A new chapter starts here.

More about the Metrix Program

The Metrix Program is an intensive treatment program for addiction. We believe education about addiction and how to manage the effects of addiction (withdrawal and cravings) is vital to recovery. Establishing new ways of thinking and behaving under stress is also important to a person’s recovery from addiction. Treatment in the Metrix Program takes place while the person in recovery goes about their day-to-day activities, as we consider it’s important to learn how to manage recovery in the “real world”, not the artificial world of a rehab centre.  

We don’t consider addiction a disease. Drawing upon recent scientific evidence, we see addiction as a “neurobiological” issue, in which the substance “hijacks” the automatic part of the brain. The substance habit then becomes stabilised within the brain because it serves a purpose for the person using the substance. What is seen as an addiction, where the person can’t stop, is due to automatic triggers that set off cravings within that individual’s brain. Before someone joins the program, we like to conduct an assessment of the person’s psychological functioning and drug-use profile. We then provide feedback to the person before they decide to join the program.  

We are up-front with everyone who wants to join the Metrix Program. The treatment asks a lot of participants (minimum of 3 contacts a week) and there’s regular homework. To be effective, the program has to be intensive, as substance addiction changes the biology of the brain. Some people have found it difficult to maintain commitment to the program and have dropped out. However, we find people who work at the program and do the regular tasks the program requires, benefit enormously. We require people to be abstinent for at least 5 days prior to entering the program.

Anyone accepted into the program needs to be prepared to attend a minimum of 3 sessions each week and participants can attend up to 6 sessions a week for the 20 week intensive phase. There are sessions both during the day and after-hours, as well as on Saturday mornings. Our groups are generally small (between 4 to 8 participants). Sessions are run at our West Perth office. The intensive phase is 20 weeks, followed by a Maintenance phase in which people are required to attend a minimum of 2 sessions a week for 14 weeks and then 1 session a week for a further 14 weeks in the Transition Phase. In total this is a 48-week program. We encourage family members or support people to be involved in our Strengthening Support Systems groups held on Wednesday evenings.  

The program asks for a regular commitment. If you decide to sign up for the program, there’s a requirement to sign an agreement to abide by the rules set for the Metrix Program. You can withdraw from the program at any time and there’s no further cost or obligation. As mentioned, it is a fee-for-service program. Details are in the Metrix Brochure. The program fee can be paid on a week-by-week basis, after the decision is made to commit to the program and join. Some private health funds cover group programs.  You will need to check with your health fund provider to determine if they will provide a rebate for group therapy.