Alberta Adolescent Recovery Centre

About Alberta Adolescent Recovery Centre

AARC supports adolescents and young adults aged 12 to 21 who are dealing with moderate to severe drug or alcohol addiction through a long-term, semi-residential 12-step program. Established in 1992, AARC is an evidence-informed treatment option in which participants live in “recovery homes,” take part in both group and individual therapy, and receive guidance from licensed clinicians, peer counselors, and their families. The program focuses on complete abstinence, strengthening nutrition and physical well-being, and building recovery with a strong family-centered approach.

Care starts with a family and teen pre-assessment, followed by further screening to confirm whether AARC is the right fit. After that, teens move through four stages: Levels 1 and 2 form the initial recovery phase, Level 3 is the transitional period, and Level 4 is the advanced stage. For most participants, the process takes about 8 to 12 months, typically around 10 months. Studies indicate a 73% sobriety success rate 12 months after completing treatment.

During Level 1, clients live in recovery homes—private residences with experienced host families—while attending treatment six days per week, including family meetings. In Level 2, they transition back home but continue daily treatment and mentor new participants. Level 3 combines school or work responsibilities with therapy sessions in the evenings or on Saturdays. By Level 4, clients return to their full school or work routine, support incoming peers, and prepare for maintaining sobriety after graduation.

AARC also works to keep treatment available to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances. After a confidential pre-assessment, the program sets a daily fee for each family based on their ability to pay. Many families receive financial assistance through donations, grants, and fundraising efforts. While the actual daily cost is higher, families contribute only an amount they can afford and still benefit from the full family-based treatment approach and AARC’s ongoing community support.

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