When it comes to recovering from drug and alcohol addiction, environment is crucial. That's why licensed clinical social worker Jeff Schwartz, LCSW, created Harmony Place, where men and women struggling with addiction can go to find a safe, loving, caring and nurturing community in which to heal. Located in the serene and beautiful Woodland Hills neighborhood of Walnut Acres, Harmony Place provides those in need with a "comfortable place to do difficult work!"
Specializing in integrated, customized care of addictions and the host of associated mental and behavioral health issues, such as anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, the staff at Harmony Place is dedicated to helping people recover from addiction and live their best lives without the need for mind-altering chemicals and alcohol.
"When I find I am able to aid people with drug and alcohol problems, it gives me a feeling of deep comfort," says Harmony Place's CEO, Schwartz, who has 30 years of experience in treating addiction. "I got into this business to help people who are suffering from the disease of addiction and this is what I do best. I always tell people that I am a therapist first and a CEO second.
For five years and counting, the full service, 12-bed, coed residential facility and the large outpatient clinic also in Woodland Hills, has fostered the recovery of hundreds of adults seeking to overcome their addiction to drugs and alcohol, with a focus on promoting physical, emotional and spiritual wellness.
"I enjoy helping others, giving back and saving lives," says Schwartz, who holds a master's degree in Social Work. He has opened and operated 10 other treatment facilities and hospital units before establishing Harmony Place.
Certified by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Facilities, a designation carried by only 6% of facilities nationwide, Harmony Place truly offers "an extra piece of Hope!" notes Schwartz.
We visited with Schwartz to find out more about Harmony Place and its mission to help adults achieve long-term recovery from addiction and associated behavioral health issues.
Q. What services does Harmony Place offer?
A. We offer a complete continuum of care for adults suffering from substance abuse and mental health issues, including alcohol and prescription drug abuse. From detox to residential care and transition to day treatment and intensive outpatient for a 90-day progression of recovery.
Q. What should readers know about Harmony Place?
A. We meet the highest standards of treatment in California with JCAHO, DHCS, IMS and Legit Script certifications. We employ a seasoned staff of licensed psychotherapists, psychologist, ASAM certified medical doctors and a psychiatrist, licensed acupuncturist, DC Chiropractor, 24-hour licensed nursing and certified counselors as support staff.
Q. What do your clients like most about Harmony Place?
A. We offer three individual therapy sessions per week with a licensed primary therapist as well as a strong clinical program with clinical protocols of science and evidence-based therapies. Clients have choices! Clients also enjoy our experiential therapies like creative art, psychodrama, meditation, yoga and fitness. Confidentiality reigns supreme at Harmony Place.
We have a gourmet chef who provides superb healthy meals using the finest and freshest ingredients available. Nutritional recovery is another critically important part of the process. We contract with a registered and licensed dietician to support this component.
Q. How does Harmony Place stand apart from other treatment facilities?
A. We offer an excellent clinical curriculum based upon each client’s individual needs, symptomology and various modes of assessment. An individualized treatment plan is formulated with the client’s personal input. By offering three one-on-one sessions per week, it truly individualizes the program. Harmony Place offers an outstanding aftercare and alumni program that supports our clients in their long-term recovery. We are always on the cutting edge of new clinical innovations. We were recently nationally recognized to be certified as a MAT (Medication-Assisted Therapy) Program, which is a powerful component of recovery from opioid addiction.
Q. Do you have any upcoming events?
A. Meet us at the California Department of Health Care Services yearly health care conference in Long Beach this August.
Assessments and tours are free by calling Harmony Place intake office at 888.789.4330.