Dr. Rafael Penunuri
Dr. Rafael Penunuri, MD: Genuine & Healing Humility
Dr. Penunuri brings over 30 years of experience in addiction medicine, establishing himself as a trusted figure in Southern California’s medical community since 1985. Board certified with the American Board of Addiction Medicine, Dr. Penunuri is also an esteemed member of the American Society of Addiction Medicine, graduating from UCLA School of Medicine.
As the Medical Director for Adelante Recovery Centers, Dr. Penunuri oversees all aspects of a client’s medical care, including their detox and all ongoing medical issues related to their treatment. As a well-known and respected physician at the substance abuse program within Hoag Hospital, Newport Beach, Adelante clients gain an added layer of support when and if temporary hospitalization is required for their care.
Spanning more than three decades with practices throughout Southern California, Dr. Penunuri’s addiction medicine focuses on treating real people without labels or judgment. “Human beings are vulnerable to chemical dependency, period. My job is to treat people suffering from addiction, not drug addicts.”
Built from this philosophy, Dr. Penunuri specializes in safe and supported medically assisted detoxification for both substance abuse and non-substance abuse clients—extending his expertise to individuals wishing to detox from prescribed narcotic pain medication.
Dr. Penunuri has always been a strong advocate for individuals seeking alternatives to prolonged pain medication, and is well respected by the senior population of Orange County for his treatment and guidance toward alternative pain management solutions. Dr. Penuniri perceives the disease of addiction as a profound and complex problem in our society. He recognizes the ongoing and progressive need for a greater capacity in healthcare to assist more individuals in need. He takes pride in contributing to what he considers a noble and significant mission.
Despite the demanding hours of his work life, Dr. Penunuri prioritizes spending quality time with his family, particularly his grandchildren. His hobbies include skiing, racquetball, and soccer. Additionally, he enthusiastically identifies as a pickleball fanatic, playing the sport three to four times a week.
If you were to ask any of the thousands of patients he has seen over the years, they would all tell you that Dr Penunuri’s greatest medicine is his personality. Dr. P, as he is commonly referred to, exudes an unassuming and gentle nature that brings calmness to even the most challenging situations. He is always inclined to see the best in people, making everyone feel valued. It’s highly unlikely to spot him in anything other than a Hawaiian shirt and casual attire. Although incredibly busy, he always finds time to follow up at the end of each day. A genuine healer.
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If you or a loved one are in need of help with addiction, contact us today. Our professional and friendly addiction specialists are able to answer your questions and get things moving in the right direction.
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