We’ll hug them, talk to them, spend as much time with them to the best of our ability.

It is a change for them to have an unconditional environment.

No judging.

There is no gameplaying when they come in the door.

We are really just honest and real here. What matters is just that they’re here now.

Q: Does your program ascribe to a Harm Reduction approach?

We definitely embrace that. That is why engagement is so important. It allows a person who is still actively using to be engaged and come. Other treatment programs, you can’t even go in their drunk. When this is the reason you are in business in the first place.

We don’t make them stay in group- if they can’t, we aren’t going to make them stay.

If they use 7 days a week and they can break it down to 4, they get applauded. That’s a unique thing.

We are probably the only program in the city that allows active drug use while in the program.

Q: What are other programs in Detroit like?

Total abstinence based. 12 steps.

They rely on urine drops.

Very confrontational, behavior modification. If you mess up, you’re out.