Family Program
(Co-Dependancy)

Westover offers a six-day Residential Family Program open to men and women who feel their lives have been affected by someone else's alcohol or drug abuse, ( i.e. spouse, adult child, parent, sibling, friend). This program admits six clients per group with a total of 34 groups per year. A highly recommended six-month Aftercare program consisting of weekly meetings in three locations follows treatment.

Through lectures, videos, and group discussions guidance is provided on changes individuals can make to assist them in dealing with the affects of substance abuse and their subsequent response to life situations. A safe environment and a caring and professional staff ensure that clients receive the information and support they need to effectively cope with the physical, emotional and spiritual challenges of living with addictions.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Where are you located?

We are located in Thamesville, Ontario, on Victoria Rd. (Highway #21) midway between London and Windsor.

Do I need a referral?

We accept self referrals as well as referrals from Health Care Professionals, Industry/Employee Assistance, or other agencies, self-help groups, family and alumni.

What are the goals of the program?

• To provide a safe environment that is conducive to learning the recovery tools necessary to overcome the effects of chemical dependence on the family.
• To provide clients with continuing recovery support at completion of the program.

How much does it cost?

We have 6 beds funded by Ontario Ministry of Health therefore there is no direct cost to residents living in Ontario.  We do, however, encourage donations which go toward the purchase of extra amenities, not funded, but enjoyed by clients in the program.  We also have 2 fee-for-service beds available for eligible individuals who want a guaranteed early intake.

What do you do on the program?

Individuals are expected to fully participate in all aspects of the program which included lectures, treatment related videos, discussion sessions, one-on-one sharing with group members and a one-on-one counselling session with a primary counsellor.  Along with these sessions time is provided for exercise and relaxation.

What is the focus of the program?

The focus is primarily on self esteem.  Through various teaching approaches clients learn what changes they can make in order to feel more at ease with themselves.  We have sessions on communications, assertiveness and anger management as well we assist clients in exploring their feelings, issues concerning boundaries and healthy choice making.

What are the intake requirements?

To register, individuals must meet our intake criteria.  Five key requirements are as follows:

• An individual, male or female, must be 16 years or over.
• An individual must feel he/she has been affected by someone else's alcohol or drug abuse either during their childhood or adult years
• All medications used on program must be in accordance with Westover Policy.  (There are certain restricted medications, such as sleeping pills and narcotic pain medications.  These will be discussed when you apply.)
• An individual must have a willingness and ability to make changes.
• If an individual is in recovery from chemical dependency, he/she must have a minimum of one year of continuous clean time prior to intake

When can I come in?

We are usually booked about two to three months in advance.  We do, however, maintain a waiting list for an earlier intake in the event of a cancellation or a guaranteed early intake can be arranged on a fee-for-service basis.

How long is the program and when does it start and finish?

The program is six days in length.  Each program commences Sunday at 9:00 a.m. and finishes the following Friday by 4:00 p.m.  If you are coming from a distance a Friday evening intake can be arranged.

Can we accommodate special diets?

We cannot accommodate special diets but we do provide well balanced and nutritious meals.

Can more than one family member come in at the same time?

No, if more than one family member would like to attend, we find it more effective if they attend individually.

It is co-ed and how many would be in my group?

Some groups are co-ed but if admission into a single gender group is preferred, this should be discussed prior to intake.  Generally we keep the groups at six, but we can accommodate up to eight people.

I don't have a car and can't get a ride, are there other ways to get there?

You can reach our Centre by Greyhound bus.

For further information call 519-692-5110 and ask for Vicki or Pam or email

Vicki at vvisnapuu@westover-fdn.org or Pam at pgiles@westover-fdn.org