Former Residents Find Lasting Community Through Timberline Knolls Alumnae Network

When women and adolescent girls complete their stay at Timberline Knolls, they gain more than just treatment skills – they become part of a supportive network designed to reinforce their recovery for years to come. This continuing care approach represents one of the most valued aspects of the treatment experience for many former residents.

Beyond Discharge Planning

While many treatment centers provide basic discharge planning, Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center goes considerably further by integrating each woman into an active community of peers who share similar recovery experiences. This approach acknowledges that recovery continues long after formal treatment ends.

“We know the road to recovery and taking the step into residential treatment isn’t an easy one,” noted Diane Carugati, former CEO at Timberline Knolls, when discussing the importance of their alumnae services during the center’s anniversary celebration. “We see our residents move on to live happy and productive lives every day.”

Multiple Ways to Stay Connected

The program offers several avenues for continued engagement:

  • A private Facebook group that allows for daily connection and support
  • LinkedIn networking for professional connections among former residents
  • Instagram community sharing recovery inspiration and updates
  • Virtual support groups led by experienced facilitators
  • Regular alumnae nights for in-person connection where possible
  • Annual retreat events that deepen relationships formed during treatment

These varied touchpoints ensure that regardless of a woman’s schedule, location, or communication preferences, she can maintain meaningful connections with her treatment community.

The Impact of Shared Recovery Journeys

“I would not have made it through the last 6 years of recovery without PHP relapsing and giving me tools and it really made a difference,” shares Lindsey C., a former resident who participated in both the residential program and partial hospitalization program at Timberline Knolls.

Stories like Lindsey’s highlight how continued support through the alumnae program helps women maintain their recovery skills while navigating real-world challenges. These narratives also provide encouragement to those still in treatment or considering entering the program.

Encouraging Story Sharing

The alumnae program actively encourages women to share their recovery experiences through various platforms. These shared stories serve multiple purposes – they strengthen the teller’s commitment to recovery, inspire others still struggling, and help reduce stigma around mental health and addiction issues.

“There is hope in your stories. There is strength in your healing,” the program reminds potential story sharers. “And we’re just as proud of you today as we were when you walked through – and then out – of our doors.”

Program Leadership With Lived Experience

A distinguishing feature of the Timberline Knolls alumnae program is leadership by individuals with personal recovery experience. Alumnae Coordinator Threasa “Tee” Kluever brings her own recovery journey to her role, allowing for authentic connection with program participants.

“I have walked a similar road filled with turbulence and triumphs that recovery brings,” Kluever shares. “By continuing to incorporate the skills and values taught at TK, I am able to serve this community.”

Documented Outcomes Show Effectiveness

Acadia Healthcare, which acquired Timberline Knolls in 2012, maintains comprehensive outcome measurements that demonstrate the program’s value. Their data shows impressive results, with most former residents reporting continued improvement in key life areas one year after discharge.

For families considering treatment options, these documented outcomes provide reassurance about the center’s ability to facilitate lasting change, not just short-term stabilization.

For nearly 20 years, Timberline Knolls has been helping women and girls recover from eating disorders, addiction, trauma, and mental health challenges. Their alumnae program stands as a testament to their commitment to supporting women through every stage of their recovery journey, from initial treatment through lifelong wellness.

Read more: https://bhbusiness.com/2024/06/04/why-acadia-healthcare-is-expanding-eating-disorder-treatment-as-competitors-scale-back/

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