Four Directions Expands Services
to Matanuska-Susitna Borough

By Senior Public Relations Specialist Michelle Mincks

Southcentral Foundation, in partnership with Knik Tribal Council and Chickaloon Village Traditional Council, is expanding the Four Directions Outpatient Treatment Center to the Matanuska-Susitna Borough.

Every community in Alaska is impacted by substance use. Strengthening and expanding the services available for addiction treatment and recovery can improve the outcomes of those struggling with substance and alcohol use.

“Chickaloon Village Traditional Council is pleased to partner with the Four Directions Outpatient Treatment Center to provide our support for ensuring the success of this program which has a proven track record of success in Anchorage,” Chickaloon Village Traditional Council Chief Gary Harrison said.

Benteh Nuutah Four Directions Outpatient Treatment Center provides substance use treatment in an outpatient setting for adults ages 18 and older. Services are available for all Matanuska-Susitna Borough residents. Customer-owners interested in seeking services will connect with a masters level therapist to identify the most appropriate level of care and a treatment pathway best suited to meet that individual’s unique needs.

“Southcentral Foundation has grown our addiction treatment continuum over the last several years. I am excited that this growth now includes offering substance use treatment for customer-owners in the Mat-Su Valley. We know that treatment works, and the positive impact treatment has on a person’s physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellness,” Michelle Baker, acting vice president of SCF’s Behavioral Services Division said.

Customer-owners who are ready to enter Benteh Nuutah Four Directions can start right away. The program includes both individual and group treatment that is tailored based on each person’s unique strengths, story, and goals. The clinician will partner with each individual to create an initial plan to begin moving toward wellness goals. This plan may also include a referral to other programs such as detox, residential treatment, psychiatry, primary care, and learning circles among others. Average length of treatment is 4 – 6 months and varies depending on treatment goals.

“An outpatient treatment program rooted in cultural values is vitally important to supporting healthy outcomes for individuals and families living in the Mat-Su,” Harrison said.