What is the Maple Ridge Treatment Centre?

MRTC is a place where men with addiction can gather as a community to work together for personal change and growth and move towards recovery.

What is the Maple Ridge Treatment Centre philosophy of treatment?

Our program is designed to address, in a balanced way, the physical, emotional, social, intellectual, and spiritual needs of each person who enters treatment. We believe that people can adopt new values and change entrenched behavioural patterns in a caring environment that provides support, empowers individuals and fosters trust. Change begins when the values of honesty, responsibility for self, and care and respect for others are practiced.

In bringing about healthy change, MRTC emphasizes both self-esteem and healthy relationships. Clients are encouraged to have family and other significant individuals visit them on the weekends and, with the support of the clinical team, can begin to address some of the relational changes that are needed for healthy living.

What model of treatment is used?

Our experience has been that for the people who have come to MRTC, the group experience has provided exciting challenge for learning and growth to take place. A noted psychologist, Dr. Carl Rogers, states, "The climate for personal growth requires an atmosphere in which feelings can be expressed fully and freely." Group therapy is the most effective means to create this atmosphere. For each group to be effective each individual member must be committed to the idea of change, be open and honest and accept where he is at now. We believe in the process of group therapy. We supplement group with individual counselling, workshops, focus groups, electives, family counselling, nutritional education and recreational programming.

The Maple Ridge Treatment Centre program introduces clients to the Wellness Model of treatment. The Wellness Model is a holistic approach that involves the exploration of multiple facets of a person’s need to create a more balanced life experience. Additionally, clients are introduced to a variety of self-help groups which may be compatible with supporting their ongoing recovery needs.

What is the program like?

The program is approximately five weeks in duration, and each week corresponds to a program phase. During the first week (Phase One) clients are confronted with the power of their addiction, introduced to therapeutic concepts and practices and are given help in clarifying their treatment goals. During the second, third and fourth week (Phase Two) clients are encouraged to make decisions about changing their lives through exploration of individual needs and issues. The fifth week (Phase Three) is about relapse prevention and aftercare, with an emphasis on establishing a system of support following treatment.

What themes will be addressed in treatment?

The following list highlights some of the many topics that may be addressed in your treatment.

• chemical dependency / the addiction cycle
• feelings, assertiveness and self-esteem
• family dynamics and creating healthy relationships
• anger
• grief and loss
• sexuality and sexual abuse
• healing and spirituality
• relapse prevention
• stress management
• drug education
• freedom of choice and personal responsibilityWill I have any free time?

Your program is structured and occupies a major portion of each day. There are, however, daily periods of free time where you are encouraged to take walks and shop or enjoy leisure activities. Mealtimes are considered program time, so you are expected to eat three meals each day at MRTC to help establish healthy eating habits. Snacks are also available.

What is the policy regarding prescription and over the counter drugs?

All prescription and non-prescription medications must be given to staff immediately upon arrival at the Centre. As part of your referral package your doctor will have supplied MRTC with a written prescription for any current medications that you will require during your stay. This order should include any regular over the counter medications you may be taking. Upon your arrival we will order them from our pharmacy. Clients will be responsible covering the cost for any of their medications. You will receive an official Pharmacare receipt that you may use to send to a third party insurer for reimbursement. MRTC will not incur any cost associated with participant medications. Due to licensing MRTC can not administer medications that clients have brought with them; we must order a new supply.

Prescription and non-prescription drugs will be reviewed on the day of admission. It is the policy of Maple Ridge Treatment Centre to have clients avoid the use of chemicals which may interfere with their ability to participate actively in the program, or those that are mood altering. We do recognize that for some individuals certain types of drugs may be necessary for their physical or mental health. In such cases MRTC staff will discuss the use of any drugs with you.

How much does treatment cost?

The Ministry for Children and Families does provide core funding to MRTC, however, each client is charged a treatment fee. Please call the centre to inquire about treatment fees.
Funding must be in place through one of the following prior to admission:

• Self-payment
• Employer
• Ministry of Human Resources
• Alcohol & Drug Services

Is there a refund if I leave treatment?

Upon admission to the program, full payment is required. In the event that you decide or are required to leave the program prior to completion, regardless of the reason, you will not be refunded any portion of your payment.

Can I bring my car?

You are strongly encouraged not to bring a vehicle to MRTC. There is no client parking available, and MRTC takes no responsibility for the security or use of automobiles while you are in the treatment program.

Do I have to know how to read and write?

No, but it is helpful because there is some reading and writing required. Some of our clients in the past could not read or write but found by asking others for help and by using the audio tapes available they were able to participate fully in the program.

Can I come if I have a physical disability?

Yes, the facility is fully wheelchair accessible and effort is made to assist all clients with physical disabilities.

Do I need spending money?

You will need your own money for doing laundry, using the pay phone, accessing the local recreation facilities and purchasing such items as toiletries, snacks, or cigarettes. Upon admission, you will be provided a room key. A $5.00 fee will be assessed for key replacements.
Laundry Tokens - $1.00 ea (each machine operates on one token)
Leisure Centre Passes - $2.50 ea (2 complimentary passes are provided weekly)
Pay Phones - $.25 (calling cards are recommended for long distance calls)

What recreational facilities are available?

Recreation is important to a healthy lifestyle. The program includes periods of afternoon and weekend recreation each week. During these times you may visit the Leisure Centre, engage in some hobby or craft activity, or fish in the river (you will need to bring your own equipment / license). In addition, if you rise early, you can access the Leisure Centre between 6:00 am and 8:00 am.

Can I leave the program before the final day?

No, it is expected that you will finish the program on the last day and participate in the closing ceremonies. If an emergency should arise while you are in treatment, you may consult the staff to make appropriate arrangements. If you choose to leave prior to finishing the program, this will be reflected on your discharge summary.

Can I make phone calls or send letters?

Yes, pay phones are provided for your use. You are, however, encouraged not to make or receive any phone calls, other than in the case of emergency, during the first week of the program. Mail can be sent from our reception desk at any time during your stay. Stamps can also be purchased from our facility.

Do I need to attend every day?

Yes, you are expected to participate in the full curriculum offered at MRTC with the exception of illness or an emergency.

What personal items should I bring?

Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for exercising, a swimsuit (for those who wish to use the public pool during free time) toiletries including towels, usual indoor/outdoor clothing that is comfortable and in good taste. Clothing that advertises alcohol and or drugs, sexist, racist or other prejudicial material are inappropriate. You are also advised to bring an alarm clock, writing paper, pens, free-time activities and weather appropriate outdoor wear (i.e. Umbrella, warm coat, hat, etc.). Please do not bring a clock radio, stereo, cell phone, pager or laptop. Walkmans and Discmans are permitted.

Here is a map that will help you locate the Maple Ridge Treatment Centre.