Program Components

Medical & Psychiatric Assessment

Provide insight with regards to underlying factors contributing to substance use, and/or in identifying any co-occurring disorders (anxiety, depression, etc.).
Provide relevant questions and guidance in preparing for medical and/or psychiatric follow-up.
Addresses health-related concerns; allows for diagnosis of co-occurring mental and/or physical issues, provides direction and/or affirmation regarding the working treatment plan.

Education

Provide current, research-supported information conceptualizing addiction as a disease.
Reinforce dangers of continued use and consequent need for change, clarify misconceptions, provide a framework of understanding wherein clients’ struggles are normalized.
Attempt to reduce distress caused by confusion, fear and guilt.

Skills Training

Highlight the connection between thought processes and behavioural responses; allow clients to begin identifying their maladaptive thought/behaviour patterns.
Introduce constructive coping skills in a theoretical context and begin development of personalized relapse prevention plans.

Group & Individual Therapy

Provide structured, collaborative forums in which to address concerns, assess progress and/or modify treatment goals on the group and individual level.
Opportunity to practice giving and receiving feedback.

Exercise, Leisure & Recreation

Provide opportunity to develop and apply new skills in practical contexts, increase clients’ self-awareness regarding triggers (high-risk people, places, situations, etc.); exposure therapy, systematic desensitization, supportive coping.
Reinforce importance of balance in daily living, explore interests to replace substance use, gain experience living substance-free in a manner reflective of clients’ realities (allow for easier re-integration).

12-Step Introduction

Opens clients’ perspectives on understanding and treating addiction; diversifies exposure to effective intervention strategies.
Creates opportunity to connect with people in recovery; develop support network.