Mediaplanet: What advice would you give to someone who is looking to seek help with their addiction, but is unsure of where to turn?

Seth Fletcher: For those suffering from addiction, know that you are not alone.  At the CCFA we understand that addiction is a person’s temporary solution to an already existing issue or problem. We can help identify the underlying issues specific to you and then connect you with the tools, resources, and coping mechanisms needed to make a lifelong recovery from addiction.

MP: What can first-time patients expect from the Canadian Centre for Addictions (CCFA)?

SF: While many treatment centres have a very institutional or sterile environment, CCFA is renowned for its luxury amenities and retreat-like atmosphere on a beautiful 17,000 square foot property overlooking Lake Ontario.

MP: What makes the CCFA different from other treatment facilities?

SF: We focus on identifying the underlying issues that led to the addiction in the first place.  With this information, we can then connect clients with the resources they need in their home communities to ensure they are set up for a lifetime of success.

At the CCFA we provide best-in-class addictions services, including professional intervention services, medical staff onsite 24/7, medical monitored detox and withdrawal management services onsite, certified addiction counsellors, registered psychotherapists, lifetime aftercare services available anywhere in North America, weekly family support access and workshops, personalized discharge plans tailored to your home community, luxury amenities, and Red Seal Chef-prepared menus.

MP: How does group therapy differ from individual therapy? What are some of the benefits of group therapy?

SF: Group therapy provides an environment of like-minded individuals who may have experienced very similar life events, whereas individual therapy provides a platform for individualized treatment with certified addictions counsellors and registered psychotherapists. In both cases, we focus on developing a supportive network that will last for the rest of the client’s life.

MP: How can family and friends help loved ones who have drug or alcohol addiction?

SF: It isn’t always easy knowing how best to help a loved one who is suffering from addiction. Fortunately, we offer support from Family Services Coordinators who stay in touch with all clients' families to guide them through the principles of addiction. We know how important it is for loved ones to receive support while helping their family members through rehabilitation and treatment, so we enrol both parties in weekly family workshops to provide guided assistance.

MP: What support is there for patients after addiction treatment?

SF: All CCFA clients are enrolled in our lifetime aftercare program that is accessible anywhere in North America.  In-person aftercare is available at our Toronto Outreach Centre, and through alumni events held each Saturday at our Port Hope facility. CCFA aftercare is also accessible through weekly teleconferences to ensure clients can stay connected with CCFA and continue to prioritize their recovery once they leave our care.