FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
General FAQ
Portage is a non-profit organization that offers rehabilitation programs for individuals with substance use disorders. Since 1970, we have been helping youth, adults, and families regain a healthy, balanced, and addiction-free life.
We have centres for adolescents and young adults, adults, pregnant women and mothers with young children, as well as individuals struggling with both mental health and substance use issues.
Our programs are based on the therapeutic community model. Participants live in a group setting, where they learn to better understand themselves, manage their emotions, and develop tools to maintain their sobriety.
It is a structured environment where residents live together and support one another in overcoming addiction. At Portage, each person is part of a supportive group made up of fellow residents and staff members, all working toward a common goal: regaining control of their lives.
Residents learn to:
- Identify the root causes of their addiction
- Develop skills to succeed in school, at work, and in life
- Adopt a healthy and balanced lifestyle
- Support one another in a climate of respect and accountability
This model promotes learning through experience, mutual support, and personal responsibility, while strengthening self-esteem and hope for a better future.
The duration varies depending on the program and each individual’s needs, but a typical stay lasts between 3 and 6 months, followed by approximately 2 years of aftercare support.
All Portage programs in Quebec are free for residents of the province. They are funded by the Government of Quebec and Portage’s partners.
The program for adolescents and young adults at Cassidy Lake is free for residents of New Brunswick. It is funded by the Government of New Brunswick and Portage’s partners.
For residents of other provinces, please contact us for more information.
We have centres in Quebec and New Brunswick. Visit our Contact page to see the full list and addresses of all our centres.
Admission is voluntary. You can call us directly or send us an email. An admissions officer will contact you within 48 hours to assess the situation and propose an admission plan. Visit our Contact page for the contact information of all our centres.
Yes. Portage is accredited by Accreditation Canada, which ensures the quality and safety of our services.
