Advanced Residential Treatment for Substance Use and Complex Co-Occurring Disorders
An individualized, assessment driven approach to addiction and mental health treatment in a private residential setting above San Francisco Bay.
- Medical, psychiatric and psychological assessment from day one, with neuropsychological testing when clinically indicated
- Specialized care for complex presentations, including co-occurring disorders and substance induced psychosis
- A discreet residential setting for professionals, executives and anyone who needs focused, private care
Check Your Insurance Coverage
A Place to Step Away and Finally See Clearly
Explore our residential campus above San Francisco Bay, its historic accommodations and its therapeutic spaces.
![Aerial view of the historic Alta Mira building, gardens and flag in Sausalito]()
![Terrace lounge chairs looking across Richardson Bay toward Tiburon]()
![Aerial view of the building with San Francisco Bay behind it]()
![San Francisco Bay and Angel Island seen over the trees from Alta Mira]()
![Stone patio with a fire pit and a view over the bay]()
![Sunroom lounge with windows looking out over the bay]()
![Foyer of the historic building with a staircase and chandelier]()
![Living room with blue sofas and a patterned rug]()
![Private bedroom with white bedding and natural light]()
![Shared bedroom with two beds and garden windows]()
![Dining nook with red chairs and morning light]()
![Bright kitchen with white cabinets and a center island]()
![Lounge with sofas beneath tall bay windows]()
![Deck with a railing and a view of the bay]()
![A kayaker paddling on Richardson Bay at sunrise, seen from behind]()
Comfortable accommodations that support rest, privacy and stabilization.
A quiet, restored historic setting that promotes calm and structure.
Nutritious, chef prepared meals that support recovery and routine.
Dedicated rooms for therapy, groups, assessments and experiential work.
Designed for clients who value privacy, professionalism and discretion.
For When Standard Treatment Hasn’t Been Enough
Alta Mira is a small residential program by design, so our team can give every client thorough assessment, close clinical attention and an individualized plan.
Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment
Every stay begins with medical, psychiatric and psychological evaluation, so treatment is guided by clarity rather than assumptions.
Neuropsychological Testing When Indicated
When clinically indicated, formal testing identifies the cognitive and emotional drivers behind addiction, symptoms and relapse risk.
Capability for Complex Presentations
One integrated team treats co-occurring disorders and substance induced psychosis.
Care for High Functioning Professionals
Care for people whose work stays demanding even as private distress grows harder to manage.
Family Program
A three day family experience helps loved ones understand addiction and support what comes next.
Integrated Physical Wellness and Fitness
Personal training, yoga and movement, with physical therapy coordinated when clinically appropriate.
Pet Friendly Treatment Environment
Approved pets may stay with clients as a steady, comforting presence.
Flexible Technology Policies
Phone and laptop access based on clinical approval and treatment progress.
10 Day Detox and Assessment
Clarity Before Commitment
Medical stabilization and diagnostic clarity, without committing to a longer stay first.
- Medically supervised detox with 24 hour nursing
- Medical, psychiatric and psychological evaluation
- A clear recommendation for your next step
- 10 daysDetox and assessment
- About 30 daysResidential treatment
- OngoingContinuing care and alumni
Care Designed for Depth
A focused continuum centered on residential care, supported by assessment, detox and long term planning.
10 Day Detoxification and Assessment Service
Medically supervised detox combined with a full diagnostic evaluation to determine the right level of care.
Residential Treatment
An individualized residential program for substance use and co-occurring mental health conditions, with intensive clinical engagement.
Continuing Care and Alumni Program
Weekly alumni groups, quarterly workshops and ongoing connection to reinforce long term recovery.
What It Feels Like to Be Here
See the residential setting, the spaces where clients work and rest, and the view across the bay.
Comprehensive Care for Addiction and Co-Occurring Mental Health
Integrated treatment for people whose needs extend beyond addiction alone.
Common Conditions:
Benzodiazepine Addiction
Misuse of anxiety or sleep medications, leading to physical or emotional dependence.
Stimulant Addiction
Cocaine, methamphetamine or prescription stimulant use that affects daily functioning.
Alcohol Addiction
Drinking that affects relationships, work and health, alone or with pills.
Opioid Addiction
Dependence on prescription painkillers, heroin or fentanyl, with medically managed withdrawal.
Co-Occurring Disorders
Anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder or PTSD treated together with substance use.
Substance Induced Psychosis
Psychotic symptoms triggered by stimulants or cannabis, assessed and treated once medically stable.
A Team Trusted With Complex Cases
Psychiatrists, psychologists and licensed clinicians experienced with complex presentations, high functioning clients and careful clinical judgment.
Mark Schiller, MDMedical Director / Psychiatrist
Dr. Schiller is a Yale and University of Chicago trained psychiatrist with extensive clinical, research and leadership experience in the treatment of complex psychiatric conditions. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association.
Karen Spedowfski, PhDExecutive Clinical Director / Psychologist
Alta Mira’s Executive Clinical Director is a licensed clinical psychologist. Her career has focused exclusively on the treatment of substance use and co-occurring disorders, including multiple clinical leadership roles.
David E. Smith, MDAddiction Medicine Physician
Dr. Smith is recognized as a national leader in the treatment of addictive disease, the psychopharmacology of drugs and appropriate prescribing practices. He teaches that addiction is a primary medical illness, treated with a multidisciplinary approach.
Insurance and Private Pay
Alta Mira is in network with TriWest Healthcare Alliance and Kaiser Permanente, and works with private pay and out of network benefits. Admissions explains your options clearly and discreetly.
Admissions will review your coverage and private pay options.
You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone
Whether you are calling for yourself or someone you love, Admissions guides you step by step with discretion, clarity and respect.
Step 1: Call for Help
Reach out for a confidential conversation with Admissions.
Step 2: Verify Insurance
Complete a brief clinical screening and insurance verification if applicable.
Step 3: Complete Assessment
Determine the right program and coordinate next steps.
Relief Often Begins With the Right Conversation
Many families arrive feeling uncertain and overwhelmed. What they often describe afterward is relief at finding a program equipped to address the full picture.
- C. S.
I was in Alta Mira in 2021 and just celebrated 3 years sober. This program has set my life on such a healthier trajectory. One of the best parts has been the alumni program! The community of alumni along with the quarterly tune ups have been a lifesaver. I will forever been grateful to the Alta Mira staff and alumni for saving my life.
- Lydia J.
I’m overwhelmed with gratitude as I’m writing this review. Alta Mira has gone above and beyond to make me feel welcome, comfortable, and supported while starting the long journey of sobriety. I can’t say enough. The therapists, staff, and accommodations are worth every penny. The food is also five star. This truly is a nurturing environment from ever angle. You will not be disappointed.
- E. O.
Alta Mira was an exceptional experience in 2020 and I recently celebrated 4 years of sobriety. The therapist I had in the program set me on a wonderful path to a better future. The alumni program is one of the best parts of my current journey along with the quarterly tune ups where we get to see our amazing community and the opportunity to give back to others.
- Heidi H.
Recently I had an extensive tour of the facility and interview with much of the staff of Alta Mira. This treatment center is a gem. It is in a former boutique hotel providing emotional safety and a strong staff client relationship. The staff has both a dept of training and experience and a deep commitment to the individual clients. Each treatment is personalized. I would not hesitate to recommend Alta Mira to a family member.
Public Google reviews, shown as written. Individual experiences vary.
Still Have Questions? Give Us a Call
Admissions answers 24 hours a day. The call is confidential and there is no obligation.
(833) 539-0610Check Your Insurance Coverage
Questions Families Ask First
Straight answers about treatment, cost and daily life at Alta Mira. Don’t see your question? Call the confidential admissions line.
Confidential admissions line(833) 539-0610Does Alta Mira have experience working with veterans?
Yes. Alta Mira works with veterans and is in network with TriWest Healthcare Alliance for eligible veterans.
What makes this different from standard therapy or outpatient care?
Residential care gives you daily structure and a coordinated clinical team. That allows deeper work and more consistent progress than weekly therapy.
How much does residential treatment cost?
Cost depends on your length of stay and how you pay. Admissions reviews your coverage and gives a full estimate on the first call.
Can my family participate in treatment?
Yes. A three day family experience and ongoing involvement focus on communication, boundaries and healthier support.
What happens after I leave Alta Mira?
You will not be on your own. Alumni stay connected through weekly support groups, quarterly tune ups and continuing care coordination.
Do you support physical fitness as part of recovery?
Yes. Clients have personal training and yoga, with physical therapy coordinated when clinically indicated.
What therapeutic approaches are used at Alta Mira?
CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR when clinically appropriate, relapse prevention and emotionally focused work. Modalities are chosen from your assessment.
What does a typical day look like at Alta Mira?
Mornings start with intention setting and holistic practices, afternoons hold individual therapy and groups, and evenings are calmer with peer support and personal time.
Can I bring my pet with me to treatment?
In approved cases, yes. Approved pets can stay with clients as a stabilizing presence during treatment.
What types of activities are included outside of therapy?
Experiential activities may include art therapy, hiking, kayaking, equine therapy, fitness sessions and mindfulness practices.
A Thoughtful Next Step Starts With One Confidential Conversation
If you or a loved one needs more support, our team can talk through whether Alta Mira is the right clinical fit.
Confidential, with no obligation.