Current drug addiction rehabilitation best practices are reflected in the Portage treatment program. Their presence, within a structured and safe residential setting, increases the effectiveness of the interventions undertaken at Portage.

Drug addiction rehabilitation best practices

  • Individualised client-centered, treatment planning, supported by motivational interviewing;
  • Harm reduction is most effective in maintaining a client in treatment;
  • Systems approach, viewing clients in the context of their community and family;
  • Treatment should be caring, respectful, safe and open;
  • Mental, spiritual, emotional ,and physical person needs should be considered;
  • Learning should be experiential;
  • Positive psychology approach;
  • Using skill development to enhance self-esteem;
  • The system must be client-centered and culturally competent where the client and their families are actively involved in treatment planning and treatment decisions;
  • Access should be through a low threshold, no wrong door approach, and be available whereever and whenever a client enters the treatment continuum;
  • Treatment should be comprehensive with duration dictated by the client's changing needs and motivation.

Evidence-based treatment techniques

  • Skill development exercises, including role-playing, active rehearsal, and repetitive practice;
  • Cognitive-behavioural relapse prevention training;
  • High risk identification training;
  • Problem-solving skills training;
  • Coping skills training (e.g., dealing with "cravings" and "urges");
  • Motivational interviewing/motivational enhancement techniques;
  • Employment skills training;
  • Behavioural marital counseling (where applicable);
  • Stress management training;
  • Maintenance, "booster" sessions, monitoring, and after care;
  • Community reinforcement and support services.