Bensalem, PA — Many of us are all too familiar with the devastating effects of drug and alcohol addiction. Loss of employment, broken family ties and overwhelming feelings of despair can be so overwhelming that many recovering persons turn back to their drug of choice to self medicate because reality is seen as hopeless. Women especially have suffered from the effects of their addiction. Often drug and alcohol abuse has meant homelessness, dependence on the welfare system and lack of access to the support of family and friends. Repeated “slips” have often led to estrangement from those who would want to help the most, but who may themselves have been the victims of the addicted woman's broken promises.

Libertae’s Family House

The founders of Libertae, a drug and alcohol treatment center in Bensalem, Bucks County, believe that for many women, recovery from chemical addiction is more likely to be successful in conjunction with providing a safe and structured community to support their unique needs. Libertae was founded in order to provide a healthy setting for women to maintain their sobriety.

Libertae is a non-profit, residential treatment program for recovering women. There are two houses; one for single, multi-disadvantaged women, and one for women with up to three children under twelve years old. Both programs offer a comprehensive array of services designed to promote sobriety through self-knowledge and the development of a support system.

Women’s services include individual and group counseling, job training, developing parenting skills, on-site computer training, literacy and GED programs, and education in self esteem, wellness topics, and spirituality. Twelve Step programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous meet on site. Relapse prevention and aftercare services are an important part of the program.

The program for women and their children focuses on the needs of the entire family. Children receive comprehensive psychological and educational evaluations, group therapy, tutoring, and coordination with schools. Young children have access to Head Start programs.

All residents must be at least 18 years old, drug free, motivated, non-violent, and able to live in a structured community. Libertae's programs are covered by some insurance policies.

Libertae welcomes volunteers to act as nursery caregivers, or “Foster Grandparents”, tutor school age children, and help with special events. For more information about Libertae’s unique program to support women in recovery, visit www.libertae.org or call 215-639-8681.