By: LIZA T. SINGIAN RN
Former VP Programs & Marketing, SELF
December 2006
In 1993, when I first trained in the TC process, SELF was firm in implementing this policy of being a drug free community. This meant that treatment success was to be achieved not only without illegal drugs but also without administering any prescription drugs or psychiatric medication. We were fast to discharge any prospect whose profile presented any mental illness or other disorders. We were reluctant to admit clients who manifested any form of psychosis or personality disorder, fearful of disrupting the recovery process of the general drug dependent population. I was taught that residents under medication would not be able to internalize the TC process and arrive at the insights required to achieve recovery.
Well, all of this has changed. Many respected psychiatrists who address addiction issues now say that clients who need medication to cope with psychiatric or personality disorders will also benefit a lot from enrolment in a TC program, especially for the acquisition of life skills. They also note that the number of clients diagnosed with disorders other than their substance dependency is fast growing. Thus, more and more TC practitioners, SELF included, have modified their views regarding the maintenance of a strictly drug free community.
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