In-person Group Therapy Sessions Resume at Chance for Change!

As an out-patient substance-use treatment program, Chance for Change required more adjustments than other NCS programs when the pandemic began.  

The unique program serves individuals who are homeless and battling addiction, often combined with mental illness. Known for its “clubhouse model,” clients came not only for individual and group therapy sessions but also to hang out in a drug-free environment with others who are on the same path to recovery. Chance for Change Substance Abuse Counselor Stephanie Hervey described the program as a place where clients have “established a sense of community and connection with one another, a safe space to process their journey through addiction and recovery.” 

When the pandemic hit and Chance for Change had to close its physical doors, individual therapy sessions moved to telehealth. All but one client remained active in the program, and these telehealth visits were a lifeline for those struggling to overcome addiction during a time of unprecedented stress and anxiety. Unfortunately, group sessions could not continue as there was no way to ensure confidentiality if clients were on mobile devices in shelters or public spaces. 

Clients such as Patricia asked every week during her individual therapy session when group sessions would begin. She missed the Chance for Change community. This past week Patricia and her fellow clients received their wish when Chance for Change hosted its first in-person group therapy session in the NCS Residence rooftop garden. Wearing masks and keeping a safe distance apart, clients and staff were able to come together again!  

We hope that as virus numbers remain low in NYC that our Chance for Change clients can continue to come together in person in safe and healthy ways to continue on their path toward sobriety as a community.