Recovery from substance use disorder is a continuous process. It begins with detox, followed by rehabilitation programs, but the next stages take place day by day over the coming years. During this time, a person in recovery needs encouragement and support from our aftercare services to help them remain motivated and on track.
At Design for Change Recovery, we understand the challenges a person in recovery will face after leaving our facility. This is why we work with clients to develop relapse prevention plans before they exit treatment. Designed to meet the client’s unique situation, our personalized aftercare services aid in a smoother transition back into society.
Aftercare is considered a step-down or transitional program. Rather than sending clients out into the world on their own, we help them every step of the way. In the early stages of recovery, a client is vulnerable and may be easily overwhelmed. Therefore, participating in an aftercare program is the best way to stay focused on their goals.
An aftercare program is essential for someone in the first few months after leaving rehab. This is typically the time when about 50% of rehab graduates relapse. Because of this, our therapists and counselors work closely with clients to create a customized aftercare plan. We realize that maintaining sobriety while adapting to life outside of treatment can be difficult. For this reason, our aftercare services seek to assist former clients and offer encouragement so they don’t feel alone in their recovery efforts.
We create an aftercare plan for each of our clients as they approach the final stages of treatment. Our therapists and counselors assess the client’s situation to determine their specific needs. We then help them locate resources in the community that can provide support in those areas.
Our aftercare services seek to help clients anticipate challenges and develop effective coping strategies. We ask clients to consider specific needs such as employment, housing, and continued counseling they may require. With this information, we structure an aftercare plan that aligns with their particular circumstances.
Each aftercare program differs depending on the client’s situation. Some programs last for a few weeks or months, while others may last for a year or more. Generally, the longer a person stays engaged with aftercare services, the less likely they are to relapse.
Our customized aftercare programs incorporate a range of activities and resources based on the client’s needs. Although each plan is unique, the basic components of our aftercare services may include:
A client’s aftercare plan might not include all of the above components, but the program can be adjusted as needed.
To ensure clients get the most from our aftercare services, we encourage them to stay with the program until the end. Understandably, some days it may seem like too much to deal with. But, perseverance is the best way to succeed. The ultimate goal of our aftercare program is to assist clients in preventing relapse. Without this added support, clients are more likely to fall back on their previous substance use behavior.
If a client feels that the aftercare plan isn’t helpful, our counselors will adjust the plan if necessary. We want to see our clients succeed in long-term sobriety. With this in mind, we evaluate a client’s progress to find ways to further assist them.
People in early recovery often feel that they are traversing an unfamiliar landscape. We provide aftercare services to act as a compass to help them stay on the right path. Our extended care programs assist clients in the following ways:
Repair Damaged Relationships – Substance use damages even the strongest relationships. While under the influence of drugs or alcohol, a person can be belligerent and say or do things they later regret. The confrontations result in the alienation of friends and family members. However, through our aftercare services, clients learn anger management and communication skills to aid in repairing damaged relationships. We also offer family therapy to help clients and their families come to terms with their individual roles in the recovery process.
Accept Responsibility and Accountability – While working with an aftercare program, clients learn that they are responsible for their success or failure. They also learn to take ownership of the results of their behavior. In this way, they develop the realization that they should strive for higher standards.
Financial Management and Stability – Our aftercare services assist clients in finding employment so they can provide for their own needs. In turn, they become more confident and self-assured. When a person has a positive view of themselves, they are less likely to relapse.
Aftercare is a vital component of addiction treatment. As such, many insurance companies cover the programs. However, insurance companies vary in how much coverage they provide for aftercare services.
In order to help our clients get the comprehensive treatment they need, we work with several major insurance providers. During our initial contact with clients, we conduct a confidential assessment. Using the information gathered, we work with their insurance company. Our goal is to help clients get the highest level of treatment possible that aligns with their financial situation.
Our full continuum of care addiction treatment encompasses a range of therapies and services. By providing intervention services, detox, rehab, and aftercare services, Design for Change ensures outstanding recovery results for clients.
Although detox and rehab are significant accomplishments, the hardest part comes when a client steps out into a world filled with triggers and temptations. Our aftercare services help them navigate the many obstacles and triumph over them.
For more information about our aftercare services, contact our Lancaster, CA facility today. One of our treatment advisors will be available to answer your questions and assist you in any way.
Sources:
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ – Continuing Care Research: What We’ve Learned and Where We’re Going