This is not about the car wash, which I have no doubt is superior because it is staffed by male clients who are trying to better themselves. Most of the counselors, interns and support staff at Options mean well, try hard and are truly caring. Shawna, Angela, Kim, Greg, Daryll, Dr Coady, and many others are all first rate folks. When I came to the program I was indigent in all facets of my life. My addiction to substances had cost me everything I had. To the aforementioned staff and other clients I will be forever grateful for caring about me enough to gain a sense of direction and self worth. I have recently crossed paths with others who are in the same circumstances I experienced, and I gave them the contact information for the program.
On the down side, there are some staff members that foster a toxic, unsafe environment that is not always conducive to recovery. Personally, I can say that feeling unsafe in my surroundings can be a hindrance to my progress.
A house manager, Lashandra, comes off as arrogant, rude and disrespectful. She seems to be unclear about the basic standards of confidentiality and professional behavior. One's individual situation frequently becomes common knowledge amongst other clients at other houses and in the program community. She has been witnessed talking unfavorably about clients/residents to other clients. She also has been witnessed mentioning staff members (who are superior in rank) in a detrimental manner. She was recently put on staff as a counselor. Pam, the housing director presents in a cold and condescending manner that conveys a message of indifference towards you and your well-being.
A previous review of Options mentioned overcrowded, unsanitary living conditions. I agree. Infestations, yes...there are ants everywhere, sometimes bedbugs. Maintenance issues that effect resident's health and safety go neglected for months. Serious issues with residents that common sense would indicate the need for immediate interventions by staff can result in a passing of the buck. There is a serious lack of communication and accountability......residents are kept in the dark about who to call for what issue. Rules seem to be invented on the spur of the moment so one is often unsure about the outcome of a variety of situations. Of common knowledge is an attempted sexual assault in one of the residences last year that resulted in a lack of action on the part of the staff. This incident cost the program a major, lucrative contract with the Department of Justice.
Despite what is publicized, "intensive case management" is a non-entity. I know one person who has a serious dual diagnosis. After 3 months in, they had yet to be seen in the program's mental health clinic. Some clients in the program seem to evade consequences for destructive behaviors while others may experience those that are serious for more minor infractions.
In general, the program and housing has a chaotic and unstable atmosphere that can make it difficult for one to focus on their recovery. Of course, one is responsible for their own recovery and sobriety and many things are what you make of them, but Options would benefit greatly from a strong leader, consistency and more cohesion for the benefit of the clients. read more
