Vista Hill Programs - Don Allen Parentcare

An unborn child deserves to enter this world unhindered by drugs or addiction… their future limited only by the imagination.

In 1993, in recognition of the growing crisis of drug-addicted newborns, Vista Hill stepped in to help break the cycle of substance abuse, child abuse, and family violence. Since that time, the Don Allen ParentCare Family Recovery Center has provided substance abuse recovery services to pregnant and parenting women, newborn infants and young children in East San Diego County. The families served at ParentCare are at high risk for child abuse, domestic violence and homelessness, and many have a dual diagnosis of mental illness. ParentCare has been recognized as a leader in the development of family-centered recovery services and is making a significant difference in preventing child abuse and reducing perinatal drug and alcohol exposure. The ParentCare Center plays a critical partnership role with County Child Protective Services, drug and family courts, and local hospitals.

By providing drug treatment and supporting ongoing sobriety, ParentCare gives families the opportunity to make critical lifestyle changes and create a safe, nurturing home environment for their children. Treatment services are gender sensitive, focusing on the special needs of mothers who have substance abuse problems and limited parenting skills. Unique features of the ParentCare model include on-site psychiatric services for clients with a co-occurring mental health disorder; the Therapeutic Learning Center (on-site specialized pre-school and childcare services); and access to Vista Hill’s Sober Living Apartments, a drug-free affordable housing complex which has become an important adjunct to the ParentCare Center.

"Our nurse ensures that women's health issues get proper attention."

In addition to achieving a sober, drug-free lifestyle, a primary goal of ParentCare is to ensure that pregnant women give birth to babies who are free of drugs and alcohol, and that children grow up in healthy, drug-free families. Attesting to its effectiveness, over 98% of the pregnant mothers enrolled at ParentCare since 1999 have given birth to drug-free babies. In 2003, we achieved a 100% success rate in drug-free births.

As a result of Sarah's drug and alcohol abuse, she lost her family and thought her life was ruined. She made the decision to change her life on August 5, 2004. She was terrified when she walked in the door at Vista Hill's ParentCare Family Recovery Program, she didn't know what was going to happen, but she also knew anything was better than her life at that moment. Click here to learn more about Sarah.

Women with substance abuse problems who are either pregnant or are parenting a child under 18 years of age may be eligible to participate in the helpful, healing programs provided by ParentCare. Fees are based on a sliding scale. Medi-Cal and other insurance plans are accepted. Services are partially funded by the County of San Diego. Call 619.668.4200 for an intake appointment.

On an individual basis, we address a wide range of complex issues, such as self-esteem, social and life skills, relationships, parenting skills, family planning, health care maintenance, and vocational/career readiness. All programs are conducted by licensed or certified counselors who are sensitive to multi-cultural and gender issues.

The center’s Medical Director, who is board-eligible or certified in psychiatry, provides assessment, consultation and treatment for those clients who have dual diagnoses. The Center also has a specialized day care program, the Therapeutic Learning Center (TLC), that provides a supportive environment where children develop self-esteem, socialization skills, and ultimately improved learning readiness.

"Children enjoying healthy outdoor play at the Therapeutic Learning Center."

Above all, the ParentCare Family Recovery Center is dedicated to providing parents and their children with a safe and confidential place to come to for support, understanding, and acceptance.

"Clients in treatment at ParentCare develop important bonds with their children."

The following specialized services are offered by ParentCare:

Outpatient day-treatment and educational programs for pregnant and parenting woman
Parent education
Group, family and individual counseling
Assessment and treatment for dual diagnoses
Case management to help clients access prenatal and pediatric care, general medical care, emergency food and shelter services, legal and other community services
Licensed specialized day care
Supervision for parent-child reunification visit
Limited transportation is provided for clients in the East County area

Individual / group treatment and educational components include:

Primary alcohol and drug treatment
Newcomer / 12-Step program
Relapse prevention / aftercare
Family relationship
Parenting education
Healthy relationships
Family planning
Anger management
Vocational preparation
HIV testing and education
Psychiatric assessment and treatment
Domestic violence
Dual diagnosis
Life skills
Health education
Art therapy

Many of the people that come to ParentCare are unable to pay for the services, so in addition to reimbursement through Medi-Cal, ParentCare relies on volunteer help and financial support from grants and private donations.

As a non-profit organization, ParentCare Family Recovery Center is continually looking for volunteers to donate their time and skills to enhance our services. Some of the volunteer opportunities include childcare assistance, receptionist work, filing, computer work, and help with special projects. For a truly rewarding experience, please give us a call.

For more information about our services please contact us at 619.668.4200.

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