not put together more than 90 days of sobriety for over 15 years, and once at Serene Center, I learned how to live life on lifes terms. I have been sober over 18 months as I write this. These people are my saviors.
KrisTerry 4/18/11
My son was in and out of 4 different treatment programs, good ones too. Every time he would graduate he would relapse on heroin within a couple of weeks. Finally, after the last treatment program, the counselor recommended we send my son to Serene Center. He was there for several months: it was difficult at first, but then we started seeing changes. I think the coping skills counseling they do made all the difference. My son remains sober and is a different person. He is actually acting like a man, and he is a pleasure. Thank you to Serene Center for all the tremendous effort you put into my son and for making me so happy.
ArthurC2011 3/22/11
Serene Center is the best! I have been treated fairly and honestly and I have been kept on target with my recovery. This place has helped me figure out sobriety.
Superpages.com
by arthurc2011 Mar 22, 2011
I highly recommend Serene Center because they run a very professional operation. their counselor listen to me and then provide help. I have been in many sober livings and nothing even comes close to Serene Center. They drug test me and make sure I am working my program. I am sober because I am here. Thank you for caring.
Treatment-Centers.net
by GaerickMcNally August 11, 2011
My adult son was a lush for years. Nothing seemed to work for him in Ireland or England. Program after program resulted in no changes to anything except my pocket book. I paid his way to go to America at Serene Center's program for six months. He returned home a changed man. I don't know what they did at Serene Center, but my son is off the drink now and going to his alcoholics meetings without missing even one. He has turned into a responsible bloke too. Fair play to Serene Center!
by MaikKohl July 17, 2011
I paid good money for about 6 months. I relapsed on alcohol, and when I showed up a week later, they informed me I was kicked out. I have seen them keep people after relapsing so I thought I was ok. I did deserve to get kicked out, and they explained to me that they only support people when they want recovery. They were right about me, I did not want it at the time. They do a good job here overall, and the facility is great.
by SBPatios June 28, 2011
My son has been through numerous treatment facilities and sober livings. He has never been able to engage in sobriety longer than a few months. We were referred to Serene Center by a counselor and sceptically placed my son there at there silver level program. Miraculously, my son actually engaged and began to change in ways I never imaged he would. Most notably, he took responsiblity for himself, really worked on his recovery, and found a job. My experience witht he counseling at Serene Center is outstanding as they helped with family counseling as well. I give this program 5 stars.
By Waters April 2, 2011
Serene Center counselors have helped me to figure out a few things about myself. The expereince has been totally different than all the sober houses before. I am actually staying sober for the longest time I have ever been sober in the last 21 years. This place is brilliant.
By marely1 December 29, 2010
Hands down the most unprofessional and unorganized facility I have ever seen in my life. Serene Center is just one of those places that are ALL ABOUT THE MONEY. The web site is very deceiving and the more you pay the more ripped off you will be. There are about 5 different levels of treatment to choose from all of which are exactly the same (besides the number of people to a room) There are 4 staff members... Only one of the staff members is there 24hrs and is very unprofessional. The owner is very standoffish and cold to all of the residents and is rarely ever seen. Clearly serene center is more about people's money than people's sobriety and well being... A person overdosed on his meds recently and the staff member on duty refused to attend the the emergency because "That guy does this all the time". I would highly advise anyone who is looking for a great place to be in recovery to NOT waste your time or money at Serene Center.. this place is a sorry excuse for a halfway house and if you are seeking a safe place for recovery with good people on staff and a legitimate program, this is the exact opposite of what you need.
If you do not take my word for it... Good luck!
by Livingood March 23, 2009
I never knew that Sober living could be like this. Serene Center has helped me transition back into my life, I could not have done it with out their help. Thank You !!!
by dwhelan February 21, 2010
Serene Center is the best sober living facility in So Cal. It is located in Long Beach near the beach, downtown, and shopping areas too. They even have bicycles to get back and forth. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable. I took advantage of their counseling and it made a huge difference in my recovery. They have free weekly family meetings that are awesome! The rooms are clean, organized and have all the modern appliances and furniture - even pillow top mattresses. They also have a computer room and a gymnasium. I can't say enough about Serene Center. I highly recommend it!
InterventionAmerica.org
Arthur Carney on 03/22/2011 06:13:00 PM
I have found Serene Center to be the finest sober living I have ever been at, and I have been at alot of sober livings. The staff is friendly and professional and the owner really cares. I am drug tested every 3 days and I have to prove I am working a program. This is just what I need, and it is working as I am sober.
OCRegister.com
deborah w. Saturday, Feb 20 4:19pm
Serene Center, is a beautiful Transitional Sober facility located in Long Beach. Here you will find friendly and helpful staff who are serious about recovery.The Serene Center is centrally located with clean and modern facilities. There is a gym, laundryroom, computer lab and cute little garden areas for quiet time and meditation. Weekly meetings can be found on site for both members and locals to attend. If your serious about recovery, Serene Center is the right place for you!
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