R. Askari Johnson, Jr.,
R. Askari Johnson Jr. is a dedicated substance use disorder professional whose work is rooted in lived experience, compassion, and a deep commitment to service. He is currently affiliated with BAART Oakland Methadone Clinic; however, his primary professional role and day-to-day clinical work are centered at Tranquility Rehab LLC in Castro Valley, California, where he serves individuals in recovery through comprehensive treatment and support services.
Askari began his career at Tranquility Rehab LLC as a Behavioral Health Technician, where his natural leadership, initiative, and ability to build authentic rapport with clients quickly distinguished him within the organization. Through mentorship and recognition of his facilitation strengths, he transitioned into a group facilitator role and became a registered Alcohol and Drug Technician (RADT) through CCAPP.
He continues to advance his professional development and is actively pursuing certification as a Substance Use Disorder Counselor while furthering his academic studies. His clinical approach emphasizes client-centered, evidence-based practices that meet individuals where they are, rejecting one-size-fits-all recovery models and honoring each person’s unique path toward healing and long-term stability.
Askari’s passion for this work is deeply shaped by his own recovery journey and personal transformation following addiction and 36 years of incarceration. He views his career as a “living amends,” using his lived experience to guide, mentor, and inspire others away from destructive cycles and toward sustainable recovery.
Guided by strong spiritual values, Askari defines success not by material gain but by integrity, service, and the ability to empower others to become the best version of themselves. Through mentorship, advocacy, and example, he continues to turn pain into purpose for individuals, families, and communities impacted by substance use disorder.
• Alcohol and Drug Technician through CCAPP
• California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP)
• Co-Founder, Calm Crescent Communities
• Advocacy for Re-Entry Support & Community Healing
Areas of Specialization/Expertise
- Substance Use Disorder Treatment
- Alcohol & Drug Recovery Counseling
- Relapse Prevention Planning
- Truama-Informed Care
- Cognitive Behavioral Intervention in Recovery
- Group & Individual Recovery Coaching
- Motivational Interviewing
- Livied Experienced-Informed Counseling Appproach
- Structured Building & Life Stabilizing Coaching
- Identity, Purpose, & Self-worth Development in Recovery
- Coping Skills Develpoment
- Emotional Regulation & Self-Control Training
- Trigger Identification & Response Planning
- Psychoeducation Group Facilitation
- Process Group Leadership
- Recovery Curriculum Development
- Conflict Resolution in Group Settings
- Personal Responsibility & Disciplined-Focused Recovery Models
- Re-Entry & Reintergration Support for Justice-Involved Clients
What do you enjoy most about practicing medicine?
What I enjoy most is witnessing transformation—seeing individuals who once struggled with addiction reclaim their dignity, integrity, and ultimately, their lives. Being part of that journey and watching someone rediscover their worth is deeply meaningful to me.