Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the program?
The average length of stay is 30 to 60 days. However because each client is different the duration of treatment might be longer. We do require an initial commitment of 30 days. Each client is expected to transition through the first Five Phases of The Bayside Model, attend a specified number of groups and activities, accept the discharge recommendations, and complete a minimum of 30 days prior to being discharged.
Is there any family involvement?
There are many opportunities for family to be involved in treatment. At Bayside Marin we believe that family involvement is an important factor in influencing positive treatment outcomes. With client consent family members are encouraged to attend the Family Program on the first and third Saturday of the month. We also provide private individual Couples and Family therapy as needed throughout the course of treatment. Family members are also involved in the Discharge Planning and the Relapse Prevention portion of the program.
Will I have to attend AA meetings?
At Bayside Marin we believe that the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous are very effective for many people, however not for everyone. We understand that it is a crucial component of long-term sobriety to develop a strong sober support system. We do not teach the 12 Steps during the course of treatment but we do take clients to Self Help Support Group meetings several times per week during the course of their treatment. The meetings may be SMART Recovery, LifeRing, Alcoholics Anonymous and/or Narcotics Anonymous, and CODA. We are open to feedback from the community about other support meetings residents would like to attend and try to accommodate requests. We require clients to attend a minimum number of outside support group meetings in order to be exposed to the twelve-step model and other types of support groups. We encourage clients to form their own opinions of which support group model will best work for their Recovery plan.
How many people will I have to share a room with?
At Bayside Marin we have single and double room options. The accommodations are extremely comfortable. If you have a room preference let the staff know during the admission process.
Will I be allowed to have visitors and make phone calls?
There are no phone calls or visiting during the first three days, however, afterward both calls and visitors are available. While you may not bring your own cell phone, phone use will be provided and allowed from 4:30 pm to 10:30 pm daily. Visiting is every Sunday afternoon from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
Will I have urine tests while in the program?
Yes, there will be random urine testing to assure abstinence.
Can you treat Dual Diagnosis issues?
Yes, at Bayside Marin we have trained psychotherapists who can identify and treat psychological problems such as depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. If a client has a prior history of psychiatric problems or is identified as having a problem, we will recommend a psychiatric evaluation with our consulting psychiatrist. We work closely with psychological, medical and psychiatric providers to assure that each condition is treated appropriately.
Will I have a physical examination?
Yes, at Bayside Marin each client is evaluated by the physician within 48 hours of admission. A complete History and Physical report is generated by the physician and utilized as part of the treatment planning. The medical doctor also participates in the weekly treatment team meetings throughout the course of treatment.
Can my current therapist participate in my treatment at Bayside Marin?
Yes, with client written consent, therapists are contacted to confirm that client was admitted to Bayside Marin. Also, we will invite therapists to participate in the initial assessment, the treatment planning and the discharge planning. If client has a relationship with a therapist and plans to continue that relationship post discharge, every effort will be made to collaborate with that therapist during the course of treatment.
Will I receive individual therapy in addition to groups?
Yes, each client will be assigned a Primary Therapist at time of admission. Clients will meet with that Primary Therapist two to three times per week. Clients will also be encouraged to utilize counselors for additional chemical dependency counseling as needed.
What should I bring? Recommended Items:
- We recommend that you bring a limited amount of clothing.
- Laundry facilities, including supplies, are available for resident use. We suggest wash and wear clothing.
- Appropriate attire is casual and in good taste. Clothing that depicts alcohol, drugs, sex, violence, gambling (or any other clothing deemed inappropriate by staff) is not allowed. Please do not bring form-fitting or revealing clothing.
- Undergarments are required for all residents.
- Bathing suit (one piece for women, boxer style for men).
- Jackets and sweaters are recommended.
- Flat soled or athletic shoes; boots or sturdy heeled shoes for some activities/therapies.
- Bring any current medications in original bottles, which will be kept in nurse's office.
- Money, identification, and credit cards, which will be kept in safety deposit box except $20 cash.
- Insurance Card.
- Copy of your TB test results, if available, within the Last 2 years.
Please Do Not bring the following:
- Valuables - jewelry, cameras, etc.
- Products containing alcohol - mouthwash, perfume, cologne, perfumed lotions, aftershave, etc.
- Straight razors, razorblades, pocketknives, knitting needles, etc.
- Pornographic material.
- Food, gum, candy, sugar, or artificial sweeteners.
- Smokeless tobacco, cigars, or pipes.
- Illegal substances.
- Firearms and/or supplies.
- Laptop Computers, (we have computers on site for resident use).
- Cell Phones (phone use is provided from 4:30 pm to 10:30 pm).
Optional: (but also recommended)
- Personal care products.
- Hat, visor, and/or sunglasses which are to be worn only outside.
- Personal radio/cassette/CD player (with headphones) is to be used in bedroom or at gym only.
- Bring your own cigarettes (enough for the entire length of your stay) and lighter as we will not provide these for you.
- Stationary, stamps
