About Us

San Diego State University’s Driving Under the Influence Program (DUI) is licensed by the State of California’s Department of Health Care Services to provide DUI treatment services in the Central Judicial District of San Diego County. The program is operated under the umbrella organization of SDSU’s Center for Alcohol and Drug Studies and Services. DUI treatment services address medical, legal, and social consequences related to DUI and substance use. All SDSU DUI treatment providers are licensed and/or certified by the State of California.

Mission and Vision

The mission of SDSU DUI Program (DUIP) is to reduce the incidence and prevalence of driving under the influence and enhance the quality of life of our community members through superior education and counseling services in a safe, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed environment. Our goal is to provide community members an opportunity to explore their relationship with substance use and develop an understanding of the interplay between physical health, mental health, and trauma, with alcohol and drug use and related adverse consequences.  We are dedicated to providing the highest quality of educational and counseling services. Our vision is to be the most trauma informed DUI provider in the world, and  to build a place where people can come to reflect and recover.

Philosophy

Our philosophical approach is to treat participants with dignity and respect and to acknowledge they are the experts in their lives. The DUI providers collaborate with participants to facilitate the change process and advocate for them. Our work is guided by evidence-based practices and the values of client centeredness, customer service, teamwork, integrity and qualify assurance. Our premise is that participants benefit from evidence-based supportive counseling and education, tailored assessments and feedback, and referrals when needed.

Leadership

Executive/Clinical Director        Melanie Barker   Ext 123

Counseling Manager        Oscar Almendarez   Ext 133