Alberta Adolescent Recovery Centre

AARC helps teens and young adults (ages 12–21) with moderate to severe addiction through a long-term, abstinence-based, 12-step program. Founded in 1992, AARC uses a semi-residential, family-centered model. Clients live in recovery homes, attend group and individual therapy, and receive clinical and peer support. Each journey is individualized, typically lasting 8–10 months, allowing families to heal at a sustainable pace.

Begin Healing With Compassionate Support

Admission starts with a simple phone call—no referral or waitlist required. An Assessment Coordinator guides families from first contact through intake day. Clients then progress through 4 structured levels, blending therapy, mentoring, and peer connection. Early phases include living in recovery homes with intensive, 6-day-a-week treatment; later phases reintroduce school or work and service to newcomers.

Experience Family-Centered, Holistic Treatment

An interdisciplinary team—psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, certified addiction counsellors, nurses, and wellness specialists—addresses addiction and co-occurring mental health. Families participate in education and therapy throughout care. This full-family approach rebuilds relationships and restores trust. As one graduate’s sibling shared, “After years of sadness and chaos, I got my brother back.”

Access Proven Results and Lifelong Community

AARC ensures affordability through means-tested fees and broad subsidies, so finances do not block treatment. Research shows strong outcomes: 80.5% of participants complete the program, and 73% report continuous sobriety one year after graduation. Alumni, families, and peers remain connected, offering mentorship and community that supports long-term recovery.