Phase 2: Awareness

Goal – To increase insight and awareness about self and the nature of alcohol and drug misuse

This phase of VHYTC’s Healing and Recovery model continues throughout the course of the program phases.  Participants are provided modular learning regarding a variety of topics pertinent to substance abuse Healing and Recovery.  This critical phase is the Participant’s reaction to ‘Awakening” and dealing with the stages of denial and isolation, anger, depression and acceptance.

This phase concentrates on self-discovery.  This phase involves looking at the Participants self from their inner to external issues that prevent their ability to maintain wellness.  It is about learning to understand feelings and work with these to balance “wholeness”.  This may include dealing with painful traumatic situations and dealing with the grieving period and process.  It also involves releasing emotions and getting in contact with them.

This phase includes activities [Modular Learning, Movies, and Other Activities]

• Academic learning [Individual and or Group Work]
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder [PTSD] [Modular Learning]
• Grief and Loss “The Lion King” [Movie and Modular Learning]
• Body Mapping and Imaging [Modular Learning]
• Conflict Resolution [Modular Learning]
• Communication [Modular Learning]
• Nutrition [Eating Disorders] [Modular Learning]
• Recap/Review of Phases 1 and 2 – Preparation for Phase 3 and 4 [Modular Learning]
• Physical Recreation Activities [Internal or External]
• Cultural Activities [Internal or External]
• AA Meeting [External]
• NA Meeting [Internal]

Participants learn techniques they can use to intervene on behalf of their own Recovery, and are empowered to be part of their own solutions.  This is done by helping the Participant to identify a topic that is pertinent to their own Recovery, research that topic, and share their findings with the other Participants.

This is a pivotal phase of the Healing and Recovery process.  The phase deals with the entire self-bring empowerment necessary for Healing and Recovery.  Empowerment encompasses communication, self-esteem, control, assertiveness, being proactive, balanced, positive, sharing of self, independence, and persistence.

Possible Outcomes

• Acceptance of past traumatic events or loss
• Dealing with the denial and isolation – recognition that the Participant is not alone in the Healing and Recovery Journey
• There are options and choices for change
• Empowerment – sharing of solutions
• Developing trust and hope
• Developing effective communications skills [listening, talking, and body language]
• Increase self-awareness through self-disclosure
• Ability to resolve personal conflicts
• Reduced shame or guilt – ability to cope [‘to let go’]