NorthStar Regional

Trauma-Informed Care for Women

The women’s programs are built around a trauma-informed approach that recognizes how past experiences—such as abuse, neglect, or chronic stress—can shape substance use and mental health. Clinical staff are trained to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel respected and empowered. Treatment includes group and individual therapy that focuses on emotional regulation, boundary setting, and trauma processing, with an emphasis on building trust and reducing re-traumatization. The women-only setting allows clients to focus on healing in a space designed to meet their specific emotional and relational needs.

Home-Like Residential Amenities

The Walnut Street residential location offers a home-like, structured setting. Housed in a renovated historic building, the facility includes single and double-occupancy rooms, shared common areas, and access to kitchen and laundry facilities. The environment is intentionally calm and community-oriented, supporting daily routines like group meals and peer check-ins. Clients benefit from 24-hour staffing and participate in individual therapy, group work, and skill-building activities.

Flexible Support With On-Site Lodging

The Women’s Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) with Lodging provides structured care alongside supportive housing. This program is designed for women who don’t need 24-hour supervision but benefit from a stable, substance-free living environment. Clients attend group therapy, individual counseling, and recovery skills sessions during the day. This setup offers a bridge between residential treatment and independent living, allowing clients to maintain structure, peer connection, and accountability while regaining independence in their recovery.

Evidence-Based, 12-Step, and Faith-Based Care

Clients typically receive at least one individual therapy session per week, with additional support based on their specific needs. The center integrates evidence-based therapies with 12-step principles and optional faith-based support. Core treatment includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and relapse prevention strategies—all led by licensed staff. The program incorporates 12-step concepts like personal accountability, peer support, and service, which are reinforced in both group discussions and community routines. For clients who choose, optional faith-based offerings include prayer groups and Bible study. These elements are never required but available to support spiritual healing. This flexible model allows clients to engage with what’s most meaningful to them.

Peer Connection and Community Environment

The center emphasizes connection and accountability through a strong peer community. Clients participate in group therapy alongside informal, self-led activities like game nights, fitness groups, and peer-organized check-ins. The smaller facility size allows for deeper personal connections. This community-focused approach supports emotional safety and motivation—key factors in maintaining long-term recovery. Clients are encouraged to show up for one another and engage meaningfully in the treatment process.

Patient Reviews: Mixed but Revealing

Feedback from former patients and families is deeply mixed. Some describe the intake staff as a beacon of hope and found the treatment life-changing. Others express serious concerns, citing issues like medication access and facility cleanliness. These contrasts point to variability in experience and suggest that while some individuals thrive here, others may find the environment less supportive. Prospective patients may benefit from speaking directly with staff or touring the facility before admission.