PRINCIPLES OF TREATMENT

 ARC adheres to the following beliefs about the treatment that it provides to clients:

1.       Effective treatment of addiction requires a multi-disciplinary approach. Skilled professionals trained in the psychological, social and spiritual aspects of recovery work together in planning each phase of a client’s treatment. These include, but are not limited to: the Executive Director, Counselors and Ancillary staff.  Consultation with outside medical and mental health professionals is sought when requested by the client or determined to be necessary by the treatment team.

2.       ARC encourages the clients family and significant others to become involved in the treatment process. This involvement takes the form of referral to family support groups and family/marital therapy as indicated. The primary goal of outpatient and recovery residence treatment is to reintegrate the client into his/her family and community systems as soon as possible.

3.       The structured and supportive environment provided by ARC makes it possible for clients to address the emotional changes brought about by long-term addiction.   Shame, guilt, low self-esteem, fear and anger are common psychological themes which clients are able to explore.  Special issues of men and women are addressed in gender specific groups.

4.       ARC believes that an essential component of a clients treatment program is the development of a spiritual life including an active relationship with a higher power of their choice.  Regular attendance of a 12-step program is required and participation in the church of their choice is encouraged.

5.       ARC believes that it has an obligation to clearly define its treatment goals to both the client community and the referral community at large. These goals are:

a.       The client will abstain from all mind altering and/or mood changing chemicals;

b.       The client will verbalize an understanding of the disease concept of addiction;

c.       The client will identify and express feelings in an appropriate, healthy manner;

d.       The client will become involved and participate in a 12 Step fellowship regularly.  The client will get and use a sponsor regularly;

e.       The client will perform daily chores, daily meal preparation, weekly food purchases and other living skills as assigned;

f.        The client will obtain employment and assume financial responsibility for all treatment fees. Disabled clients may substitute volunteer work for employment;

g.       The client will participate in leisure activities and therapeutic leaves, using these leaves to repair damaged family and significant other relationships.  

Copyright © 2002, Alpha Recovery Centers, Inc.