what we do

SMART

South Africa’s leading independent centre of expertise on alcohol and drugs.

About SMART

SMART aspires to provide professional and quality information about Substance Use Disorders, by promoting effective responses, undertaking research and encouraging informed debate.

SMART advises on policy making and best practice, and disseminates this information across treatment, the criminal justice system and prevention and education services. While aiming to improve the quality and effectiveness of its own services through continual evaluation and innovation.

SMART Objectives

To provide authoritative and reliable information on all aspects of alcohol and drug use and the harms they cause to the individual, the family and the community.
To promote and develop effective responses to alcohol and drug use across treatment, the criminal justice system and prevention and education services.
To support and develop quality alcohol and drug services for people with special needs such as women, children and young people; people affected by HIV/AIDS and people with physical disabilities and mental health problems.

Treatment:

A holistic and personalised approach to providing effective treatment to addicts and their families.

treatment

Training: Matrix Model

The Matrix Model is clinical training on the Evidence-Based Matrix Model of Intensive Outpatient Treatment. It is nationally and internationally recognized for its structured, evidence-based outpatient treatment approach known as the Matrix Model. Training is appropriate for: health care professionals, substance abuse treatment providers, and all other interested parties.

training

A path to a meaningful future

our contact

FAQ

What is drug and alcohol addiction?

Addiction is a complex, chronic, lapsing brain disease. Characterised by craving, seeking and use that
can persist even in the face of devastating life consequences. It results predominately from brain
changes that occur through long term use of the substance, and challenges an individual’s self- control behaviours. Addiction can be managed successfully, however, due to the nature of this disease treatment must be holistic, individualised and long term in order to be successful.

What is detox?

Detoxification is a process the body goes through to get rid of the drug or alcohol, while simultaneously managing symptoms of withdrawal. This is the first step in a drug treatment programme and should be followed by either an out-patient or inpatient treatment episode to be effective. Detox alone is not enough.

What is the Matrix Model?

The Matrix Model is a comprehensive, organized set of evidence-based therapeutic interventions delivered in an outpatient setting. The structured format includes individual and group sessions for clients and family members.

Why does the Matrix Model work?

The Matrix Model has been evaluated and revised for over 25 years using evidence based practice methods. The programme uses real life situations to educate and provide clients with skills to stop using drugs and alcohol.

How often will I need to be in treatment?

Out-patient treatment requires a great deal of commitment and motivation. Clients are required to attend the programme 3/4 times per week, for 16 weeks (4 months). Families are encouraged to participate and attend 12 weekly family sessions.

Is this a 12-step programme?

The Matrix Model of treatment is not a 12-step programme. Through this model we provide our clients with the tools and skills to stay sober and encourage them to seek outside support at various 12-step meetings.

How successful is treatment?

There is no cure for addiction, and therefore no 100% effective treatment. However, like other chronic diseases, addiction can be managed successfully. The goal is to return clients to productive functioning in the family, workplace and community. The outcome of treatment depends on the extent and nature of a client’s problem.

Does a relapse mean I have failed?

No! Relapse is a signal to the client and their family that the treatment plan must be re-evaluated and changed. It is a sign that something is not working.

Fee Structure

Fees are charged on a sliding scale according to income.

(Substance Misuse: Advocacy, Research & Training) South Africa’s leading independent centre of expertise on alcohol and drugs.

Contact Info

083 327 3911 | 021 850 0792

admin@smart-sa.org

201 Victoria Centre, 7 Victoria Street, Somerset West, Cape Town, 7130

Areas of Expertise

Addiction Counseling

Training Courses