The Matrix rehab programme has been assisting many families who have loved ones suffering from addictions since its inception in 2008.
On Wednesday 25 May, the City’s Matrix Programme held its quarterly graduation ceremony at Southfield Library where 48 people received certificates for completing the Early Recovery programme and 14 others the Relapse Prevention treatment.
Ward 65 councillor Donovan Nelson says the programme alleviates the financial burden of expensive rehab treatments.
“Drug usage in areas like Parkwood and Lotus River are high and it is why programmes like the Matrix programme will never not have clients. We need to tap into these programmes and ensure that they alleviate the heavy burden of families that cannot support expensive treatments.”
The programme that first started at the Tafelsig substance abuse treatment site has facilities in various communities including Khayelitsha, Delft South, Milnerton, Parkwood and Manenberg.
The programme follows an effective treatment approach designed by the Matrix Institute in California, United States of Amarica (USA). It involves intensive outpatient treatment for drugs and alcohol by using a combination of 12-step meetings, counselling, learning and support groups.
“A positive, collaborative and mutually respectful relationship between the patient and therapist is essential. The programme is for drug and alcohol addiction.
“After an initial assessment, your social services professional (social worker, psychologist or psychiatrist) will help you find treatment for a friend or family member,” said Nelson.
In order to be accepted into the programme government treatment centres require a referral from a social worker, psychologist or psychiatrist.
“You can however take someone directly to a City clinic or any community-based outpatient treatment service such as the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence. After completing the programme participants continue their journey with organisations like U-turn who has various other projects that lead the participants into working opportunities.”
He added that the programme has made a major impact on families.
“The programme has a few participants that stay in Parkwood. Seeing them become positive role models and sharing their story with young people is life changing.
We are also planning live sessions where these participants will be sharing their stories with the communities and schools. This will have a huge impact on the community’s fight against substance abuse.
