Pathways
Pathways, a 28-day recovery program, is designed to help substance abusing individuals establish a firm foundation in the recovery process.  The program provides a safe, supportive environment where healing begins and hope for the future replaces the hopelessness often experienced by clients in the early days of the recovery process.  Clients learn new recovery skills, receive relapse prevention training and counseling services supplied by a clinical team trained and skilled in the latest science-based techniques.  Individual, group and family counseling, combined with psycho-educational presentations and strong connections to the 12-Step community provides clients with a “best practices” approach to overcoming addictive disorders.

Recognized as a best-practice program, Pathways accepts voluntary admissions, referrals from all Florida Judicial Circuits, the Federal Parole and Probation Department as well as out-of-state referrals.

Pathways is a fee-for-service program and payment must be arranged prior to admission.  Some insurance plans are accepted and payment by credit card is an option.  On-site psychiatric services may be purchased if required.  When necessary, detoxification services are also available at First Step’s Addiction Receiving Facility. For further information or to arrange an admission, please contact First Step’s Court Services office at 941-552-2047.  Back to Top

To speak to an admissions counselor, please call 941-366-5333.  In addition to a mental health diagnosis, clients must be at least 18 years of age to be eligible for admission. Back to Top

Clients must be at least 18 years of age, convicted felons and court-ordered into a substance abuse treatment program.  Attorneys and public defenders should contact First Step’s Court Services office at 941-366-5333. Back to Top

Transitions
Designed for men and women who have already completed First Step’s Pathways program, Transitions clients begin their own transition back to the community with daily involvement in 12-Step meetings, individual and group therapy.  Additionally, clients are expected to obtain employment, perform volunteer work in the community or enroll in some form of educational or vocational training.  Pathways clients should speak with their counselor about the possibility of admission to Transitions. Back to Top

VIP-ER at The Salvation Army
The Voluntary Interim Placement-Enhanced Recovery (VIP-ER) is a day treatment program offered to individuals meeting The Salvation Army’s homeless criteria.  Housing is provided by The Salvation Army and First Step provides substance abuse treatment.

For eligibility and admission information on the VIP-ER program, please call The Salvation Army at 941-809-1245. Back to Top

Clients may stay in treatment for one year.  Infants remain with the mother in treatment after birth. Women must be at least 18 years of age and pregnant to enter the program.