We asked Access Center Director Sherry Coomer a few questions about the culture she is working to create.

Some people would just say this is a call center. Why do we call it an access center?

We are more than a call center. My team isn’t just here to try to get you into the doors of our treatment facility. We are here to guide you through the process of finding help. Regardless of whether that help comes from one of our treatment programs or another organization that we refer to, we want to give you access to all of the tools that will help you succeed.

People can often be apprehensive or nervous about taking such a big step and seeking help. How does your team ease their fears?

First, our team understands the disease of addiction. We know the barriers that have likely contributed to them not seeking treatment. So, we work hard to be kind, compassionate, and understanding as we navigate them through the intake process.

Why is your team so passionate about their efforts?

We never want to forget that these are real people, with families and loved ones that desperately want to see them get better.

We are excited to expand our Access Center so that we have even more voices of comfort available when you take that brave first step. If you are suffering from addiction, we are here. Call us, we can help: 1-800-545-9031.

Houston, we STILL have a problem.

Our patients have a potentially fatal illness: addiction. At any given time, there are over 22 million people in the United States who have a substance use problem. We must remain open to help those suffering from this deadly disease. We want to take this opportunity to remind everyone of the steps we are taking during this time of national illness. 

Stepworks COVID-19 FAQ: 

Are we accepting new patients?

Yes. While we are taking extra precautions and implementing safeguards during this time, Stepworks remains committed to being a place of hope for those with substance use disorders. All of our facilities remain open and are accepting new patients.

What precautions are we taking?

We are screening all incoming admissions for the following: recent travel to high-risk areas, known exposure to the virus and the presence of cold-like symptoms, especially in the elderly. We will decline any admission who has, in our opinion, a higher than normal risk of having the disease.

Within our facilities, we continue to provide information about COVID-19 to all staff and patients. Throughout the day our Stepworks’ staff sanitize surfaces and make hand sanitizer available to our patients under staff supervision. Masks are provided to any patient or employee who has signs and symptoms of respiratory illness. And finally, if a patient develops a respiratory illness, at their request, they may be given the opportunity to seek evaluation at the local emergency room at their own expense.

Are we continuing with visitation?

In order to keep safety a top priority, we have suspended all visitation for our patients at this time. In place of visitation, patients will be allowed to sign up for extended phone time with their family members. Additionally, Skype or Facetime sessions will be scheduled to allow for our patients and their families to connect. 

One of the greatest challenges facing patients suffering from addiction is the tendency to self-isolate. Many addicts become accustomed to being alone and distancing themselves from those that love and care about them. The habit of isolation and the fear of trusting and depending on others is a huge obstacle patients must overcome during their time in treatment. 

At Stepworks our therapists use group therapy as a way to reverse those deeply rooted habits of isolation. We asked Stepworks of London’s therapist Chris Mills about both the challenges and successes of group therapy. 

“Our clients are coming from a place in their life where they have been isolated by the disease of addiction for so long. We have to work to help them see the benefit of being a part of our group. When we do, they realize they are loved and cared about.”

– Chris Mills, Stepworks Therapist

In group therapy at Stepworks, patients learn that building a community of support and accountability is vital to their success in recovery. So, how does Stepworks build this type of environment for our patients? We have a few tools in our recovery toolbox that we use. These tools allow group therapy to be an experience that will aid clients in achieving their recovery goals.

Group Therapy Tools and Tips: 

Provide Accountability: 

Even from the start of each group session there is a level of accountability for patients. They are expected to arrive on time, be prepared, and contribute to the activity or discussion for the day. This allows patients to form introductory time-management skills and understand that other people are relying on them to commit time and energy to the group. 

Create A Safe Place: 

It is clearly understood in our group therapy time that what is said in the group room stays in the group room. Our patients who may struggle with trust and vulnerability learn to depend on this time as a safe place to express their feelings and emotions. This safe place helps patients to develop a sense of camaraderie and belonging. 

Address Challenges: 

A very important element of group therapy sessions is the valuable statement, “Me too.” When patients hear that their peers are struggling with similar obstacles such as cravings, anger, resentment, or feelings of defeat, it helps them to see they are not alone in this journey. Feeling understood by their peers helps them to process their feelings and motivates them to overcome the challenges they are experiencing. 

Celebrate Success:

Seeing others succeed is one of the greatest motivators and positive impacts of group therapy. Watching the recovery journey of their fellow group members helps patients to believe, “If they can succeed, so can I.” The successful actions of a patient that are celebrated and often repeated and the long-lasting effects of positive feedback helps patients begin to understand the impact of the positive choices they make.

At Stepworks we work hard to welcome clients and show them that they don’t have to be alone anymore. Are you looking for a recovery community that can help you or your loved one? Call our Access Center to learn more about our program and the admission process at 1-800-545-9031.