Some of the frequently asked questions presented to us by Family members with answers are listed below:

My loved one wants to leave treatment. What should I do?

It’s not uncommon for people to want to leave treatment “against medical advice” (AMA) at some point during the treatment process. It is essential that you do not respond to your loved one’s pleas to be removed from treatment by giving in. Understand that this is a normal part of the treatment and recovery process. The best thing you can do is to support your loved one in remaining in treatment and working through whatever issues with which they are struggling.

How soon after my loved one goes into treatment will I be able to speak with them?

The orientation period starts at the time of admission. This is a period of time during which clients can have no outside contact with family or others, unless approved by their primary clinician. The orientation period is meant to give clients time to focus on themselves, without the distraction of outside issues and concerns. The orientation period is lifted gradually, first to allow contact with people in recovery, then to include sober family members and significant others. The orientation period lasts up to seven days. During this time the family can expect to receive updates from the clinical staff.

How often will I hear from my loved one’s clinician?

It’s not uncommon for family members to inquire about their loved ones once they are in treatment. Family involvement and communication with the client and clinician will proceed in several stages including:

• An initial introductory phone call from your loved one’s clinician within 48 hours
• An initial family session with the clinician to review clinical recommendations and treatment plan
• Weekly multi-family group attendance
• Family session for discharge planning

Phone updates and communication with your loved one’s clinician will be clinically approved based on the client’s progress in treatment and level of care.

When can I bring my family member requested items?

Family members are welcome to bring requested personal belongings to their
loved ones. These items can be delivered
to either of the following locations:

New Life Center
25 E. Front St.
Keyport, NJ 07735

Endeavor House North
206 Bergen Ave.
Kearny, NJ 07732

Monday—Friday 9:00am-8:00pm

What is the Level System and how does it work? What is a “Level Drop”?

The Level System allows clients to earn privileges as they progress through the program. Likewise, clients may also lose privileges as a consequence for not meeting the requirements to maintain a specific level or breaking program rules - this is called a “level drop.”

Privileges gained at higher levels include: telephone contact with 12 Step program sponsor and contacts, telephone contact with family and significant others, attending outside meetings with sponsor and contacts and on-site and off-site passes with family and significant others.