Kick-starting rehab at Barrie’s RVH

Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre and Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment program of Simcoe County have opened a new supportive care program.

A safe place to stay and start recovery while awaiting admission to RVH’s live-in addiction treatment program is opening its doors.

Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH), with the Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment (HART) program of Simcoe County, has opened a new supportive pre-treatment program to provide help before rehabilitation even begins.

In a statement released Friday, Brandon Lewicki, operations director of RVH’s Mental Health and Addictions Program said, “The program fills a critical gap between withdrawal management and treatment, helping individuals remain connected to care during a vulnerable stage of recovery.”

“The program offers 11 supportive pre-treatment beds for people receiving care through the county’s HART program, who are preparing to enter RVH’s live-in addiction treatment program,” Lewicki said.

Guests will have access to personal counselling, psycho-educational groups, and life-skills training, supported by two addiction counsellors on-site 24 hours a day.

The service is closely integrated with RVH’s withdrawal management services.

Before entering the program, clients will complete a minimum 24-hour stabilization period for a seamless transition between services and to ensure they are ready for the next stage of care.

“For many individuals, the period between withdrawal management and treatment can be one of the most crucial stages of recovery,” said Lewicki.

“This program helps fill that gap by providing stability, structure and ongoing support while individuals prepare for the next stage of treatment. By working closely with our community partners, we’re reducing barriers to care and helping more people access the support they need when they need it most,” he said.

The pre-treatment program is one component of the county’s HART model that brings together health and social services to support people with complex needs, including those experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

“County Council is committed to supporting initiatives, like the HART of Simcoe County, that strengthen access to care and improve outcomes for residents across the region,” said Basil Clarke, Warden of the County of Simcoe.

“Through strong partnerships, we are connecting people to addiction treatment, mental health supports, primary care, housing and other community services that help support long-term recovery and stability.”