Our Approach

Rideauwood's approach is based on clinical best practices which are adapted to meet the ever-evolving needs of our clients.

We recognize that substance use, behavioural addictions and mental health issues are complicated and that our clients always choose the support options that are best for their unique situations. Our specialized approach involves adaption, collaboration and most importantly, compassion. We listen to and respond to our clients with the greatest of respect and consideration.

We care deeply about our community. The sense of connection is a powerful aspect of the Rideauwood culture and is something we hear about time and time again from our colleagues, partners and alumni.

Our Principles of Treatment

Principle 1

All clients, regardless of their histories, culture, beliefs or lifestyle, personality or treatment goals, are worthy of our best possible service, understanding, patience, and respect.

Principle 2

The longer a person has been struggling with substance use, behavioural addiction or mental health issues, the more help they are likely to need. Our services will be provided to most clients for as long as they are needed, and we structure our programs accordingly.

Principle 3

Where substance use, behavioural addictions or mental health issues are present, we believe that by working with family members and parents, the person who is struggling with substance use, behavioural addictions or mental health issues can address their issues more effectively. While the person may be struggling with their treatment goals, we believe that families can heal.

Principle 4

Regardless of the root cause, the substance use, behavioural addictions or mental health issues needs to be adressed concurrently with other issues. Addressing physical, mental, legal, family or life problems as part of treatment goals can ensure a long-lasting recovery.

We at Rideauwood, abide by the Patient Declaration of Values for Ontario.

Patient Declaration of Values for Ontario

Respect and Dignity

We expect that our individual identity, beliefs, history, culture, and ability will be respected in our care.

We expect health care providers will introduce themselves and identify their role in our care.

We expect that we will be recognized as part of the care team, to be fully informed about our condition and have the right to make choices in our care.

We expect that families and caregivers be treated with respect and seen as valuable contributors to the care team.

We expect that our personal health information belongs to us and that it remains private, respected and protected.

Empathy and Compassion

We expect health care providers will act with empathy, kindness, and compassion.

We expect individualized care plans that acknowledge our unique physical, mental and emotional needs.

We expect that we will be treated in a manner free from stigma and assumptions.

We expect health care system providers and leaders will understand that their words, actions, and decisions strongly impact the lives of patients, families and caregivers.

Accountablility

We expect open and seamless communication about our care.

We expect that everyone on our care team will be accountable and supported to carry out their roles and responsibilities effectively.

We expect a health care culture that values the experiences of patients, families, and caregivers and incorporates this knowledge into policy, planning and decision making.

We expect that patient/family experiences and outcomes will drive the accountability of the health care system and those who deliver services, programs, and care within it.

We expect that health care providers will act with integrity by acknowledging their abilities, biases, and limitations.

We expect health care providers to comply with their professional responsibilities and to deliver safe care.

Transparency

We expect we will be proactively and meaningfully involved in conversations about our care, considering options for our care, and decisions about our care.

We expect our health records will be accurate, complete, available and accessible across the provincial health system at our request.

We expect a transparent, clear and fair process to express a complaint, concern or compliment about our care and that it not impact the quality of the care we receive.

Equity and Engagement

We expect equal and fair access to the healthcare system and services for all regardless of place of origin, background, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability marital or family status, education, ethnicity, race, religion, socioeconomic status or location within Ontario.

We expect that we will have opportunities to be included in health care policy development and program design at local, regional and provincial levels of the health care system.

“When you come to Rideauwood, you are listened to and respected. You aren’t judged..”

– Alumni, Rideauwood

Do you have questions about our approach?