WHY CHOOSE PATTON SOBER LIVING?
Our dedicated team knows what it's like in a sober living house and genuinely understands the power of addiction. Through implementing a 12-Step completion program, our goal is to teach young men how to cope with life without turning to alcohol and drugs. Relapse prevention is our primary focus knowing that individuals early in recovery will often relapse several times before becoming fully recovered. We do our best to prevent relapses, and help provide necessary support when relapses occur.
At Patton Sober Living it's all about structure, accountability and support. We help individuals learn how to begin taking responsibility for their lives, which in turn becomes a catalyst for change. Our team recognizes that addiction is not one size fits all, and therefore treatment shouldn't be. We maintain a small population in all of our halfway homes in Dallas, TX, which allows us to work closely with each resident while making sure they are doing the things necessary to live life sober.
At Patton Sober Living it's all about structure, accountability and support. We help individuals learn how to begin taking responsibility for their lives, which in turn becomes a catalyst for change. Our team recognizes that addiction is not one size fits all, and therefore treatment shouldn't be. We maintain a small population in all of our halfway homes in Dallas, TX, which allows us to work closely with each resident while making sure they are doing the things necessary to live life sober.
John Patton, LCSW
Founder & CEO
John is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a seasoned therapist with a robust educational background. He earned dual Bachelor of Arts Degrees, majoring in Psychology and Business Administration, from Austin College in 2002. John furthered his education by attaining a Masters in Clinical Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington, specializing in comprehensive mental and behavioral health.
As the visionary founder of Patton Sober Living, John diligently oversees the day-to-day operation, ensuring smooth functioning of the facility. Additionally, he takes a leadership role in conducting impactful Tuesday night group therapy sessions and spearheading weekly staff meetings to monitor progress of residents.
With an extensive expertise in substance abuse, John caters to a diverse clientele, specializing in working with teenagers and young adults. His unique approach integrates academic knowledge with personal and professional experiences, fostering an environment conducive to positive change. John entered the field in 2002, commencing his journey as an intern for a therapist in Dallas, and has since evolved into a proficient counselor, interventionist, and life coach.
Beyond his role at Patton Sober Living, John is the owner of Patton Counseling, providing comprehensive individual and family counseling. He is also a valued team partner with Sony McCutcheon at Recovery Alternatives, offering expert intervention services.
Since the Fall of 2007, John has harbored a vision for a transformative transitional living program, culminating in the establishment of Patton Sober Living. During a challenging period in his life, he conceived this initiative, showcasing resilience and commitment to his mission. To gain insights into his journey, you can listen to John's full testimony via podcast (Click here).
Driven by an unwavering passion for his vocation, John perceives his work as a calling rather than a job. His empathetic approach, coupled with a genuine ability to connect with individuals, distinguishes him as a counselor who goes beyond conventional boundaries. For inquiries or assistance, John is readily available, welcoming any questions through direct contact.
As the visionary founder of Patton Sober Living, John diligently oversees the day-to-day operation, ensuring smooth functioning of the facility. Additionally, he takes a leadership role in conducting impactful Tuesday night group therapy sessions and spearheading weekly staff meetings to monitor progress of residents.
With an extensive expertise in substance abuse, John caters to a diverse clientele, specializing in working with teenagers and young adults. His unique approach integrates academic knowledge with personal and professional experiences, fostering an environment conducive to positive change. John entered the field in 2002, commencing his journey as an intern for a therapist in Dallas, and has since evolved into a proficient counselor, interventionist, and life coach.
Beyond his role at Patton Sober Living, John is the owner of Patton Counseling, providing comprehensive individual and family counseling. He is also a valued team partner with Sony McCutcheon at Recovery Alternatives, offering expert intervention services.
Since the Fall of 2007, John has harbored a vision for a transformative transitional living program, culminating in the establishment of Patton Sober Living. During a challenging period in his life, he conceived this initiative, showcasing resilience and commitment to his mission. To gain insights into his journey, you can listen to John's full testimony via podcast (Click here).
Driven by an unwavering passion for his vocation, John perceives his work as a calling rather than a job. His empathetic approach, coupled with a genuine ability to connect with individuals, distinguishes him as a counselor who goes beyond conventional boundaries. For inquiries or assistance, John is readily available, welcoming any questions through direct contact.
Richland Oaks Counseling Center
Richland Oaks Counseling Center provides an hour of individual counseling each week to all Patton Sober Living residents. Psychological testing and family counseling can also be arranged. The initial intake session lasts approximately 2 hours, during which our residents complete the necessary paperwork and assessment measures to give their counselor a better understanding of the difficulties they may be experiencing.
Following the initial assessment, each appointment lasts 50 minutes. The therapist will recommend the frequency of sessions that is appropriate for each resident, which is a minimum of one session per week. Therapy goals may include helping our residents achieve a greater understanding of his or her personality and style of interpersonal relating, and achieving a greater sense of personal freedom through learning to cope with psychological symptoms rather than feeling controlled by them. Our residents can also work with their counselor to achieve an enhanced sense of identity, improved self-esteem, greater pleasure in life, and an increased capacity to experience and tolerate both pleasure and pain.
Following the initial assessment, each appointment lasts 50 minutes. The therapist will recommend the frequency of sessions that is appropriate for each resident, which is a minimum of one session per week. Therapy goals may include helping our residents achieve a greater understanding of his or her personality and style of interpersonal relating, and achieving a greater sense of personal freedom through learning to cope with psychological symptoms rather than feeling controlled by them. Our residents can also work with their counselor to achieve an enhanced sense of identity, improved self-esteem, greater pleasure in life, and an increased capacity to experience and tolerate both pleasure and pain.
David Baldwin, LPC, LCDC, CSAT Candidate
David Baldwin has been a licensed counselor since 2002, specializing in addiction and substance abuse recovery. After earning his master’s degree, David transitioned from owning a successful retail business to dedicating his career to helping individuals and families navigate the challenges of recovery.
David has worked extensively as a substance abuse therapist in dually licensed behavioral health hospitals and in private practice, with a focus on group therapy and addiction counseling. His professional journey includes helping clients across Texas, including San Antonio, Corpus Christi, Dallas, and Midland/Odessa. He also has extensive experience as a licensed interventionist, assisting families in the critical early stages of recovery.
With extensive knowledge of both inpatient and outpatient treatment programs throughout Texas, David is known for his empathy, professionalism, and deep understanding of addiction recovery. Families and individuals alike value his compassionate approach and dedication to achieving successful treatment outcomes.
Currently based in Plano, David is pursuing a CSAT license and continues to guide individuals toward lasting recovery. Outside of his work, he takes pride in his two sons, who have pursued successful careers in medicine and education in the Dallas area.
David has worked extensively as a substance abuse therapist in dually licensed behavioral health hospitals and in private practice, with a focus on group therapy and addiction counseling. His professional journey includes helping clients across Texas, including San Antonio, Corpus Christi, Dallas, and Midland/Odessa. He also has extensive experience as a licensed interventionist, assisting families in the critical early stages of recovery.
With extensive knowledge of both inpatient and outpatient treatment programs throughout Texas, David is known for his empathy, professionalism, and deep understanding of addiction recovery. Families and individuals alike value his compassionate approach and dedication to achieving successful treatment outcomes.
Currently based in Plano, David is pursuing a CSAT license and continues to guide individuals toward lasting recovery. Outside of his work, he takes pride in his two sons, who have pursued successful careers in medicine and education in the Dallas area.
Randy Cox, LCDCi
COO
Randy, a 38 year old resilient individual whose journey began in the picturesque Colorado Springs, CO, where he was born, and unfolded amidst the challenges of a military upbringing, leading him to call the DFW area home. From excelling as an honor roll student to thriving in high school sports, Randy's early accomplishments set the stage for a different, albeit tumultuous, chapter.
At 17, Randy encountered experimentation with substances, altering the course of his life. Despite a brief stint in college football, the allure of alcohol and drugs eclipsed his passions. Seeking solace in geographic changes and enrolling in various colleges, Randy discovered that his true struggle lay within himself.
Facing the mounting consequences of addiction, Randy's life took a dark turn with regular use of prescription opiates. In the depths of despair, he embraced a moment of surrender, embarking on a transformative journey aided by long-term sober living, faith, and a genuine desire for change. Through unwavering commitment to the 12 Steps, Randy has emerged victorious, celebrating years of sobriety.
Today, Randy proudly holds a B.S. in Integrated Studies, with a focus on psychology and rehabilitation, earned from the University of North Texas. Serving as Program Director for six years, he passionately advocates for the power of long-term sober living, providing a safe haven for comprehensive recovery.
Beyond his professional achievements, Randy cherishes his restored relationships with family and finds joy in sharing a message of hope with those still grappling with addiction. A true believer in the transformative journey, Randy balances his advocacy with a love for the NFL, a commitment to exercise, and cherished moments spent with family.
At 17, Randy encountered experimentation with substances, altering the course of his life. Despite a brief stint in college football, the allure of alcohol and drugs eclipsed his passions. Seeking solace in geographic changes and enrolling in various colleges, Randy discovered that his true struggle lay within himself.
Facing the mounting consequences of addiction, Randy's life took a dark turn with regular use of prescription opiates. In the depths of despair, he embraced a moment of surrender, embarking on a transformative journey aided by long-term sober living, faith, and a genuine desire for change. Through unwavering commitment to the 12 Steps, Randy has emerged victorious, celebrating years of sobriety.
Today, Randy proudly holds a B.S. in Integrated Studies, with a focus on psychology and rehabilitation, earned from the University of North Texas. Serving as Program Director for six years, he passionately advocates for the power of long-term sober living, providing a safe haven for comprehensive recovery.
Beyond his professional achievements, Randy cherishes his restored relationships with family and finds joy in sharing a message of hope with those still grappling with addiction. A true believer in the transformative journey, Randy balances his advocacy with a love for the NFL, a commitment to exercise, and cherished moments spent with family.
Austin Shook, Executive Director
Austin serves as the primary point of contact for families reaching out to us initially and acts as a liaison within the professional community. Collaborating closely with our CEO and COO, Austin is instrumental in guiding our program directors, house managers, and ensuring the delivery of exemplary, tailored client care. He possesses a particular fervor for fostering engagement among the residents of our "emerging adults house," organizing enriching activities and imparting essential life skills. Drawing from his personal journey, having confronted challenges in his late adolescence and early adulthood, Austin empathetically advocates for timely support for individuals in their formative years. His conviction lies in the belief that early intervention is paramount, as he experienced firsthand the transformative power of sobriety and spiritual growth. He ardently champions the adoption of twelve-step principles, underscoring the profound potential for personal growth and fulfillment it offers, and is dedicated to extending this opportunity to others.
Austin Priddy, Director of Operations
Austin, a 27-year-old native of Midland, TX, navigated through various challenges, including time in the foster system alongside his two brothers. Following his graduation from Permian High School, he found himself grappling with substance abuse, which gradually worsened, leading to the use of narcotics.
Over a span of five years, Austin went in and out of psychiatric wards and rehabilitation/detox centers, beginning his journey at the age of 24. Despite initial reluctance towards transitional living, he discovered a sense of hope and camaraderie in these environments. It was during his third residential treatment that he embraced the concept of sober living, crediting it with saving his life and revealing the beauty life has to offer, alongside an enduring fellowship.
Transitioning into independent living, Austin resolved to devote himself to aiding others in similar struggles. When presented with the opportunity to work in a field he once resisted, he embraced it wholeheartedly, recognizing the profound gift of life that such places can provide.
Over a span of five years, Austin went in and out of psychiatric wards and rehabilitation/detox centers, beginning his journey at the age of 24. Despite initial reluctance towards transitional living, he discovered a sense of hope and camaraderie in these environments. It was during his third residential treatment that he embraced the concept of sober living, crediting it with saving his life and revealing the beauty life has to offer, alongside an enduring fellowship.
Transitioning into independent living, Austin resolved to devote himself to aiding others in similar struggles. When presented with the opportunity to work in a field he once resisted, he embraced it wholeheartedly, recognizing the profound gift of life that such places can provide.
Drew Cummings, Program Director
Drew, age 28, hails from the vibrant community of Flower Mound, Texas, where his journey of self-discovery began. Experimenting with marijuana during his formative years, Drew swiftly found himself ensnared in the throes of narcotics by the tender age of 15. The allure of substance use soon led him down a perilous path, marked by brushes with the law due to alcohol and drug-related incidents between the ages of 18 and 21.
Despite initial attempts at sobriety, Drew's resolve wavered, succumbing to the illusion that he had conquered his addiction. This dangerous relapse unleashed a torrent of consequences, from shattered bones to harrowing encounters with bullets, culminating in a life-threatening car accident that served as a stark wake-up call.
Now, at the age of 26, and after a decade of exposure to the transformative principles of Alcoholics Anonymous, Drew embarked on a profound journey of self-reflection and commitment. With unwavering determination, he embraced the twelve steps with renewed vigor, recognizing the indispensable role they play in his ongoing recovery. Drew extends heartfelt gratitude to Patton House, a sanctuary of support and growth, where he found the ideal environment to cultivate lasting connections and embrace a life of sobriety.
Central to Drew's philosophy of recovery is the ethos of service. He firmly believes that by extending a helping hand to others, one finds true fulfillment and sustains their own sobriety. At Patton House, Drew found ample opportunities to engage in meaningful service work, enriching his journey while positively impacting the lives of those around him.
Despite initial attempts at sobriety, Drew's resolve wavered, succumbing to the illusion that he had conquered his addiction. This dangerous relapse unleashed a torrent of consequences, from shattered bones to harrowing encounters with bullets, culminating in a life-threatening car accident that served as a stark wake-up call.
Now, at the age of 26, and after a decade of exposure to the transformative principles of Alcoholics Anonymous, Drew embarked on a profound journey of self-reflection and commitment. With unwavering determination, he embraced the twelve steps with renewed vigor, recognizing the indispensable role they play in his ongoing recovery. Drew extends heartfelt gratitude to Patton House, a sanctuary of support and growth, where he found the ideal environment to cultivate lasting connections and embrace a life of sobriety.
Central to Drew's philosophy of recovery is the ethos of service. He firmly believes that by extending a helping hand to others, one finds true fulfillment and sustains their own sobriety. At Patton House, Drew found ample opportunities to engage in meaningful service work, enriching his journey while positively impacting the lives of those around him.
Alex Fissel, Fall Manor House Manager
Alex grew up in an environment shaped by addiction and alcoholism, experiencing firsthand the devastating impact of the disease, including the loss of both his brother and mother. His personal journey has included multiple treatment centers, relapses, and overdoses, but through perseverance and commitment to recovery, he found lasting sobriety. After coming up through the Patton House, he achieved the longest period of sobriety in his life and quickly became a leader within the recovery community.
Rising to a management role, Alex has demonstrated a deep dedication to helping others navigate their own recovery journeys. Well-versed in the 12 Steps and passionate about service, he leads with authenticity, humor, and resilience. Committed to walking the walk of recovery, he emphasizes the importance of community, accountability, and personal transformation. His story is one of perseverance and hope, inspiring others to find their own path to lasting change.
Rising to a management role, Alex has demonstrated a deep dedication to helping others navigate their own recovery journeys. Well-versed in the 12 Steps and passionate about service, he leads with authenticity, humor, and resilience. Committed to walking the walk of recovery, he emphasizes the importance of community, accountability, and personal transformation. His story is one of perseverance and hope, inspiring others to find their own path to lasting change.
Walker Weeden, Wentworth I House Manager
Walker's teenage years in Austin, Texas, were marked by a dive into addiction, beginning with alcohol at the age of 14. His experimentation escalated in to using marijuana, psychedelics, and prescription pills. However, the illusion of invincibility was shattered by an overdose, triggering fleeting vows of abstinence that only ended in disappointment, leaving behind a wake of shattered promises and fractured relationships. Though a glimmer of hope emerged during his college years, marked by a stint in a treatment center in 2021 where he found solace at the Patton Sober Living, even taking on a role as a staff member, the battle persisted. Despite initial strides, a lack of commitment to the program led to a devastating relapse. His struggles and further alienating those around him.
Yet, amidst the darkness, a pivotal moment materialized in the form of a legal confrontation, compelling Walker to confront the wreckage of his life head-on. This humbling ordeal prompted his return to Dallas and reintegration into the Patton Sober Living program, but this time, a profound shift occurred. With newfound determination and a spiritual reawakening, he embraced the program wholeheartedly, propelling his recovery forward. His commitment and resilience propelled him to excel within the program, culminating in his selection to lead the young adult house in 2024. Now, Walker has an active lifestyle, filled with outdoor activities, exercise, music, and the constant support of cherished friends, a testament to his remarkable journey of redemption and transformation.
Yet, amidst the darkness, a pivotal moment materialized in the form of a legal confrontation, compelling Walker to confront the wreckage of his life head-on. This humbling ordeal prompted his return to Dallas and reintegration into the Patton Sober Living program, but this time, a profound shift occurred. With newfound determination and a spiritual reawakening, he embraced the program wholeheartedly, propelling his recovery forward. His commitment and resilience propelled him to excel within the program, culminating in his selection to lead the young adult house in 2024. Now, Walker has an active lifestyle, filled with outdoor activities, exercise, music, and the constant support of cherished friends, a testament to his remarkable journey of redemption and transformation.
Oliver Green, Wentworth II House Manager
Oliver was born and raised in Dallas, Texas. He began experimenting with drugs and alcohol at a young age, using them to cope with the loss of his grandmother. Connecting with others his age who were also engaging in similar behaviors, he felt a sense of belonging among them. Although he managed to maintain good grades in school, his substance use quickly spiraled out of control. At 19, he joined the army, hoping it would provide the discipline he needed to change his life. Instead, it only escalated his struggles, and he frequently found himself in trouble.
Over the years, his issues with underage drinking and drug use eventually led him back to Texas. For the next decade, he encountered the consequences of addiction, facing time in jails, treatment centers, and sober living facilities. Finally, he realized that he needed to make a serious commitment to getting sober. Initially, he struggled to maintain his progress; not working a structured recovery program led to relapse. He had reached a breaking point and decided to fully commit to his sobriety. He approached recovery with the same intensity that he had once reserved for his addiction. He was introduced to Patton Sober Living through his service work, where he began building a stronger foundation of recovery by helping others that struggle with addiction.
In his free time, Oliver enjoys spending time with family, volunteering at various non-profits, and serving at his church.
Over the years, his issues with underage drinking and drug use eventually led him back to Texas. For the next decade, he encountered the consequences of addiction, facing time in jails, treatment centers, and sober living facilities. Finally, he realized that he needed to make a serious commitment to getting sober. Initially, he struggled to maintain his progress; not working a structured recovery program led to relapse. He had reached a breaking point and decided to fully commit to his sobriety. He approached recovery with the same intensity that he had once reserved for his addiction. He was introduced to Patton Sober Living through his service work, where he began building a stronger foundation of recovery by helping others that struggle with addiction.
In his free time, Oliver enjoys spending time with family, volunteering at various non-profits, and serving at his church.
Zach Phillips, Assistant Manager
Zach, 26, from Louisville, Kentucky, faced early mental health challenges. At 17, he began using substances to cope, leading to a six-year struggle with addiction that disrupted his education and strained family relationships.
In February 2023, Zach entered Capstone Treatment Center, marking a pivotal turn in his life. He continued his recovery at Patton Sober Living, where he spent 11 transformative months. With our comprehensive support and structured environment, Zach rebuilt his life, eventually moving out to live independently.
After a year of successful sobriety, Zach returned to Patton House as a staff member, driven by a desire to guide others through their early recovery stages. His firsthand experience and empathetic approach make him an invaluable mentor to our residents.
In February 2023, Zach entered Capstone Treatment Center, marking a pivotal turn in his life. He continued his recovery at Patton Sober Living, where he spent 11 transformative months. With our comprehensive support and structured environment, Zach rebuilt his life, eventually moving out to live independently.
After a year of successful sobriety, Zach returned to Patton House as a staff member, driven by a desire to guide others through their early recovery stages. His firsthand experience and empathetic approach make him an invaluable mentor to our residents.