Welcome to the “Meet the Team” series at SoCal Detox, where we shine a light on the passionate professionals making recovery possible every day. To kick off the series, we’re proud to introduce Kristle Bierd, our Program Director. Kristle brings a powerful combination of professional expertise and lived experience to her role—and her dedication to this work is nothing short of inspiring.
A Personal Calling Rooted in Loss and Love
For Kristle, the work she does isn’t just professional—it’s deeply personal.
“My passion for helping people with addiction comes from the deepest, most personal place possible—I’ve walked this path myself,” she shares. “Years ago, I was trapped in the cycle of addiction, watching my life crumble piece by piece while feeling powerless to stop it.”
What drives Kristle today is not only her own recovery, but the memories of the people she couldn’t save.
“It was losing people I cared about to this disease. Friends from my past, family members, people in my community—addiction took them before they could find their way out. These weren’t statistics—they were people I loved, people whose absence left holes in my heart that will never fully heal.”
That personal loss fuels her passion every day to help others avoid the same fate.
Bringing SoCal’s Mission to Life
Kristle sees her role at SoCal Detox as an extension of the facility’s integrative, person-centered approach to care.
“SoCal’s integrative approach to recovery deeply resonates with me because I believe healing happens best when we address the whole person, not just isolated symptoms.”
She approaches each interaction with an intentional mindset:
“In my work, I bring this mission to life by prioritizing genuine connection and listening—taking time to understand what drives each person’s challenges rather than rushing to apply standard solutions.”
Recovery That Meets You Where You Are
A core part of Kristle’s philosophy is creating space for clients to be fully seen, without judgment.
“My approach centers on meeting people exactly where they are, without judgment. I believe recovery is deeply personal, so I focus on building genuine trust and understanding each person’s unique story—their strengths, challenges, and what motivates them.”
She also emphasizes collaboration and empowerment:
“I work collaboratively, empowering individuals to identify their own goals and pathways rather than imposing solutions. This means being flexible, patient, and celebrating small victories alongside the bigger milestones.”
Lived Experience as a Foundation for Trust
Kristle’s ability to connect with clients is grounded in shared experience.
“I’ve sat where our clients are sitting, felt the desperation they’re feeling, and made it through to the other side. That credibility opens doors that education alone sometimes can’t.”
And she knows how to read the unspoken signals:
“My personal journey allows me to spot the subtle signs when someone is struggling but won’t admit it, or when they’re ready to take the next step but are afraid to ask for help.”
But what stands out most is her authenticity:
“Our clients can sense when someone truly gets it versus when someone is just doing their job. That authentic connection often becomes the foundation they need to start believing in their own recovery.”
Why She’s Excited to Be at SoCal Detox
As Program Director, Kristle is energized by SoCal Detox’s commitment to individualized, comprehensive care:
“I’m most excited about the opportunity to be part of SoCal’s truly integrative model in action. There’s something powerful happening when you combine medical expertise, clinical innovation, and genuine peer support all under one roof.”
She also finds meaning in the facility’s role in reducing stigma:
“SoCal’s emphasis on individualized, compassionate care challenges the stigma that still surrounds addiction, and I’m thrilled to be part of demonstrating that recovery is not only possible but can be transformative.”
Staying Grounded in a Demanding Field
Working in behavioral health can be emotionally intense, and Kristle prioritizes her own well-being so she can continue to show up for others.
“I love getting outdoors—whether it’s hiking local trails, spending time at the beach, or just taking long walks.”
Fitness remains a cornerstone of her recovery:
“Whether it’s hitting the gym, going for a run, or playing pickup basketball, physical activity helps me process the day and reset mentally.”
And faith plays a vital role in her grounding:
“My church community is really important to me too. Being part of something bigger than myself and having that spiritual foundation keeps me centered and grounded.”
A Message for Those Just Starting Out
To anyone at the beginning of their recovery journey, Kristle offers these words:
“You don’t have to figure it all out today. Recovery isn’t about being perfect or having all the answers—it’s about showing up, one day at a time, and being willing to do the next right thing.”
“You’re stronger than you think, and you don’t have to do this alone.”
“Asking for help isn’t weakness—it’s the bravest thing you can do. Every person in recovery started exactly where you are right now, scared and uncertain but willing to try. That willingness is enough to get started.”
Thank You, Kristle Bierd
Kristle Bierd’s work and life serve as powerful reminders that recovery is real, and that no one has to walk the path alone. As Program Director at SoCal Detox, she leads with heart, humility, and hope.
Stay tuned for future features in our Meet the Team series as we continue to highlight the people who make SoCal Detox a place of transformation and healing.
Ready to begin your journey? Contact SoCal Detox today and let’s start the conversation together.
