Malibu Shores - A Journey in Miracles

- The Brune Family

Addiction plagued the Brune Family for many years. Healing and growth evolved through the collective effort of all members of the family to pursue sobriety and embrace a spiritual journey together. The “sober living” experience encouraged all four sons to effectively integrate into twelve step support programs and allowed them the time needed to build healthy relationships within the family system. The Brunes feel honored to be able to share their experience, strength and hope with individuals and families in the process of recovery and healing.

“Feelings of worth can flourish only in an atmosphere where individual differences are appreciated, mistakes are tolerated, communication is open, and rules are flexible - the kind of atmosphere that is found in a nurturing family”. –Virginia Satir

-Matthew A. Torrington, MD Malibu Shores Medical Consultant

"Matthew A. Torrington, M.D., is a board certified Family Medicine physician with a specialty in Addiction Medicine. Having completed a two year fellowship at UCLA's Integrated Substance Abuse Programs, he is also a Clinical Research physician. Dr. Torrington is boarded by the American Board of Addiction Medicine and certified by both the American Society of Addiction Medicine and the American Academy of Pain Management. In addition to his clinical research activities, he is licensed to practice in the states of California and Idaho and is involved in residential and outpatient treatment of substance abuse disorders. Dr. Torrington has a clinical focus on the treatment of stimulant dependence, alcohol dependence, opiate dependence, and pain.

-Dr. Nicole Poliquin, Malibu Shores Medical Consultant, http://www.nicolepoliquinmd.com

"I have been blessed in my career to have roles in child and adult psychiatry that challenged me emotionally, behaviorally, and spiritually. What I've learned along the way is that a doctor's ability to provide effective psychiatric care requires more than quality training. Above all, it requires a commitment to service and a personal willingness to bring all of who they are - mind, body, and spirit - to their patients' needs and hopes.

I look forward to bringing all of who I am to your care. Thank you for the opportunity. I am looking forward to getting to know you and joining with you on this fascinating journey!".

- David Brune, Director of Operations

David Brune, 40, sober since July 21, 2005, has dedicated his life to enhance the sober living experience for all addicts and alcoholics committed to embracing a new life. A journey in miracles has carried David through many phases in the world of addiction, and he understands this disease on a personal level, from addiction to committed recovery.

In 1984, a family intervention by Viriginia Satir dramatically changed the course in David’s understanding with his patterns of behavior. Through unique experiences managing sober livings such as Pickford Lofts and Topanga Sober Living, surrounding addiction recovery, Mr. Brune has a firmness of purpose with individuals in need of help.

"The paramount focus for success in recovery requires a daily reprieve, but moreover, it is the higher spiritual condition that will ensure long term performance in ones life."

David, along with the Malibu Shores team, continues their vision of enabling their clients to re-enter their lives addiction free.

- Ross Donahue, CADCII, Recovery Consultant

After completing the Alcohol and Drug Counseling program at Loyola Marymount University , Ross has managed sober living homes, worked in both residential and outpatient treatment programs and started several recovery oriented businesses. Having learned from a number of prominent individuals in the field, Ross utilizes a combination of Motivational Interviewing and Choice Theory to connect with newly sober individuals at Malibu Shores.

- Joe Shaughnessey (left side), Recovery Specialist / Filmmaker

Joe Shaughnessey, 49, (sober since October 1, 1983) brings his unique expertise in the addiction field to Malibu Shores . A Boston native, Joe worked as a drug and alcohol educator in schools throughout the country for seven years. We are also honored that Joe is the writer/director of “Now Here”, the groundbreaking feature film based on consciousness and recovery. Joe continues to diligently pursue his love of writing and directing here at Malibu Shores while working with our clients to achieve the goals necessary for an addiction-free life.

- Joy Lazarus, Equine Specialist

Joy Ann Lazarus of Park Place Stables is an accomplished trainer and instructor. Over the years, Joy has operated a very successful training and lesson program, instructing riders of all ages and abilities year round. Park Place Stable specializes in Saddleseat and Driving, but Western and Hunt Seat lessons are offered as well.

Joy is a graduate of Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri, where she majored in Equestrian Science. Before opening her own business in Southern California, she was a riding instructor and trainer for top stables in the competitive Kentucky area. Her students have successfully shown at the World Championship Horse Show in Louisville, KY, American Royal in Kansas City, MO, Lexington Jr. League in Lexington, KY and many more prestigious horse shows.

Joy’s hobbies include skiing, scuba diving and showing her dogs. She is also a successful breeder and handler of Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs, competing in conformation, packing, herding, obedience, rally and drafting.

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