Our Story
From a Local IOP to a National Leader
Northbound was initially founded in 1988 under the name National Therapeutic Services (NTS), opening an Intensive Outpatient Program in Costa Mesa, California. In 2008, Paul Alexander acquired the organization and grew it from a local Orange County facility into a nationally recognized treatment provider.
Along with senior management, Alexander began rebranding NTS around a culture of organizational health — built on top-down transparency, authenticity, and honesty. The same values instilled in clients during treatment became the values the company lived by internally.
As leadership discussed this new direction, there was a reference to the Northbound train and the positive connotations of “heading north.” The organization's new name — Northbound — emerged.
38+
Years in Practice
Our Mission
To help as many people as possible achieve a successful and fulfilled life beyond addiction.
We believe that change is possible. We know firsthand that while in the depths of addiction, embarking on recovery can feel overwhelming. We also know that not all treatment programs are created equal — and that the right environment and support are critical to achieving lifelong recovery.
38+
Years in Practice
10K+
Lives Transformed
15+
Insurance Plans
4.6★
Google Rating
Our Philosophy
How We Think About Recovery
Disease Model
Addiction is not a moral failing or lack of willpower. It is a primary, progressive, chronic, and potentially fatal disease centered in the brain — and it is treatable.
Whole-Person Care
Treatment encompasses biological, social, spiritual, and psychological interventions. We treat the whole person, not just the substance.
Evidence-Based Practice
Our programs are rooted in evidence-based therapies, our innovative In Vivo® model of care, and the principles of the 12 Steps.
Individualized Treatment
Clients work closely with an interdisciplinary treatment team to customize their care at every phase — because no two people experience addiction the same way.
Learn More
Explore Northbound
Our History
38+ years of transforming lives in Orange County and beyond.
Learn moreOur Team
Meet the executive, medical, and clinical leadership behind Northbound.
Learn moreAccreditation
JCAHO accredited — the highest standard in behavioral healthcare.
Learn moreCode of Ethics
The core values and operating principles that guide everything we do.
Learn moreReviews & Testimonials
Hear from the clients and families whose lives Northbound has changed.
Learn moreResources
Educational resources on addiction, treatment, and recovery.
Learn moreReady to start your recovery?
Our admissions team is available 24/7 — confidential and free.