Health & Nutrition

My addiction had nearly killed me and I was on the verge of losing everything. I knew that I had to get help and deal with devastating  trauma. As an Anishinaabe person, my initial search was a centre that provided traditional ceremonies. Due to Covid, this was not an  option. My therapist made a couple of suggestions, and I knew that  I needed to be at Greenestone, I could bring my own Anishinaabe  ceremony and healing to the beautiful land that the centre is located  on. The forest trails and closeness to water allowed for me to connect with Mother Earth and gain strength from her strength.

The privacy of the rooms and easy access to outdoor space allowed me  to use my medicines whenever I needed. The staff and other  residents were so respectful and appreciative of the healings I  shared through Anishinaabe prayers and medicines.

Choosing  Greenestone was the best decision. It transformed my life journey  and I have found some of the most beautiful and supportive friendships through the alumni program. Everyday I am so very  grateful for the gifts that recovery is giving me.

Chi-miigwetch  Greenestone for caring for me and helping me get well enough to  start this new journey.

Alumnus – 2020

When I checked into GreeneStone in March 2020, I was underweight, overwhelmed with life, terrified, on the edge of self-destruction and full of shame.

GreeneStone’s holistic approach was immediately supportive, loving and non-judgmental. Every step of the way I was lovingly guided and supported by many of the highly experienced Therapists and Recovery Coaches. They helped me to lay out the puzzle pieces of my childhood trauma and discover healthy ways to manage my emotions and life struggles. The daily education sessions, participation in process groups and the Centre’s amazing amenities gave me a better understanding of my addictions and a strong sense of community and connection.

Through my time with GreeneStone’s Trauma Therapist I learned about the concept of fear versus trust and how to tackle my anxiety from within, rather than relying on outside sources to soothe the feelings of discomfort. Their hyper-focused treatment environment taught me to place more trust in myself and that our substance use is a symptom of our trauma, rather than the original problem – this concept changed absolutely everything for me!

GreeneStone’s team continues to work with those who have completed treatment by providing excellent aftercare, two weekly Alumni Zoom meetings and additional peer support opportunities. I am grateful to have had the gift of treatment and will hold the memories of my time in beautiful Muskoka forever in my heart.

Today I am an addict living in recovery. I am full of hope, optimism, spirituality and feeling it all. Simply put, GreeneStone gave me my life back.

Alumnus – May 2020

I came in with a significant addiction that had gained full control of my life. Through my time at GreeneStone I began the process of recovery and freedom from alcohol.  As important as that was, my life was also significantly impacted by the breadth of the program material.  I learned many things about my alcoholism, who I am as a person, why I think as I did, why I responded as I did to circumstances, and this helped me begin to identify the values that matter to me as I live this new life in sobriety.

The facilities, food, and program are a blessing for those seeking a new beginning.  Perhaps the biggest blessing is the staff. At all times I was treated with kindness, and respect. They listened, challenged and helped me process my life journey and my experiences with addiction. The multidisciplinary approach was so appreciated. My intellect, emotions and faith were challenged, encouraged and explored safely and competently. I will be forever grateful.

Finally, I am so grateful for the aftercare provided. The care and concern did not end after I left. Whether through phone calls, emails or weekly zoom connections they have helped me solidify both my sobriety and life change after the program.

Thank you to GreeneStone. My life is forever different because of GreeneStone and its work in my life.

Alumnus – October 2019

When I hit my bottom with my alcoholism, I did some research on treatment centres. Your programs, facilities and approach to addiction treatment attracted me. This was my first attempt at recovery and the first thing I have ever done for myself. “All of my life I never felt I was where I needed to be,” until I arrived at GreeneStone.

My gratitude list is just way too long to list, I just can’t say enough about GreeneStone. Thank you for giving me the support, knowledge, and tools I required to start what I feel will be “the most beautiful chapter of my life.”

GreeneStone will always be a part of me for the rest of life.

Alumnus – May 2019

The amazing nurses made sure I was comfortable through stabilization (way easier than I thought) then continued care during my stay.

The therapists and counsellors were actively engaged in my recovery and went above and beyond making time for me anytime I needed them. Non-judgmental conversations with staff and other clients was very refreshing. I made lifelong friends.

The breathtaking Muskoka scenery brought me closer to my spiritual self. The world class chef, programming and amenities gave me the opportunity to get emotionally and physically fit. I left a new and improved person with a zest for living, equipped with the tools and attitude to continue through my journey of recovery.

Greenstone not only saved my life but gave me a better life!

Alumnus – August 2017