Entering a residential program for recovery and healing is a courageous act. You may be away from home for several weeks or months and that is difficult. Future residents often have many questions about what to expect at the Center for Discovery, understandably so. Some residents may not have the opportunity to visit the facility before admitting, so they may be even less sure of what to expect. Over time we have noticed that there are some common questions. So, we have provided a few answers to some common questions.

Is it a hospital?
No. The Center for Discovery’s Dual Diagnosis programs are in very spacious, comfortable homes in the neighborhoods of Long Beach and La Habra Heights. Our homes look similar to your own home. Our residents usually feel very comfortable in this softer, more home-like setting than in a sterile hospital or institution.

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How many people are there? What are they like?
There are never more than 6 - 8 residents in any program and they are similar to you. They are between 11 - 17-years-old. Boys and girls are treated in separate residences. Some residents are concerned that they will be the only one with their particular problem. Residents frequently suffer from similar problems. This is the basic reason why a residential community is an effective treatment setting. New residents are soon to find that they are not alone and that many people struggle with painful issues and are having success in healing and resolving their problems.

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Do I get my own room or do I have a roommate?
It depends upon the number of residents in the house. Generally there are two beds to each room so in most cases everyone has a roommate.

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Do I go to school?
Students work on assignments from their own school or attend a charter school. In most cases, students are able to keep up with school requirements. Tutoring is offered when a resident needs academic support.

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Can I exercise?
Absolutely. There is an exercise component to each program. Workouts at the YMCA, nature walks, swimming, and games in the park are all a part of the experience.

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Is the house locked? Do you ever go out?
The Center for Discovery is a voluntary experience. The house is not locked, however, residents are not allowed to leave unless accompanied by a staff person. Residents leave the house often for walks, outings, and various activities in the community or just to the back yard where they may play games, garden or have individual or group therapy.

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Why did this happen?
There are general reasons someone might suffer from a mood disorder, but each person or case is individual. Large or painful events such as a divorce in your family, school or social problems, difficult relationships or circumstances at home, or perhaps the loss or death of someone for whom you cared about. Sometimes though a mood disorder just happens without a single reason or trigger.

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What can I expect from "Treatment"?
Treatment requires some work and investment. You will have individual therapy with your therapist. You will have group therapy and workshops with your therapist and other professionals and specialists. You will have family therapy. You will attend school at the program. Hopefully, you will have a life changing experience. It is our hope that the treatment experience will bring you change; change for the better; better laughter and better tears, better sorrow and better joy, better problems and better successes.

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