Woman walking on a beach

Sophie* was hesitant to reach out for help with her substance addiction, fearing judgment and failure because of the many times she had tried rehab and quit.

The First Steps

The weight of addiction had left her feeling isolated, and the idea of starting over felt impossible. However, after speaking with a caring Teen Challenge Canada Intake Associate, Sophie experienced something she hadn’t felt in years—hope.

The admissions process wasn’t just about paperwork; it was about reassurance, understanding, and clarity. Her mother played a crucial role in this process, standing by her side as an advocate, offering encouragement, and helping her navigate the steps needed to enter the program. With her mom’s unwavering support, Sophie found the courage to take the next step and enter the 12-month program.

blurred feet of woman walking on a beach
close up on hands as a woman journals

The Next Steps

Throughout her program, Sophie found healing, structure, and a renewed sense of identity. She learned how to face the struggles that once seemed insurmountable and discovered the power of faith and community in her recovery. But as her graduation day approached, a new challenge loomed—reintegrating into life outside the program.

Teen Challenge Canada’s post-care program became Sophie’s lifeline. With regular check-ins, prayer support, and access to a local support group, she found the encouragement she needed to stay strong in her sobriety. The transition back into everyday life wasn’t always easy but having a support system that genuinely cared made all the difference.

“I realized recovery isn’t a destination; it’s a lifelong journey that I need to walk with others and with the Lord.” Sophie shared. “And the aftercare support I received kept me grounded and reminded me that I wasn’t alone in this.”

Two women hugging, faces hidden

Stepping Up

Determined to give back, Sophie enrolled in the Phase4 program—a crucial step that allowed her to mentor others in recovery and develop leadership skills. Through this program, she gained the confidence to pursue new opportunities and help others navigate their own recovery journey.

Sophie’s dedication to her sobriety also led her to become involved in advocacy and support efforts within her community. She is now an active member of a local Celebrate Recovery group, hosted by a church in her area, where she finds joy in encouraging others who are struggling in many of the same ways she once did.

She also mentors women in early recovery, helping them regain confidence and find hope. In addition to her advocacy work, Sophie has built strong, supportive relationships with others who share her commitment to living a sober and purposeful life.

She is excited about the prospect of a fulfilling career once she completes her schooling, seeing it as another way to make a difference in the lives of others.

“I never imagined that my pain would turn into a purpose,” she shares. “Now, I get to walk with others and remind them there is hope beyond addiction.”

Teen Challenge Canada’s Pre & Post Care program ensure that individuals like Sophie not only overcome addiction but are equipped to sustain long-term success. Recovery doesn’t end after treatment—it’s an ongoing process that requires consistent support, faith, and commitment.

*Note: ‘Sophie’ is a pseudonym, and some details of her story have been altered to protect her privacy

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