Hall County H.E.L.P. Program Program... · Web viewParticipant Handbook Treatment Services Hall County H.E.L.P. Program Participant handbook1 Hall County H.E.L.P. Program | [Pick

Northeastern Judicial Circuit Treatment Services Hall County H.E.L.P. Program Participant Handbook

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Treatment ServicesHall County H.E.L.P. ProgramParticipant Handbook

Northeastern Judicial Circuit

NAME: __________________________________________

Hall County H.E.L.P. Program

Participant Handbook

HealthEmpowermentLinkagePossibilities


Table of ContentsCONTACT INFORMATION.......................................................................................2

ORIENTATION AND PARTICIPANT HANDBOOK AGREEMENT.........................................4WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION.................................................................................5

MISSION STATEMENT AND PROGRAM GOALS.........................................................5H.E.L.P. PROGRAM TEAM:...................................................................................5

JUDGE’S ROLE..................................................................................................5DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S ROLE.............................................................................6DEFENSE ATTORNEY’S ROLE.............................................................................6LAW ENFORCEMENT’S ROLE.............................................................................7H.E.L.P STAFF’S ROLE.....................................................................................7CLINICAL COORDINATOR:..................................................................................7LEAD COUNSELOR:...........................................................................................7CASE MANAGER:..............................................................................................7COMMUNITY SUPPORT INDIVIDUAL:....................................................................7TREATMENT PROVIDER’S ROLE.........................................................................7

H.E.L.P. PROGRAM OVERVIEW................................................................................8PROGRAM GUIDELINES............................................................................................8

PROGRAM FEES...................................................................................................8TREATMENT FACILITY...........................................................................................9SANCTIONS........................................................................................................10INCENTIVES........................................................................................................11PUBLIC SERVICE PROJECT.................................................................................11ASSIGNMENTS....................................................................................................11RESIDENCE........................................................................................................12EXTERNAL SURVEILLANCE CAMERAS AT PRIVATE RESIDENCES............................12TERMINATION.....................................................................................................13ATTENDANCE.....................................................................................................13FRATERNIZATION POLICY....................................................................................14EMERGENCY AFTER-HOURS CONTACT 678-617-4626.......14

DRUG TESTING......................................................................................................15TESTDAY CALL-IN SYSTEM.................................................................................16DRUG SCREENING HOURS..................................................................................16POSITIVE DRUG TEST.........................................................................................17MISSED SCREENS..............................................................................................17

Treatment ServicesHall County H.E.L.P. ProgramParticipant handbook 1


COULD NOT PROVIDE.........................................................................................17DILUTION / SUBSTITUTION / ADULTERATION.........................................................18NOT ABLE TO ACCESS YOUR PERSONAL MESSAGE...............................................18DRUG SCREENING POLICY AND PROCEDURE:......................................................18

SUBSTITUTION OR ADULTERATION GUIDELINE:.................................................20TREATMENT..........................................................................................................20

SELF-SUFFICIENCY.............................................................................................20GROUP RULES...................................................................................................20

CONFIDENTIALITY............................................................................................21MEDICATIONS........................................................................................................22

MEDICATION APPROVAL......................................................................................23ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY..................................................................................24E-CIGARETTES OR VAPORIZERS.........................................................................25

COURT..................................................................................................................25COURTROOM BEHAVIOR.....................................................................................25

COMMUNITY RESOURCES......................................................................................26HOSPITALS.........................................................................................................26HEALTH CARE....................................................................................................26BASIC NEEDS.....................................................................................................26CRISIS LINES.....................................................................................................27AVITA COMMUNITY PARTNERS (MENTAL HEALTH)..............................................27TREATMENT COMMUNITY....................................................................................27AA....................................................................................................................27NA....................................................................................................................27COMMUNITY SUPPORT........................................................................................27TREATMENT PROVIDERS.....................................................................................28



Contact Information

This handbook belongs to:

__________________________________________________________

My counselor is:

_________________________________________________________

Hall County H.E.L.P. Program Phone: (770) 531-9173 Fax: (770) 536-10232318 Browns Bridge Rd.Gainesville, GA 30504

Emergency Cell Phone Number: 678-617-4626

Avita Community Partners (Browns Bridge Road): (678) 207-2900Avita Nurses Line: 678-207-2909 (Leave name, date of birth, phone number, issues)

TestDay Drug Screen Line: (678) 261-5872

These are the only numbers that should be used to contact H.E.L.P. Program staff. Contacting a staff member on their personal phone is prohibited.



Orientation and Participant Handbook Agreement

I, ___________________________________, have, on this date, reviewed with the Hall County H.E.L.P. Program Staff the contents of the Participant Handbook. I hereby attest that I understand the conditions set forth in my handbook. I further understand that it is my responsibility to familiarize myself with and remain current on all rules and updates to the Hall County H.E.L.P. Program. If I have any questions about the program, it is my responsibility to discuss them with my case manager for clarification. I understand that I am responsible for my Participant Handbook for the duration of my program.

_____________________________________ ___________________

Participant Signature Date

____________________________________

Case Manager



Welcome and IntroductionIf you are reading this Handbook, you have been accepted or are being considered as a possible participant in the Hall County H.E.L.P. Program. Welcome to the court.

This handbook is designed to be an overview of what to expect as a participant in the Hall County H.E.L.P. Program. It provides a basic outline of the program and is an information resource to use as you move through the program.

This is a voluntary program, which means that you are a Hall County H.E.L.P. Program participant only if you agree to participate. If you make that decision and are accepted, you are required to follow all instructions given to you by the judge and members of the Hall County H.E.L.P. Program team. You will also be expected to follow all supervision and program rules and complete the treatment plan developed by you and your assigned case manager. The judge and the entire Hall County H.E.L.P. Program team are present to guide and assist you, but THE ULTIMATE RESPONSIBILITY IS YOURS.

We encourage you to share this handbook with your family, significant other, and clean and sober friends, since all are important members of your recovery team. They are also welcome to attend your scheduled court sessions to support you.

If you have additional questions, it is your responsibility to ask your attorney, supervision officer, treatment provider or your case manager for more details.

Mission Statement and Program GoalsIt is the mission of the Hall County H.E.L.P. Program to provide alternatives to incarceration for individuals who have been identified with mental health or mental retardation issues by linking those individuals to local, community-based treatment resources with the goal of reducing recidivism and helping to prevent further involvement in the criminal justice system. We accomplish this by using the strengths of the individual, family, and the community.

H.E.L.P. Program Team:

Judge’s RoleThe H.E.L.P. Program judge has knowledge of the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on the court system, the lives of participants, and the entire community and is, therefore, committed to the program mission and goals, and works as a lead



partner to ensure its success. One way the H.E.L.P. Program judge leads is through assisting the treatment team in developing protocols and procedures for the program. In the courtroom, the Judge develops a personal, working relationship with each participant while monitoring participant progress.

The judge has many responsibilities beyond the program. Time is limited so direct contact with the judge or court staff shall be avoided outside of the courtroom setting. The judge is not your case manager, personal attorney, and/or legal advisor. Information from yourself and your family must go through your case manager.

The judge attends staff meetings to discuss possible candidates for the program and to determine appropriate, effective sanctions for program violations, as well as, incentives for continued compliance. Such determinations are made using knowledge of all life areas that may impact a participant’s success.

A further role of the judge is to advocate for the program by creating community interest and support for the program and to develop community resources to assist participants in their treatment.

District Attorney’s Role Without the District Attorney’s cooperation, you could not be offered the opportunity to participate in the H.E.L.P. Program. The prosecutor has many responsibilities in the program. The prosecutor presents each case to the judge and facilitates entry into the H.E.L.P. Program, if appropriate. The prosecutor attends staff meetings to discuss possible candidates for the program and to determine appropriate sanctions and incentives for current participants. Another role of the prosecutor is to contribute to efforts in community education and acquisition of community resources to aid the program. The prosecutor educates peers, colleagues, and judiciary on the effectiveness of mental health courts. During your participation in the program, it is not appropriate to seek legal counsel from the staff of the District Attorney’s Office. In the event that you are terminated from the H.E.L.P. Program, the prosecutor will make recommendations to the court regarding your sentencing.

Defense Attorney’s RoleDefense attorneys from both the Public Defender’s Office and Indigent Defense represent participants in the program. The defense attorney’s role is to evaluate the offender’s legal situation and ensure that the offender’s legal rights are protected. Additionally, the defense attorney effectively advises the offenders on their legal rights, legal options, treatment options, program conditions, and sentencing outcomes prior to



enrollment in the program while developing a relationship with the participant that promotes his/her long term best interest. They also monitor participant progress and ensure the appropriate provision of treatment and other rehabilitative services. The defense attorney attends staff meetings to discuss possible candidates for the program and to determine appropriate sanctions and incentives for current participants. Like the prosecutor, the defense attorney also contributes to educating the community and assists in educating peers, colleagues, and judiciary in the effectiveness of mental health courts.

Law Enforcement’s RoleLaw enforcement provides accountability for program participants through their attendance at staff meetings and court sessions and by conducting random home visits. The goal is for participants to have positive interactions with law enforcement representatives, and to build supportive rapport between the Sheriff’s Office and participants.

H.E.L.P Staff’s RoleThe H.E.L.P. Staff oversees your regular participation within the program. You have a mandated responsibility to maintain close contact with the H.E.L.P. Staff.

Clinical Coordinator: The coordinator oversees the operation of the H.E.L.P. Court program. This individual provides support to the program, but also builds bridges with the community and agencies in Hall County. The coordinator provides assessment for potential clients and testing once a client is enrolled.

Lead Counselor: You will be assigned a counselor at the onset of the program and work closely with this individual to develop a case plan. Additionally, your counselor will oversee your involvement with the program, appearances in court, following through with treatment plans, etc.

Case Manager: The case manager is responsible for updating and ensuring your file is up-to-date, accurate, and contains all pertinent information.

Community Support Individual: The community support individual makes home visits, conducts pill counts, and assists participants as requested/needed with available community resources.

Treatment Provider’s Role



This may include, but is not limited to AVITA Community Partners and local certified mental health professionals. You will be linked with an appropriate treatment provider to address psychiatric medication needs and mental health/substance use treatment, when appropriate. Your regular participation and compliance with your treatment plan are required. Your H.E.L.P. Program case manager will maintain contact with your treatment provider in order to maintain up-to-date information about your progress in treatment.

H.E.L.P. Program OverviewThe Hall County H.E.L.P. Program was implemented in December 2004 under the direction and leadership of Superior Court Judge Kathlene Gosselin.

The Court is a partnership among the Judge, District Attorney, Solicitor-General, Probation, Pretrial Services, Law Enforcement, Treatment Team, Defense Counsel, and Indigent Defense.

This is a mental health treatment program consisting of five phases, which typically requires 20 to 26 months for completion. The goals of the program are: to link participants with mental health and substance abuse treatment, as well as community resources, to allow each to live an independent, healthy, and productive life, and; to reduce/eliminate future negative involvement with the criminal justice system.

Productive use of time is required. Gainful employment is the best option but, if you cannot work; we will assist you in finding ways to utilize your time that will help you to grow in positive ways and, hopefully, keep you out of trouble and out of jail. JAIL IS NOT A PLACE THE TEAM WANTS YOU TO BE, but you must do your part by following the rules of the program and avoiding people, places, and situations that may cause you problems/trouble

An orientation will take place after your enrollment in court. Your case manager will schedule this with you.

Program Guidelines

Program FeesThe H.E.L.P. program billing system will bill your account for $40 per month. This is a minimal amount and is only used to help offset program cost. The first month of treatment after entering the program will be waived. Each month thereafter all payments shall be paid in full by 5 p.m. on the first Friday of each month. All fees must be paid in the form of a money order made



payable to: Hall County Treatment Services. Please verify that your name is clearly listed to ensure the money is credited to the correct account.

In addition, other charges may be incurred for expenses such as dilute drug screens ($70), confirmation for a positive drug screen with denial ($35), and for lost or damaged group materials ($25).

It is important to stay current with program fees since a balance of $75 or greater may result in a sanction.

Treatment FacilityAll H.E.L.P. Program activities and locations are an extension of the Northeastern Judicial Circuit’s Superior Court. Your behavior should reflect that understanding at all times. This includes while inside of the treatment facility, parking lot, all contracted treatment locations, community service sites, special events, and any other function associated with H.E.L.P. Program activity. Please do not report to these locations more than 30 minutes prior to the scheduled time. If you desire to vary from the scheduled Treatment Services office hours, you must call ahead to arrange an appointment with your case manager. All violations of program rules can result in sanctions and/or new criminal charges. The staff members of Treatment Services are officers of the court, and you are expected to follow their instructions.

1. No alcohol, drugs, weapons, or pocketknives will be brought to the facility.

2. Groups will begin on time! Tardiness may result in sanctions. You must attend

and participate in the full session to receive credit.

3. Confidentiality is a must. What is said here stays here! There are stiff penalties

for any violation of this rule.

4. Free expression of your thoughts and feelings is encouraged; however, violence,

threats, or intimidation shall never be tolerated.

5. Use of profane/obscene language is frowned upon.

6. Leave group only in an emergency after notifying a H.E.L.P. Program staff

member.

7. Cellphones must be turned off or on silent.

8. Smoking is not permitted in or around the front door of the Treatment Services

office. Smoking is permitted ONLY in your parked car or designated areas only.



9. The dress code must be followed at all times. No tank tops, low-cut blouses

which expose cleavage, see-through shirts, sleeveless shirts, sunglasses, or

short shorts/skirts (shorts higher than six inches above your knee). Clothing must

cover all undergarments. No clothing advertising alcohol or drugs is permitted.

Remove hats while inside the building.

10.CHILDREN ARE NOT ALLOWED IN THE TREATMENT SERVICES BUILDING.11.No visitors are allowed. You will be notified of scheduled exceptions to this rule.

12.No littering in the parking lot or in the building. You are responsible for assisting

in maintaining the cleanliness of the building.

13.Destroying or defacing any Treatment Services’ property shall result in sanctions

and/or criminal charges.

14.No gum, food, or drinks are allowed in the Treatment Services office.

SanctionsThe judge will impose swift sanctions when program rules are violated. Sanctions may include jail time, community service, and/or additional treatment requirements. In the event that jail time is a possibility, make sure that childcare is not an issue and that all medications are in your possession when you come to court. Personal vehicles shall not be left unattended at the courthouse during incarceration. The goal, of course, is to avoid all sanctions and the best way to go about achieving that goal is to pay attention to and comply with all program rules and expectations at all times.

If you experience any interaction with law enforcement that does not result in your arrest, you must contact your case manager within 24 hours to report the incident. Failure to do so will result in a sanction.

We hope that you will choose the new route of achievement and success rather than the path that got you into trouble in the first place.

A time out packet will be provided to you following any jail sanction. The time out packet provides an opportunity to process the circumstances surrounding your sanction and allows you to develop an acceptable plan to avoid future jail sanctions. This document is to be completed immediately following incarceration and promptly submitted to your counselor upon your release.



A broom award can be given by any H.E.L.P. Program staff member for minor program violations. A broom award consists of cleaning the parking lot at the Treatment Services office for one hour. It is your responsibility to arrange for a time with your case manager to render this service prior to your next court session. Failure to complete a “broom award” will result in a community service sanction. Exceptional behavior and leadership can result in your receiving a “get out of a broom award free” pass. These can be redeemed when needed or can be applied as one hour of credit towards the public service requirement in Phase 5.

Community service will be performed only at court approved non-profit organizations. Your punctuality, attitude, appearance, and performance at your designated work site will be considered a direct reflection of the program and the court. After being assigned community service in court, you will need to meet with your case manager to obtain the proper paper work to keep track of your hours and pick up the list of approved sites for community service. The judge will tell you how long you have to complete your community service hours. We ask that participants not work with the elderly, young children, or mentally disabled populations for community service while in the program.

IncentivesProgram compliance and good behavior will be recognized by the judge as an incentive to continue your treatment and progress in the program. The program’s desire is to focus on the positive strides you are making. The staff will attempt to be consistent and creative in recognizing your good behavior. Your input into additional ways that we can motivate you is very welcome and should be shared with your case manager.

Public Service ProjectAll clients will be expected to complete a 20 hour Public Service project before they are eligible for graduation from the H.E.L.P. Program. This project must consist of a service which benefits the community at large in some capacity. You must have you project idea approved by your case manager before you begin accumulating hours. You will be responsible for providing documentation of all hours completed to your case manager for your file. You will be provided with a list of approved service hours at the beginning of Phase 2 and will be given the opportunity to discuss your project with your case manager throughout the program.

Assignments



Assignments may be given to you by the case manager or treatment team in any phase. You should complete these assignments to the best of your ability and ask for help if you need it.

Assignments that show little or no effort will not be accepted, and you will be required to complete the assignment again. Continued lack of effort will be addressed by the judge.

ResidenceParticipation in the H.E.L.P. Program requires that you live in Hall County. If this is not the case, you have 30 days to move into the county before receiving a sanction. You are not allowed to live with any convicted felons or any other participants in the H.E.L.P. Program or any accountability court program. You may not possess any alcohol, drugs, drug paraphernalia, or weapons, and they may not be in your home, regardless of to whom they belong. It is your responsibility to notify your counselor if there are any prescription medications belonging to someone else in the home. Failure to notify your case manager will result in a sanction.

If you are placed on a curfew, you must be at your residence during the assigned curfew hours unless you have received approval of a curfew extension. Curfew extensions may only be granted for work or treatment related reasons.

All residence changes must be submitted to your counselor for approval prior to your move. It is your responsibility to notify your counselor of all individuals living in the home. Community policing officers from the Hall County Sheriff’s Office and the Community Support Individual from the treatment team will conduct random home visits to ensure that there are no drugs, drug paraphernalia, alcohol, or weapons in your possession or in common areas of the home. They are also authorized to search your room, car, or person.

It is expected that you live at the address you provide to your counselor. You must stay at your residence each night. Any exception to this must be approved by your counselor in advance. If there is an emergency that requires you to be away from your home overnight, you must contact your counselor during regular business hours or on the emergency phone if it is on the weekends of after regular business hours.

External Surveillance Cameras at Private Residences

Due to safety concerns for public safety officers, probation officers, or H.E.L.P. staff making routine home visits, external residential surveillance cameras shall not be



permitted while enrolled in the H.E.L.P. program. Cameras inside the home are permissible for personal protection. All participants are required to remove all external surveillance cameras prior to entering the program.

TerminationThe Hall County H.E.L.P. Program is committed to giving participants every opportunity to learn to live life in a healthy, productive manner; however, your continued participation in the program is contingent on compliance with program guidelines and regulations. Non-compliance includes, but is not limited to:

1. Inability to remain clean and sober

2. Failure to attend and participate in groups

3. Threats or violence against peers or staff

4. Altering or tampering with drug screens

5. Committing a new offense

6. An accumulation of program violations

7. Continued non-compliance to program guidelines

We want every participant to succeed, and we consider termination the last resort. Our goal is to help you obtain and maintain a healthy lifestyle. However, we also understand that not everyone who enters the program is capable of and/or committed to achieving this goal. Our resources are limited, and the court may determine that termination from the program is necessary if you fail to meet program expectations.

AttendanceAs a participant in the Hall County H.E.L.P. Program, you are required to attend all meetings as assigned. You must notify your case manager at least 2 4 hours in advance to be excused from a group or individual session. In the case of an emergency, notify your case manager as soon as possible and provide documentation, if required. Failure to attend will result in progressive sanctioning.

Special requests to be excused from meetings must be approved by your case manager and/or the team. Leave requests must be submitted to your counselor AT LEAST TWO WEEKS prior to your desired leave date and will be reviewed by the team for approval. Drug testing is required BEFORE AND AFTER approved leave. You must screen on



the day that you leave (or the day before if you are leaving before screening hours) and the day that you return (or the day after if you return after screening hours.).

The following procedure must be followed in order to obtain a leave from the program:

1. All requests are to be submitted a minimum of two weeks in advance to your counselor. Leave request forms are available at the office.

2. The H.E.L.P. Program staff will screen requests, and only if they are recommended will they be presented to the judge for consideration.

3. The H.E.L.P. Program judge will inform you in court of all decisions on requests as per staff recommendations. (If you are not required in court on that date, the decision will be shared with you by your case manager.)

Medical leave will be considered in approved situations with appropriate documentation and releases. Medical leave may be granted for a maximum of 60 days and will be reviewed by the team. A minimum of two weeks maternity leave is granted for women from the date of delivery.

In the event of a sudden illness and/or death of immediate family, proceed as needed. Immediate family includes spouse, child, siblings, parents, and grandparents only. Please call the emergency phone and leave a detailed message regarding the circumstances and a number where you can be reached. Contact the office by phone on the next working day and obtain proof of relationship, medical records, or an obituary to be submitted upon your return to treatment.

Fraternization Policy Intimate relationships with other H.E.L.P. Program participants or any other accountability court participants in Hall or Dawson County are strictly prohibited unless approved by the team prior to admission to the H.E.L.P Program. Intimate relationships are defined as anything other than a strictly platonic friendship.

Emergency After-Hours Contact 678-617-4626 The On-Call Phone line will be managed by H.E.L.P. program staff on a rotating basis and will be available for use by participants ONLY during week nights, weekends, and holidays. Otherwise, participants are required to contact their Case Manager or CSI via their direct office phone lines during regular business hours.

In the event a participant needs immediate attention as outlined in the circumstances below, participants must leave a detailed message including their name, circumstances,



and a number where you may be reached. A staff member will then return calls in a timely manner (provided it meets criteria as outlined in this policy), and log all calls received. The on-call person will notify a supervisor immediately of any emergency calls that can’t be resolved via telephone contact.

The On-Call person may be reached at 678-617-4626 The On-Call Phone shall only be used for the following circumstances: 1. Hospitalization

2. Medication Approval

3. Family emergencies that require permission to travel. (A family emergency in

this case is defined as the death of an immediate family member to include

mother, father, sister, brother, son or daughter only).

4. Court Orders to be released from jail that should be resolved on the weekends

when no order is showing on file at the sheriff’s office.

5. Termination from a residential facility.

PARTICIPANTS CALLING THIS LINE FOR ANY REASON OTHER THAN THOSE OUTLINED ABOVE MAY RECEIVE A SANCTION DEEMED APPROPRIATE BY THE HELP TREATMENT TEAM.

If someone calls the line on your behalf, it will be treated as though you called the line. Leave a detailed message including your name, current location, reason for emergency, and a return phone number. A staff member will call you back if they determine your call meets the criteria listed above. Misuse of the emergency phone will result in sanctions.

Drug Testing Drug screening will be done on a random basis, and may include urine tests, a breathalyzer, or both. You may be tested at the Treatment Services Office, the courthouse, on home visits, or any other location. If you are to have the best opportunity to be successful, then it will be very important for you to not drink alcohol or take any drugs other than those prescribed by your doctor. It is a requirement that a person submit a drug screen upon request of any staff member or it will be considered a positive test for sanctioning purposes. It is always the responsibility of the participant to provide a valid sample. The best way to do this is to drink a minimal amount of liquid in



the two hours prior to screening (a maximum of eight ounces of fluid every 30 minutes for at least two hours prior to the screen).

For many of our participants, it is essential that their medication be effective to allow them to be successful in the program and in life. When you mix prescribed medication with alcohol or other drugs, the effectiveness of the prescribed medications can be altered. This means that the medications that your doctor is giving to help you be okay will not work as well. That, in turn, means you will be more likely to get into trouble since your medicines are not as effective. IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU DO NOT DRINK ALCOHOL OR TAKE N0N-PRESCRIBED MEDICATIONS OR UNAPPROVED OVER THE COUNTER MEDICATIONS. All use of illegal drugs and alcohol and/or unapproved medications, prescription and/or over the counter, shall result in sanction(s). This is not intended as a punishment, but to encourage sobriety and allow effective administration of the program. The ultimate goal of drug testing is to provide accountability and confirmation of an individual’s progress toward recovery.

TestDay Call-in SystemTreatment Services utilizes the TestDay call-in system to randomly schedule drug screens. You are required to call this phone number or visit the website EVERY DAY while you are in the program. You can check the screening line starting at 4:00 am. You will need to enter your Social Security number and listen to your personal message which will tell you if you have to come provide a screen that day or not. You will be given a confirmation code when you call the screening line. This is for your records and MUST be produced in case your call is questioned; keep track of this number.

Screen Line #: 678-261-5872

Web address for screenings: DOI.TESTDAY.COM

PIN: 1370

Drug Screening HoursDrug testing is conducted at the Treatment Services Drug Testing Laboratory located at 2318 Browns Bridge Road. Come to the Drug Screening Laboratory on days that you are required to screen and sign in on the appropriate spreadsheet. You will be given an opportunity to admit to any drug or alcohol use. This includes any over-the-counter medications that you are taking.



Monday - Friday 7:00-7:45 am 12:00 pm – 12:45 pm 5:00-6:15 pmSaturday 7:00-11:30 amSunday 7:00-11:30 am

Holiday Hours 7:00-11:30 am

Positive Drug TestLab personnel always notify H.E.L.P. staff of all positive drug screens, allowing staff to reach out to discuss them with clients as soon as possible. In the case of clients who has not used unauthorized or unapproved substances, clients have the right to ask that their sample be sent off for a confirmation test by a third party lab. However, be aware of the following sanction guidelines to be considered by the team:

An admission accompanied by a signed green sheet, available by request, at the screening window, and completed PRIOR TO PROVIDING A SAMPLE, may result in a 50% reduction of the matrix recommendation.

An admission at time of staff contact will incur the recommended sanction as outlined in the matrix.

A denial of a positive screen and the request for a confirmation that is, in fact confirmed, may double the matrix recommendation and shall result in a fee of $35 added to your program fees.

Missed ScreensIf you miss a screen, it is mandatory that you report the next morning and submit a drug screen. If you do not provide a sample for the missed screen, it will count as an additional miss.

Could Not Provide30 ml of urine is required for a valid screen. If you are unable to produce that amount, a “could not provide” form will be filled out. You must come back at the next available screening opportunity to provide a valid sample. Sign your name at the bottom of the H.E.L.P. Program sign-in sheet when you return to provide a valid screen. If a sample is still not provided, the officers will fill out another “could not provide” form and will file for your case manager. You must report the following day to submit a drug screen. If drug testing officers do not show up, you must make sure that you have signed in and should contact your case manager.



Dilution / Substitution / Adulteration

The H.E.L.P. Program considers a normal creatinine range to be approximately 100 – 150 mg/dl.

A dilute screen is defined as a creatinine level <20 mg/dl or >400 mg/dl unless the criteria for a substituted specimen are met.

A substituted screen is defined as a urine specimen that does not exhibit the clinical signs or characteristics associated with normal human urine. The creatinine concentration is < or = to 5 mg/dl. An adulterated screen is defined as a participant being observed by a staff member attempting to substitute or alter his/her screen or the participant is found to be in possession of paraphernalia or materials to adulterate his/her urine drug screen.

The lab tests creatinine on every specimen it collects. Screens that are suspected to be adulterated or substituted will be sent to an outside lab for confirmation.

Not able to access your personal messageIf you are unable to access your personal message via the TestDay phone number or website, you must report that day for a drug screen. Drug screens will only be cancelled if Hall County Government is closed due to inclement weather or emergency. You may access this information by visiting www.hallcounty.org, watching the local news station, or listening to the local radio station for closing notifications.

NOTE: If it is determined that you have tampered with a screen or you are providing a replacement sample, you may spend a significant time in jail, face termination and sentencing. If you have a screen which indicates you have a creatinine level below 20 mg/dl your case manager will place you on a daily screening contract which will be reviewed after 14 days. While on daily screens, you are required to report to the Drug Screening Laboratory each day during the specified drug testing times to provide a screen.

Drug Screening Policy and Procedure:



1. Only one participant is allowed in the testing area at a time. A staff member must accompany you at all times during drug testing.

2. You must make sure that your name, date, and program are on your specimen bottle.

3. You must indicate an admission or denial of alcohol or drug (illegal or legal but unapproved) use and grant permission for confirmation of results, if appropriate when you sign in. If you admit to a use, it is your responsibility to fill out the admission form PRIOR TO DRUG TESTING. Honesty is a crucial component for recovery and participation in the Hall County H.E.L.P. Program. Self-disclosure of use will be considered by the court when sanctions are imposed.

4. You will not be allowed to leave the testing area or to drink excessive fluids until a specimen is rendered.

5. A staff member of the same sex must always witness the sample being given.

6. You may not carry purses, coats, bags, etc. into the testing area.

7. Shirt sleeves should be rolled up to the elbow and you may be requested to remove additional clothing to ensure the validity of a specimen.

8. The test cup must contain a minimum of 1/3 level to be adequate for testing.

If a urine sample is positive at the Treatment Services Drug Screening Laboratory, the specimen may be sent off for confirmation at a toxicology lab. If the urine specimen is confirmed positive, a confirmation fee will be billed to your account.

If you are required to be in an environment (school, work, training, etc.) that exposes you to or requires that you use or handle hygiene or other products with high alcohol content, it is your responsibility to let us know immediately.

If you do miss a drug screen or cannot provide a drug screen that day, you must report for a screen on the next screening day during the morning testing time. Failure to report during the next morning testing time will result in another missed screen for sanction purposes.

If you have difficulty providing random urine specimens, you may consult with your case manager about being placed on a daily screening schedule.

If you are placed on a daily screening schedule, it is your responsibility to report to drug



screens during the specified screening hours each day to provide a sample.

You must be punctual and prepared to submit a specimen during the specified hours. Late arrivals will not be allowed to test, and the failure to submit a specimen will be considered a missed screen.

AGAIN, TAMPERING WITH OR INTENTIONALLY DILUTING A DRUG SCREEN MAY BE GROUNDS FOR TERMINATION FROM THE PROGRAM.

Substitution or Adulteration Guideline:Any participant, who brings in urine to a drug screen, possesses or distributes urine with the intent to provide to another participant, or uses a substitute in a drug screen will be sanctioned and termination will be recommended. Adulteration of a drug screen shall not be tolerated.

HONESTY IS ALWAYS THE BEST POLICY AND MAY NOT ONLY HELP KEEP YOU IN THE PROGRAM; IT MAY HELP KEEP YOU CLEAN, SOBER, AND ALIVE!

Treatment

Self-SufficiencyRecovery from substance addiction means developing self-sufficiency and becoming a productive and responsible member of the community. As you progress through the H.E.L.P. Program, you will identify any gaps in your job skills, as well as any educational, financial and/or transportation issues you may have. You will work towards solutions to these issues, and ultimately develop a personalized plan, based upon your particular circumstances. Examples of solutions are job training, going back to school for your GED, college or technical school degree, developing a budget, learning the bus schedule, getting a driver’s license or buying a car.

Group RulesParticipation is crucial to recovery. Try to have a positive influence on other members of the group to help with their, and your, recovery process. Stay focused, on task, and involved. Be a part of the solution for yourself and others.



1. Maintain the confidentiality of everyone in the group. This cannot be emphasized

enough. You can tell anyone what you say or do in group but not what others say

or do.

2. Do not get up to leave until excused by staff.

3. Be respectful and attentive to peers.

4. Speak one at a time and listen when peers are sharing. Side conversations are

prohibited.

5. Threats, intimidation, or bullying, veiled or otherwise, shall in no way be tolerated.

6. Do not get up during group. Use the restroom prior to group. It is disruptive to the

group process and disrespectful to get up when someone else is sharing.

7. Maintain eye-to-eye contact.

8. Cellphones must be out of sight and kept turned off or on silent. A broom award

will be issued and phones may be confiscated by staff if they are used interrupt

group.

9. Maintain appropriate attire and hygiene at all times.

10.When referring to yourself use “I” and when talking to someone else say “you” or

his/her name.

11.Get your own chair out and put it back where it belongs. No leaning back on two

legs of the chair.

12.No food, gum, or drinks allowed in the group room.

13.Be on time for group. Tardiness may result in a sanction for a missed group.

14.Be prepared for group. Bring all group materials and a pen or pencil.

ConfidentialityTreatment Services has developed policies and procedures to guard your privacy. To participate in this treatment program, you will be required to sign Release of Information forms, which will include Consent for Disclosure of Confidential Information for your treatment providers and the judiciary. This disclosure of information is for the sole purpose of hearings and reports concerning your mental health court case and for collaboration with other providers regarding your treatment.



Confidentiality in Staffing: As described earlier in this handbook, the Hall County H.E.L.P. Program team will meet prior to court to discuss your progress. This does not mean that the court personnel will learn about your private discussions during treatment sessions. Rather, the team members only share general information, such as whether you are participating, and/or progressing.

Confidentiality in Court: Please remember that the courtroom is a public place. Therefore, you will never be asked in open court to disclose any mental health diagnosis, mental health medications, or personal information discussed in treatment groups.

Confidentiality in Treatment: Confidentiality also means that what is said in group stays in group. Participants must be able to talk easily about themselves while feeling safe and secure. Once way to feel safe and secure is to make sure that everything shared in group is not mentioned outside the group. Therefore, to avoid hurting fellow group members, do not talk about what happened in group, whether in the coffee area/lounge, in other therapy sessions, or anywhere else. Also, by “gossiping” outside of group, a group member is deprived of comments and perspectives which could help him or her grow. So, don’t gossip. Also, no comments on social media about group members, topics discussed, information shared, etc.

If you have more questions about how confidentiality applies in the Hall County H.E.L.P. Program, please talk with your case manager or lawyer. You can also review the confidentiality policies at your particular treatment provider(s).

MedicationsPlease refer to the Treatment Services Medication Handbook.

If you have questions about your medications, please make sure to discuss them with your prescriber. Check any over-the-counter (OTC) medications for alcohol. Any OTC medications (except Tylenol, Advil, or Ibuprofen), diuretics, sleep aids, and supplements must be approved to H.E.L.P. staff prior to taking. Just because it’s “natural” and/or legal, doesn’t mean it’s acceptable for program participants.

It is very important that you take your medications EXACTLY AS PRESCRIBED. If you have questions or concerns about your medicine, speak to your doctor about the situation and NEVER make changes on your own.

Remember:



Let your physicians, dentists, pharmacists, and all other persons that will be involved in you receiving medications know that you are in the program.

All medication changes MUST be brought to the attention of a H.E.L.P. team member as soon as possible.

Again, it is a very serious violation of the rules of the program for you to drink alcohol, use or possess illegal drugs or drugs that were not prescribed to you by a physician.

For co-occurring participants, there is a plan that must be followed before taking narcotic medications. Our first recommendation is that you address health issues with your primary care physician. It is vital to have a relationship with a doctor that knows your medical history instead of using the ER for health care. We understand that using the ER is necessary in emergency situations or for financial reasons. We will help you to find alternatives to using the ER for non-emergency situations. If you are ill, we also encourage you to address the issue with your primary care physician prior to it becoming an emergency. If you find that you must go to the ER or if you receive a new prescription from any doctor, you must have the physician letter signed by the doctor and returned to the H.E.L.P. office on the next business day. A release to obtain records from the prescribing doctor will be needed as well. If a pattern of prescription drug abuse becomes apparent to the team, sanctions will be put in place. For situations in which there is truly no other alternative, a note from the treating physician will be required and you may be referred to a pain management clinic or asked to take a medical leave of absence from the program.

In order to have any success in treating both mental health and substance abuse, abstinence from addictive prescription drugs, illicit drugs, and alcohol is a must!

Alcohol, illicit drugs, benzodiazepine (anti-anxiety medication), stimulants, narcotics/opiates, and prescription drugs that were not prescribed to you, are absolutely not to be used while in the program.

Medication ApprovalIf medication is required due to illness, either prescribed by a physician or purchased over-the-counter, approval must be obtained PRIOR TO TAKING THE MEDICATION. Any unauthorized medication use shall be sanctioned as a positive drug screen.

The following procedure outlines the steps required PRIOR TO taking any medication, either prescribed or over the counter.



1. Participant shall notify treating Physician, Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant, Dentist, or other medical professional of enrollment in a mandated treatment program for mental health and/or substance abuse.

2. Provide the Doctor’s Letter to all prescribers for signature in order to show that they were informed that the patient is a participant in the H.E.L.P. program prior to receiving any treatment unless there are medical issues that prevent communication.

3. After treatment is provided, a list of all medication provided in emergency care or Doctor’s office must be documented on discharge paperwork.

4. Discuss treatment options prior to being released and medication preferences that would not interfere with treatment (non-narcotic or habit forming).

5. If a prescription is obtained for aftercare treatment, the Doctor must fill out the bottom portion of the Doctor’s Letter, especially if it is a medication that is not allowed in the H.E.L.P. program (pain medication, allergy relief, decongestants, etc...).

6. After discharge has been completed, contact staff to get approval for ALL medication PRIOR TO PURCHASING any of the medication, prescribed or over-the-counter.

a. During regular business hours i. Contact your case manager at (770) 531-9173.ii. E-mail notification is NOT acceptable, and, as per policy, staff is not

allowed to reply to participants E-mail notification.b. During non-business hours (week nights, weekends, and holidays)

i. Call the On-Call Emergency phone at (678) 617-4626ii. Leave a detailed message including your name, circumstances,

and a number where you may be reached.7. Staff will discuss the medication and provide approval if all procedures have

been followed.a. If medication is not approved and has already been taken, a sanction shall

be given for a positive drug screen. (Prescribed or over-the-counter)8. In the event medication has been approved but is not allowed in the program, a

leave of absence must be completed with your case manager. a. If patient declines to take the prescribed medication, the prescription

should be brought to his/her counselor to be destroyed.b. Medical leave will be reviewed every 7 days. c. All medication must be taken EXACTLY AS PRESCRIBED – over use of

any medication is sanctioned as a positive drug screen. Any narcotic medication left over shall be disposed of properly with staff.

Failure to comply with the requirements of medication approval shall result in sanction(s) deemed appropriate by the treatment team, up to and including termination.



Zero Tolerance PolicyNo alcohol use is acceptable, and includes the substances listed below. None should be in your system at any time. Avoid the excessive use of hand sanitizer, as well. Please note that the purchasing or possessing of any type of alcohol while in this program may result in a sanction. Read all labels for contents. After-Shave Lotion Extracts Hair Tonics Medical AlcoholMouthwash/Toothpaste PerfumesSterno Wood Alcohol

Any use of supplements or food that has the potential to produce a false positive drug screen or invalid drug screen will be treated as a positive drug screen and sanctioned accordingly. This would include but not limited to:

Poppy seeds, workout supplements, vitamins, shakes, powders, energy drinks, etc..

Please see a staff member if you have any questions or concerns. It is your responsibility to obtain approval prior to taking or eating anything that may compromise a drug screen.

E-Cigarettes or VaporizersThe possession of or the use of electronic cigarettes or vaporizers is strictly prohibited while enrolled in the Hall County H.E.L.P. Program. If an electronic cigarette or vaporizer is found in your possession, in your home, car, etc., it is considered drug paraphernalia and may incur a sanction.

Court

Courtroom BehaviorYour attendance in court is a primary obligation of your participation in the Hall County H.E.L.P. Program. Your behavior from the time you leave your automobile until you arrive in the courtroom should reflect positively on the H.E.L.P. Program. The judge, court staff, and officers of the court shall receive the utmost respect and courtesy. Failure to comply shall result in sanction(s).

Your attire shall not include shorts, tank tops, halter-tops, hats, sunglasses, sleeveless shirts, mini-skirts, excessively baggy clothing, sweat pants, or ripped clothing.



You shall not wear clothes displaying offensive language or advertising alcohol or other drugs.

Loud and boisterous behavior is unacceptable.

Congregating in groups on the courthouse steps, lobby, or in the hallways is also unacceptable.

You must be punctual.

Once in the courtroom, conversations shall cease and cellphones must be off or on silent.

You are to remain seated unless directed otherwise.

No reading or sleeping in the courtroom. No food, gum, drink, pagers, or other items which may cause a distraction or created a disturbance are allowed.

You are responsible for anyone who accompanies you to court and he/she shall sit on the back row.

If you have a program violation of any kind, you must report for the next scheduled court session.

Community Resources

HospitalsNortheast Georgia Medical Center 743 Spring St. NE Gainesville, GA (770) 219-9000

LaurelwoodMental Health-Alcohol & Drug Abuse200 Wisteria Dr.Gainesville, GA 30501(770) 219-3800

Health CareGood News Clinic (770) 503-1369



Hall County Health Department (770) 531-5600MedLink Gainesville (770) 219-7503

VA Medical Center-Oakwood (404) 728-8210Gainesville Care Center (770) 535-1245

Basic NeedsConsumer Credit Counseling 404-527-7630

Food Stamps (DFCS) 770-532-5298Gainesville Baptist Rescue Mission (Men) 770-287-9700

Good News at Noon 770-503-1366Hall Area Transit 770-503-3333Housing Authority 770-536-1294L.A.M.P. Ministries 770-503-0588

Ninth District Opportunities 770-532-3191Salvation Army 770-534-7589

United Way 770-536-1121

Crisis LinesGeorgia Crisis and Access Line (GCAL) 1-800-715-4225

HELP LINE 770-534-0617Gateway House (Domestic Violence) 770-536-5860

Georgia Counsel on Child Abuse 1-800-532-3208Rape Response 770-503-7273

AVITA Community Partners (Mental Health)(Mental Health)

Emergency Number 1-800-347-5827Regular Office Number 770-535-5403

Treatment CommunityGainesville/Hall County is very fortunate to have a strong recovery community. The following is a list of local AA, NA, community-support meetings and other treatment providers:

AASaint Luke’s Church 770-531-0350

H.A.L.T. Club 770-354-3777Laurelwood 770-219-3800



NAH.A.L.T. Club 770-354-3777Laurelwood 770-219-3800

Community SupportLaurelwood – Emotions Anonymous 770-219-3800National Alliance of Mental Illness

Saint Luke’s Church – Al-Anon 770-531-0350

Treatment ProvidersAbsolute Treatment Solutions 678-450-8098AVITA Community Partners 770-535-5403Brenau Counseling Center 770-297-5959Center Point Counseling 770-535-1050

Community Service Center 770-503-3330Creation Counseling 678-343-1451

Family Recovery 770-535-1073Laurelwood 770-219-3800

LifeWorks Counseling 770-503-6683Midtown Counseling 770-536-6683

New Hope Counseling 770-539-9669Turning Point 770-533-9021



Notes:


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