Removing Barriers to Effective Treatment: Interview With CEO Felicia Orchard

Maybe you’re considering addiction rehabilitation treatment but don’t know what to expect. Or you’ve completed a program but feel recovery isn’t as solid as you would like. Or perhaps you’ve had an experience similar to Felicia Orchard’s, the chief executive officer for Sobriety Centers of New Hampshire (SCNH). 

“After struggling with substance use for over a decade, my recovery journey took me through numerous treatment facilities, each offering different approaches and insights,” she says. “Recovery is not a one-size-fits-all process—it’s a culmination of various modalities and experiences that together pave the way to lasting sobriety.” She adds that her diverse experiences provide her with a deep understanding of what clients are looking for in a treatment facility and what SCNH can offer for lasting wellness.

Addressing Barriers to Treatment With the Right Solutions

Orchard, a registered nurse, recognizes how many challenges people face when considering help for substance use disorder (SUD), alcohol use disorder (AUD), and mental health disorder (MHD) treatment. She highlights some of the top reasons why many people might not get the care they need, and how she and the SCNH staff work to provide better understanding, access, and treatment options

Stigma

“The stigma surrounding mental health issues, SUD, and AUD can discourage individuals from seeking help. They fear judgment or discrimination from society, friends, and even healthcare providers,” Orchard explains. This often means a person will hide their struggles, delaying or preventing treatment. 

She says at SCNH, individuals can expect to find a non-judgmental and supportive environment that makes them feel safe and understood. “Our team is trained in compassionate care, and we offer confidential consultations to ensure privacy and comfort for those seeking help.”

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, “People with mental illness are more likely to experience an SUD than those not affected by a mental illness,” and more than 21 million people throughout the U.S. have a co-occurring disorder. Unfortunately, not all facilities offer the specialized care required to help individuals with co-occurring disorders, which makes healing all the more difficult.

We promote a holistic and integrated approach to treatment, addressing both substance use and also mental health issues. Our multidisciplinary team works together to create personalized care plans that meet the unique needs of each client,” Orchard says. This approach includes numerous individual and group therapeutic methods that are trauma-informed. 

Additionally, SCNH actively engages with the community to raise awareness about SUD and mental health. “We provide education and outreach efforts to reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek help,” Orchard says.

Lack of Access to Care 

In 2022, the most recent data collected from the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services reported that more than 80 percent of the state’s landmass is considered rural, along with almost 40 percent of its population. Orchard says there’s a shortage of mental health and substance use disorder treatment facilities in rural areas, and “this lack of access prevents individuals from receiving timely and appropriate care. Transportation issues, few local services, and also rigid treatment schedules also deter individuals from seeking help.”

Sobriety Centers of New Hampshire aims to bridge this gap with three locations: 

  • The Antrim House in Antrim is a detoxification and residential treatment facility for all.
  • The Lakes Addiction Treatment Center in Laconia provides inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient rehabilitation programs for people.
  • Recovery Mountain in Tilton, a residence for Veterans and first responders as part of outpatient programming. 

“SCNH advocates for better access to treatment by continuously expanding our services and strategically locating our facilities to reach underserved populations,” Orchard says. “We offer a range of treatment options to provide flexibility and accommodate different needs, and assist with transportation arrangements. This ensures clients can easily access our services, regardless of their location or mobility issues.”

Financial Constraints

Orchard points out that economic hardships, including unemployment and poverty, lead to increased stress and a higher likelihood of substance misuse. Financial difficulties also create barriers to accessing necessary treatment and also support services, as many people don’t have sufficient insurance coverage. 

“Individuals struggling with SUD are often fearful that they’ll be unemployed if they seek treatment and need to miss any time at work,” she adds. “By utilizing our full continuum of care, SCNH can meet clients where they are and support them throughout their return to work.” 

Case managers at SCNH will assist you or someone you love in various ways, such as:  

  • Talking with employers and outlining protections and stipulations under the Americans With Disabilities Act regarding SUD, AUD, and MHD treatment.  
  • Supporting you with Family and Medical Leave Act applications if your employer meets the federal guidelines. 
  • Offering financial counseling for understanding your insurance benefits and exploring payment options. “We’re in-network with most insurance carriers and also accept state insurance, ensuring treatment remains affordable,” Orchard states. “Our goal is to eliminate financial barriers, making sure individuals can access the care they need.” 

Get the Quality Treatment You Deserve Now

Choosing a detox and treatment facility is a weighty decision with a lot of variables. It’s essential to assess all the pros and also cons of inpatient vs. outpatient care. You also need assurance that treatment methodology is evidence-based and designed to meet your specific needs.

“SCNH stands out among other treatment centers due to our staff’s unwavering dedication to clients and the delivery of safe, high-quality care,” Orchard says. “Our team genuinely invests in each client’s journey toward recovery, fostering a supportive environment that encourages individuals to reclaim their best selves.” 

It’s also vital that you or a loved one has access to quality aftercare that lays the foundation for sustainable recovery. “At SCNH, we prioritize creating environments where clients can develop meaningful relationships and also find support among peers,” Orchard explains. “For instance, our housing program encourages clients to connect with others in recovery, establishing a supportive network that extends beyond treatment. Our comprehensive continuum of care enables clients to smoothly reintegrate into their daily lives while receiving ongoing support from their care team and our organization.”

Orchard understands firsthand the turning point you face now, and how critical it is to trust your healthcare providers. She considers her position at SCNH to be of great value, not only in the ways she can support the staff’s professional development but also by expanding opportunities to aid people in need because “of the profound impact [we have] on clients’ lives. Witnessing their transformation from day one to the completion of their journey brings immense fulfillment.”  

If you’re ready to empower your ability for healing, talk with an admissions team specialist at Sobriety Centers of New Hampshire today.

Research Links:
https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt476/files/documents2/2022-annual-report-on-health-status-of-rural-residents-and-health-workforce-data-collection.pdf