Magdalene Serenity House provides evidence-based programming to address the complex needs of our residents. Evidence-based interventions are developed from results of scientific studies rather than assumptions or old wives tales. Did your mom tell you that going outside with wet hair will cause you to catch a cold? Do you believe that spicy food causes stomach ulcers? Scientific studies provide evidence that neither of these beliefs are true.

While love and compassion are essential components of healing, without other interventions, most people will not be successful in combating trauma and addiction. The National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices provides information about scientifically established interventions for the treatment of substance abuse and mental health. This online repository lists over 350 interventions. Nonetheless, there exists an abundance of programs that provide little to no scientific basis for their treatment.

How is Our Program Different?

Magdalene Serenity House recognizes and addresses the complex needs of this population of women. Substance use disorder (addiction) is not a stand alone problem. Many people use substances to cope with trauma and violence in their lives. They are self-medicating. Without taking the time to examine why people use substances, one is unlikely to truly heal from addiction. Additionally, most insurance programs only cover about 30 days care for inpatient treatment of addiction.

The social workers who have developed and initiated the programming at Magdalene Serenity House have implemented several evidence based interventions including yoga, mindfulness, meditation, equine therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and trauma-informed care. There are numerous studies demonstrating these interventions assist in managing stress and reducing relapse.

Maintaining sobriety is difficult for individuals who face other complex issues in their lives. Without assistance in addressing these issues, sobriety is often short lived. Magdalene Serenity House provides assistance with legal issues (child custody, outstanding charges, etc. ), resumes and job training, transportation, mental and physical health needs, and financial planning.

Thirty days is a short period of time to treat a chronic illness such as substance use disorder. As with any chronic disease, life-long intensive follow up is necessary. Lifestyle changes are required and the risk of relapse is high. A residential program that provides services and monitors performance over two years is better positioned to assess individual needs, provide resources, and offer support than programs only addressing addiction.

Resident Achievements

• Another resident has purchased a car bringing the total to four residents with cars. Volunteers and staff provide transportation for residents for appointments and the first 60 days of employment. Residents are given assistance in using public transportation after the 60 days.
• Two residents are no longer on parole! Residents on parole are required to meet with parole officers every month and pay a $35 fee each month. Residents at MSH have little difficulty meeting the conditions of parole as the program provides a safe, drug-free environment as well as alcohol and drug screening. Congratulations to those completing their parole!
• Three residents have completed Phase Portfolios reflecting their achievement of the program requirements in Phase 2. As these residents enter Phase 3, they will further develop life and leadership skills as they prepare to live an independent, sober life and prepare for graduation.

Intern Spotlight

Julia Conroy is a student at the University of Arkansas, working toward her doctorate in Counselor Education. She received her Master’s in Counseling and has worked primarily in private practice settings but is looking forward to getting to work with the women of Magdalene. Her counseling takes a special focus on the importance of developing secure attachments in relationships as a means of healing through connection. She looks forward to seeing how her new clients can benefit from this approach and learning from their stories of resilience and strength!

Thank You!

We want to thank all of our donors and volunteers who have given so generously over the past year. We could not do this work without the support of our community. This year we will have our first four graduates and will welcome four new women into the Magdalene program. Your gifts will help us transition our first graduates into the community and help us support new residents in the beginning of their healing journey. If you are interested in donating and/or contributing monthly please contact april@lovehealsnwa.org. Interested in volunteering? Contact liz@lovehealsnwa.org.