Not wanting to drink again is in my heart. That is how I am able to abstain now. I am self-controlled in that matter. Before I went to Santa Maria not drinking was only in my head and I am not self-disciplined. I could not quit just by telling myself that I did not want to drink anymore.

The secret for me was getting it from my head to my heart. I believe that happened in the course of my writing during therapy at Santa Maria. I was able to move not wanting to drink from my head to my heart.

I was initially afraid when I left Santa Maria wondering what I would do when the bad moods struck, I have been up, down and all around since I left Santa Maria and I have not drank. The only explanation I have is that it is in my heart to not drink again.

Words from former client Lauri W.

“Hi, my name Brandy and I am a graduate of Santa Maria Hostel. I was introduced to Santa Maria on August 6, 2012 through their Path to Recovery/Recovery Support Services program. Since coming to Santa Maria I have completed two 90-day programs and participated in GED Fast Track. I now live at Santa Maria in their HUD housing program and my two kids, Des’Riunnah and La’Troy, have been returned to my care. This program has brought nothing but success into my life. I am very grateful for everything Santa Maria has offered me. I am now on my way to making wise decisions that are going to take me a long way in life. I am now waiting for permanent housing and going to school to be a Forklift Operator. I now put recovery first and follow suggestions that my Recovery Coach offers. Big thanks to all the Counselors and Staff at Santa Maria for changing my life.”