Group treatment is part of a best-practice approach to addiction treatment, with sessions focused on building specific skills.
Service users can participate in a wide range of group treatment sessions on topics that meet their needs, including:
- Getting Started — This drop-in group program is intended for service users who are in the early stages of treatment and provides an introduction to helpful coping strategies necessary for people looking to make changes in their life.
- Options — An early intervention group for adults who have not yet set a substance use goal, this program is designed to motivate and provide educational information for the service user while they reflect on their current situation.
- Weekend Planning — This drop-in group helps service users develop a plan for dealing with triggers and risks that may occur over the weekend, as well as other parts of their life such as sleep, nutrition, and stress.
- Acu-detox — Auricular Acupuncture is a non-verbal therapy that occurs in a group format and involves the insertion of five very fine needles into each ear. Acu-detox has been shown to provide both physical and emotional relief, and assist in managing withdrawal symptoms, anxiety, and cravings to use substances.
- Mindfulness — The Mindfulness Group is a four-week group that teaches practical mindfulness tools such as body scans, urge surfing, and present-moment awareness, with the goal of strengthening service users’ ability to reflect and make intentional choices.
- Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) — The DBT Skills Group is a structured, evidence-based program that teaches service users practical tools to manage emotions, reduce crisis behaviours, and improve relationships, focusing on core skill areas: Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness.
Family Programs
We also offer counselling for those affected by a loved one’s use of substances or gambling, either individually or in groups. The person struggling with addictions does not need to be a Fourcast service user in order for their family members or loved ones to access our support.
We offer two Family Program options:
- Family Information Sessions — The Family Information group is the first step for family and friends who have loved ones who struggle with substance use and/or gambling. This introductory session provides a brief overview of addiction, as well as the services Fourcast and other community partners can provide for you and your loved one. This group helps to figure out what the best next steps could be and what options are available.
- Family Education Program — The focus of this group is on topics that family members find most helpful to discuss, such as setting boundaries or effective communication. This group occurs weekly, providing time for learning, reflection, and discussion.