ABOUT ALLEGANY COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT – LOIS E. JACKSON UNIT
Located in the city of Cumberland, situated in the mountains of Western Maryland, the Lois E. Jackson Unit, which is a service of the Allegany County Health Department, provides a residential treatment program for adolescents struggling with chemical dependency and co-occurring mental health disorders. The facility also provides medical detoxification services on-site.
TREATMENT & ASSESSMENT
Prior to beginning treatment, clients undergo an initial assessment to assist clinicians in developing an individualized treatment plan. The programming at the Lois E. Jackson Unit combines evidence-based treatment methods with experiential therapies and an accredited academic curriculum. In addition to addressing factors that contribute to addictive behavior, the clinical treatment also focuses on promoting healthy lifestyle changes. Physical screenings, medical services, and dental services are available to residents. The residential program duration is 60 days.
During residential treatment, clients engage in a structured schedule of individual, group, and family counseling sessions. The Lois E. Jackson Unit introduces clients to the 12-step model of recovery through on-site fellowship meetings, studying 12-step literature, and completing associated “step-work.” Substance abuse educational classes, as well as social and life skills workshops, are regularly attended by residents. Family education groups are also available to educate loved ones about the recovery process.
To address specific needs, the Lois E. Jackson Unit offers specialized counseling sessions centered around trauma, abuse, and domestic violence. Clients with co-occurring disorders receive regular psychiatric evaluations and medication management from psychiatrists.
To ensure academic continuity, the Lois E. Jackson Unit provides certified and licensed classroom instruction approved by the Maryland State Department of Education. Classroom instruction is tailored to meet each client’s educational needs through a Personal Educational Program (P.E.P.). The facility also offers G.E.D. preparation and testing, vocational courses, and online college courses.
In addition to the core programming, residents are encouraged to participate in physical fitness and recreational activities. Daily fitness programs and outdoor mountain activities are offered. Clinicians assist in developing comprehensive aftercare plans that may include referrals to lower intensity levels of care and community-based resources.
STAFF CREDENTIALS
The Lois E. Jackson Unit employs a multidisciplinary team consisting of physicians, psychiatrists, certified teachers, peer specialists, licensed alcohol and drug counselors, certified addictions counselors, and nurses.
ACCOMMODATIONS & AMENITIES
Although information regarding the sleeping arrangements is limited, the facility provides a full-sized gymnasium and weight room for exercise. Regular off-site recreational activities are also organized. According to one alum surveyed by Best-rehabs.com, the facility received a four out of five-star rating for overall cleanliness and upkeep.
WHAT ALUMNI SAY
The sole alum surveyed by Best-rehabs.com highly praised most aspects of the facility, giving perfect five-star ratings for the staff’s level of experience and training, the facility’s ability to treat co-occurring disorders, and the amount of family participation. The anonymous alum wrote, “I loved it. I found myself. I regained my family and learned how to cope with my disease.” However, the respondent rated the inclusion of holistic treatment methods in programming with one star.
FINANCING
According to the facility’s website, the Lois E. Jackson Unit accepts most insurance plans, including Maryland Medicaid. A sliding fee scale is also available for eligible residents.