The core treatment program at New Directions is 6 months long. However, shorter and longer durations are also possible.
Based on the 12 Steps, the program addresses more than substance use disorder. Many started their paths to addiction at a young age. Consequently, their emotional growth and development was inhibited.
At New Directions, clients participate in nearly 50 hours of treatment and treatment related activities each week. Each participant is assigned a certified Substance Use Disorder counselor. Through individual counseling sessions, groups and lectures, participants are instructed in topics such as the following:
- Discovery of how and why they became addicted
- Learning about their disease
- Relapse prevention
- Development of a written treatment plan with their counselor
- The path to developing healthy relationships with family, friends and employers
- Parenting and Nutrition classes
- Academic education enhancement
- Domestic Violence classes
- Employment readiness preparation
- Connections to vocational training
- Family reunification instruction
- Other related skills
New Directions has separate programs and facilities for men and women on the same campus. The total capacity is approximately 75 participants.
As a residential program, the program operates 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
New Directions is not a locked/secure facility. However, participants are required to remain at the facility unless they have necessary appointments such as court, medical or legal reasons to leave the site. Participants may leave accompanied by an escort for such appointments for no longer than 4 hours.
For the first 30 days of participation, participants may only leave accompanied by staff. As soon as participants are enrolled, they are able to make phone calls on in house pay phones and receive and send mail.
Family support is a critical element in recovery success. New Directions incorporates and encourages family inclusion for participants.
And, although children may not reside at the program, children are welcome to visit at scheduled times.