Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some answers to common questions. If you want to ask us something, please contact us.
What is a “Therapeutic Community?”
George DeLeon writes that the Therapeutic Community is the Method!
Most, if not all, of the pain in our lives come through relationships. We believe that healing comes through relationships. Although RDDC provides individual and group counselling, it is the interactions in the hall, the team work exercised in the service assignments, and the late night conversations – all within the Therapeutic Community – that contribute to ongoing healing relationships. It is through our relationships with others that beneficial thinking and behaviour are encouraged, and detrimental beliefs and habits are challenged.
Why take an abstinence-based approach to recovery?
- Clients perceive they are safer to take the risks necessary for recovery when their fellow clients have also agreed to remain abstinent from substances, and the triggering effects that substance use may have on the community.
- Meets a client-requested need for an abstinence-based program.
- Allows for clients to increase in their capacity to regulate unpleasant emotions that have typically been a precursor to substance use. Behaviours, beliefs, emotions, and memories that were suppressed by substance use are able to be acknowledged and processed.
- RDDC permits Opiate Agonist Therapy (OAT). This included buprenorphine (Suboxone/Sublocade) & methadone. OAT is assessed and administered by our partner pharmacy.
- Abstinence is not to be equated with recovery. Abstinence (removal of detrimental practices or factors) can enable recovery (adding beneficial practices or factors).
How does it work?
RDDC uses The Genesis Process, a relapse prevention program that has been used for over 20 years. Men are not required to share our Christian beliefs to be admitted to the program, but they must be willing to be open to teaching informed by Christian spirituality and explore the beliefs that led to their addictive behaviours.
Who is this program for?
RDDC’s recovery program is for men, ages 18 and older, seeking freedom from substance addiction.
How old do I have to be to apply?
RDDC currently accepts applications from men 18 years of age and older.
How do you apply?
Please call us at 403-986-0050.
What should I bring with me?
Clients will be living in dorms, and because of this, men are encouraged to bring items that will make them feel comfortable, yet limit the amount of possessions they bring. They need about one week’s worth of clothes including clothes they are comfortable working in (kitchen, cleaning of building, etc.). They should also bring personal hygiene items, a Bible, and any required medications. Smaller musical instruments such as guitars are allowed.
We do not have space for larger instruments, furniture, or vehicles. The staff at RDDC will help clients access any items they need but do not possess. RDDC is not responsible for the safe-keeping of your items, so we suggest you make other arrangements for storing any valuables or irreplaceable items.
How long is the program?
The core recovery program is a 4-month commitment where clients live onsite. Clients may be able to stay up to one year based on their individual needs.
Can I have visitors while I’m in the program?
We encourage healing relationships with family and recognize this is integral to recovery. Visitors, after the first week, are welcome on Sundays from 1:00 – 4:30 PM.
How much does the program cost?
The Red Deer Dream Centre is funded by grants and private donations. There is no cost to enter our treatment program. Please call 403-986-0050 to apply.
What medications are approved at RDDC?
Medications prescribed by a client’s physician are permitted as long as they are not associated with addiction. OAT is permitted if the client is monitored by a physician. All medications must be stored and administered by RDDC staff.
What items are not permitted?
- Drugs
- Alcohol
- Weapons
- Drug/Alcohol Paraphernalia
- Clothing that features alcohol, drug or explicit graphics
- Pornography
- Animals
- Phones, laptops, and other media playing devices. All devices are locked up onsite upon entry and available towards the end of the client’s program.
Can I see a doctor while in the program?
In order to enhance a culture of accountability, all appointments must be pre-approved with your Case Manager.
If you’re coming from out of town we recommend that you bring a copy of your medical records and provincial health care card with you if possible. This will allow local doctors to continue your care without interruption.
Can I hold a job while I’m in the program?
This is an intense program, and your recovery work must take priority in order to be successful, and therefore, during the core program, clients are not able to maintain employment. In the core program, service assignments will be integrated with the goal of forming healthy work patterns. As clients progress in their recovery, work outside RDDC is permitted in alignment with their individual transition plan.
What happens when I leave RDDC?
Throughout the program, clients collaborate with their Case Manager to form a recovery plan tailored to their transition needs. Referrals will be made for housing, education, work, and support groups that enhance ongoing recovery needs. Program alumni will have access to ongoing support from Red Deer Dream Centre.