MATRIX MODEL USED IN METH PILOT PROJECT

Crystal meth-addicted youth in Maple Ridge will soon have one more
avenue opened to them.

The Fraser Health Authority announced it would launch the matrix model
of treatment through the Maple Ridge Treatment Centre.

The matrix model was developed by methamphetamine experts out of Los
Angeles, and will run along with the youth home detox pilot program
that was announced in December.

The youth home detox program is just that.

Youth will go through detox at home, rather than in a traditional
residential facility. For those without a safe, supportive home
environment, a safe house will be found.

MRTC clinical service co-ordinator Marika Sandrelli said the matrix
program will complement the home detox program, enhancing it to
include treatment and aftercare. The matrix program, she said, was
chosen because of the successes of the L.A.-based Matrix Institute.

"They're world renowned for having major success where everybody else
has failed," Sandrelli said.

At the end of the day, however, she cautioned it's going to take the
whole community coming together to address crystal meth addiction.

"It takes more than just an addictions counsellor to treat addiction.
It takes other choices and opportunities...the more people that wrap
around the youth the more chances that youth has."

The pilot project will provide withdrawal management, clinical
counselling, peer education and support, family education and support
and the use of a coach or mentor that is chosen by the youth to help
with re-integration into the community. It is designed for youths aged
16 to 24, and there is currently no program like it in the province.

Sandrelli said MRTC is in the process of hiring a group of
professionals to oversee the project, and within the next couple of
months, the first clients will be welcomed.

Being that it's a one-year pilot project, she said the goal is to
gather as much data and help as many youths as possible.

Eventually, she said, the hope is to implement the matrix program in
other communities throughout the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley.

MRTC expects to treat no fewer than 80 addicted youths in the first
year.

"Not every youth is going to be a good fit...it is really for the
youth that can work within this model that can stay in an outpatient
capacity."