Addictions Program Reflects our Dedication to the Evolving Needs of the Community
Addiction is a widespread problem affecting millions of people across the country. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 40.3 million Americans aged 12 and older battled a substance use disorder in 2020, representing 14.5% of the population.
Spurred on by the isolation and stress of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the proliferation of fentanyl overdose deaths, particularly for our youth, the significant toll drug addiction has taken on families and communities has alarmed officials and necessitated the need for specialized support and counseling services. The long-standing mythology that addiction is not a problem for Jewish youth and adults only adds to the tragedy.
The numbers of American Jews impacted by substance abuse are not widely published. A recent study, however, approximated that 10% of New York City Jewish families reported having substance abuse problems within their household. The overwhelming majority of these families also reported that they were not seeking help for these issues.
Substance abuse has tremendous ripple effects throughout the family. It impacts family decision-making, family communications, and relationships both within family of origin and throughout the extended family. That is one of the greatest unspoken tragedies of substance abuse.
Recognizing this growing need, we recently announced the expansion of services designed address the impact of substance abuse in a family. Our program offers individual, couples, and family counseling services with a focus on understanding and working through this complex issue.
We’ve long recognized the urgent need for accessible and comprehensive addiction counseling services within our community. Through this program, we hope to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals, couples, and families affected by addiction, by fostering healing and recovery.
The program will cater to individuals at various stages of their addiction journey, including those with current non-crisis level addiction issues, individuals in recovery, and loved ones of individuals in active addiction or recovery. As with all our services, we will use a holistic approach, ensuring clients receive comprehensive support tailored to their unique circumstances. This includes support for family members affected by drug addiction.
Kathryn Cowart, LPCC-S, Assistant Director of Programs at JFCS, highlighted the significance of offering counseling and support services for loved ones and family members.
“Addiction affects not only the individual struggling with it but also their loved ones. Through this program, we can equip families with the tools they need to navigate the challenges of addiction, heal together, and foster healthy relationships.”
By employing evidence-informed therapeutic approaches from highly-qualified and compassionate mental health professionals, the program will address the underlying causes of addiction, develop coping mechanisms, and promote resilience in both individuals and families.
With case management services also available, JFCS can connect clients with additional resources, such as employment support, to ensure comprehensive care and long-term recovery.
JFCS is committed to promoting inclusivity and cultural sensitivity, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of background or faith, feel welcome and understood.
As JFCS continues to expand its range of services, the addictions program reflects our dedication to addressing the evolving needs of not only the Jewish community, but the Greater Louisville community as a whole and make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals and families.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact JFCS at services@jfcslouisville.org.