Problematic substance use intervention pilot program available at UBC

Drug and alcohol use may be problematic when it negatively impacts a person’s health or quality of life.

UBC HR has partnered with Boreal Wellness Centres Inc. to offer Resilient Living™ Recovery, a non-12 step, mindfulness-based addiction treatment program to help reduce or stop problematic substance use. The program is available to staff, faculty, and their dependents, who are experiencing mild to moderate problematic substance use.  Resilient Living™ Recovery uses a values-based approach that consists of motivational interviewing and developing a resilient living plan. Participants will learn about healthier coping strategies, managing relapse triggers, and increasing resiliency.

Is the program right for me?

The program is suited for staff, faculty members, and their dependents, who are experiencing mild or moderate problematic substance use. The program consists of 10 virtual group therapy sessions for 2 hours each week plus 5 individual sessions of 30 minutes.

This program is not suitable for persons experiencing:

• Unmanaged substance use as defined by:

1. consuming >35 alcoholic units weekly; or
2. binge drinking resulting in “black outs” several times per month; or
3. recent overdose or substance-related hospitalization

• Active suicidal ideation or hospitalization for self-harm in last 30 days
• Psychosis or personality disorder
• Ongoing involvement with legal system due to substance use issues

Learn more about additional substance use or addiction resources that may be right for you.

How do I enroll?

To enroll yourself in the program, visit the Boreal Wellness Centres website and fill out an intake form. Be sure to let Boreal Wellness Centres know you are a UBC employee to access special rates and ensure your invoices contain the information needed to file a claim for reimbursement through your psychological extended health benefits.

Additionally, funding is available to cover the cost of the program when you are referred through the Stay at Work/Return to Work Program (UBC-Vancouver) or Work Reintegration & Accommodation Program (UBC-Okanagan).

If you’d like to learn more about this, contact your RTW Advisor or WRAP to have a confidential conversation about this pilot program.

For more information on the Resilient Living™ Recovery program, visit the HR website.