Laurel House was established in 1974 and is recognized as one of the pioneering residential treatment programs for women in California. With a capacity to accommodate up to twelve women, the house underwent renovations in 2008, which included the installation of a new kitchen, bathroom, and landscaping.
ABOUT WOMEN’S RECOVERY ASSOCIATION
Located in San Mateo, California, 20 miles south of San Francisco, Women’s Recovery Association stands as one of the 736 total facilities in the state, contributing to the 51.5 percent that provides women-specific programming. This residential treatment facility also offers specialized care for pregnant women and mothers with children up to the age of 10 who are struggling with chemical dependency and co-occurring disorders.
As a part of HealthRight 360, a well-regarded regional treatment provider, Women’s Recovery Association (formerly known as Laurel House) provides a partial hospitalization program (PHP), transitional housing, and continuing care programs, services that are available at 81.6 percent of California treatment centers. However, the facility does not offer on-site detoxification services.
TREATMENT & ASSESSMENT
Upon admission, clients at Women’s Recovery Association undergo an initial assessment to identify their specific needs, which serves as the basis for developing an individualized plan of care. The facility integrates evidence-based treatment methods with immersion in a supportive therapeutic community environment, which facilitates the acquisition and maintenance of sobriety.
During residential treatment, clients participate in a structured schedule of group counseling, individual and family counseling sessions that address issues commonly faced by women in recovery. Additionally, the facility offers psychoeducational classes on relapse prevention techniques, emotional regulation, and building healthy relationships. Clients also have the opportunity to attend 12-step meetings or engage in other peer-led support programs.
The Perinatal Residential Program, available for new mothers, includes parenting classes, education on pregnancy issues, therapeutic groups, and parent-child interaction therapies. Clients with co-occurring mental health disorders may also receive regular psychiatric evaluations and ongoing medication management, which is offered at 31.2 percent of treatment facilities in the state.
Upon completion of residential treatment, clients may be encouraged to transition to the facility’s PHP, which involves up to 18 hours of weekly programming, as well as the sober housing facilities. To facilitate a successful transition back into the community, Women’s Recovery Association provides vocational rehabilitation, which entails assisting women with legal, housing, child care, and other related issues.
STAFF CREDENTIALS
Women’s Recovery Association staff comprises a multidisciplinary team of highly qualified professionals, including psychiatrists, licensed substance abuse and mental health counselors, case managers, medical support teams, care coordinators, and behavioral health support staff. Staff members’ level of experience and training have both received positive ratings, with two alumni awarding the highest rating of five stars in this category.
ACCOMMODATIONS & AMENITIES
While specific details about accommodations and amenities are limited, Women’s Recovery Association consists of three separate facilities: a residential facility for women, a transitional home, and a home designated for mothers with children. Childcare services are provided during treatment sessions, a feature that is available only at 70.3 percent of treatment centers in the state. The facility aims to maintain an environment that fosters healing through mutual assistance, emphasizing safety, acceptance, and community.
WHAT ALUMNI SAY
At the time of this writing, three alumni provided positive feedback about the facility. They awarded ratings of four and five stars for the treatment staff’s level of experience and training, as well as the cleanliness of the facilities. One alum also praised the counseling options, while another commended the effectiveness of group counseling sessions. Although one alum offered some criticism, overall, the reviews were generally favorable.
Secondary sources also indicated positive feedback of the facility. On its Facebook page, the facility received an average rating of 4.7 out of five stars from 23 reviewers. Reviewers frequently praised the staff and the supportive family-like environment.
The facility accepts private insurance, military insurance, Medicaid, and Medicare. Additionally, there may be a sliding fee scale in place to accommodate individuals with financial constraints.
References:
[1] https://goo.gl/OWQvpz
[2] https://goo.gl/jcg9qQ