Residential Rehabilitation

AADS - Detoxification-Residential Rehabilitation Partnership

In June 2006, AADS entered into a formal partnership with Cyrenian House, Palmerston Association and the Drug and Alcohol Office (DAO) to provide a dedicated pathway for Aboriginal people from AOD counselling and support, through to detoxification and Residential Rehabilitation treatment. The partnership involved the redirecting of funds used to run the ‘Eveline Sobering Up Shelter’, and the subsequent purchasing of 6 beds at the Cyrenian House Rehabilitation facility (commenced 1st July 2006 costing $125,000) and 6 beds at Palmerston Farm Rehabilitation facility (commenced 1st July 2007 costing $125,000). The 6 beds at each facility are for priority use by Aboriginal clients. AADS has an advisory role to the partners on issues regarding cultural security at their Rehabilitation facilities.  

How the Partnership works for Aboriginal clients

Aboriginal clients wanting to go to Residential Rehabilitation can either call and make an appointment or drop in to AADS. Clients are then matched up with a counsellor who will work with them over a period of time to support them using a holistic approach which involves yarning and may also include other therapies like art, music, flower essences or kinesiology.

When clients have decided which Rehabilitation facility would best suit their needs, their AADS counsellors will support them going to information sessions and setting up assessments. While clients are waiting to be admitted to Rehabilitation, their AADS counsellor will continue to work with them, supporting and preparing them to be in the Rehabilitation facility. Preparing clients includes teaching anger management strategies and how to be comfortable and talk up in groups. AADS also works closely with the Rehabilitation facility to help clients organise entry requirements such as children, rent, medical needs, bills and/or legalities.

When clients are admitted to Rehabilitation, AADS counsellors are able to stay in regular contact through telephone calls and visits, to continue to provide clients with strong Aboriginal support. Following completion of the program, clients are encouraged to set up follow up sessions at AADS, so counsellors can continue to support them on their healing journey.

Aboriginal people coming from outside the metro area wanting to go to Rehabilitation are encouraged to make contact with AADS, so that while they are in Perth they have access to Aboriginal people for extra support.