There are a range of services for adults and families with drug or alcohol related problems. Most adult programs operate from Eleanor St, Footscray.
Withdrawal Options for Adults
If you have a drug or alcohol problem it can be hard to work out what is the best way forward. The counsellors, nurses and outreach workers can help you decide what treatment options might be best for you. Some people try giving up drugs in their own environment at home with the support Non-Residential Withdrawal Team. Others prefer to go into the Community Residential Withdrawal Unit where medical staff can help you through the difficult times. Some people have had problems with the law, or been through the courts, and they have been ordered to do something about their drug or alcohol problem. We can work with you through all of these scenarios and help you decide what is best for you right now. Contact Central Intake and Assessment on 1800 700 514 to request these options.
Pharmacotherapy Options
'Pharmacotherapies' is the term used to describe the use of medication to assist in the treatment of opiate addiction. The most commonly prescribed medications are methadone, Suboxone® and buprenorphine. These medications are usually prescribed by general practitioners who have been specially trained, and they are available through some community pharmacists. These medications are also used in residential withdrawal programs as they are now recognised as the safest medications to use.
The Specialist Pharmacotherapy Program may be required when there are associated complex medical, psychiatric or psychological problems. This program offers extra support through counselling and other social supports that may not be accessible in the general practice environment. To take part in the Specialist Pharmacotherapy Program you must be referred by your current GP or pharmacotherapy prescriber.
Counselling Options
Counselling services are available through Central Intake and Assessment on 1800 700 514 to help you through your difficulties related to you drug and alcohol use. It can be hard making lifestyle changes alone and our counsellors can work with you at whatever stage you are on the continuum of change. They can see you before you enter a withdrawal program, or can work with you during, or after you finish your withdrawal program. You can see a counsellor alone, or with your family or partner, or you could come to a support group with other people who may be going through the same problems as yourself.
Drug Health Services also has a Psychologist who is able to Medicare Bulk Bill Counselling services. Please obtain a mental health care plan from your GP to access this service.
Specialised treatment for women
The Women's Therapeutic Day Program is a six week program that aims to provide a safe and therapeutic environment for women to explore, understand and make changes to their identified substance use. Evidence-based and recovery-focused interventions are facilitated to women living in the community to help enhance their quality of life and to support progress in the women's recovery journey.
A range of groups are presented including but not limited to psychoeducation, harm minimisation, art and creative therapies, healthy lifestyle and living skills programs, as well as access to a range of other broader health and community services. There is no cost for participants.
Guided by recovery focussed principles, the care offered by the experienced AOD clinicians is person-centred, holistic, and consideration is given to the uniqueness of each woman including cultural and gender diversity. Clinicians work in collaboration with the woman to develop an individual recovery plan.
The WTDP foster a culture of hope and empowerment and values respectful and therapeutic relationships, building on the strengths and resources of women to promote autonomy, self-determination and awareness of rights and responsibilities. Service provision is guided by the aspirations, priorities, needs and preferences of each woman in the program.
Access to the program's Non Residential Withdrawal Nurse is available to provide withdrawal support. If a woman experiences a lapse whilst in treatment the NRW nurse will offer relapse prevention and harm reduction strategies or referral to other program / services with the aim to resume their treatment within the day program.
To discuss the referral process and program criteria please contact the Women's Therapeutic Day Program staff on 9689 5533 or [email protected].
Contact Us
Drug Health Services
Phone: 8345 6682
Women's Rehabilitation Program
Phone: 9689 5533.
