Jim Dopp, the founder of Costa Rica Recovery, came to Costa Rica years ago as a clinical consultant to a long standing Spanish speaking program. After spending some time here, he recognized the unique characteristics that our country could bring to an internationally based English speaking clientele. Unlike most other developing countries, Costa Rica has a well developed national program licensing process that assures quality care, and a system for credentialing addiction counselors at a level equal to the United States. Educational training at university and graduate levels meets recognized standards.