Their highly trained and empathetic staff create a nurturing atmosphere, fostering a sense of community and understanding among the residents. Through a comprehensive range of evidence-based therapies, counseling sessions, and wellness activities, Kokua Wellness Center empowers individuals to address the root causes of their addiction, promoting lasting recovery and a renewed sense of purpose.
Co-Founder
Mike’s own experiences inspired him to make a career out of helping others with addiction. In 2009, he entered the field of addiction treatment, and in 2013 he became a Certified Addictions Treatment Counselor (CATC I) through California Association for Alcohol/Drug Educators (CAADE). Mike started working in the field of addiction counseling and quickly found his calling.
A Selfless Approach
He has been essential in shaping treatment initiatives in Southern California and remains engaged in direct care. According to him, the best method to help someone who is struggling with addiction is to point them in a new direction. This commitment, coupled with his unselfish willingness to help others, has helped him to keep his position as a respected leader in the field of substance abuse recovery.
Co-Founder
Randy’s personal experience led him to pursue a career in the rehabilitation industry. In 2012, Randy entered recovery and started collaborating with others. Randy chose to repay the generosity shown to him.
A Passion Towards The Process
In 2017, Randy started working at a Detox in the San Fernando Valley, where he quickly developed a deep interest in the treatment field. Randy is committed to treatment because he believes in the power of hope to transform lives. He lives by the maxim, “Keep It Simple.” Randy brightens up the KoKua Wellness Family with his optimism and realistic perspective.
Sue has been a Registered Nurse for the last 30 years and was inspired to help others as a result of her personal experience with addiction. She has lived in the Ventura County area for many years, working at Ventura County Medical Center and then currently at Community Memorial Hospital. She met Mike and Randy through her sons, and was inspired to work together with them to create a safe place for people to begin their recovery process. She continues to be the liaison between health care providers in the area and the people who need help in the community, and truly enjoys that personal connection.
Bio Coming Soon!
SUDCC II, Program Director
PhD Clinical Director
Director of Business Development and Admissions
AMFT 147033, Primary Therapist
AMFT 161398, CATC III, Group Facilitator
Connie Taylor is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CATC III) with over four years of experience providing counseling and therapy in substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders. She holds a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University and is a participating member of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. Connie brings a trauma informed, integrative perspective to her work with individuals in recovery. Connie has experience treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, shame, grief, trauma, relationship conflict, addiction, and domestic violence. She utilizes an integrative approach, drawing from evidence-based practices and tailoring treatment to meet each client’s unique needs. Her work is client-centered and collaborative, incorporating motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and trauma-informed care. Connie is committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where clients feel comfortable exploring their experiences and receiving the care they need.
Sound Bath Group Facilitator
CADC II Group Facilitator
Operations Supervisor
As a leader in medical detox operations, Chris brings both professional experience and personal perspective to his work. His own journey through significant challenges has shaped his belief that real recovery requires both compassion and structure. Gratitude and willingness guide the way he leads. Chris meets clients with grace, but he also practices firm advocacy, holding clear standards that support real, lasting change. He believes that accountability, when delivered with honesty and respect, is one of the most powerful forms of support we can offer. His goal is to ensure our facility provides not just medical stabilization, but a strong foundation for sustainable transformation.
Chef
Technician
Technician
Tony loves his job as a drug and alcohol technician at Kokua Wellness, a premier drug
and alcohol detox and treatment facility. He supports clients by guiding them through
each step of their recovery, ensuring a safe and structured environment, and offering
personalized care tailored to their needs. He also incorporates breathwork techniques to
help clients regulate their nervous system, find calm, and reconnect with their inner
strength as they move forward in their healing journey.
Technician
Case Manager
Michelle is a dedicated professional with lived experience in recovery, which allows her
to connect with and support others on a deeper level. Her personal journey has
strengthened her passion for helping individuals grow, heal, and build healthier, more
fulfilling lives. Michelle is committed to giving back and creating a supportive
environment where others
Technician
As a passionate Certified Drug and Alcohol Technician, Andi is dedicated to supporting
individuals on their journey toward healing and lasting recovery. With lived experience in
addiction, she brings empathy, understanding, and authenticity that allow me to connect
with clients in a meaningful and genuine way. She believes that reframing and
redirecting negative thought patterns into more positive, healthy perspectives is a vital
step in overcoming addiction and building a life rooted in purpose, self-worth, and hope.
At Kokua Wellness, she strives to create a safe and welcoming space where clients feel
seen, heard, and encouraged as they move forward in their recovery journey.
SUDC, Technician
Chris enjoys working in addiction treatment as a technician, where he supports clients in
building strong foundations for lasting recovery. He is passionate about personal
growth, resilience, and the transformative process of the recovery process. Outside of
work, Chris enjoys music, exploring new technology, and spending time in the ocean.
CADC II, Technician
With eight years in the addiction treatment field, Gina is committed to walking alongside
people during one of the most vulnerable stages of their journey. As a Residential
Technician, she strives to help our clients feel seen and supported, ready for change.
Her philosophy is simple: Tides shift. Storms rage. But no matter what — “just keep
swimming.”
California’s beautiful Ventura County is home to the caring addiction treatment facility Kokua Wellness Center. This institution, which embraces a holistic approach to treatment, offers a homelike setting where people can start their path towards healing and transformation. The Kokua Wellness Center’s steadfast dedication to delivering individualized treatment guarantees that every client gets the respect and assistance they deserve.
KoKua Wellness is an addiction recovery center focusing on holistic treatment in a place that feels just like home.
Feel free to contact with us and get in touch !
