Hi, my name is Melissa. I'm an alumnus from Avenues at Concord.
I have never been in treatment before, so I had no expectations. At first, I came in all attitude – like, I have nothing in common with these women; like, I have a mortgage. And I just remember my therapist being like, “Excuse me?”
As much as I dragged my feet, it really was important for me because I had gone so long being so lonely and shut off and isolated. I didn't have that concept of community. For me, it was really the first time having that in quite some time. I just said “I'm gonna do what it takes, because I don't wanna do this again”. Avenue saved my life.
I was very fortunate that I had a great therapist and the two group facilitators I had were just amazing. I am doing what I am doing today because of those group facilitators. They recognize what is important to you and they incorporate it into your treatment. There are so many things that go into staying sober, and it's not just stopping drinking or drugging. That's the first thing, but there's so much more that goes into being in recovery. Coming here helps you figure out what that is.
My name is Melissa, and I found my way home - and you can find your way home too.