Experts back Auckland's new Serenity Clinic to cope with rising addiction in all areas

Experts today backed the launch this month of Auckland’s new private Serenity Clinic to treat people with drug, alcohol, gambling and eating addictions. The clinic opens on August 25.

Nelson Sucgang, an award winning addiction specialist medical officer with the Waikato District Health Board, said residential treatment clinics like Serenity would help problem gamblers. Dr Sucgang will be a consultant to Serenity in west Auckland.

`` “What I have seen at Serenity is the courage to do things differently and to adopt innovative and holistic ways of providing treatment that is substantial, intensive, effective and enduring in an environment that treats its clients with dignity.”

Christopher Ross, lead psychologist at the mason clinic in Auckland, said he believed Serenity would be the leader in private rehabilitation treatment in NZ.

``This will be because of its particular philosophy of personalised and holistic treatment in a caring and compassionate rehabilitation environment. Clients and clinicians together determine appropriate paths to recovery. Serenity will give space, time and freedom to recover.’’’

Dr Ross is currently employed as a senior clinical psychologist in the forensic intellectual disability services by the Waitemata District Health Board’s Mason Clinic. He will also be consultant to Serenity Clinic.

Tracey Schubert, a registered psychologist and past member of ALAC, said Serenity would offer a fresh holistic approach to what is currently on offer at other treatment centres. This will enable the clients an alternative to the traditional treatment model.’’ Schubert will also be on the Serenity staff.

Waitakere mayor Bob Harvey also backed the launch of the Serenity Clinic.

"I am joined by other community leaders in Waitakere and across the region in applauding any organisation that is able to help people to quit the curse of drugs and addiction - we wish Serenity success in their endeavours."

Clinic general manager Murdoch (his only name) said he believed they had the finest staff assembled anywhere in New Zealand for the treatment of addiction, including any DHB in the country.

``Being able to give a client more than 90 hours of one on one time in any month with a therapist while in treatment is not heard of in NZ. We will be able to do that.

``Drug, alcohol and gambling addiction rates are climbing every year. I know what is required to help people and I’m convinced Serenity will help change people’s lives for the better.’’