Adam Moilliet
Substance misuse and addiction related problems are often complex social issues that can cause severe health risks and breakdown in relationships and occupation.
No one sets out to choose a life of addictions or substance abuse problems. Life circumstances can cause all kinds of distress and challenges in coping with physical and mental health related issues within our families, our friends and our neighbours.
Many people’s lives have been touched by substance abuse in some way. Appropriate caring interventions are important in the journey of a person’s recovery.
In addition to inpatient medical care, community substance use counselling can be an effective way to assist those seeking a change in a person’s substance use management and recovery.
Substance Use Counselling Services is provided locally in the communities of Clearwater and Barriere by Yellowhead Community Services. Services are provided to adults including services to youth experiencing problems with drug and alcohol.
We work collaboratively with other professionals including physicians and other counsellors and provide information and referrals to appropriate services outside the community.
Yellowhead Community Services provide the following local substance use services, but not limited to:
• Community individual counselling and support to families affected by substance abuse to address physical/psychological/social problems as a result of alcohol and/or drug use
• Consultation and urgent response to medical sites
• Assessments and referral to residential treatment and detox programs
• Community education through workshops, groups and seminars
• Facilitate the establishment of support groups
These services are free, and you can access them through calling our Barriere or Clearwater offices and requesting an appointment with one of our counsellors - no referral is necessary. Services are funded through Interior Health Authority and are available to residents from McLure to Blue River.
The numbers to call are Clearwater: 250 674-2600; and Barriere: 250 672-9773.
For services focussed on substance detoxification and withdrawal management, individuals can refer directly to the Phoenix Centre in Kamloops: 250-374-4634 or 1-877-318-1177.
You can also connect to Detox Services by texting 250-320-0341.