28 Aug, 2008
|    TRANSITIONS Program Components“Dragonfly took wonderful care of our daughter and nurtured her [and continue to do so] at a difficult time in her life.” — Father of a Transitions student Each student’s program is customized to his or her individual needs. While each student’s program consists of the same combination of program components, these components are organized into a weekly schedule unique to each student, placing emphasis on those components most needed by that student. For example, a student attending college full-time would design his weekly schedule around his class schedule and may only work a few hours per week, while a student who is not in school may work twenty or more hours per week or may need to schedule participation in regular relapse support groups. View a sample schedule » Therapeutic ServicesProvision of therapeutic services is customized to each student and outlined in the Individualized Treatment Plan developed during the first month of participation. Students participate in group counseling, individual therapy and family therapy via conference calls. Psychiatric evaluations, medication management and other services are provided to students as needed by Dr. Melnick, Dragonfly Medical Director. The therapeutic milieu is "hands on, up close and personal". The Therapist office is located in the boarding house, thus there are abundant opportunities to create a therapeutic experience for student's both in and out of the context of a traditional session. The therapist is in a unique position to affect change in the lives of our student's. Throughout the year, Dragonfly Transitions offer three, three-day family workshops. This is an integral part of the treatment process and provides opportunities for intensive family and group sessions. Recovery, Sober Living, and Relapse Prevention“Dragonfly provides a good environment to learn about yourself and how to live a more productive life.” — Nick, Transitions Student Students with substance abuse and addiction develop individualized relapse prevention plans, tailored to their specific, unique needs and triggers. Many attend AA/NA meetings and have sponsors in the local community. Others attend meetings and attend a local outpatient counseling program as needed. Dragonfly TRANSITIONS maintains a sober living environment and reserves the right to perform random drug tests. EducationAll program participants are encouraged to complete high school and continue their education at the post-secondary level — even if this is only to experience a few classes and learn what is required in terms of time management, study skills and self-discipline to succeed educationally at this level. The Klamath Falls community offers a variety of educational options for young adults, including the Adult Learning Center which provides support to individuals seeking a high school diploma or GED, Klamath Community College offering a good variety of classes both for credit and non-credit, and the Oregon Institute of Technology, the only accredited polytechnical college in Oregon specializing in engineering, health care fields, business, and industrial technology. A College of Cosmetology is also conveniently located in Klamath Falls. Employment / Vocation
Dragonfly participants are expected to learn job procurement skills, resume writing, and job application and interviewing skills. Qualifying students are provided a job counselor through the local Vocational Rehabilitation program. This agency helps to appropriately place, train and supportively monitor participants at the work site. Dragonfly staff work closely with the Vocational Rehabilitation counselors and attend monthly performance reviews with the participants. For participants who don’t qualify for the Vocational Rehabilitation program, Dragonfly staff work with students on an individual basis to find an appropriate job placement and monitor work attendance and performance. Students may participate in community service or volunteer at local establishments prior to obtaining employment. Social and Life Skills
Personal Health and Fitness
Believing that physical fitness and recreation are vital components to leading a happy, healthy life, our students are required to join the local gym where they have access to a personal trainer who helps them set and attain reasonable fitness goals. The facility offers a full range of cardiovascular and resistance training equipment, nutrition instruction and other specialty classes. The community has three swimming pools and a variety of other extra curricular activities, including the sports complex with an indoor soccer field, skate park and batting cages. Dragonfly staff work out along side students, helping with motivation and support. Outdoor Recreation
Abundant opportunities are also available for outdoor recreation during program organized weekend adventure trips. Activities include hiking, backpacking, white water rafting, kayaking, biking, fishing, rock climbing and caving. Some trips or activities may result in additional fees. For select, motivated individuals, an internship with Dragonfly Adventures outdoor program may be possible. Links |
Dragonfly participants learn the life skills critical to independence experientially with support of staff. Each student starts the program living in the nine-bedroom boarding house. As they progress through the program they transition into a duplex and receive guidance in establishing a residence including understanding lease agreements, obtaining electric and telephone service, and how to maintain a clean, orderly living space. Students also receive instruction in planning and preparation of nutritionally balanced meals and creating a shopping list. Weekly shopping trips are an opportunity for staff to coach students on food selection, reading labels, and managing a food budget. Students also receive instruction and guidance in establishing and living within a budget. Initially, all expenses and spending are closely monitored by Dragonfly staff. As students demonstrate responsible financial management, they gain increased control and access to their finances. Student spending is always monitored and students are held accountable for all expenses with receipts being required for all purchases. In addition, special group counseling focuses on communication skills, dating and intimacy, personal safety, situational interactions and other critical social skills.
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