1. How do i get to Northstar?
The Intake Team can pick up new arrivals from the airport, ferry or within the lower mainland by car. Pick-ups are scheduled with the intake worker.
2. What kind of addictions do you treat?
We offer treatment services for all substances including: alcohol, cocaine, crack-cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, MDMA, ecstasy, marijuana, GHB, and ketamine. We also offer services for process addictions like sex, gambling, video games, shopping, and food.
3. What funding options are there?
Treatment pricing is determined by a variety of factors, including which program options you choose, which location you go to, and if you require treatment for conditions like PTSD. We are limited to 16 subsidized beds through the Ministry of Social Development. The intake team can advise of the required criteria for admission. Please call the intake team at 604.451.9854 to discuss the list of factors with you. We also work with private insurance and employers that offer benefits to cover the cost of addiction treatment services.
4. What services are NOT covered during my stay?
Non-BC residents, or those without valid MSP coverage, may be billed for any services related to medical care by the professional providing that service. This can include doctor visits, ambulance transportation, emergency room visits, hospitalization, outside counselling services, massage therapy, dental, etc. The resident is also required to cover any costs associated with medications. Any amounts owing will have to be paid directly to the service provider.
5. What do I bring with me?
Northstar provides all your towels and bedding. Please bring weather appropriate clothing, outdoor wear, indoor and outdoor shoes, toiletries, prescribed medications, a pre-loaded MP3 player that does NOT hook up to WiFi and other small comforts.
iPod Touches, cell phones, wallets, identifications, WiFi capable electronics, etc. will be stored securely for the first part of your stay. We ask that you store high value, large amounts of cash, and/or sentimental items with a safe person. Northstar Recovery and it's affiliates are not responsible for any lost or stolen items that have not been appropriately stored or left on property after discharging/completing the program.
6. What do i do about medications?
All medications and supplements must be stored securely by Northstar Recovery staff in accordance with Vancouver Coastal Health guidlines. Medications are dispensed as prescribed at breakfast, lunch, dinner, and bedtime. Off-site dispensing will be arranged by our Client Care Department.
7. What do I do with my vehicle or personal belongings?
It is suggested that new residents store their furniture, vehicles, and extra belongings in a storage facility at their own cost. Northstar Recovery does not have the space to store large amounts of personal belongings. Should you bring a vehicle, you can park on the street, however keys must be turned in to program staff. Northstar Recovery and it's affiliates are not responsible for theft, damage, vandalism, tickets, towing or impound of vehicles. It is the resident’s responsibility to ensure the vehicle is registered, insured, and parked in an appropriate place.
8. Can I keep my cellphone?
During the initial stabiization, you will not have access to your personal cellphone. After stabilization, most residents are then allowed to keep their devices with them. You can request access to your cell phone to make personal phone calls and conduct banking when needed, generally outside of group or counselling times.
9. Can I have vistors?
Friends and family are welcome and encouraged to visit you during your stay at Northstar, however visits must be planned ad approved by the Client Care Department and must take place during free time.
10. Can I work while in treatment?
Primary care residents cannot work while attending the treatment program. After graduation, residents who decide to stay in our Sober Living program are encouraged to work, volunteer, or return to school.