Who Are the Peers in a Therapeutic Community and What Magic Do They Provide?
Tracks
Springbrook Room
| Tuesday, May 13, 2025 |
| 12:10 PM - 12:40 PM |
Overview
Bernice Smith & Toni Eachus, Goldbridge Rehabilitation Services Inc.
Speaker
Bernice Smith
Chief Executive Officer
Goldbridge Rehabilitation Services Inc.
Who are the Peers in a Therapeutic Community and what magic do they provide?
Abstract
Residents of a Therapeutic Community (TC) frequently report a history of trauma. Goldbridge uses the core TC process known as the Community-As-Method in its treatment. What this means practically, is that residents are active participants in each other’s therapy and provide feedback on problematic behaviour and actively contribute to group therapy. Further, Goldbridge uses a trauma informed and dual diagnosis trained workforce to guide and implement interventions.
Whilst Goldbridge does not employ specific Peers Workers, the model is built upon peer support. This includes the following:
- Senior residents undertake specific responsibilities and are role models within the TC Community
- Internal Volunteer program – all past residents of the program
- Target to have 50% of staff employed to have lived experience i.e. past residents of the program
In 2023, Goldbridge undertook a research project. Respondents reported improvement in their lives since completing the program including the following: engaging in non-residential AOD peer support groups; achieving and maintaining abstinence; improvements in physical and mental health. Further, improved relationships, rebuilt trust with family, and reconnecting with children were commonly cited, underscoring the program's impact on social connections, a newfound sense of stability, structure, and routine, equipping them with essential tools to navigate life without substance use. The program was also described to serve as a ‘reset button’, offering a fresh start and complete lifestyle restoration. Notably, achievements extended beyond abstinence and included individuals: enrolling in education; securing employment; obtaining safe housing; and reuniting with children. Participants also reported enhanced self-awareness, describing themselves as constructive members of society and fully functional individuals. These responses illustrate the holistic and profound positive changes experienced by participants in multiple facets of their lives post Goldbridge completion.
Link to research document https://goldbridge.com.au/goldbridge-research/
Whilst Goldbridge does not employ specific Peers Workers, the model is built upon peer support. This includes the following:
- Senior residents undertake specific responsibilities and are role models within the TC Community
- Internal Volunteer program – all past residents of the program
- Target to have 50% of staff employed to have lived experience i.e. past residents of the program
In 2023, Goldbridge undertook a research project. Respondents reported improvement in their lives since completing the program including the following: engaging in non-residential AOD peer support groups; achieving and maintaining abstinence; improvements in physical and mental health. Further, improved relationships, rebuilt trust with family, and reconnecting with children were commonly cited, underscoring the program's impact on social connections, a newfound sense of stability, structure, and routine, equipping them with essential tools to navigate life without substance use. The program was also described to serve as a ‘reset button’, offering a fresh start and complete lifestyle restoration. Notably, achievements extended beyond abstinence and included individuals: enrolling in education; securing employment; obtaining safe housing; and reuniting with children. Participants also reported enhanced self-awareness, describing themselves as constructive members of society and fully functional individuals. These responses illustrate the holistic and profound positive changes experienced by participants in multiple facets of their lives post Goldbridge completion.
Link to research document https://goldbridge.com.au/goldbridge-research/
Biography
Bernice is CEO at Goldbridge with 35 years’ experience in the sector. Her career started as a Nurse, before working in various agencies - CYSS; YFS; Valley Youth Unit; and ‘The Outlook’ and coordinated the Hospital GP Accreditation project.
Bernice was a member of the Steering Committee for the AOD Summit 2001, Qld Community Service Strategy Committee, Qld Taskforce Committee for Child Protection, Chair of YFS; Chair of Australian Youth Affairs Coalition and is currently on ATCA Board. Bernice holds BSocSc, Dip of AOD (Major in MH Management), AOD Certificate from the Gestalt Association of Qld and Diploma of Governance.
