SERVICES OFFERED
BY THE PROJECT
When Clients
make contact with ADAS
they are usually seen by a counsellor within seven days.
If the individual is still using mind altering substances the counsellor will liase with the Doctor, Community Drug Team (CDT) or Community Alcohol Team (CAT) worker to formulate a reduction plan interspersed by motivational sessions with ADAS counsellors. The aim is to engage clients and encourage them to remain substance free and to ensure that they enter the treatment programme immediately abstinence is achieved.
Though it is a difficult time for the individual, it is also a time when the client can show a willingness to get to grips with the condition. Individuals who maintain high levels of motivation at this stage will find the treatment programme a relief. Our experience has been that achieving abstinence can be extra challenging, but also rewarding to the individual, providing proof that they can achieve a goal.
Following the initial referral, the client undergoes the screening process . Screening entails the compilation of the client's unique profile. This covers a number of influencing factors - their drug or drink history, socio-economic status, psychiatric and physical health history, criminal background, if any, and previous involvement by the social services or child protection agencies. DSM IV and if necessary the Beck's Suicide Inventory ideation questionnaire are completed
A treatment plan can then be formulated having taken into consideration all the elements of the screening process. This ensures a holistic method of treatment, which addresses all areas of the client's particular problems and will highlight the need for special areas of focus - such as group therapy and one to one counselling - to resolve very delicate or deeply personal issues.
The treatment plan covers all aspects recognized by Social Services Community Care Plans and Criminal Justice Expectations where necessary, DTTO's (and conditions of bail) and this ensures that all professional entities have clear lines of communication and work together to meet the needs of each client.
This is also essential when liasing with the referring party at the evaluation, commencement, mid-term and completion stages of primary care.
The day programme runs from Monday to Friday from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. The primary stage of treatment will last for six weeks. Each individual will be viewed as a unique entity as some people may require extra time or a "weaning off" period, depending upon their needs. For example, we have found that those with learning difficulties need extra time, as the proicess of treatment may take longer.
The programme members are in a maximum of twelve in two groups of six people. It is a roll on and roll off programme with individuals beginning a programme as others are finishing. This is a valuable mechanism for newcommers to lerarn from those who are completing their treatment by sharing their experience. We have establisged a peer support volunteer network made up of past clients which continues to expand with time. The programme includes a day whenthe whole group goes out together to pursue an activity like ten-pin bowling or bird watching, accompanied by recovering volunteers.
