Get back in the game of life™ at our treatment center in the beautiful mountains of Big Bear Lake.

The Computer Addiction Treatment Program offers the first adult (18+, coed) residential treatment program in California designed exclusively to help individuals struggling with an unhealthy dependency on technology such as problematic or addictive computer/video gaming, online behavior, or excess smartphone and social media usage. This program is provided in a 5 night 4 full day format with arrivals on Wednesday and departures on Monday. Note that the program does not operate during the Winter months.

Is there any preparation before the Retreat?

Yes - included in the cost of the Retreat is a two hour intake meeting (either in our offices or via telehealth (2 one hour meetings) with both the future resident and their family (parents/significant other). Ideally this meeting should be held no less than 1 week before the retreat week. This meeting will include additional details about what to bring and what is not allowed at the Retreat.

What Happens at the Retreat?

Residents participate in therapeutic and educational activities at our residential facility (which is adjacent to a nature preserve) and light adventure and sporting activities in the mountains and/or at the lake, depending on the season. Therapeutic components include assessment and treatment planning,  psychoeducation, life skills training, career and academic guidance, outdoor enrichment activities, individual and group counseling. After care and ongoing treatment plan recommendations are provided.

While one short inpatient stay alone will not end years long dependence on computer/video gaming or media consumption, it provides an efficient and cost effective way to kick start treatment. Based on the same treatment model as our outpatient treatment program, this program has the advantage of providing what would normally be weeks of outpatient assessment, treatment, group therapy process, enrichment activities and life planning in a 5 night stay. It also provides the opportunity for those not local to our Lake Forest office to participate in a longer term treatment and support via video teleconferencing after the retreat. 

what happens after the retreat?

The Retreat is intended to provide a device-free screen detox to kickstart treatment and to increase motivation for change. Included is a one and one half (1.5) hour care recommendation meeting with the Retreat resident and family held after the Retreat week. This can again be held in person or remotely through telehealth. During this meeting ongoing treatment recommendations will be presented. The role that we play in ongoing care will depend on a number of factors including 1) client is already in therapy; 2) client does not live in California but psychotherapy is recommended and 3) client has behavioral health insurance and would prefer to use an in-network provider to reduce out of pocket expense. We can play either a direct therapeutic role or a supportive role (i.e. client/parent coaching) to best fit the client’s needs. We regularly work with therapists across the country to coordinate care for our clients.

Who is a good candidate for the retreat? 

1. Individuals suffering from video game/computer gaming excesses, whether or not they are currently in treatment.
2. Individuals suffering from excess cell phone/social media use where this has caused social, academic or occupational problems.
3. College students whose grades or other commitments have suffered from excess gaming or media consumption.
4. Recent High School graduates 18 year of age or older that are struggling with media dependency or video gaming excesses.
5. Individuals who are unable to move forward with their lives having become dependent on technology/media consumption.

why is this called a retreat and not Rehab?

The Bear Mountain Retreat and activities more closely resemble an educational vacation / luxury summer camp than a traditional rehab. We believe that it will be easier for those struggling with problematic technology use to be willing to take a short term vacation with a bit of time away from screens than to attend a tradition rehab. Most of the rehabs promoting tech addiction treatment are licensed drug and alcohol treatment centers and a very bad idea for treating tech addiction (see this whitepaper). There are no 12-step meetings and the goals for this extended weekend are simple:
1) Get some much needed time away from technology;
2) Have fun participating in real world leisure activities with other like-minded individuals;
3) Get some fresh air and sunshine and marvel at the brilliant stars at night;
4) Spend time contemplating personal values and life direction while connecting with other in a a safe, caring environment;
5) Establish some clear life goals with an understanding of what will be required after the retreat to make those goals come true;
6) Acquire strategies and psychological tools to help better manage screen time in the future

While the long weekend will include assessment, individual and group counseling and education, there is plenty of time spent relaxing and enjoying leisure activities at the property, on the lake and in the mountains.

what if a candidate is already in treatment with a mental health professional?

Great! We will work WITH THEM to coordinate care before and after the Retreat.

When does the facility operate?

Due to mountain weather conditions, the facility operates only in the late Spring, Summer and early Fall. All applicants are put on a waiting list and the next date for the retreat is set once enough applicants have reserved a spot.

what is the typical age of residents?

It is anticipated that the majority of residents are young adults age 18-25 however we accept adults of all ages.

How Much does it cost?

The retreat costs $4000 which includes meals and activities. It does not include transportation costs to and from the facility.  A $300 refundable deposit is required to reserve a spot on the waiting list for an upcoming scheduled or unscheduled session. Once a date has been scheduled, the balance is due within 30 days of attending. 

will insurance pay for treatment?

Likely not all of the costs. If your insurance covers out of network behavioral health treatment, it may cover portions of treatment. Approximately $1400 of the cost of the treatment week is direct treatment costs and we will provide you documentation to submit to your medical insurance company for reimbursement. Treatment costs may also be covered through FSA and HSA savings accounts. This may cover some or all treatment costs including transportation. Contact your insurance provider to review your benefits coverage.

How do I find out more information or speak with someone about my situation?

Call us toll free at 888-452-1869 and we will be happy to answer any questions and consult with you regarding this treatment option.

Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake is located in the San Bernardino Mountains and is a four season resort with outdoor activities year round. It is located within driving distance from almost anywhere in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and San Diego counties. Closest major airports include Ontario International (ONT), Orange County (SNA) and Los Angeles International (LAX).