THE MODEL
STEP offers service on demand. No appointment, no waiting list. Just walk in and get help. STEP’s service model offers immediate relief from emotional turmoil, presents possible solutions to critical client needs, and teaches new skills to handle further emotional distress. It helps people achieve relief and results without a drink or drug. Services are designed to help clients look at themselves and cultivate a sense of personal responsibility. This model is values-based and client centered, offering walk-in services on demand in a community setting. This year STEP will also be developing more traditional outpatient services in an effort to develop third-party billing capability.
THE SETTING
STEP provides a safe haven so clients can feel welcome in a supportive environment. The setting is open and casual, and every effort is made to help participants feel safe and “at home”. In an atmosphere of non-judgmental, unconditional support, clients learn to achieve consistency, security, and stability in their lives.
WHAT MAKES STEP DIFFERENT?
The following features make the STEP model unique:
Community-based model
- service on demand
- no appointments
- no specific time limit for client sessions
- varying lengths of participation
- case-specific wrap-around services
- a culture of recovery based on 12-step principles modeled by all managers and staff members
- a welcoming, inclusive culture and environment
- open and honest communication
- flex-model: develop services in response to emerging and evolving client, community or systemic needs, for example: VIP: Violence Intervention/ Prevention Program in response to high demand for participants with substance use and violence in their profile
- open setting
- team approach
- IT/ specially-designed, user-friendly software system which provides tailor-made electronic support to service staff
- STEP has a proven record of success. Previous independent research conducted by Dr. Daniel LeClair, director and chairman of the department of applied social sciences at Boston University, demonstrated that even two years after their initial contact with STEP, 67% of STEP’s criminal justice-involved clients have ceased criminal activity and recidivism.