Counseling Service
Our Adult Services program helps those adults struggling with substance use to take the crucial first steps towards recovery.
Program Philosophy
Recovery from drug or alcohol misuse occurs over various phases. Not every phase is equally long or equally difficult. But because drug or alcohol addiction is a lifelong illness, the recovery process exists forever, in one form or another.
Treatment at the YMCA, however, is a short-term process designed to help substance misusers develop the necessary skills to successfully maintain their ongoing recovery. Many positive changes often come out of the treatment process itself – new friendships, the discovery of new abilities and interests, and the realization that life can be good without being viewed through the haze of alcohol or drugs. We also refer clients in need to other treatment facilities for specialized care, and work with twelve-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous to provide continuing recovery services for our members.
“The YMCA saved my life.” – Kathy, 46
“I always thought I could do it by myself – I’ll quit tomorrow or I’ll quit next time. I realized I couldn’t do it alone and the Y helped me.” – Andre, 32
The YMCA offers specific services designed to fulfill the special needs of our clients:
Women’s Program
The YMCA offers specialized services geared toward the needs of women. This program offers women-only group counseling sessions in which participants can address concerns such as domestic violence, family or parenting issues on their own terms. In addition, the program provides childcare services for our members with children.
Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment
The YMCA offers specialized services geared toward the needs of those who are recovering from both addiction and mental illness. Addressing both substance issues and mental health at the same time is proven to increase the individual's likelihood of success. Our program aims to address all of our clients' needs in an effort to enhance the effectiveness of their treatment.
Medication Assisted Treatment
Medication Assisted Treatment is widely recognized as a highly effective, best practice in the treatment of substance misuse disorders. MAT is the use of medication in conjunction with counseling and behavioral therapies in order to help individuals enter into and sustain recovery. Our on-site physician will assess an individual’s need for addiction medication and will continue to monitor and manage their medication throughout treatment and recovery.
Alternatives to Incarceration
The YMCA Counseling Service has a long and successful history of interfacing with the criminal justice system. Working closely with the local Treatment Court, the Department of Probation, Family Court Probation, the Department of Parole, the District Attorney , and the Administration for Children’s Services (ACS), we provide courts and agencies with effective treatment alternatives that help people who use substances get back on track and avoid incarceration.