CWSS provides a community-based alternative to residential withdrawal management for individuals who can safely withdraw from alcohol and/or other substances while remaining in their home or community setting. Services are voluntary and available to adults (18+) living in Guelph and Wellington County.
The program supports individuals through the withdrawal process while collaborating with healthcare providers, community agencies, and support persons involved in their care. In addition to direct client services, CWSS offers consultation, education, and capacity-building to service providers and families.
Eligibility Criteria
Individuals may be appropriate for CWSS if they:
- Are 18 years of age or older
- Have a stable place to stay within Guelph-Wellington
- Have reliable access to a telephone
- Are willing and able to follow treatment recommendations
- Have a supportive person available during acute withdrawal, when needed
- Do not have a history of complicated withdrawals or significant medical concerns that would require a higher level of care
- Have a goal of reducing or changing substance use (abstinence is not required and harm reduction approaches are supported)
Stages of Service
- Pre-Withdrawal Planning
-
- Assessment and withdrawal planning
- Education regarding the withdrawal process
- Development of an individualized withdrawal plan
- Acute Withdrawal Support
-
- Telephone and/or in-person contact at least twice daily
- Completion of withdrawal monitoring checklists
- Provision of:
- The Plan resource guide
- Withdrawal comfort kit
- Withdrawal cards and educational materials
- Post-Acute Withdrawal Support
-
- Weekly counselling and recovery planning
- Ongoing support and monitoring
- Referrals to treatment programs and longer-term counselling services
Program duration: Approximately 3 to 6 months based on client need.
Capacity-building and Education
CWSS also provides:
- Withdrawal management education workshops for staff and community partners
- Education and support sessions for family members and friends supporting someone through withdrawal
- Consultation for referring agencies and primary care providers
Resources
The Plan
“The Plan” is a comprehensive withdrawal support guide developed by Stonehenge Therapeutic Community. It provides detailed information about withdrawal symptoms, substance-specific considerations, and guidance for clients, families, and professionals supporting withdrawal.
Withdrawal Kits
Specially designed kits developed with input from individuals with lived experience. Kits include comfort and support items such as:
- Food items
- Hot/cold packs
- Hygiene supplies
- Educational resources
- Other practical withdrawal supports
Referrals and Contact Information
For referrals, questions, or additional information:
Community Withdrawal Support Service (CWSS)
1-844-722-2977 (toll free)
This service offers a flexible, harm-reduction-focused approach to withdrawal management while helping individuals remain connected to their community and ongoing recovery supports.
