Thank you, thank you, thank you all!!!!
Today was a trial, but I did get him to agree to give me a refund, minus the time I've stayed here and any other expenses. My friend picks me up at 9 a.m., the guy will have the receipts for me to pick up, and it's back to AZ we go.
With the refund and a clearer head, I can do MORE research and find something that is suitable and NON-12 step.
What an experience it's been. Drive all the way to CA and only see the ocean from a distance then back to the desert.