San juan county meth pilot project/dwi center

The methamphetamine pilot project concept was introduced to the Governor in January of 2006 by a bi-partisan group of local legislators, county elected officials, and County staff. The plan was to develop a pilot methamphetamine treatment strategy based on the significant success of the San Juan County DWI Detention, Treatment, & Aftercare Program.

The methamphetamine pilot project processed the first group of clients into the program on November 1, 2006. A special orientation event was held in Judge John Dean's courtroom . The Alternative Sentencing Division oversees the DWI Center, the Methamphetamine Pilot Project, and the Adult Misdemeanor Compliance Program.

The methamphetamine pilot project shares a secure, minimum-security jail campus with the current San Juan County 28-Day DWI program. Making every effort to assure a safe and secure environment for all program participants, the same basic rules exist for both the meth clients and the DWI clients.

Treatment programming and dorm housing remain separate, although co-located; the DWI and meth clients are together only for meals and religious services. The daily, Monday through Friday, schedule consists of exercise and group sessions in the morning, followed by lunch. In the afternoon there are additional group sessions or educational units.

The meth pilot project employs the same empirically-supported treatment strategy and protocols in use by the DWI program; researchers from the University of New Mexico Center on Alcohol, Substance Abuse, and Addictions (UNM-CASAA) are interested in a thorough evaluation of the program.

The methamphetamine pilot project provides 60 days of gender appropriate jail-based substance abuse treatment, preceded and followed by intensive case management. About a year of aftercare services follow the initial inpatient program.

Treatment services are provided by Presbyterian Medical Services and Totah Behavioral Health Authority during the Intensive Outpatient and Aftercare phases. Recovery is a life-long commitment. The treatment strategy, sensitive to the engagement level and ability of the clients, includes individual & group therapy, life skills, substance abuse & health education, 12-Step programs, etc. Experienced Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors (LADACs) and case managers provide direct services. Administrative and supervisory functions are provided by Alternative Sentencing Division / DWI Center staff.