Processes and perspectives of recovery

A qualitative approach

Abstract

Authors explore processes and perspectives of recovery as seen by clients and helpers in therapeutic communities. Interviews were made with clients – mostly polydrug users – in stable and early recovery. Critical incident analyses were conducted with professional helpers and experts of experience. For the person with substance use disorder whose social disintegration has gone far and has reached an „outcast” state, therapeutic communities open the road for inclusion. The experience of “hitting the bottom” is a common but not necessary precondition for the clients to begin their journey to sobriety. The therapeutic community provides a safe atmosphere which facilitates taking responsibility for one’s own recovery, promotes social learning, and challenges previous identityelements. Helpers’ own life experiences and willingness for joint development are core elements of success. Cases when a client leaves the community without completing the programme emerged as problematic
areas, the study of which may contribute to the development of therapeutic programs.