Megan Neill is the Coordinator/Trainer of Specialized Programs with ADSTV. Megan joined ADSTV 10 years ago and has worked in various programs at the agency as an addiction/mental health counsellor and team lead, until she started her current role over 3 years ago. Megan took over coordinating services in Elgin approximately 1 year ago and has been learning more and more about this great community.
The moto of ADSTV is “Limitless possibilities through freedom from addiction”. Those that come to receive service are motivated to make change for the better. They receive services like case management and support from medical professionals. There are 3 locations in each of Middlesex Elgin an Oxford County. In particular, Elgin County has locations in St Thomas, West Lorne and Aylmer. The objective is to reduce the stigma associated with addiction and provide an outlet for problems associated with these addictions and to prevent relapse.
The major addiction problem remains with alcohol but prescription drugs, cannabis, opioids, cocaine, and crack problems remain. Some statistics: 165 males and 118 females are help at a given time. In the 3 counties and over the year 2000 people are helped.
Addiction services of Thames Valley has many programs available, but Megan highlighted some of them. The first program works with women who are pregnant and in family situations. The Community Opioid Addiction Program COAP offers help for those dealing with opioid addiction. Staff are trained to administer Naloxone to those in life threatening situations. Through Addiction Support Housing those with addictions but no income can receive housing for up to one year. The Internet Gaming Disorders and Problem Gambling Services program is available to those 12 years of age and older. Megan also mentioned 3 trauma group support services: for men and one for women and for family members who wish to learn about treatment options for their loved ones. The Nurse Practitioner Service is available to those who are experiencing mental health and substance related addictions concerns and who are without a primary care provider. There is a withdrawal centre to go to. Also, Megan spoke briefly about a temporary overdose consumption site. The last program offers employment assistance to those who are out of employment because of their addictions.
ADSTV does not currently have or is not currently funded for pornography addictions but can refer people to “Choices for Change” program that is offered through the Huron Perth addiction services. Funding is received from the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care via the South West Ontario LHIN.
Megan also spoke of ways that our members can help. ADSTV offers walk in intake services the 1st and 3rd Tues of every month; those with addiction problems can drop in to talk to staff about support and to make an appointment as needed. Megan is looking for volunteer greeters for this service.
Last November, ADSTV hosted the Possible Campaign and the event “Stage for Change” where local musicians entertained in a substance free location. Volunteers and needed to help.
Also, the Elgin branch of ADSTV is looking for another staff person so we are welcome to let Megan know of potential candidates. We should all be thankful for these services that offer compassion and healing in our community!
Click the link bellow to see a video of Megan's presentation.
https://www.facebook.com/pg/St.TRotary/community/?ref=page_internal
Click bellow to see the video Megan presented.
http://www.its-possible.ca/paulies-story-addiction-recovery/
