As a therapist with nearly 30 years of experience, originally trained in person-centred therapy, and with lived experience of recovery aligned with the 12-step model, BACP Therapist, Donna Matthews provides a self-development programme tailored to each individuals needs.
The self-development programme ultimately meets the client where they are, offers informed choices, and supports them in building a recovery pathway that is both personal and achievable.
The core stance remains person-centred: prioritising the client’s autonomy, perspective, and right to choose their own path. Recovery is not imposed, it is explored collaboratively. Supporting clients in identifying what feels right and sustainable for them.
Personal Development: Supporting individuals to reconnect with their identity beyond addiction through empathic listening and reflective exercises.
Mentoring Relationship: A non-directive, collaborative space where the client leads the pace where Donna offers non-judgmental support and empowerment tools.
Life Rebuilding: Structured activities that help clients explore new routines, develop purpose, and set values-led goals.
Mentoring helps people finish treatment programmes; one report on 'Mentorship for Addiction Problems' indicated 61.6% of those with a peer mentor completed treatment, compared to 43.6% without one
Progress is measured collaboratively, based on the client’s goals, their level of engagement, and the positive changes they’re experiencing in their daily life. This type of therapeutic model can be particularly helpful for those who may have completed residential rehab or home detox and need extra support to help them stay on track.
If you would like to explore how this particular online programme could support someone you love please contact our treatment advisors for a free assessment.
Flexibility is essential, as no two clients or their circumstances are the same.
As a client progresses, their needs often change, so the approach has to evolve with them. Continuously assessing what the client needs in the moment and adapting the pace, structure, and focus of sessions accordingly.
Overall, Donna adopts an approach that is responsive and personal to each individual client ensuring a completely tailored recovery pathway and experience.
Donna states: "I take a responsive and dynamic approach, regularly reviewing and adapting the programme so it remains relevant, effective, and aligned with the client’s development."
When assessing which programme is most appropriate for a new client, Donna takes a person-centred and integrated approach. One size doesn’t fit all and clients are encouraged to explore what feels right for them. If the 12 step ethos doesn't resonate or feel aligned other support systems and tools can be explored.
Mutual aid groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and Cocaine Anonymous can be incredibly helpful when tackling addiction.
The 12-step model is one option, discussing its benefits and limitations openly. At the same time, ensuring clients are aware of alternative approaches such as Recovery 2.0, Dharma Recovery, and SMART Recovery. We understand that each recovery journey varies and therefore its important to have options about the approach.
With the nature of addiction, recovery in isolation is extremely challenging. Addiction often involves denial — “the only disease that tells us we don’t have a disease” — and isolation can reinforce that. For this reason, the value of connection, community, and shared experience, particularly in early recovery, as a protective factor against relapse is key.
