Voyager Recovery Center was built for people who are looking for something different. We’re not a revolving-door facility or a program that treats everyone the same. We’re a small, focused team in Lake Forest, California, offering care that’s thoughtful, personalized, and rooted in real human connection. Our mission is simple: help people feel safe enough to be honest, supported enough to grow, and empowered enough to rebuild their lives on their own terms.
When most people hear “drug rehab,” they picture something cold and strict — a place where you’re given orders, lose your freedom, and follow a rigid routine. But real rehab, the kind that actually helps people change, looks very different. It’s not about punishment or discipline. It’s about creating a space where people feel safe enough to be honest, supported enough to grow, and empowered enough to take ownership of their recovery.
At Voyager, a drug rehab program means personalized therapy, medical care when it’s needed, and daily routines that support healing — not just sobriety. It means group discussions that matter, staff who listen, and a community that feels human. Programs like ours exist not just to help people stop using, but to help them figure out why they started and how to live differently moving forward. That’s the work.
At Voyager, culture isn’t just a buzzword — it’s the foundation of everything we do. We’ve intentionally created a treatment environment where clients feel seen, heard, and valued. This means no generic programming, no overbooked groups, and no cookie-cutter approaches. Instead, we focus on building trust, mutual respect, and a sense of belonging. Clients are invited to participate in shaping their treatment, because we believe that true healing only happens when people are part of the process, not just subject to it.
Our culture is warm, collaborative, and real. Staff members know your name, peers become part of your support system, and the energy in the home reflects our belief that recovery should feel human, not clinical. We’re not just helping people get sober. We’re helping them reconnect with themselves and others in a meaningful way. That’s what makes Voyager different.
The team at Voyager Recovery Center is made up of compassionate, experienced professionals who genuinely care about the people they serve. From licensed therapists and case managers to residential staff and group facilitators, every member of our team brings both clinical expertise and a deep commitment to human connection. We value collaboration, curiosity, and continuous learning — and we show up each day not just as professionals, but as people who believe in your potential to heal and grow.
You can find detailed information about each of our programs on their individual pages — but here, we want to share something different. This section isn’t about the logistics of detox or the daily schedule in residential. It’s about why we offer the services we do. At Voyager, every level of care exists for a reason. We’ve built this program around what people truly need in early recovery: safety, connection, and a chance to rebuild with dignity. These services reflect our values — and our commitment to helping each person find a path that actually fits.
We offer detox because no one should have to face withdrawal alone. This is often the most physically and emotionally difficult part of recovery — and for many, the reason they don’t start at all. That’s why our detox isn’t just medically supported; it’s emotionally supported too. We created a space where people can begin their healing without fear, shame, or unnecessary discomfort. Because when you feel safe and cared for in the first steps, you’re more likely to keep going.
We offer residential treatment because transformation doesn’t happen in a hurry. After detox, people need time — time to think clearly, reconnect with themselves, and make sense of what led them here. Residential care gives you that time in a structured, peaceful environment surrounded by people who are walking the same path. We built this program to allow for deep therapeutic work, meaningful relationships, and real rest. Because we’ve seen what’s possible when someone is given the right space to grow, and we want that for everyone who walks through our doors.
We know there’s no shortage of treatment centers in Orange County — and that’s not by accident. This area has one of the largest and most active recovery communities in the country. There are thousands of 12-step and alternative meetings, countless sober living homes, and a deep network of therapists, doctors, and peers who understand the path. It’s a place where sobriety isn’t just something you work on in treatment — it’s something you can live and breathe in everyday life.
We chose Lake Forest specifically because it offers the best of both worlds. It’s peaceful, high-end, and removed from the noise, but it’s also right in the middle of this thriving recovery ecosystem. Around here, it’s not uncommon to meet someone at a concert, coffee shop, or grocery store who’s in recovery too. That kind of built-in community matters — and we’ve seen how powerful it can be when clients are surrounded by others who get it, both in and outside of the program.
Very. We don’t believe in cookie-cutter treatment. You’ll help shape your plan, set goals that matter to you, and choose from a variety of therapeutic approaches. We’re here to guide, not dictate.
Not even close. We keep our groups small and our environment tight-knit on purpose. You’ll actually get to know the people around you — and more importantly, you’ll be known and supported by the staff.
It’s calm, personal, and built on mutual respect. No judgment, no chaos. We created Voyager to feel like a safe, supportive home — not a facility where people feel managed. People here are treated like people.
Give us a call. Whether you're ready to begin treatment or just gathering information, our admissions team is here to help. We'll walk you through the process, answer any questions, and help you decide if Voyager is the right fit for you. No pressure — just a conversation to explore your options.
That’s completely okay — many of our first calls come from family members. Whether your loved one is ready or not, we can help you understand the options, answer your questions, and guide you through next steps. You don’t have to have it all figured out. Just start the conversation, and we’ll meet you where you are.
Yes, we work with most major insurance providers and can verify your benefits quickly and confidentially. If you’re unsure about coverage, our admissions team can walk you through what’s included and help you understand your options.
Whether you’re reaching out for yourself or someone you love, you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to listen, to guide, and to help you take that first step toward something better. Call us, ask questions, or just talk things through — no expectations, no pressure. Healing starts with a conversation. Let’s have it.
Medical Director
As the Medical Director of Voyager Recovery Center, Dr. Michael S. Valdez brings a distinguished background in addiction medicine and psychiatric care to our team. Earning his medical degree from UCLA and completing advanced training in neurology at Loma Linda University, Dr. Valdez has devoted his career to helping individuals overcome substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders. His expertise is further enhanced by completing a specialized psychiatric fellowship in 2018.
Dr. Valdez’s commitment to addiction treatment stems from a deeply personal journey. During his medical training, he confronted his own struggles with substance use, an experience that ignited his passion for supporting others on their path to recovery. This personal history empowers him with unparalleled empathy and insight, enabling him to provide patient-centered care that addresses the complexities of addiction.
At Voyager Recovery Center, Dr. Valdez specializes in dual diagnosis treatment, combining evidence-based psychotherapy techniques with individualized medication management. He has pioneered innovative detoxification protocols designed to minimize discomfort and promote long-term recovery, demonstrating his dedication to safe and compassionate care.
As an active member of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), Dr. Valdez continually integrates the latest research and advancements into his practice. He also mentors a multidisciplinary team, fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence within Detox California.
Dr. Valdez’s vision aligns with Voyager’s mission: to offer comprehensive, integrative care that addresses the unique needs of each individual. His leadership and compassion inspire confidence among our clients and staff, ensuring that everyone who walks through our doors receives the highest standard of care.
Clinical Director
Stacey graduated with a Bachelors in Human Services with emphasis in Mental Health and Addiction treatment in 2009 from Cal State Fullerton and then Graduated with a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from Azusa Pacific University in 2012. She currently is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with the Board of Behavioral Health in California. Her previous experience includes working with the homeless population and individuals struggling from intimate partner abuse. She is a Certified Clinical Supervisor for post graduate students that are pursuing therapeutic licensure as Marriage and Family Therapists. Stacey brings experience to program development in dual diagnosis treatment programs and has worked as a therapist, clinical intake coordinator, and clinical director in multiple facilities. Services Stacey provides include individual therapy, assessment, family therapy, couples therapy, case management, supervision, and training, with modalities such as DBT, CBT, and working with family members with loved ones struggling with addiction issues.
Clinical Director
Drake serves as Executive Director, overseeing operations and strategic initiatives to ensure excellence in behavioral health and addiction treatment. With over six years of experience in the industry, he brings extensive expertise in program management, clinical operations, and client-centered care. A Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC II), Drake is deeply committed to guiding individuals toward lasting recovery. Originally from Kentucky, he relocated to California to advance his career in addiction treatment. His deep understanding of the field, combined with a strong commitment to clinical excellence, ensures that individuals seeking help receive the highest standard of care. Known for his leadership and compassionate approach, he has been instrumental in fostering a culture of excellence, driving successful client outcomes, and strengthening alumni engagement.
Program Director
Christine Hughes brings nearly nine years of dedicated experience to her role as Program Director at Voyager. A licensed EMT with a deep understanding of medical and behavioral health care, Christine is known for her calm leadership, compassion, and commitment to helping individuals begin their recovery journey with dignity and support.
Beyond her clinical expertise, Christine is a proud mother of three teenagers and finds balance and inspiration through her active lifestyle. An avid snowboarder and longtime member of the South Orange County sober community, she is passionate about creating safe, encouraging spaces where healing can happen.
Christine’s personal and professional life reflects her belief in resilience, connection, and the power of starting over—and she brings that spirit to everything she does at Voyager Recovery Center.
Clinical Director
Sarah Chasteen is a passionate client advocate, working as our client care coordinator and Discharge Planner. With nearly a decade of industry experience, she has made it her professional mission to help individuals overcome addiction and mental health struggles by utilizing resources in the community to help provide the best care possible.
Sarah understands the challenging and ever so rewarding journey in early recovery firsthand. She is deeply committed to breaking the stigma surrounding substance abuse and mental health disorders by promoting her belief that everyone deserves a chance at healing.
Sarah is known for her unwavering commitment to give her supportive and caring attention to clients daily, while applying her own natural desire to help others, by walking side by side with her clients every step of the way as they gain a new life of sobriety, one day at a time.
CEO
Josh graduated from University of California, San Diego Extension in 2015 with a Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling. He graduated from Saddleback College in 2016 with an Associates of Arts in Psychology. He received a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology at California State University, Fullerton in 2020. Josh is a Certified Addiction and Dependence Counselor – Clinical Supervisor and Internationally Certified Clinical Supervisor (CADC-CS, ICCS). Josh has been working in recovery since 2013 and has served in multiple capacities in drug and alcohol treatment —as Resident Assistant, House Manager, Detox Resident Assistant, Court Liaison, Intake Assistant, Operations Supervisor, Drug and Alcohol Counselor, Case Manager, Director of Business Development, Clinical Supervisor, Clinical Director, and Program Director. He provides consulting for various behavioral health organizations on Start-Up, Licensing and Accreditation, Staffing, and general Program Development. Josh serves as our Chief Executive Officer. In his private life, Josh enjoys spending quality time with his son, watching sports, playing poker, and attending music festivals and concerts — Josh estimates he has seen between 1500 and 2000 live concerts.
COO
Alex is a passionate and driven leader in the behavioral healthcare field, with a history of clinical work and a litany of experience through every role that exists in the world of treatment work. Alex has honed his skills over 7 years by working as a house manager, operations manager, drug and alcohol counselor, Director of utilization review, Admissions director, Business development director, executive director, and eventually arriving at the position of Chief operating Officer through years of dedication and strong work ethics for New Leaf. Alex is an Internationally certified Drug and alcohol counselor 2 (ICADC-II) and has spent years honing his clinical skill set. Alex is proud to represent Voyager Recovery Center and treatment and dedicates a large amount of energy to ensuring the Quality of care and company culture remains at the highest of standards. In his free time Alex spends the weekends traveling to ride downhill mountain bikes and ski and is currently in education to be certified as an open water Rescue Scuba Diver. He maintains his motivation for work through providing a good life for his partner and his blue nose Pitbull named Benny.
CMO
Jason has been working in the treatment field for the last 9 years. After his own battles with addiction, he decided to dedicate his life to helping others regain control of their lives. He realized that beating addiction was possible with the support and guidance of those who have been in his shoes. As the “addiction epidemic” gets worse every year, we see the value in quality treatment. He personally credits his treatment experience for giving him back his relationship with family and friends. He personally believes in being available to help any and everyone struggling with addiction 24/7.
Admissions Director
DJ is a dedicated Admissions Director with a deep passion for helping individuals on their journey to recovery. With a compassionate approach and a commitment to making a difference, he works tirelessly to connect people with the resources they need to reclaim their lives. Outside of work, DJ enjoys spending time on the golf course, where he finds both relaxation and challenge. Above all, he cherishes his role as a father to his 11-year-old daughter, embracing every moment of fatherhood with love and dedication. His commitment to both his family and the recovery community reflects his unwavering belief in growth, transformation, and second chances.
