Meet the Team
At The Retreat South Coast, our team brings together compassionate clinicians, lived-experience leaders, and dedicated support professionals who are deeply committed to healing and growth. Each person you’ll meet here contributes to a culture of respect, collaboration, and individualized care.
Tami Distefano,
CADC, ICADC
Program Director
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I am a licensed CADC II, ICADC drug and alcohol counselor with a professional background in both community-based services and substance use treatment. My work began in housing and case management, supporting Veterans in achieving stability and accessing essential resources, which led to a continued focus in the treatment field.
I have experience working with diverse populations, including First Responders, and approach my work with empathy, authenticity, and respect. As an individual in recovery, I bring a personal understanding to the process, allowing me to connect with clients in a genuine and meaningful way while supporting them through both the challenges and rewards of sobriety.
At The Retreat, I value the collaborative and supportive environment, and I am committed to creating a space where clients feel seen, heard, and understood. I find purpose in building strong therapeutic relationships and walking alongside each individual as they work toward lasting change.
Outside of my professional role, I prioritize time with family, personal wellness, and staying actively connected to the recovery community.
Danielle Dawson,
LMFT
Clinical Director
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As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) since 2025, I bring a strong clinical foundation and years of hands-on experience to my work with individuals and families. Since entering the field in 2018, I have specialized in treating substance use and co-occurring disorders, supporting clients through complex and deeply personal challenges with compassion and clarity.
Born and raised in Southern California and an alumna of Pepperdine University, I integrate evidence-based practices with a thoughtful, individualized approach to care. My areas of expertise include addiction therapy, trauma processing, psychosis, mood disorders, and attachment-based work.
I am trained in EMDR and draw from psychodynamic theory to help clients explore underlying patterns, build insight, and create lasting change. My overall goal is to provide a safe, challenging, and accountability-based space where clients can engage in deep emotional healing. I offer consistent support in an authentic, relational way—helping clients feel understood while empowering them to take meaningful steps toward growth and lasting change.
Tyler Newberg,
RAD-T
Case manager
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I am a case manager for The Retreat South Coast treatment program, where I support individuals on their journey toward recovery. My passion for this field is deeply personal. I’ve experienced the challenges of addiction firsthand, and that lived experience drives my commitment to helping others find a way out.
I am pursuing a path toward becoming a drug and alcohol counselor because I want to give back what was so freely given to me. The program that helped me rebuild my life left a lasting impact, and I feel a strong responsibility to pass that same hope and transformation on to others. Being part of someone else’s recovery journey is incredibly meaningful to me, especially when I see a shift in their perspective and watch them begin to find fulfillment and purpose in their own lives.
Outside of work, I prioritize staying connected to my recovery community and maintaining balance in my life. I enjoy going to the beach and meditating, which helps me stay grounded. I regularly attend Young People AA events and value the time I spend with my fellows. I love being outdoors whether it’s hiking, golfing, or attempting to improve my surfing skills. I also enjoy spending quality time with friends, embracing fun, connection, and everything nature has to offer.
Agustin Velazquez
Director of operations
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As the Director of Operations for The Retreat at South Coast, I bring a calm, steady presence and a commitment to accountability, clarity, and compassionate leadership. My own recovery is at the heart of the work I do, and it fuels my belief that everyone is deserving of sobriety, second chances, and a treatment experience rooted in hope.
In my role, I focus on elevating the quality of care, supporting staff, and strengthening the systems that help clients feel inspired, safe, supported, and motivated throughout their recovery journey. I lead with a calm presence and a lot of heart, especially when things get challenging. No matter what’s happening, I stay grounded in our mission of “Let Our Family Help Yours.” I hold a SUDRC II and am currently advancing my education toward becoming a SUDCC.
Outside of work, I stay grounded through fishing, cheering on the Angels, and spending time with my family. These values have shaped the way I lead and the way I show up for the recovery community.
Connor Simmons
Nursing director
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Coming soon
Taylor Rider,
SUDRC
Business development
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Coming soon
Kyle Holden
Admissions
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I have over seven years of experience in substance abuse treatment, helping individuals build healthier, more stable lives. My approach focuses on compassionate care and making sure each person fully understands their treatment options so they can move forward with confidence. When I’m not working, I enjoy staying active, playing pickleball, and hiking with my English Bulldog, Lunchbox.
Julia Morey
Treatment navigator
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My goal is to walk alongside each client throughout their journey—offering guidance, reassurance, and a steady presence during times that can feel uncertain or overwhelming. Whether helping someone explore treatment options, coordinating care, or simply listening without judgment, my main focus is on building trust and ensuring every person feels heard and understood.
Taylor Rider,
SUDRC
Business development
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Coming soon
Contact Us to Learn More
Get in touch today to learn how we can help you kickstart your recovery with a customized treatment plan.