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HELPING INDIVIDUALS IN UTAH 
RECOVER FROM ADDICTION

MISSION STATEMENT

To be the instrument of change for those suffering from substance use/mental health disorders, and to help them achieve healthy, meaningful lives.

Our treatment philosophy is built upon principles from Irvin Yalom’s “The Theory and Practice of Group Psychotherapy.” Our therapeutic community (TC) model stands out from other TC’s in several ways. We carefully construct a group environment that serves as a microcosm of clients’ lives. We develop and shape group dynamics that draw out unresolved emotional issues and behavioral patterns that have contributed to a client’s addiction. We address each through a deliberate combination of interventions that are specifically tailored to each client and his/her treatment goals.

The continual use of the group as an experiential backdrop for these interventions is a key feature separating our program from others. One of the most crucial requirements for recovery is keen self-awareness. The best tool to develop self-awareness is the mirror held up by the feedback of a well-guided group. Clients overcome relational barriers, practice emotional regulation and healthy coping skills, and discover ways to have positive interactions with the world and a gentler relationship with themselves. Through creative assignments and group experiences, clients gain new insights, merged with the truths they’ve always known about themselves. They practice vital skills to maintain recovery within real-life contexts and challenges. All while enveloped in the very unique support system that evolves from this very unique group experience!

Many clients who’ve had previous failed treatment attempts find success following participation in this life-altering group process. Clients develop a strong sense of trust in the group, and often life-long bonds with other members. They gain self-worth through their value to the group. They recognize that their contributions matter; that THEY matter. Clients become willing to do anything necessary to protect the group, even make the sad decision to eliminate a member who threatens it. This commitment gradually begins to transcend the group experience, becoming a commitment to themselves and their own recovery. When clients leave treatment carrying this strong dedication to recovery, along with the tools to recreate this ‘group’ in their support network, they have an excellent chance to succeed in maintaining sobriety long-term. They will protect their own recovery and that of the new group just as fiercely.

GOALS

  1. To provide quality treatment services for substance abuse and co-occurring mental health disorders, within a well-designed therapeutic community, where clients are safe and supported in doing the challenging inner work of recovery.
  2. Help each client to identify and address the underlying emotional issues and behavioral patterns that contribute to addiction, and to develop an individualized plan for long-term sobriety and wellness.
  3. To welcome each client into a lifelong network of support, comprised of alumni and members of the recovery community, who join to participate in 12-step meetings, recreational therapy activities/trips, and service work, and to help one another along the path of sobriety.
  4. To be a positive asset within the Salt Lake community by providing services, resources, and education; and by helping to decrease the enormous societal costs of untreated substance use/mental health disorders.
  5. To demonstrate effectiveness of treatment by measuring outcomes, and by ensuring that clients return to their lives with the tools to maintain sobriety and achieve their full potential: to be loving partners/parents/family members, productive citizens, and to make their own personal contributions to the world.

ACCOMMODATIONS

We believe it is important to create a peaceful atmosphere and comfortable home for clients to reside in while doing this life-changing work. Environment plays a key role in the healing process. Many clients have not practiced self-care for a long time – many never learned how to do so to begin with. This reinforces negative beliefs about themselves and their inherent value. The 7th street program offers an environment that supports development of self-worth and the motivation to build a better life.

7th Street is the perfect blend of stately, historic mansion and cozy, homey atmosphere. It boasts all the beloved features of an upscale home of this era, such as high ceilings, decorative moldings, and a large porch with stately columns. Yet is is thoroughly modern as well. Spaces are provided both for group interaction and quiet introspection. Common areas include a living/group room with big-screen TV, and a large kitchen with industrial-grade stainless appliances, island and wrap-around counters; open to the dining area with room for family-style meals. All meals are prepared by our chef, with emphasis on nutrition to promote physical wellness. Dietary needs can be accommodated upon request.  

The bedrooms are spacious and comfortable, with ample room for each client to spread out and personalize his/her own space. The women’s (top two levels) and men’s (lower level) dorm areas are separated by the main floor, offering additional privacy and comfort. Each dorm area has two bathrooms, with the women’s dorm having an additional shower and vanity area. Each dorm has its own advantages; the male bathrooms were recently renovated, while the top level of the house has a huge terrace for sunning or relaxing with a good book.

The building is situated on over a half acre of lovely grounds, providing a sense of privacy and quiet, despite our central location. The grounds offer plenty of space for a game of volleyball or tossing a football around, as well as half-court basketball and an outdoor fire-pit. We hope to use the warmer months to dig into the large garden space and plant some veggies. Many different areas exist around the property from which to enjoy the healing benefits of nature.

LIFETIME SUPPORT NETWORK

Martin Buber, a Jewish mystical theologian, wrote in his book titled I-Thou, that our attention should not be placed on the “I” or the “Thou,” but on the hyphen or space, between the two words. This is the “sacred between.” Buber believed that “All life is meeting.”

Our program stands out from others due to the strong support network it provides for clients. Social support is a crucial factor for success at all stages of recovery: during the emotional work of treatment, step-down and transition phases, and the challenging moments of managing recovery for years to come. 7th Street maintains a large network of support through alumni and members of the recovery community. We utilize the 12-step program in this capacity, as research shows it is the most effective method for sustaining long-term recovery.

Some clients have aversions to participating in a 12-step program, or have had negative experiences in the past. If clients aren’t interested in becoming “Big Book thumpers” or working a staunch 12-step program following treatment, it’s ok. But we encourage them to recognize that the best way to access a large group of recovering individuals is to attend some 12-step meetings and/or events. Our lives depend on keeping a handful of close, sober friends. Support from family, church, etc is wonderful, but we also need support from those who’ve walked in our shoes and can guide us through the rough times. The 12-step program also offers many different ways to be of service to other recovering individuals. Being of service to others helps sustain recovery as it helps clients to get involved, improves mood, and allows them positively contribute to, and be of value to their community.

Clients will attend daily AA meetings at 7th Street, in addition to outside meetings. In good weather, we will hold campfire meetings on our property. Residents will have regular opportunities to participate in local events hosted by 12-step programs, including picnics, conferences and camping trips.