Compassion: Where It All Begins
Every case manager at First Step Recovery starts with compassion. That's where it begins. The trust between us and the clients starts with conveying that we truly care for them as human beings. We strive to cultivate that trusting relationship throughout treatment, so clients understand we are here to support them every step of the way.
Whether it’s a client’s first time in treatment or whether they experienced a relapse and are willing to try again, we want to make engaging in the recovery process as comfortable as possible. From the beginning of treatment, our case managers help to create a welcoming experience with an empathetic, compassionate approach to client care. As clients progress through treatment, we help them address and navigate outside stressors and challenges (housing, legal, etc.) so they can concentrate 100% on recovery.
Building Recovery Capital
Case managers are vital for helping clients build “recovery capital.” Simply put, “recovery capital” refers to the total/amount of recovery resources available to help a client achieve lasting recovery. These resources can include housing, employment, education, access to medical care, providing skills and services to improve mental health, improving financial literacy, relapse prevention planning, etc.
For example, we help ensure that the client’s medical and nutritional needs are met. If a person is struggling with depression, anxiety or other mental health concerns, we get them an appointment with a therapist and/or psychiatrist. If a client needs help with transportation, we can work with them on that. If there are legal issues, we communicate with the courts and probation officers to help provide updates on the client’s progress and advocate on their behalf. If a client needs sober housing, we have relationships with numerous sober houses in the area.
Personal and Professional Experience in Recovery
I'm blessed to have 27 years of recovery. I've continuously worked a program. I have a wonderful support group. I've had the opportunity to speak at different places. So, I’m accustomed to being involved with the new person in recovery. Though I’m always careful to maintain professional boundaries with clients, I also always want to convey that I understand where they are and what they’re going through and that I’m here to support them.
I also understand that treatment isn’t always a “one and done” situation. It can take more than one time in treatment before a person is truly ready to commit to a life in recovery. I want my clients to know that I’m here for them—without judgment—from the moment they walk through our doors.
What Sets First Step Recovery Apart?
At First Step Recovery, we believe we’re all in this together and we take recovery very seriously. The level of professionalism and genuine concern at First Step sets us apart from other treatment facilities. We understand that it’s a matter of life and death. Many of us on the treatment team have “walked the walk” ourselves and this is evident through the empathy and hope we provide our clients. We want clients to know that, when they walk out those doors if something does happen, we will welcome them back. And, if they walk out those doors and they stay strong in their recovery, we want them to come back and maybe share their success with our clients still struggling with addiction.
