Strength Program

The Strength Program offers a range of programming (residential and day treatment) and supports for youth 15-24 years of age who require more intensive support for substance misuse and mental health issues. 

The program is offered for 16 weeks and includes: 

• counselling/therapy
• one-on-one and group treatment
• family and parental support
• life skills development
• educational curriculum
• recreational activities and
• substance use, addiction and problem gambling support.

Throughout the program, participants will learn and develop skills in the following areas:

• relapse prevention;
• self esteem;
• making healthy choices;
• developing trust in others and yourself;
• goal setting;
• healthy relationships;
• managing cravings; and
• coping with anger, depression and other emotions.

After completing the program, follow-up aftercare is provided for up to 24 weeks, along with family support for as long as needed. 

Location

The Strength program is located within a dedicated area of the Youth Recovery Centre in Summerside. The program site includes: 

• twelve residential beds with 24/7 care
• classrooms for programming
• common space with entertainment amenities
• office space for staff and
• access to a shared gymnasium

Cost

There is no registration cost or fee.

Eligibility requirements

You must be between the age of 15 and 24 years and referred by one of the following: 

• Canadian Mental health Association staff
• Health PEI addiction counsellors
• Inpatient and outpatient withdrawal management registered nurse
• ER crisis response team
• Student well-being team
• Community social worker
• PEI Department of Justice and Public Safety staff

Care providers can submit referrals by:

1. Completing the Strength Program Referral form.
2. Providing the client with a copy of the Strength Handbook and reviewing the daily schedule (p. 5) and the handbook highlights (p. 12).
3. Asking their patient/client to complete the Strength Pre-Assessment Questionnaire and the Treatment Entry Questionnaire.
4. Faxing both to 902-432-2619.  Please do not email. 

For more information

Contact a Community Addiction or Community Mental Health office in your area.