Chemical dependency continues to be one of the main issues of the incarcerated, with approximately 85% of the offenders having substance abuse problems.

The gap between offender needs and program capacity is compounded by the methamphetamine epidemic in our state. Methamphetamine seizures by Probation and Parole officers increased from 8,711 grams in FY04 to 11,193 grams in FY05. The department uses Meth Matrix, a nationally sanctioned drug treatment program, as the primary source of stabilizing, educating, and treating methamphetamine abuse.

RELAPSE PREVENTION: An open-ended short term cognitive-behavioral program to help offenders identify their substance abuse patterns and triggers related to using alcohol and drugs. Upon completion of this phase, they begin developing drug refusal skills and a relapse prevention plan. Role-playing practice is essential for learning to change their emotions, friends, social milieu, and recreation habits. Participants are encouraged to participate in a 12 Step group. Offenders should have drug-alcohol education before entering this program. As part of Relapse Prevention, IDOC provides Drug and Alcohol Education. Tools are provided to understand the effect that alcohol and drugs have on the individual, work, family, and community.

INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT TREATMENT: Program consisting of relapse prevention, problem solving, skills training.

NEW DIRECTIONS: A six-manual cognitive-behavioral intensively delivered program for offenders with substance abuse problems. The offender population receiving the program is housed together in a Community Model at NICI. New Directions has a standardized aftercare component for graduates.

NEW DIRECTIONS VARIED LEVEL: A three-manual abbreviated form of New Directions.

NEW DIRECTIONS AFTERCARE: Designed as a continuation of treatment for those offenders who participated in the New Directions Program while incarcerated. The program focuses on implementing, practicing, and reinforcing relapse prevention knowledge and skills obtained in the New Directions Program.

MATRIX MODEL TREATMENT FOR STIMULANT ABUSE (Meth Matrix): This is a treatment model based on best practices and chemical dependency treatment principles. Meth Matrix provides knowledge and support to achieve abstinence and initiate long-term recovery. Includes early recovery education about the neurobiology of addiction, relapse prevention and family education.