Addiction Education

Addiction is a disease that affects both the brain and the person’s behavior. Concrete neuroscientific evidence says that brain and body chemistry change with addiction.

Thus, we deliver addiction education, which provides an understandable review of the chemical impact alcohol and drugs have on the body and mind – such as increased tolerance, cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

We place particular emphasis on the client’s personal understanding of where they are most vulnerable and how to utilize the tools they are given in rehab to prevent relapse. Clients leave our addiction education group with practical knowledge of how this disease expresses itself physiologically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

 

12-Step Program

Twelve-step programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) are support programs that bring together a community of people who share their experiences, insights and difficulties. This helps members of the group achieve sobriety and live substance-free lives.

At The Dunes, our clients have the opportunity to engage with the strong sober community in Eastern Long Island by attending 12-step meetings, which can be such a vital step towards each person’s recovery. Through a 12-step program, anyone can learn to live a happier, healthier life by practicing the principles of each step and developing friendships with others who are also working toward a life of sobriety.

 

Timeline Group

In this comprehensive exercise, clients participate in creating and sharing their key life experiences and achievements with their peers and clinicians. This detailed, in-depth exercise helps to facilitate an effective method of getting to know and understand the client’s experience before coming to The Dunes.

Group dynamics among clients at The Dunes are an important piece of the healing process. The timeline exercise is a wonderful bonding experience for the entire group. By sharing their history with an empathetic group who understands their background, clients find a sense of relief and comfort. Others in the group also benefit by giving support to the person who is presenting.

 

Wrap-up Group

The wrap-up group provides a forum for clients to share and discuss their treatment progress. By sharing with a group that has the same or similar experience, clients see that they are not alone on their journey to recovery. One of the main benefits of our wrap-up group sessions is that it facilitates mutual support among clients of The Dunes

 

Experiential Group Outings

Experiential Group Hiking TripsOur experiential group session are conducted throughout the East End including:

  • Hiking
  • Eco-walks
  • Biking
  • Sailing

Through participation in these activities, The Dunes’ clients develop personal communication and problem-solving skills in new environments, which prepare them for life outside of rehab. Clients also begin to understand how to enjoy their life again in a sober fashion.

Psychodrama

Psychodrama is an experiential method of therapy incorporating role playing in a group setting. At The Dunes we call this approach “Recovery Theater.”   This method addresses the ongoing challenges and benefits of creating a sober lifestyle.

 

Life Coaching

The Dune’s life coach addresses specific personal projects, business successes and transitions in the client’s personal life, relationships or profession.   By examining what is your current situation, discovering what obstacles or challenges may exist and choosing a course of action to make your life be what you want it to be. As your coach, we help you discover and achieve your personal best.

 

Community Integration

Being in a residential rehab facility is a safe and protective environment. However, many recovering addicts find that after they leave the protective “bubble” of rehab, it is difficult and stressful to re-enter their communities and to reach out to friends and family.

At The Dunes, we integrate our residents into the local community and allow the use of cell phones, laptops and tablets to stay in touch with family and friends.

Our community integration program also involves taking advantage of what East Hampton, New York has to offer, such as fishing, golfing, trips to museums and theaters, and shopping. We also immerse clients into the strong sober community of the “East End” with daily trips to various AA and NA meetings.

Participation in and with the community helps prepare residents for life after they return home.