There are a range of services for adults and families with drug or alcohol related problems. Most adult programs operate from Eleanor St, Footscray.
Withdrawal Options for Adults
If you have a drug or alcohol problem it can be hard to work out what is the best way forward. The counsellors, nurses and outreach workers can help you decide what treatment options might be best for you. Some people try giving up drugs in their own environment at home with the support Non-Residential Withdrawal Team. Others prefer to go into the Community Residential Withdrawal Unit where medical staff can help you through the difficult times. Some people have had problems with the law, or been through the courts, and they have been ordered to do something about their drug or alcohol problem. We can work with you through all of these scenarios and help you decide what is best for you right now. Contact Central Intake and Assessment on 1800 700 514 to request these options.
Pharmacotherapy Options
'Pharmacotherapies' is the term used to describe the use of medication to assist in the treatment of opiate addiction. The most commonly prescribed medications are methadone, Suboxone® and buprenorphine. These medications are usually prescribed by general practitioners who have been specially trained, and they are available through some community pharmacists. These medications are also used in residential withdrawal programs as they are now recognised as the safest medications to use.
The Specialist Pharmacotherapy Program may be required when there are associated complex medical, psychiatric or psychological problems. This program offers extra support through counselling and other social supports that may not be accessible in the general practice environment. To take part in the Specialist Pharmacotherapy Program you must be referred by your current GP or pharmacotherapy prescriber.
Counselling Options
Counselling services are available through Central Intake and Assessment on 1800 700 514 to help you through your difficulties related to you drug and alcohol use. It can be hard making lifestyle changes alone and our counsellors can work with you at whatever stage you are on the continuum of change. They can see you before you enter a withdrawal program, or can work with you during, or after you finish your withdrawal program. You can see a counsellor alone, or with your family or partner, or you could come to a support group with other people who may be going through the same problems as yourself.
Drug Health Services also has a Psychologist who is able to Medicare Bulk Bill Counselling services. Please obtain a mental health care plan from your GP to access this service.
Special options for women
Women with drug and alcohol problems can have special needs, and women with small children can find it very difficult to access the support they need to change their situation. The Women's Rehabilitation Program provides a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment to assist women to explore, understand and make changes to a lifestyle of problematic or harmful substance use. The program is a six week residential or day program with participants having contact with the staff over six days per week for relapse prevention and life skills. The program has the capacity to provide care for small children under school age while their mother attends the sessions. Contact Women's Rehabilitation program on 9689 5533.
Contact Us
Drug Health Services
Phone: 8345 6682
Women's Rehabilitation Program
Phone: 9689 5533.
