Children Services
New Directions is very involved in meeting the special needs of our children. Prenatal exposure to alcohol can cause a spectrum of disorders, one of which is fetal alcohol syndrome [more info] and thus assessments that identify learning disabilities, developmental delays and clinical and medical needs are provided during treatment. Family, individual and play therapy as well as Mommy and Me bonding time are included in our program services. Education about alcoholism and addiction as a family disease is provided. We facilitate parenting education and greater parent-child communication. School age children are afforded the opportunity to enroll in local Newport Mesa schools while younger children and infants attend our on site daycare program.
Family Treatment Services
Family involvement is essential in treating this disease and is an integral part of the recovery program. Weekly family and multi-family group sessions are offered that include education and therapy as well as private family sessions.
New Directions for Women is committed to the healing of the entire family that has been profoundly affected by the disease of addiction. For those who live with or relate on a regular basis to a person who is diagnosed with chemical dependency, New Directions for Women recommends, encourages, and supports you in making a commitment to being involved with the family treatment program we offer so that you too may enter into your own personal journey of recovery. We recognize the importance of treating substance use disorder as a family disease. Those of you that have experienced the emotional pain of broken promises, false hopes, and other common side effects of this disease deserve the opportunity in identifying and voicing your own thoughts and feelings. We will openly and honestly assist you in working toward developing a deeper understanding of yourself and developing the kind of relationship you deserve to have with your loved one who suffers from chemical dependency. The Family Program is grounded in the 12 step principles and encourages each family member in participating in self help meetings on a regular basis. You can also read more about our services offered. 
In addition, we specialize in working with the children both living and not living with their mom throughout their treatment experience. Children will participate in daily programs in our on-site daycare that assist each youngster in building emotional strength and deepening their resilience. This allows our women with children to participate fully in their own treatment program. Services are provided to children utilizing an array of therapies such as: art, storytelling, role playing, recreation and journaling (depending on age). School age children are enrolled in the Newport Mesa school district and are encouraged to develop healthy participation in extra curricular activities, summer camp programs, and educational programs. Women whose children don’t reside on campus have access to some daycare services and visitations which are handled on a case by case basis. [more info]
