McAlister Institute- Corporate Office

McAlister Institute Corporate Office is a nonprofit substance use treatment provider in El Cajon, California supporting recovery across San Diego County. Through a wide continuum of services, the organization offers prevention and education, outreach and intervention, outpatient counseling, residential programs, detox, sober living and aftercare. I noticed that many people highlight the respectful, nonjudgmental staff and group support that helps recovery feel possible.

Special Programs for Moms and Justice Involved Clients

McAlister Institute provides outpatient services through Regional Recovery Centers with assessments, treatment planning, individual and group counseling and case management. They also offer short term and longer residential care, including Kiva Learning Center for Women and Children (about 90 days) and New Connections for justice involved clients returning to the community. Detox options include an adult non-medical detox stay for about 2 to 14 days or Kiva Women’s Detox.

Services support men, women, teens, children, and families throughout San Diego County. Programs include gender specific care for women, support for pregnant and parenting women, adolescent outpatient services, and a residential option for people involved with the justice system. Many programs also integrate help for co-occurring mental health concerns.

Multiple Treatment Centers for Varying Needs

The corporate office is located on North Johnson Avenue in El Cajon. Nearby, the East County Regional Recovery Center is also in El Cajon. Depending on the program, care may take place in outpatient centers or in structured residential homes, including their women and children's housing with on site childcare where applicable.

Many programs accept Medi Cal, and the team can offer help for people who are eligible or applying. As a nonprofit provider, services are described as affordable, with low cost options available. Some listings suggest certain outpatient services may also work with private insurance plans, but coverage is typically verified during intake.

A common first step is an assessment to understand your needs and match you with the right level of care, followed by a treatment plan and program placement. Outpatient centers can provide counseling and case management, while residential and detox programs focus on stabilization and structured recovery support. If you are unsure where to begin, an intake team can guide you to the most appropriate program.