Who We Are

Mission Statement:

In keeping with St. Joseph's Care Group and its Addiction Services, the Sister Margaret Smith Centre - Adult Services - is a client centered, regional resource which provides a variety of program services to adults experiencing substance abuse and/or problem gambling. The continuum of care ranges from educational/awareness sessions, outpatient treatment groups, solution-focused brief counselling , to the more intensive three week substance abuse residential/day treatment program. Follow up and Continuing Care are an integral part of our program planning. More recently, the problem gambling component has been developed and figures prominently. The Smith Centre has provided many years of service and has been an essential part of this community's history.

Profile:

The Smith Centre and its multidisciplinary staff promote a holistic treatment approach, including encouragement of clients to introduce themselves to the principles of a Twelve Step recovery program. In particular, this holistic approach includes and specializes in cognitive-behavioural techniques. Our programming, at the outset, offers insight for the client into his/her behaviour, then explores alternative beliefs and behaviours, culminating in an evaluation of these new practices, i.e. relapse prevention. Interspersing the Centre's programs are individual and group stress management sessions.

Our Team

The residential program has a 25-bed capacity on two floors: one for women, and the other for men. The services include 24-hour staffing, lounge facilities, and private rooms. For both residential and outpatient programs, sensitivity to women's issues, First Nations' concerns, clients with HIV, clients on methadone management, and matters related to seniors have a high priority in staff training and program development.

The Sister Margaret Smith Centre is part of a flexible community network of social service agencies capable of responding to many different clients' needs. Our referrals originate from and go out to agencies offering mental health, concurrent disorder, family, medical, and other human services (e.g. literacy, employability). As well, we work closely with 'half-way' housing providers. Our services are also available to those outside of our regional base.