Resources for Schools & Healthcare Professionals

At East Kootenay Addiction Services Society we use a whole community approach to encourage open dialogue and healthy communication about drug and alcohol use.

We focus on health promotion and strengths-based approaches; always people as valuable resources. We believe people are at their best and most healthy when they are connected to community, family, workplaces, and schools.       

The Circle of Courage® and client-centered care provide the philosophical foundations for the work of Substance Use Programs at EKASS. The Circle of Courage model was developed by Dr. Martin Brokenleg, and is based on the universal principle that to be emotionally healthy humans need a sense of belonging, mastery, independence and generosity. Client-centered care focuses on a practice of caring for people (and their families) in ways that are meaningful and valuable to the client. It includes listening to, informing and involving patients in their care.

EKASS partners with school staff to test new curricula and develop training for staff. Using lessons which are relevant to the lived experiences of youth, new drug & alcohol curricula promotes dialogue, critical thinking and awareness among students regarding alcohol & other drug issues.