The Crossroads Program

I m not going to sit here and say that I was perfect in the Crossroads program (the group) because I was not. However, I have tried the program three separate times now, so I have a lot of experience with the terrors AND perks of the program. Let s start with the positives, it is a group of children and adults that have the intention of not only teaching you the skills to stay sober, but also showing you that sobriety can be fun! Now, I ll talk about my experience the amount of guilt and shame they have caused me is incredible actually. These are examples of things COUNSELORS/the executive director has said to me: You make it very hard for people to love you. You are too mentally ill for this program. You have the lowest self-worth I ve ever seen while working here. If you are an addict, or understand anything about addiction, one of the reasons addicts use is shame so this was not constructive to my recovery whatsoever. They also have an outpatient room that is not separated into adults and youth, so your 13 year old could be in the same outpatient as as a 24 year old. I do like the new senior counselor, I think he s a very understanding guy, but unfortunately he doesn t make the decisions so it doesn t really do much.When I was still in outpatient, we had resentment days which was probably the most ridiculous idea. During this day, outpatient clients would have conversations about all of the things they hated about another person in outpatient. It was humiliating and another way to force the feeling of shame on the groups members.Counselors in the Crossroads program are not required to go to school for a degree in this area, they are required, I think, two years sober and go through a training process through the Crossroads program. In my opinion, this is not even close to enough to truly understand addiction, ways to treat it, and how to treat other in addiction.I have talked to my own personal (licensed) therapist about the things that have happened at Crossroads. She was baffled at the way they were treating its members. I even went to a SMART recovery meeting the day I was kicked out of the program and was told that they couldn t even imagine the trauma that caused me when I explained my experience.I was told that once I went to an inpatient and was mentally stable , I could reach out to the director again and see if I could join. However, I m not going to beg to be in a program that I have never been understood or appreciated in. I am going to an inpatient treatment program, but when I come back and I have healed a little, I will not let someone, who didn t believe in my recovery and didn t stick around to help, see the amazing and lovable person I ve become.I m not saying don t send your child here , I m informing you of the possible consequences when sending your child here. Remind your child that there is hope

My experience with the Crossroads Program, coupled with an understanding of its history and the individuals involved, has raised significant concerns about their overall approach and the quality of care provided. It is important for individuals considering rehabilitation services to be aware of these issues.Crossroads Program, founded by Bob Meehan, Clint Stone Breaker, and Amy Weiland, initially gained recognition for their efforts in addressing substance abuse and addiction. However, the involvement of these individuals and the program's evolution over time have raised concerns about its effectiveness and commitment to evidence-based practices.Bob Meehan, often considered a guru in the field, played a prominent role in the development of the Crossroads Program. While he may have garnered a following and achieved success in certain circles, it is essential to critically assess the approach and principles promoted. Programs led by individuals who position themselves as gurus or leaders can be problematic, as they may prioritize their own ideas and experiences over established scientific evidence and individualized care.Clint Stone Breaker and Amy Weiland, who were also involved in the founding and development of Crossroads Program, contributed to its initial reputation. However, as the field of rehabilitation has progressed, concerns have emerged regarding the program's failure to adapt to evidence-based practices and provide individualized care. It is crucial to assess the qualifications and expertise of individuals leading a rehabilitation program to ensure the highest standard of care.One of the main concerns I encountered during my time at Crossroads was the lack of individualized care. Despite the advancements in personalized treatment models, the program seemed to follow a rigid and standardized approach, failing to consider the unique needs and circumstances of each participant. This one-size-fits-all approach may not effectively address the diverse challenges faced by individuals seeking help.Moreover, Crossroads Program appeared to emphasize a single approach without considering alternative evidence-based practices. Successful rehabilitation requires a comprehensive and flexible approach that integrates various therapeutic interventions based on individual needs. Unfortunately, the program seemed to lack this crucial element, potentially limiting the effectiveness of their treatment methods.Another notable issue was the absence of qualified professionals among their counseling staff. A successful rehabilitation program should be staffed with certified and experienced professionals who can provide evidence-based treatment. Unfortunately, Crossroads seemed to lack the necessary emphasis on ensuring a highly skilled and qualified staff, raising concerns about the level of expertise and competence provided.Furthermore, the environment at Crossroads was less than conducive to open dialogue and personal growth. The use of labels and tactics to discredit valid concerns and silence dissenting voices is counterproductive and creates a toxic atmosphere. A nurturing and respectful environment is crucial for individuals to feel safe and supported during their recovery journey.Considering these concerns, I strongly urge anyone seeking rehabilitation services to explore other options that prioritize individualized care, evidence-based practices, and a supportive environment. Understanding the history and current state of Crossroads Program, as well as the individuals involved, is essential in making an informed decision about your recovery journey.Please note that this review is based on my personal experience and observations, as well as an understanding of the history and individuals associated with Crossroads Program. I encourage others to conduct their own research

When my children were in high school, I noticed the kids today party much more than when I was a kid. For a while, I thought their actions were those of normal teens, having fun, blowing off steam, etc..After all, they were teens, and mine were enrolled in a tough private school. I tried to justify the pressure not to rock the boat at home. Well, it started getting out of hand; failing grades, disrespect, lies, rudeness, and no concern for each other, and certainly not for my husband or myself. We tried a few licensed therapists whom my children had snowed. An education counselor strongly recommended a wilderness program in Utah for approximately 3 months only to follow up with a therapeutic boarding school for the following year. Parents will do anything for their child, especially when you feel helpless, don t know where to turn, and you feel them slipping away emotionally. Wilderness may be great for some, but it was a very temporary band aid for mine barely scratching the surface. The so called therapeutic boarding school was the scariest place I had ever visited. I wasn t one bit surprised when I realized my child regressed at that school, but my intention here isn t to bash the schools as they may help with other issues, but they don t address addiction. I ll get to the point Crossroads Recovery Program.. I made the call, and it was the best decision I have ever made. As a mother, I knew it was the perfect program for my daughter, and later, my son. My husband, however, took his time doing due his diligence. A week later, our daughter was enrolled, and months after that, our son joined the group. After my initial jitters, I found myself absolutely adoring this program and all it had to offer. I have to say I was weary of my kid hanging out with former addicts, and then I thought, wait, these kids are now sober, no one is forcing them to be here, and helping the new kids in turn helps them. Crossroads is based on the twelve step program. It s a strong, solid program, for addicts and non addicts. It strengthens relationships and enriches lives, and it can be incorporated in all areas of one s life. Let me tell you just a few things I have learned from Crossroads; it s not a short fix-meaning you don t just go to a 30 day program and you re miraculously cured! It takes your teen, or twenty something child to want to change his/her life, and it takes at least a couple of years before they are ready to move on from the program after all, they are young! They have unbelievable second-to-none support from the peers in the group, counselors and group and graduates as well. They have a blast in this program, and come to realize sobriety is much more fun than their previous lifestyles. They have learned real life lessons, and I am still amazed at how grateful, kind, caring, and honest my children are because of Crossroads. Just in the past three plus years we have been involved, several grads are now in college, working, or both, and two that I know of headed off to med school. I am very grateful to have gotten to know the participants in Crossroads; they are the sweetest, most caring, non judgmental and fun group of teens/twenties I have ever known. For the first several months I was involved with the parent meetings because I would do anything to support my children. Over time I have come to realize that those meetings are for me & for my own healing, after all, addiction is a family disease. I am continually learning from the parent education meetings. It s an unexpected bonus that I feel that I have grown as a person as well, (always a work in progress).These counselors give their time and talents more than any other. A big part of the success of Crossroads is because the counselors have all been there, and the kids can totally relate to them. They get it, and they are totally dedicated. Is it perfect? I would have to say no but I don t know what I would change! I do know there is no better support out there, I can t say enough good things about Crossroads. Forever grateful.