Medically Supported Detox

The George Spady Society’s Medically Supported Detox is a 60-bed program located at the Aurora Centre, 15625 Stony Plain Road in Edmonton. It includes 41 medically supported detox beds and 19 post-detox recovery beds.

The program provides a safe, medically supported space for people to withdraw from substances, stabilize their health, and connect to recovery services. Care is self-directed and individualized, supported by a multidisciplinary team of prescribers, nursing staff, social workers, recovery coaches, and support staff. Our approach is trauma-informed and culturally safe, offering non-judgmental, evidence-based care that meets people where they are and supports each person’s goals and readiness for change.

The Post-Detox Recovery Program offers 19 beds for individuals who have completed detox and need additional time to stabilize and transition safely to their next stage of care.

Screening Assessment and Admission

Triage for admission takes place at the southwest door daily from 8:30–9:30 a.m., where clients are assessed by a nurse. Admission is based on need and bed availability. For individuals who are from out of town or have extenuating circumstances that prevent them from attending triage in person, exceptions can be made by calling 780-424-8335 and speaking with the Primary Care Navigator. Remote referral forms are accepted from hospitals, community agencies, or family.

Once admitted, staff work collaboratively with each client as their health stabilizes. Care is guided by a client-led plan developed in consultation with a social worker. Through this process, clients explore their goals and challenges and develop solutions that reflect their lived experience.

Medical Services

  • Withdrawal management for all substances

  • Opioid agonist therapy initiation

  • Managed medication

  • Mental health referrals

  • Primary care referrals

Recovery Services

  • Case management

  • System navigation

  • Therapeutic, group, and educational sessions

  • Referrals to other programs and services

  • Cultural support

  • Peer support

  • Life-skills support

  • Treatment and recovery referrals

  • Family and natural support inclusion

  • Individual, client-led care plans

  • Discharge and safety planning

Contact Medically Supported Detox

For more information, call 780-424-8335.

FAQ’s

  • Who can come to the Medically Supported Detox?
    Adults needing support to safely withdraw from substances, regardless of substance type.

  • Do I need to be referred by a doctor?
    No. You can come directly during triage hours.

  • What is the difference between the detox beds and the post-detox recovery beds?
    Detox beds are for withdrawal management. Post-detox recovery beds are for people who’ve completed detox but need more time to stabilize before safely moving to their next stage of care.

  • Is there a cost to stay?
    No. Services are free and include food and laundry.

Admission & Referral

  • When and where do I go for triage?
    Daily from 8:30–9:30 a.m. at the southwest door of the Aurora Centre.

  • Can I book an appointment instead of coming to triage?
    Yes. Call 780-424-8335 Ext. 1 to discuss options. Exceptions can be made for people from out of town or with extenuating circumstances.

  • Can another agency send a referral for me?
    Yes. Remote referral forms are accepted from hospitals, community agencies, or family.

  • How long is the wait for a bed?
    Beds fill quickly and admission depends on both need and availability, so it’s hard to give a set wait time. We recommend coming to triage daily if you can, and also contacting other detox programs such as ARC Detox as an additional option. Staff will let you know if a bed is available or when to come back.

During the Stay

  • How long can I stay in detox?
    Length of stay varies depending on the substance, your health, and your goals. Staff will review this with you.

  • What medical care is provided?
    Nursing care, withdrawal management, managed medications, mental health referrals, opioid agonist therapy initiation, primary care referral and pharmacy consultations.

  • What recovery supports are offered?
    Case management, system navigation, therapeutic, group, and educational sessions, cultural support, peer support, and help with life skills, family inclusion, and discharge planning.

  • Can I leave and come back?
    You may leave voluntarily at any time. Readmission depends on need and bed availability.

Other Common Questions

  • Can my family visit or be involved?
    Yes. Family and natural supports can be involved in your care planning with your consent.

  • Is the program culturally safe for Indigenous clients?
    Yes. We offer culturally safe care and access to cultural supports. Smudging is allowed within the facility.

  • What should I bring with me?
    If you have ID, please bring it. Pack two changes of clothes, slippers or indoor shoes, and books or other personal items you may need during your stay. You are only allowed a limited number of belongings and the rest will be stored for you without access.

  • Is smoking or vaping allowed?
    Smoking and vaping are allowed only in designated outdoor areas.