Or Call 0300 365 0304 and one of our receptionists will book you in for an assessment.

What to Expect

We want you to feel comfortable and informed about what happens when you come to us. Here are some key things to know:

• Free support – We offer free group therapy for anyone aged 18 or over, living in Hertfordshire, who is experiencing any kind of addiction.

• Counsellors with lived experience – All our counsellors are in recovery themselves. They know what it feels like to go through addiction, because they’ve been there too. They also hold professional qualifications, so they can combine understanding with expert support.

• Working together – Our approach is about helping you take back control of your life. We’ll support you to build accountability and confidence, while also looking at the other things that might get in the way of recovery, like housing, money worries, or mental health.

• Centres near you – We have centres in Stevenage, St Albans and Watford. You can choose the one that works best for you.

• Getting started – Once you call us or complete a referral form, we’ll invite you for an assessment with one of our counsellors. This happens at 9.30am at your chosen centre. There are no long waiting lists – we’ll see you quickly.

What Happens Next

• Starting straight away – After your assessment, you’ll join the group the same day.

• Morning session (10.30am – 12pm) – This is a safe space to talk about feelings, share what’s going on for you, and listen to others. Our counsellors, who are also in recovery, will guide and support the conversation.

• Lunch (12pm – 1pm) – Time to take a break, eat, and connect informally with others.

• Afternoon session (1pm – 2.30pm) – Workshops are based on topics that come up in the morning group. These help you explore your recovery in a practical, supportive way.

• Commitment to recovery – To get the most out of therapy, we ask you to come at least three days a week. You can stay with us as long as you need, whether that’s a few months or over a year. This is not a drop-in service – it’s a structured programme where you build trust, friendships and strength alongside others who are at different stages of recovery.

• A unique service – We’re a charity, and our therapy is completely free. Since 2000, we’ve supported over 8,500 people into recovery.

• Our belief in you – We know that addiction does not define you. Underneath it, you are someone of value and dignity. You deserve compassion, support and love – never shame.

Family and Carers

• Support for families and carers – We run weekly separate groups for people who are caring for someone with an addiction. These are led by counsellors who understand what it’s like to live with or care for someone in addiction.

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If you would like to refer someone to Relationships Service (formerly RELATE) or Family Lives, please use the relevant form on our Refer to FLiR page.

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