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Open the gate to what’s possible

What if six months from now things felt different? What if alcohol or other drugs had less impact on your day-to-day life, and you felt more confident, more supported and more hopeful about what’s next? Maybe life feels a little more manageable. Maybe you’ve found new ways to handle challenges, strengthened important relationships, or created routines that work better for you.

Whatever positive change looks like for you, support is available to help you get there. Whether you’re thinking about cutting back, making changes, or simply exploring your options, you don’t have to do it alone.

You don’t need to have everything figured out today. You just need to open the gate.

Creating options

Creating Options is a free and flexible one-on-one counselling and support program for people experiencing challenges related to alcohol and other drugs.

Together, we’ll work on what matters to you, whether that’s reducing use, improving your wellbeing, managing relationships, or addressing other challenges in your life.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Support is tailored to your goals, your life and the changes you want to make.

Is Creating Options right for me?

Creating Options may be right for you if:

  • You’d like one-on-one support.
  • You want flexible appointments.
  • You’re balancing work, family or other responsibilities.
  • You want support without attending a group program.

About the program

During Creating Options, you’ll meet with your counsellor for a 1-hour session each week, where together, you’ll explore what’s happening in your life, identify areas you’d like to work on, and develop practical ways to take the next step.

In the first few sessions, your counsellor will take the time to understand your situation, identify your short and long-term goals, and work with you to create a plan for positive change.

As you move through the program, you may discover new priorities, challenges or opportunities, which you’ll have the opportunity to review during your weekly sessions.

While your counsellor provides guidance and support, the direction of the program is shaped by you, allowing sessions to focus on what’s most important in your life at that time.

Alongside counselling, your counsellor can provide case management, care coordination and support to connect you with other services and resources where needed.

Each step forward looks different. As your goals evolve and confidence grows, you can explore ongoing support after the first 12 weeks, either by extending your Creating Options journey or exploring other Drug ARM programs to continue taking steps towards positive change.

What to expect?

The goal isn’t simply to address substance use, it’s to build the confidence, skills and strategies needed to manage life’s challenges more effectively.

So, throughout the program you’ll have access to a range of supports designed to help you do so, including:

  • Someone in your corner to support you through challenges and celebrate progress.
  • 12 weeks of free one-on-one support.
  • Practical strategies to help you work towards meaningful goals during the program and after.
  • Tools and skills to work through life’s challenges.
  • Connections to local services, supports and community resources.
  • Support before and after the program.

Through counselling and support from the program, you will develop new strategies, build confidence and work towards meaningful personal goals both today and in the future.

How can we help?

Creating Options is a non-judgmental and supportive space where you can talk about what’s worrying you most when it comes to your alcohol or other drug use.

The program also recognises that alcohol and other drug use doesn’t happen in isolation. That’s why conversations may also explore areas such as:

  • Mental health and emotional wellbeing
  • Relationships and family dynamics
  • Physical health
  • Employment and education
  • Social connections and support networks
  • Lifestyle factors that may be contributing to substance use
  • The opportunity to reduce SPER debt

Throughout the program, you’ll also have the opportunity to build practical skills and develop tools that support positive change and long-term wellbeing. Areas of focus may include:

  • Relapse prevention
  • Coping strategies
  • Relationship skills
  • Anger management
  • Emotional regulation
  • Mental health and wellbeing
  • General health and wellbeing
  • Problem solving and life skills

Support with SPER

If SPER debt is something you’re currently dealing with, it’s worth having a conversation with your counsellor. They can help you explore whether reducing your debt through the program may be an option for you.

Eligibility & Requirements

Creating Options is available to adults aged 18 years and over who are experiencing challenges related to alcohol or other drug use, and related health or lifestyle challenges.

Before you get started, it’s important to know:

  • You do not need to complete detox before starting.
  • You do not need to be abstinent.
  • You do not need to quit smoking.
  • People enter the program with different goals, ranging from reducing harm through to long-term abstinence.

If another program or service is better suited to your needs, we can help connect you to the most appropriate support

Locations & Availability

If the locations or appointment times listed below don’t work for you, please still get in touch. We’ll do our best to find an option that works for your circumstances.

Sessions can be delivered:

  • Face-to-face at a Drug ARM office
  • In the community at an agreed location
  • By phone
  • Via video called

In the following locations:

South East Queensland

  • Brisbane North (Caboolture)
  • Brisbane South (Annerley)
  • Ipswich
  • Gold Coast
  • Gympie / Sunshine Coast
  • Warwick & Stanthorpe

Community outreach is available in Fernvale, Gatton, Boonah and Esk.

Darling Downs & South West Queensland

  • Toowoomba
  • Goondiwindi
  • Roma
  • St George
  • Charleville
  • Cunnamulla

Community outreach is available in Quilpie, Augathella and Morven.

Central & North Queensland

  • Rockhampton
  • Biloela
  • Moura
  • Mackay
  • Moranbah
  • Bowen

Community outreach is available in Gladstone, Proserpine, Collinsville and Dysart.

Beyond the program

Creating Options is designed to support positive change that continues beyond the time you spend in the program. Throughout your involvement, you’ll work towards developing practical strategies, building confidence and identifying goals that support your wellbeing long into the future.

Support doesn’t have to end when the program finishes. As your goals and circumstances change, you may choose to extend your time with Creating Options, explore other Drug ARM programs, or access additional community services and supports that align with your needs and priorities.

I’ve learned about myself and others. I’ve owned my mistakes and embraced the learning. I was accepted at my most vulnerable. Words can’t express my gratitude for this life-changing six months. I now have tools – and a map to find more. I feel empowered, strong, and able to face anything.

Client - photo changed for privacy

My counsellor consistently showed kindness and faith in me, even when things felt
hopeless. They were the first and only person I could talk openly and honestly with.
It was so hard to open up initially and there was a lot I didn’t want to face.

Client - photo changed for privacy

I’ve been in and out of therapy since I was 12, I’ve never understood my values of why I behave in certain ways. It took my worker only 12 sessions to completely change my life. I am living the best life that I ever have and I am in control and the happiest I’ve ever been. Without this service I’m certain I would not have made it through the darkest time of my life. So I am and will be forever grateful for the blessing that this program was.

Client - photo changed for privacy

Day Program

The Day Program provides structured support for people wanting to make more significant changes and connect with others for mutual support.

The program combines group sessions, individual support and practical skill-building over 12 weeks. Along the way, participants develop new skills, build supportive connections and work towards meaningful changes that matter to them.

The goal isn’t simply to address substance use, it’s about building the confidence, skills and strategies needed to manage life’s challenges more effectively.

Is the Day Program right for me?

The Day Program may be right for you if:

  • You’d benefit from more regular support.
  • You want to connect with others facing similar challenges.
  • You’re ready to focus on making meaningful changes.

about the program

The Day Program is a free and structured program that combines group sessions and individual support to help you make meaningful changes in your life.

Each week includes a combination of group sessions and individual support, with approximately 20 hours of contact time each week, across a range of educational, therapeutic and practical activities. You’ll participate alongside a small group of people who may be facing similar challenges, providing opportunities to learn from others, share experiences and build supportive connections.

Group sessions focus on developing practical skills and strategies that support positive change, while individual sessions provide dedicated time to check in with your progress, discuss challenges and ensure that your support remains aligned with your goals and circumstances.

No matter what stage of your journey you are at, the Day Program can help you work on what matters most to you, whether that’s reducing use, improving your wellbeing, strengthening relationships, building confidence, or making positive changes in your daily life. And you don’t have to do it alone!

how can we help?

The Day Program welcomes you into a supportive and non-judgmental environment where you’ll work alongside others who may be experiencing similar challenges related to alcohol and other drug use.

The program takes a holistic approach, recognising that alcohol and other drug use doesn’t happen in isolation. As a result, discussions and activities may also focus on areas such as:

  • Mental health and emotional wellbeing
  • Relationships and communication
  • Physical health and healthy living
  • Employment and education
  • Housing and daily living skills
  • Social connections and support networks
  • Lifestyle factors that may be contributing to substance use
  • The opportunity to reduce SPER debt

Group sessions may cover topics such as:

  • Relapse prevention
  • Managing cravings and triggers
  • Relationship skills
  • Anger management
  • Emotional regulation
  • Mental health and wellbeing
  • General health and wellbeing
  • Problem solving and life skills
  • Learning about nutrition

In your individual sessions, you’ll have support from your dedicated Clinical Worker who will take the time to understand your circumstances, help you work towards your goals, and support you through challenges along the way.

Towards the end of the program, you’ll work with your Clinical Worker to review your progress, identify ongoing supports and develop a plan to help you maintain the positive changes you’ve made.

Support with SPER

If SPER debt is something you’re currently dealing with, it’s worth having a conversation with your counsellor. They can help you explore whether reducing your debt through the program may be an option for you

What to expect?

The goal isn’t simply to address substance use, it’s to build the confidence, skills and strategies needed to manage life’s challenges more effectively.

So, throughout the program you’ll have access to a range of supports designed to help you do so, including:

  • The opportunity to connect with others who understand some of the challenges you may be facing.
  • A space to build confidence, resilience and healthy routines.
  • 12 weeks of free group and individual support.
  • Practical strategies to help you work towards meaningful goals during the 12 weeks and after.
  • Tools and skills to work through life’s challenges.
  • Connections to local services, supports and community resources.
  • Support before and after the program.
  • Individual support from a dedicated Case Worker.

Locations & Availability

The program is delivered during family-friendly hours, making it easier to balance your participation alongside personal, family and other commitments.

The Day Program is currently available in:

South East Queensland

  • Ipswich & Lockyer Valley

Darling Downs & South West Queensland

  • Roma

Day Program sessions are typically held on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday between 9:30am and 2:30pm, with one-on-one appointments scheduled separately with their Case Manager.

The program runs for approximately 20 hours per week over 12 weeks.

In some locations, the program may also be delivered through outreach or travelling services, helping people in rural and regional communities access support closer to home. Speak with our team to find out what options are available in your area.

 

Beyond the Program

The Day Program is designed to support positive change that continues beyond the 12 weeks you spend in the program. Throughout your time with us, you’ll work towards building practical skills, healthy routines and strategies that can support your wellbeing long into the future.

As part of the program, you’ll receive a tablet loaded with resources and tools that can support you along the way. When you finish the program, you will be able to keep the tablet and the resources to continue working towards your future.

In preparation to finish the program, you’ll work with your counsellor to identify ongoing supports, strengthen your recovery plan and explore opportunities to continue taking positive steps forward in your journey.

Support doesn’t have to end when the program finishes. Ongoing options may include:

  • SMART Recovery groups
  • Follow-up check-ins
  • Online learning resources
  • Connections to community services and other Drug ARM programs that align with your goals and circumstances.

It is important to remember that the program is one step in your journey, not the destination. The skills, knowledge, and connections you build throughout the program are designed to support you long after it ends.

 

After multiple treatment programs with Drug ARM I’m finding it has become easier to curb my drinking, easier to get back into good habits and easier to take responsibility. Drug ARM has been, and continues to be a key part of my journey. I know it’s a safe place for me to talk, to learn, to cry, to laugh, to be accountable and to get better.

Client - photo changed for privacy

My experience at Drug ARM has been absolutely amazing. I’ve made huge progress. My counsellors have been incredibly attentive, thoughtful and caring.

Client - photo changed for privacy

Let's clear a few things up

We’re not here to judge or tell you what your goals should be. We’re here to listen, understand what’s important to you, and help you identify practical changes that work for you. You don’t need to have everything figured out to benefit from a confidential chat with one of our team.

No.
Whether your goal is to quit, cut back, or simply understand your options, support can start wherever you’re at.

That’s okay too.
Many people come to us because they’re questioning their relationship with alcohol or other drugs, or wondering whether things could be different. You don’t need to have all the answers before reaching out.

No.
We’re not here to judge you or tell you what your goals should be. We’re here to listen, understand what’s important to you, and help you identify practical steps that align with your goals.

Support looks different for everyone.
For some people, it’s a conversation. For others, it’s learning new strategies, building confidence, improving relationships, creating healthier routines, or working towards reducing or stopping substance use.

Support isn’t just for people using alcohol or other drugs.
If you’re concerned about a family member, partner or friend, we’re here to support you too.

No. What you discuss with us stays private and confidential.
We won’t share your personal information with family members, employers, government agencies or anyone else without your permission.
The only exceptions are when we’re legally required to act to help keep someone safe, such as concerns about child safety, serious risk of harm to yourself or others, or if information is required by a court of law.
If you’re unsure about privacy or confidentiality, we’re happy to talk you through it before you decide to engage with support.

You don’t need to have all the answers before reaching out. Whether you’re ready to make changes, exploring your options, or simply curious about what support could look like, we’re here to listen.

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General Enquiries
1300 656 800

Intake Service
(07) 3620 8880