Towards Effective Aftercare; Addictions Treatment in First Nations Communities

This Masters degree thesis looks at the family oriented, holistic approach used by a residential treatment centre for alcohol and other drug addictions for Canadian First Nations in central British Columbia. Aftercare following treatment is sadly lacking in so many of the communities treatment clients return to. Treatment centre staff and community workers share the belief that more can be done to help clients change their lives. The research was designed and carried out by and for the First Nations peoples in an effort to share experience and gather wisdom to find creative ways to meet the needs of the returning treatment clients and particularly the needs of community workers earnestly trying to lend their assistance. Communities are often remote, isolated, lack resources and are struggling to overcome enormous obstacles. Recommendations for significant changes are made that will see greater focus on aftercare as part of the continuum of care along the journey of recovery.