Hope Grows at LESC: Unveiling the Residential Redesign Program

At LESC, we recognize the complex and diverse nature of addiction treatment. As such, we are committed to evolving our treatment offerings to best serve the needs of our clients. We’re preparing to introduce our Residential Redesign Program (also called the 820 Program), a comprehensive approach to addiction treatment designed to provide an individualized path to recovery. LESC is close to being operational with this new program, and so we want to take some time to explain its key features, highlighting its potential benefits for both the individuals we serve and LESC.

The Residential Redesign Program: A Personalized Path to Recovery

The Residential Redesign Program is a groundbreaking initiative designed to transform how we approach addiction treatment. This program improves upon our person-centered approach by broadening the levels of care we offer. LESC will be fully equipped to care for people with any substance use disorder, not just opioids. 

According to Lolita Silva-Vazquez, MA, LMHC, the Vice President & Chief Program Officer at LESC, “Individuals start where they are, and we work with them from that point forward. We no longer limit the time they spend in the program. Instead, we’re going to work with them to find out what their goals are, why they are here, what they want to work on, and how we can help them.”

Here’s a closer look at the Residential Redesign Program’s structure and its core elements:

• Individualized Assessment: The Residential Redesign Program begins with a thorough assessment to understand each client’s unique challenges. This assessment informs the development of a personalized treatment plan that addresses their specific substance use disorder, co-occurring mental health issues, and overall well-being.
• Holistic Care: Unlike similar programs throughout NYC, the Residential Redesign Program at LESC goes beyond just addressing addiction. It incorporates three essential elements of recovery to ensure long-term success: 
  • Stabilization:The Residential Redesign Program offers medication-assisted treatment to manage withdrawal symptoms and establish a foundation for recovery. This phase can last  from 30 to 90 days, depending on the individual’s needs.
  • Rehabilitation:  Once stabilized, clients move into the rehabilitation phase. This intensive program focuses on developing coping mechanisms for triggers, relapse prevention strategies, and healthy social skills. It utilizes a combination of group and individual sessions to foster self-regulation and empower clients to manage their recovery journey.
  • Reintegration:  The final element of the Residential Redesign Program is reintegration. This phase prepares clients for a successful return to their communities. It provides support with vocational training, job searches, resumé writing, and connecting with essential community resources. As clients gain independence, treatment is reduced to a minimum of 5 hours per week, ensuring a smooth transition back into their community.

By offering this comprehensive and client-centered approach, the Residential Redesign Program ensures long-term success by equipping clients with the tools they need to manage their addiction and thrive in all aspects of their lives.

How the Residential Redesign Program Will Enhance What LESC Already Offers

The Residential Redesign Program aligns perfectly with LESC’s mission and expertise. Our long history of providing medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder positions us well to deliver the stabilization element of the program. Lolita shared, “I feel like we’re uniquely positioned because we have the expertise, the knowledge, and a medical team who knows how to work with people who need medication for OUD right on site in our residential treatment programs. So now, with the Residential Redesign Program, we can open our doors to other people who need treatment for other substances.” The Residential Redesign Program allows LESC to leverage its existing strengths while expanding its capacity to support a broader population. 

The Residential Redesign Program at LESC stands out from other treatment options in several key ways:

• Personalized Focus: Unlike traditional programs with fixed durations and group-based treatment, the Residential Redesign Program prioritizes customization. It’s a more client-centered approach that tailors treatment plans to each client’s specific needs and goals. This approach ensures a more effective and empowering recovery experience.
• Comprehensive Care: The Residential Redesign Program goes beyond simply addressing addiction. It’s one of the only programs in NYC that offers all three elements of whole-person care. This holistic approach provides a comprehensive safety net, supporting clients throughout their entire recovery journey.
• Expanding Eligibility: The Residential Redesign Program broadens the scope of treatment at LESC. We’ll be able to serve individuals struggling with a wider range of substance use disorders (SUDs) including Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), Opioid Use Disorder (OUD), Stimulant Use Disorder (StUD) including cocaine and amphetamines, and Cannabis Use Disorder. This allows LESC to address the growing need for treatment across various addictions.

Building Resilience: The Power of Integrated Care at LESC

The Residential Redesign Program at LESC reflects our deep commitment to integrated care. We understand that addiction often occurs along with mental health challenges. “Which came first, the mental health disorder or the substance use disorder? It’s hard to tell sometimes if someone isn’t feeling well mentally, and that’s why they’re using substances to make them feel better. Then, there are co-occurring medical conditions. Whether mild, moderate, or severe we’re able to provide primary care services onsite for our clients,” explained Lolita. By offering mental health and primary care services alongside addiction treatment, we address these issues simultaneously, fostering a more complete and sustainable recovery.

At LESC, we believe that recovery goes beyond simply achieving abstinence. We focus on empowering individuals to develop the necessary tools and strategies to navigate life’s challenges and setbacks without resorting to substance use. The Residential Redesign Program’s emphasis on personalized care and comprehensive support equips clients to work towards a resilient recovery.