It is accepted knowledge that addiction is a family disease. This means people have become ill with this disease while in a family unit and every person in the family is somehow affected by the disease. Once the addicted person reaches out for help, it is important for those close to the individual to participate in the treatment process. The goal of family counseling is to break the cycle of unhealthy interactions within the family. This in turn teaches the younger members of that family how to solve problems effectively and how to get their needs met, thus serving as a protective factor against drug use in future generations.

SMC family programs recognize the concept of "family system" in offering help to those we serve. The "family system" model proposes that the family consists of individuals whose behavior impacts others in the system and the system as a whole. Better healing occurs if as many people as possible from the system work together to form a healthier group. It is quite common to find that relationships in recovery in which communication is difficult or non-existent improve once the substance is gone. All too often, however, relationship stress leads to relapse for the recovering person.

The family programs focus off of blame and onto healing. We assist families in moving toward healthier family relationships by first understanding the impact of learning experiences in the family of origin. We assess the functional "climate" of the current family unit and promote skill building that enhances communication, builds problem-solving behaviors, and strengthens trust and commitment. Families in treatment work with other families to support, encourage, and share experiences in an air of acceptance.

Family groups are provided at different locations and times. Attendance is mandatory for family members or significant others in order to visit the client in treatment.

There is a fee of $3.00 per group meeting charged to significant others, friends, family members or other interested parties. Contact for Family Services:
Marge Lucas 386-947-1360 or mlucas@stewartmarchman.org