Program Director
Philip was born and raised in San Diego. He grew up with parents who were functioning alcoholics /addicts. This led to adopting a faulty belief system from a very early age that using drugs and alcohol was an acceptable way to live. The belief system made it normal for him to begin using substances at the age of 15.
Philip has been a surfer his entire life and competed professionally for a few years in his 20s. He has primarily worked in the surf industry. He eventually opened his own surf shop (Select Surf Shop) in the early 2000s. His addiction eventually got the better of him, and after losing his business and his family in 2006, he spent the next 3 years in and out of rehabs trying to recover. His substance abuse issues eventually landed him in federal prison. He used his time wisely and started working the steps of Alcoholics Anonymous and completing an 18-month treatment program.
Philip was the primary caregiver for his mom, who was permanently bedridden for the last 4 years. When COVID hit, he decided to pursue one of his goals and began going to school to become a substance abuse counselor.
After struggling with substance abuse issues for over 20 years, Philip now has 11 years of continuous sobriety and works a program of recovery, giving back to other addicts and alcoholics through sponsorship in the AA program.
Philip studied AODS at San Diego City College and he is now completing his internship here at Coastal Detox of Southern California.
Philip’s main passion is sharing his experience, strength, and hope with others who struggle with substance abuse issues. Helping others through their journey of getting and remaining free of their bondage of addiction.
