When you put energy into your recovery, recovery becomes stronger than addiction.

Charlford House offers a program for women, based on the philosophy of the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. Within the context of a therapeutic community, our residents are able to explore their sense of self-worth and identity through group and individual counselling. The professional support of our trained staff, along with the support of other women in similar circumstances, creates a unique balance of love and structure that allows each woman to take on the challenge of personal change. 

The program is modeled after a bio-psycho-social approach that deals with all aspects of a client's life including parenting. Our team provides case management and linking services in a collaborative way to assist those who are mothers to rebuild their roles as capable parents. We encourage mothers to invite their children for Saturday night sleepovers whenever possible. The therapeutic value of caring for her child enhances a mother's sense of self-worth and personal responsibility, and promotes a positive maternal relationship.

Once clients have become stabilized, we assist them in accessing outpatient counsellors, doctors, parenting and career exploration programs. We encourage our residents to attend outside programs to ease their transition back into the community.

Our alumni are important to Charlford House as volunteers and are welcome to attend group sessions, come for a visit, or talk to a counsellor whenever they need to. While in residence, many women form positive, lasting relationships. After our “alumni” have been discharged, they are invited to return to the house as role models and friends to women who are new in the program.