The Metrix Program for Substance Addiction

Ashcliffe Psychology offers the AACE Metrix Program (formally the Matrix Program), an intensive, non-residential therapeutic learning program developed for individuals requiring structured support for substance addiction.

 It is designed for those who need a higher level of care than standard counselling but cannot commit to a residential facility due to work, family, or other obligations.

The program utilises evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, psychoeducation sessions, family support and Schema Therapy, to assist individuals and their families in their recovery from addiction to substances such as methamphetamine, alcohol, cocaine, cannabis, and prescription medications.

Addiction program ashcliffe psychology

Program Structure and Approach

The AACE Metrix Program is a comprehensive 48-week course delivered by accredited health professionals. It functions as an intermediate option between inpatient treatment and standard outpatient counselling, providing a structured and supportive pathway to recovery.

Participants attend group sessions that cover more than 100 key rehabilitation topics. The curriculum is designed to equip individuals with practical skills and strategies for maintaining an abstinence-based lifestyle. It focuses on behaviour and arousal management and includes education on the role of family and support people  as part of the recovery process..

Program Phases:

The program is delivered in three distinct phases to support long-term, sustained recovery:

  • Intensive Phase (20 weeks): This initial phase requires participants to attend a minimum of three sessions per week.

  • Maintenance Phase (14 weeks): This phase focuses on building greater independence in daily routines and choices while continuing structured support.

  • Transition Phase (14 weeks): In the final phase, group attendance is reduced to one session per week to support the transition back to daily life.

 The objective of the AACE Metrix Program is to provide participants with the skills necessary to live a life free from substance addiction. 

To learn more about the AACE Metrix Program or to discuss a referral, please contact our Perth office.

Contact us to enquire about program suitability and intake.
A woman standing outdoors at sunset, with her back to the camera, holding her hair with both hands, near a body of water.

Frequently Asked Questions About the AACE Metrix Program

  • The AACE Metrix Program is a therapeutic learning program adapted from the evidence-based Matrix Model. It is designed to assist individuals in their recovery from addiction to substances including methamphetamine, alcohol, cocaine, cannabis, and prescription medication. Ashcliffe Psychology’s directors were trained to a supervisory level at the Matrix Institute in the United States.

  • The AACE Metrix Program is a non-residential group treatment program, which allows individuals to maintain their work and family commitments while receiving intensive support. It utilises 110 structured rehabilitation topics to teach skills for an abstinence-based recovery. The program is facilitated by experienced mental health professionals overseen by a Clinical Psychologist and encourages weekly participation from family members and support people as part of the recovery process.

     

  • The first step is to book an initial appointment to discuss your individual treatment needs. A booking fee applies.

    You can find more information about the AACE Metrix Program pricing here.

  • Yes. Following the initial information session where a clinician assesses your suitability, you will be invited to attend two trial sessions. There is no obligation to continue with the program after these sessions.

  • As you progressed through the program the fee structure changes.

    You can find more information about the AACE Metrix Program pricing here.

About Substance Addiction

A person wearing a hoodie, sitting against a brick wall, looking at a smartphone, with one hand covering their face.
Addiction services Ashcliffe Psychology

How does methamphetamine addiction affect the brain? 

Methamphetamine use can damage the brain by forcing an overproduction of dopamine, which can damage dopamine receptors. It also affects brain regions that control concentration, memory, heart rate, and blood pressure. Professional psychological treatment is required to address the effects of methamphetamine addiction.

Is residential rehabilitation the only effective option for methamphetamine addiction? 

While residential rehabilitation is one treatment option, it is not the only one. Studies indicate that intensive outpatient programs provide one of the best outcomes for long-term recovery. It is often recommended that individuals who complete a residential program engage in subsequent outpatient counselling to support their reintegration into daily life.

A man sits at a table, holding a glass of water, with two more glasses of water and some keys in front of him. An unseen person places a hand on his shoulder.

What are the signs of alcohol misuse?  

Signs of alcohol misuse can include difficulty meeting work or family responsibilities, withdrawal from regular activities, increased conflict, and behavioural changes. An individual may also develop a tolerance, requiring more alcohol to achieve the same effect, and exhibit signs of depression.

A person holding a glass of water with a finger on the side, out of focus in the background.

What is the difference between social alcohol use and addiction? 

An individual who uses alcohol socially typically does so only in social settings and can control their intake. A person with alcohol dependence cannot control the amount they drink, may have developed a tolerance, and will likely experience withdrawal symptoms if they attempt to stop.