Can you tell me a little about your program?
Turning Point is a healthy, safe and nurturing environment where alcoholic women can begin to heal and find recovery. We are a social model program based on the 12-Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. There are no Doctors or Therapists; however all of our program staff members are certified by one of five certifying bodies recognized in the California. We are licensed and certified by the State of California.
What if I have a problem with drugs?
Our primary focus is Alcohol however many women are dually addicted. If you feel that, your addiction to drugs is the primary problem or you do not have a problem with alcohol, we may not be the best program for you. However, we would like to refer you to the following programs that may better suit your needs:
- Crossroads – 619-296-1151
- Stepping Stone – 619-584-4010
- Kiva – 619-466-9274
- Crash – 619-233-8054
How can I get into the program?
We conduct interviews on an individual Face-to Face basis on Thursday mornings. We recommend that you be here no later than 9:30am (you can come as early as 8:30am). Please fill out the health questionnaire on the front porch. We will begin a group orientation at 10am and interviews will follow.
How long is your program?
Our minimum stay is 90-days. However, the average successful stay is much longer – usually 9 months to a year.
9 Months! Why so long?
We believe that long-term sobriety is not about “getting” sober, it is about learning how to live life “staying” sober … and that takes time. There is no short cut to long-term sobriety. Our program structure has 4 phases that each individual moves through while in residency. As each resident moves through the phases, they gain time sober, tools from working the steps and opportunities to experience all of life one day at a time while staying sober and having the support of their peers and our staff.
When can I begin to look for or return to work?
Our policy regarding returning to work is handled on an individual basis. If you are employed when you enter Turning Point, you will need to take a minimum 30-day leave of absence. Although we would prefer it be 45-days we understand that all employers are not willing or able to offer extended leaves of absence.
Regarding looking for work, we begin to have that discussion with each resident around 30 days. Some may need just to brush up their resume and some may need further training. Although we do not offer those services in-house, we do work with local community resources that can help with returning to the work force. If someone is disabled and receiving SSI or is retired, we work with them to create a volunteer schedule so that they are gaining vital self-esteem while giving back to their community.
How much does your program cost?
Although we are not free, Turning Point Home will not refuse services to anyone based on their income or inability to pay. Please call for details regarding fees and financial arrangements.
What can I expect when I move in?
We believe a comfortable setting is crucial to the success of any resident, as such residents are encouraged to bring a few pictures or belongings that will help create a feeling of safety and security to allow the process of healing and recovery to begin.
Each resident will be welcomed to the Turning Point Home by one of our understanding staff. We all know how stressful and frightening this new situation can be. After an intake search of your items, you will be shown to your room, which will be shared with 1, 2 or 3 other women. Although you have a shared room, each resident has their own bed (no bunk beds), dresser, nightstand and an equal portion of the closet. You will then meet with a staff member to take care of the initial intake paperwork.
You will be given a schedule of meetings / groups as well as a copy of the household rules for you to review. You’ll be assigned a “Big Sister” that can show you around and is available to answer any questions you may have. The program office has an open door policy, and all residents are encouraged to come to staff and discuss recovery and their recovery process. Most of our program staff are in recovery and are wonderful sources of strength and guidance.
What does an average day look like?
Each day is a little bit different; however, the basic structure is as follows:
8:00am – Up and dressed daily. Beds made and rooms tidy.
9:00 am – Moring walk and meditation
11:00am – Lunch
12:00pm – Outside AA Meeting or in-house educational group
2:00pm– Educational Group or Art & Rec Group
3:00pm – Afternoon free time
4:45pm – Dinner
6:30pm – Evening AA meeting or educational group
7:30 – Evening free time
11:00pm – Lights out.