In Level II we present a wealth of information that is intended to build a solid foundation in recovery for our clients. The following list describes some of the educational workshops, videos and written assignments we offer to deepen understanding of core concepts in dealing with addiction.

Definition and Consequences of the Progression of Addiction: "Addiction is a pathological love and trust relationship with an object or event" (Craig Nakken). 

Addiction is a pattern of efforts to cope that have increasing negative consequences. Individuals may become addicted to the physiological and/or psychological effects of substances (alcohol or drugs), but could develop other addicted behaviours, like gambling, eating disorders, compulsive sex/relationships, obsessive exercise, and many others, where perceived benefits come at a high cost.

There are three stages to the progression of addiction -- Internal Change, Lifestyle Change and Life Breakdown.

People become vulnerable to addiction in many ways -- through distortions in their thinking or beliefs, lack of skill dealing with emotions, chronic physical pain, fatigue or ill health, difficult social relationships or past trauma, loss of or confusion of purpose and many other possible factors. Some are vulnerable on multiple fronts, others have one challenge in particular. For some the problems are diffuse and chronic, for others it is more acute and specific.

The first step in overcoming addiction is understanding the specific vulnerabilities that each person faces as well as identifying the coping strategies that have had such a costly impact. This awareness allows us each to make the changes we need to make to build a strong recovery.

Vision of Recovery: Recovery is all about making changes in our lives that will reduce our vulnerability and increase our confidence with using healthy coping skills. Clients are asked to focus on the changes that they want to make that will have the biggest positive impact for them, and to create a vibrant, meaningful vision of what recovery will look like for them.

Denial: This workshop explores some of the common ways we have of "denying" the real negative consequences of alcohol or drug use. The reward we get from using is so strong that our mind automatically and unconsciously looks for ways to reinterpret the costs so we can continue using. In a sense, we "fool" ourselves. Of course to others, it just looks like we are lying.

Communication Skills:

Anger:

Boundaries:

Self-defeating Learned Behaviours:

Shame:

Spirituality:

Coping Skills:

Co-Occuring Disorders:

Adult Children of Addiction:

Personal Change Workshop:

Going Home Plans: