St. Michael’s Homes

St. Michael’s Homes Review

St. Michael’s Homes is a non-profit treatment organization in Toronto, Ontario. It aims to assist men struggling with alcohol and substance use disorders. Founded in 1973, St. Michael’s offers a continuum of care that includes residential programming and aftercare. It’s worth mentioning, the facility provides an integrative approach to treatment that includes evidence-based, holistic and 12-step methods. Medication management is not available.

Accommodations and Food

St. Michael’s provides accommodations for up to 16 residents. They reside in a lovely, three-story brick home on a tree-lined residential street in the upscale Dufferin Grove neighborhood of Toronto. The house is within walking distance of a beautiful park. Because of the small number of residents, program participants enjoy the stability and support of a tight-knit peer community as well as the privacy needed to focus on recovery.

The home offers a spacious floor plan, large kitchen, a comfortable common area for socializing as well as shared bedrooms with fresh linens. The staff encourage residents to take part in the daily upkeep on the home. St. Michael’s offers a healthy and tasty menu with plenty of alternative options for individuals with dietary restrictions and allergies.

Treatment and Staff

St. Michael’s seeks to stop the cycle of addiction by discovering and healing the underlying cause, rather than simply treating symptoms. To this end, clients undergo a comprehensive intake assessment that includes physical and psychological exams as well as a complete account of substance use. From there, the team determines the best possible care plan tailored to meet the needs and goals of the individual. With a focus on client goals, individuals immediately begin working with case managers to develop a discharge plan. As the facility does not offer detox, clients must be sober upon admission. The residential program lasts 30 days.

The facility employs a client-centered model that empowers as well as treats. The integrative curriculum includes a range of therapeutic methods including evidence-based therapies, holistic practices, psychoeducation, case management, skills training and 12-step recovery. Clients engage in individual and group therapy sessions rooted in CBT. Psychoeducation programming focuses on relevant topics such as addiction, self-esteem, communication and relapse prevention. The facility also offers mindfulness meditation and opportunities for experiential learning. In addition, residents are encouraged to participate in 12-step meetings.

St. Michael’s employs a team of case managers, aftercare specialists and addiction counselors. With no physician on staff, the facility cannot provide medication management, but can make recommendations and referrals to outside partners.

Extras

St. Michael’s offers an extended program for clients that have completed the residential curriculum and require continued support. The length of care depends on the person but typically lasts between 30 and 60 days.

In Summary

St. Michael’s Homes is a non-profit organization that has been helping men with substance use issues for over 45 years. A credit to the Toronto community, the facility provides an integrative curriculum that includes a range of therapeutic methods as well as an extended program and aftercare. For anyone seeking a renowned organization, a compassionate team and a life-changing treatment experience, St. Michael’s Homes is an excellent resource.