Allen Berger PhD

Allen Berger, Ph.D. is an author of several books and articles on recovery. Over 4 decades of clinical experience treating individuals and families in recovery from alcoholism and other drug addictions. He has worked with some of the top addictions and psychology professionals: William C Rader, MD, Lealya Vivian Gary, PhD, Judi Hollis, PhD, and Walter Kempler, MD, to name but a few. He was part of a group that pioneered the provision of services for the family members of chemically dependent people. Simultaneous with his early years as a counselor, he majored in psychology at California State University, Long Beach, and then took a master’s degree.
Dr. Berger went on to UC-Davis, where he received a doctoral degree in clinical psychology. His career in addictions has included duty as Clinical Supervisor of the Alcohol Recovery Service of South Bay Hospital, Clinical Director of the Eating Disorders Unit of San Pedro Peninsula Hospital, work with severely disturbed patients and families at Fairfield Hills Hospital, the co-founder of The Center for Counseling and Recovery, service as Chief Clinical Officer of Cumberland Heights in Nashville, Clinical Director of La Ventana, and a great many years of private practice, Director of Clinical Training at the California Institute of Gestalt Experiential Therapy, and the founder of the Institute for Optimal Recovery and Emotional Sobriety.
Dr. Berger has five published books, with several more in the pipeline, many recorded lectures and is a frequent speaker and trainer for both the recovery community and other healthcare professionals. He has extensive training and experience in recovery counseling and in helping couples and families use their pain or struggles to forge better relationships and adjust to the changes that occur during recovery.