CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

Clients learn to develop skills and strategies that allow them to gain control over their lives. The goal of the program is to introduce lasting behavioral changes through learning and practicing new ways of thinking and acting, with a focus on self-awareness. Clients participate in a group learning environment which includes the acquiring of new information, the processing of ideas and experiential learning exercises.

PHASE I – Introduction to Recovery

The focus of Phase 1 is to attain a sound base in the understanding of the addiction process and its impact on the physical, psychological, social and spiritual aspects of the client. Emphasis is placed on self-esteem issues and communication skills. Clients will be introduced Alcoholics Anonymous, Cocaine Anonymous,  and/or Narcotics Anonymous within the community which allows them to develop a support system throughout treatment as well as after discharge. Our Centre provides a room for Alcoholics Anonymous and Cocaine Anonymous meetings which are held every Sunday night.

PHASE II – Defining Recovery

Phase II focuses on gaining an understanding of how clients learn coping behaviors as children which have become self-defeating when used as adults. Defense mechanisms which are often used automatically are examined and the client is introduced to new methods of handling stressful events. In this phase, clients are encouraged to view their relationships with others and how these relationships have been impacted by addictions.

PHASE III – Skills of Recovery

Phase III examines the phases of addiction and their impact on the chemically dependent client, the spouse and the children. Clients learn about the roles commonly learned within families affected by addiction and how these roles are played out as adults. This phase also includes anger, stress management, leisure, recreation and spirituality.

PHASE IV – Relapse Prevention

Phase IV focuses on clients learning about the acceptance of their disease rather than merely the acknowledgement of its existence. A large portion of this phase is spent investigating why people relapse and how to prevent this from happening. Clients, with the help of their Counselor, formulate their own self-care plan which will also include their Counselor’s recommendations.

Upon completion of the treatment program, each individual is presented with a marble. The marble is a token and a symbol of their accomplishments during their stay at the Centre. It is also a reminder of the progress and friends they made and to remind them they have an addiction problem that they must continue to deal with on an on-going basis.

After six months, as well as one year of continued sobriety, each individual is encouraged to return to the Centre for a medallion presentation. This is a symbol of their continued accomplishments, and it gives them a chance to share their experience with the current groups. Individuals are assured staff are here for them to talk to during rough periods in their recovery. Support Services are available to former clients and collaterals on Friday afternoons. Appointments are required and there is a nominal fee for this service.