Lake County Health Dept/CHC – Women’s Residential Services (WRS)
The Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center provides crucial behavioral health support through its Women’s Residential Services (WRS) program. Located at 24647 North Milwaukee Avenue in Vernon Hills, IL, WRS offers a specialized residential environment dedicated to helping women overcome substance use disorders and develop a sustainable lifestyle of recovery.
A Safe and Structured Path to Recovery
WRS is designed as a secure, structured inpatient setting, offering stabilization and intensive Co-occurring Capable (COC) treatment. The program focuses on empowering women with complex and multiple needs, recognizing that addiction often co-exists with other mental health challenges. This trauma-informed approach ensures that treatment is individualized and addresses the deep-rooted factors contributing to substance use.
Comprehensive Treatment Offerings
The core of the WRS program includes a robust suite of services delivered with dignity and understanding. The aim is to equip participants with the tools necessary for long-term health and well-being. Treatment is focused on healing the whole person—mind, body, and family dynamics.
- Individual, group, and family counseling sessions are provided to address behavioral patterns and strengthen family bonds.
- Medical and psychiatric services are integrated to manage physical health and co-occurring mental health conditions.
- Case management and peer support ensure participants receive holistic, ongoing guidance throughout their recovery journey.
- Educational components cover vital subjects such as Relapse Prevention, Anger Management, Co-Occurring Disorders, and “A Woman’s Way Through the 12 Steps.”
Family Support and Connection
Understanding the critical role of family in recovery, WRS emphasizes strengthening the mother-to-child bond. The program facilitates family education, counseling, and scheduled child visits. Children aged 5-11 can visit on weekends, while visits for children of other ages can be scheduled for up to four hours, fostering essential connections during treatment.
Eligibility for WRS
To ensure the residential program is appropriate and effective, specific criteria must be met before admission. Potential participants must complete both a phone and health screening process. This process confirms that the woman is capable of self-care and willing to fully engage in the intensive treatment provided.
Key eligibility requirements include:
- Being at least 18 years of age.
- Establishing Illinois residency.
- Having a diagnosis of substance use disorder.
- Demonstrating clinical symptoms that necessitate a residential level of care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What types of insurance are accepted at WRS?
The Lake County Health Department’s behavioral health programs generally accept most Medicaid plans, including Aetna Better Health, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Humana, and Meridian. Discounted fees are also available for qualified clients, as services are not denied based on inability to pay.
How long is the typical stay at Women’s Residential Services?
The length of stay is individualized and determined through ongoing clinical assessments. These evaluations help determine the client’s continuous need for this intensive level of residential care and plan for successful transition to aftercare.
What specific type of treatment is offered for co-occurring disorders?
WRS provides Intensive Co-occurring Capable (COC) treatment, meaning the staff is trained to address both substance use disorders and mental health disorders simultaneously, recognizing the complex interplay between the two conditions for comprehensive recovery.
