Local Substance Abuse Counselor Launches Online Counseling Service to Make Treatment More Accessible
Substance use disorder (SUD) has long been a concern in Humboldt County, with limited treatment options available for those in need. However, Marilynne Walpole, a certified substance abuse counselor with a decade of experience, has taken a groundbreaking step to address this issue. She recently launched Red Phoenix Recovery, an online counseling service aimed at providing affordable and approachable treatment for drug and alcohol addiction within the community.
Walpole believes in utilizing different therapeutic approaches, such as motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy, to empower individuals and equip them with effective coping strategies. Unlike traditional approaches that simply advise attending meetings, Red Phoenix Recovery offers tangible solutions and teaches individuals techniques to bring about tangible changes.
Meeting the Needs of the Community
Marilynne Walpole has previously worked with various recovery centers and programs in Humboldt, including Humboldt Alcohol Recovery Treatment (HART) and Aegis Treatment Center. Most recently, Walpole was associated with Singing Trees Recovery Center in Southern Humboldt. Unfortunately, the facility is currently closed due to legal issues.
Despite the challenges, Walpole’s experience at Singing Trees has highlighted the pressing need for more recovery options, especially in Southern Humboldt. Recognizing the limited availability of treatment centers in the area, Walpole founded Red Phoenix Recovery.
Local centers like Waterfront Recovery in Eureka are consistently full, with extensive waitlists. While group-based programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) are widely available throughout the county, they may not suit everyone, particularly those who feel uncomfortable in a group setting. Red Phoenix Recovery offers the privacy and convenience of one-on-one counseling, with the added advantage of online accessibility from the comfort of one’s home.
Combating Transportation Barriers
Transportation remains a significant obstacle for many individuals seeking recovery in the region. Without dependable means of transportation, individuals often struggle to attend in-person meetings or counseling appointments. Red Phoenix Recovery overcomes this challenge by providing virtual counseling services, eliminating the need for a vehicle.
While online counseling has its limitations, including the inability to accurately assess a person’s condition without direct interaction, Walpole envisions expanding her services by establishing an office space. This way, she can provide a hybrid approach, combining in-person and virtual counseling tailored to individuals’ specific needs. However, Walpole acknowledges the expense associated with renting an office space and plans to proceed cautiously, focusing on keeping her rates affordable by reducing overhead costs.
Accessibility and Affordability
At present, Red Phoenix Recovery offers appointments over the phone or via Zoom, according to the client’s preference. Walpole operates on a sliding scale, allowing patients to pay what they can afford. With treatment centers and counseling services often being cost prohibitive, affordability remains a significant barrier for those struggling with addiction.
Walpole’s commitment to the community extends beyond financial considerations. While she accepts insurance, she is also in the process of becoming eligible for Partnership, the insurance provider for individuals on Medi-Cal, a process that typically takes six months.
Setting a commendable example, Walpole believes in providing accessible services that benefit the community as a whole and reduce the barriers preventing individuals from seeking treatment. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction and seeking help, you can reach out to Marilynne Walpole through the Red Phoenix Recovery website. She welcomes individuals to take the first step and will work with them to determine the most suitable treatment and payment plan. Additionally, she can provide referrals for those searching for alternative treatment centers.
Marilynne Walpole’s dedication, flexibility, and round-the-clock availability demonstrate her commitment to serving the needs of the community. By launching Red Phoenix Recovery, she is transforming the landscape of addiction treatment in Humboldt County, ensuring that vital counseling services are accessible to all.
