On Monday, April 12th, Arbor Circle therapist Norman Browe came through the doors of 255 Division Avenue for the first time in nearly a year. Norm has been working closely with men staying at Guiding Light for over five years. However, due to the social restrictions entailed by the outbreak of COVID-19, he has not been able to work as closely with his clients as he would prefer. This is the first time that Norm has been able to meet in-person with any of the men in the Guiding Light Recovery program.
Today he came in to facilitate his weekly hour and a half long group therapy session. This is a time for the men to talk about where they feel they are at on their recovery in a controlled environment and away from staff. This is also a way for the men to touch base without judgement about any concerns they have with one another. Living in such close quarters with other men for months can be a significant and stressful change in lifestyle. Having a space for truth-telling and a confidential setting to vent any issues or struggles under the facilitation of a professional therapist is an important aspect of programming at Guiding Light. Norm also meets weekly with clients on an individual basis for hour long sessions. Over the past year the men have still been able to meet with Norm virtually over video-conferencing platforms. However, meeting in-person is far more beneficial and a helpful way for men staying at Guiding Light to get the help they need.
For clients of Guiding Light Recovery, having access to professional help is a huge part of their journey in sobriety. It takes time to heal the deep psychological wounds that years of active addiction can cause. Norm has gotten to know the men that have come and gone through our doors and has developed a deep affinity for them, and we are grateful to have him on board.
It costs roughly $300 a day to feed, house, and treat one of our Recovery clients. Thanks to you, our donors, the only cost for men enrolled in our programs is their honesty, open-mindedness, and sincere willingness to change. From all of us at Guiding Light, clients and staff alike, God bless and thank you so much for all that you do for us.
