Cliffside Malibu stands as a premier luxury addiction treatment center nestled in the Santa Monica mountains with breathtaking Pacific Ocean views, offering world-class clinical excellence in an elegant, private setting since 2005. The facility distinguishes itself through its proprietary Stages of Change treatment model, four luxury residential estates, and comprehensive approach that combines evidence-based therapies with holistic wellness practices. With a remarkable 96% patient satisfaction rate and Joint Commission accreditation, Cliffside Malibu has earned recognition as the #1 addiction program in Malibu.
Treatment Philosophy and Approach
Cliffside Malibu’s treatment philosophy centers on the belief that lasting recovery requires addressing the whole person rather than just the addiction itself. Their signature Stages of Change model, developed by renowned researcher James O. Prochaska, recognizes that each individual occupies a different stage in their recovery journey and tailors treatment accordingly. This personalized approach ensures that clients receive interventions specifically designed for their readiness to change, combining intensive individual therapy (three sessions weekly), group work, family programming, and evidence-based modalities like DBT, CBT, and EMDR. The facility’s commitment to clinical excellence is enhanced by 24/7 physician availability and a multidisciplinary team of addiction specialists, psychiatrists, and licensed therapists who work collaboratively to uncover and heal the underlying issues that drive addictive behaviors.
Luxury Amenities and Healing Environment
The therapeutic environment at Cliffside Malibu seamlessly integrates luxury amenities with clinical rigor across four distinct residential estates, each offering private accommodations with premium furnishings, luxury linens, and modern conveniences. Clients enjoy gourmet meals prepared by professional chefs who accommodate dietary preferences and nutritional healing, while engaging in wellness activities including massage therapy, acupuncture, yoga, meditation, and fitness training in state-of-the-art facilities. The facility’s stunning coastal location provides a serene backdrop for recovery, featuring swimming pools, spa services, tennis and basketball courts, and beautifully appointed indoor and outdoor living spaces. This combination of comfort and clinical sophistication creates an environment where clients can focus entirely on their healing journey while experiencing dignity, privacy, and the highest standards of care throughout their treatment experience.
Center Overview
Insurance Accepted
Private Pay Option
Cash Pay Rates
If you are not using insurance, the pricing listed below is an estimate of the cash pay rate.
Private insurance, self-pay, private financing options
: Clients must be over 18 years old, express motivation for treatment, and complete medical and mental health screening by staff physician, clinical therapist, and psychiatrist to develop individualized treatment plans
Staff Credentials: Kelly Stephenson (CEO), Matthew Ruble, MD (Chief Medical Officer), Dane Fisher (Chief Operating Officer), team of licensed physicians, psychiatrists, therapists, nurses, and specialists available 24/7
Success Rates or Outcomes: 96% of patients report being a better person after treatment; 96% are hopeful for the future; 96% believe they can meet their personal goals
Additional Notes: Ranked #1 addiction program in Malibu and #4 treatment center in California by Newsweek 2022; acquired by Discovery Behavioral Health in 2018; offers Discovery365™ virtual safety net for first year post-discharge
Executive Verified Listing
Rehab verified that the name, location, contact information and license to operate for this treatment provider are valid and up-to-date.

Joint Commission Accredited

Licensed by Florida DCF
Independent, third-party mental health resource. Verification does not imply endorsement and does not guarantee the quality of treatment services.
Meet your care team

individual names not published on site; facility emphasizes researcher and boutique staffing model





Specialties
Therapies & Approaches
Amenities

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Frequently Asked Questions
Cliffside Malibu distinguishes itself through its unique Stages of Change treatment model, luxury oceanfront setting, and exceptional staff-to-patient ratios that ensure personalized attention. The facility offers three individual therapy sessions per week, 24/7 physician availability, and lifetime aftercare support through their proprietary Discovery for Life program at no additional cost.
Yes, Cliffside Malibu accepts most major private insurance plans including Anthem Blue Cross, Aetna, Cigna, and TRICARE, and provides insurance verification services to determine coverage and exclusions. Program costs vary based on your insurance coverage, length of stay, and level of care needed, with both insurance billing and private pay options available.
Treatment programs typically range from 30 to 120 days depending on individual needs, with most clients completing primary treatment in 30 days followed by extended care if needed. After discharge, all clients receive lifetime support through the Discovery for Life program, including Discovery365™ check-ins during the first year, ongoing alumni events, and continued access to resources and support whenever needed.
Cliffside Malibu treats all substance use disorders including alcohol, prescription drugs, cocaine, heroin, and other substances, with specialized dual diagnosis treatment for clients with co-occurring mental health conditions. Their comprehensive approach addresses underlying trauma, depression, anxiety, and other psychological factors that contribute to addiction through evidence-based therapies and psychiatric care.
Clients stay in luxury accommodations with private or semi-private rooms featuring ocean views, premium amenities, and personalized care from arrival through discharge. Your daily schedule includes individual therapy sessions, group activities, family programming, medical appointments as needed, and access to wellness amenities like gourmet dining, fitness facilities, spa services, and recreational activities, all within a secure, confidential environment designed for healing and recovery.
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