Our Approach

Part of our success at EHN is attributed to treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. We do this by incorporating two different concepts into the healing process;

The 5 pillars of recovery and peer-to peer support

5 Pillars of Recovery

The programming at EHN is based on the core five pillars outlined below. Each of the five pillars addresses a different aspect of the healing process, all of which are equally important. We understand that there are different paths to healing, which is why we include both holistic and traditional healing methods as part of our programming. Residents are encouraged to choose whichever method, or combination of methods, that works best for them.

Physical healing is one of the first pillars of recovery we encourage individuals to focus on because it plays a significant role when it comes to overall sense of well-being. Physical healing comes in many forms - a medical issue that needs to be addressed, incorporating healthy habits into your daily routine or making positive lifestyle changes.

Improved physical health through exercise and healthy eating habits can also help minimize stress, reduce cravings and improve symptoms of co-occurring disorders.

Mental health impacts just about everything - it impacts an individual's emotional and physical symptoms, their ability to handle stress, their life choices, etc. With that said, it's no secret that mental health can be challenging. This pillar of recovery is meant to increase emotional awareness, explore different tools and resources, as well as develop healthy coping mechanisms to help you through life's challenges.

Spiritual healing is where an individual starts to look at their "why", what their values are and what gives them a sense of purpose. With this pillar we'll encourage the exploration of these different areas and how they play a role in each individual's journey to recovery. For some this means leaning on and growing their relationship with God, or another higher power. For others this simply means looking at different ways to incorporate lifestyle changes that support their purpose.

Peer-to-Peer Support

Another core aspect of the programming at EHN is the peer-to-peer support model. This model is foundational to our success and has proven to be beneficial in a number of ways outlined below.

Peer-to-peer support encourages a sense of mutual support and understanding through shared experiences. Many times, especially with our veterans, it can be difficult to find common ground or understanding with someone who has never experienced what they have. With the peer-to-peer model, it gives individuals a chance to find support with someone (or a group of people) who has been in their shoes. Being able to ask questions or come up with solutions can also seem easier with peers because they may have had similar questions or struggles themselves.

The peer-to-peer model allows peers to play an active role in the program structure, strategy and how programs are led. Here at EHN, we encourage this, because we know everyone has a different path to healing. Different things work for different people. In addition, some individuals find that once they've made it through their own programming they find fulfillment in pursuing a path to becoming a peer provider or recovery coach.

Peer-to-peer support can also aid in successful, long-term healing and recovery. When you're surrounded by like-minded people, pursuing similar goals of healing, it inspires you to keep going. When you see people who have completed their programming and soared on towards a life of sobriety and recovery, it's a positive reminder that healing and thriving is possible. Peer-to-peer support helps you achieve goals by providing a fresh perspective of what life can be like after establishing healthy relationships with peers that you trust, sometimes leading to lifelong friendships.