Extended Hours Service

Page content: Target group | Key service requirements

In order to improve accessibility of services to clients after hours and on weekends, the capacity of one Counselling, Consultancy and Continuing Care drug treatment service in five Regions has been enhanced. Services provided include assessment, counselling, consultancy and continuing care, referral and ongoing case management. Enhancing the capacity of services in this way ensures that drug treatment services have the capacity to provide face-to-face counselling as well as telephone contact outside standard working hours. An out-of-hours capacity has been provided until 10 pm from Monday to Friday and from 9 am to 5 pm on weekends.

Target Group

Key Service Requirements

• Client services will be provided until 10 pm weekdays and 9 am - 5 pm Saturday and Sunday.
  
  
• To provide a range of psychosocial treatment and support services, including counselling, to effect and maintain therapeutic change in individuals with alcohol and drug use problems.
  
  
• To provide a variety of counselling interventions, including individual or group-based interventions, relapse prevention, cognitive-behavioural interventions, motivational interviewing, controlled use interventions and psychotherapy, when appropriate.
  
  
• To provide case management and planning for clients with complex problems or who require assistance in controlling their drug use which includes:
  • conducting an assessment of the client’s continuing alcohol and drug service requirements; and
  • developing an Individual Treatment Plan with the client, which is based on the initial assessment, including appropriate referrals.
    
    
• To ensure that programs for young people are tailored to their needs, are accessible, have flexible hours, work closely with the young person’s family group and build strong links with relevant agencies.
  
  
• To provide appropriate services, where relevant, for carers and families of those affected by alcohol and drug use.
  
  
• To facilitate linkages with other health service providers in relation to the management and treatment of alcohol and drug problems.
  
  
• To provide expert advice to a range of clinical services within or across organisations including primary and acute care settings and other services funded by the Department.

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