By Brickey Lane
Crystal meth, alcohol, and other party drugs consumed Peter (not his real name) for ten years. “I knew I was going to die. I visited The Beachcomber to learn about the recovery program for LGBTQA+ addicts. I got a good feeling, a good vibe, and it felt like home,” states Peter. Having tried other addiction centers, Peter felt like a number in a factory and success was not established. The Beachcomber is successful because of personalized treatment plans. “I truly believe they actually care. If I had not received the one-to-one care, I would have lost my life,” Peter says.
It has been three years since Peter began treatment through The Beachcomber Family Center for Addiction Recovery. Peter began his sobriety journey with the 28-day Partial Hospitalization Program followed by Intensive Outpatient Treatment, Relapse Prevention Treatment, and Outpatient Meetings. The Beachcomber boasts a 60% client success rate if clients complete all programs of treatment and recovery. Because of the Beachcomber and newfound sobriety, Peter was able to return to school and earned a degree as a mental health counselor now working at an addiction treatment center. Immediate plans are to complete a Counseling and Supervision PhD. Peter added, “I have nothing but fondness for The Beachcomber. Now I want to give back to others.”
The Beachcomber prides itself on the success of its alumni. Eric (not his real name) has also come full circle from Beachcomber patient to employee. Trying to fit into the LGBTQA+ scene, Eric used crystal meth and GHB at circuit parties and events where it is normalized. He considers drug use in the community an “epidemic.” At the summit of addiction, Eric was offered a choice of a 6-month jail term or participation in a treatment program. The Beachcomber was chosen because of the innovative LGBTQA+ treatment group. “The program allowed me to realize there is a community of LGBTQA+ people that are sober, loving, caring, responsible, and healthy.” Eric sums up his recovery because of The Beachcomber, “my life has never been better.”
The Beachcomber Family Center for Addiction and Recovery is the oldest continuously operated private substance abuse program in the state of Florida. Since 1976, The Beachcomber mission has not changed; to help those who suffer with the pain of alcohol and drug addiction. The family owned business vows not to become a corporate entity, but rather to remain a business who does not lose its sense of purpose. Multiple locations in Broward and Palm Beach Counties provide residential and outpatient programs, group, family, and individualized sessions, relapse prevention, and behavioral addiction programs.
For nine years, the Commercial Boulevard location has provided tailored treatment for the LGBTQA+ Community from the leadership of Michael Giorgi. This community is 10% more likely to suffer from addiction stemming from internal homophobia, sex abuse, trauma, and feeling disconnected to society. The sessions help clients integrate into a healthy LGBTQA+ lifestyle with the goal of leaving coping mechanisms behind. Alumni often continue meetings and assist with community service such as the Poverello Food Drive and Pridefest.
The Beachcomber Family Center for Addiction and Recovery is licensed by Florida DCF and accredited by Joint Commission National Quality Approval. The Beachcomber accepts most insurances and self-pay. If you or someone you know suffers from addiction and to learn more about recovery programs, please visit www.BeachcomberOutPatient.com or call 954-615-4003.
