Frequently Asked Questions:  After Residential Treatment 

What is the DSYTC aftercare program (Assertive Continuing Care) about?
Timely post discharge treatment and support is absolutely critical to reducing relapse rates and maximizing the long-term success of program participants. Unlike traditional addiction treatment programming wherein the onus is on the client to follow-up after residential discharge, the Assertive Continuing Care (ACC) model places that onus on the treatment provider. As such, ACC counsellors will be mobile and will ensure timely and regular contact with clientele – whether it is at their home, school or another agreed upon location. In short, clients won’t need to come to us because we’ll go to them! 

What can parents/caregivers do to support their youth’s recovery efforts?
Research indicates that there are 4 critical practices that parents/caregivers can adopt so to help their youth:

1.       Role model by not using alcohol or drugs in front of their youth (if at all)
2.      Communicate in a positive fashion (i.e., decrease blame and “put downs”)
3.      Monitor your adolescents whereabouts (where and with whom)
4.      Encourage and promote pro-social activities (and participate together) 

What if families need support while their youth is receiving services from DSYTC?
Family services are available to parents or caregivers of youth within the residential program, those who require/qualify for residential admission or those engaged in ACC aftercare.

Potential reasons for referral include:  unhealthy family communication, substantial family conflict, poor boundary awareness/adherence, need for transitional support, parental role modeling enhancement, difficulty coping with high emotional distress, etc. Parents are encouraged to talk to their youth’s Therapist or ACC Counselor to inquire about these services.