Catalyst Program
The Catalyst program (crystal meth/cocaine contingency management) is a 16-week, evidence-based contingency management program designed to support individuals looking to quit crystal methamphetamine and cocaine use. Offered in partnership with Kingston Community Health Centres (KCHC), the program uses positive reinforcement and wrap-around care to help participants achieve abstinence while building skills for long-term recovery.
Who We Help
The Catalyst program supports individuals who:
- Have the goal of abstaining from crystal methamphetamine or cocaine use
- Can attend programming twice a week for up to 16 weeks
- Are not in recovery from a gambling disorder
- Are not taking certain prescribed stimulant medications
What to Expect
This program provides:
Positive reinforcement:
Guaranteed prizes for urine tests negative for crystal methamphetamine or cocaineGroup counseling sessions and one-on-one support
Guidance from a multidisciplinary team:
Addictions counselor, occupational therapist, registered nurse, and community support worker
Support in establishing routines, coping strategies, and meaningful activities
Connection to housing and other community resources, if needed
Optional “graduated program” after 16 weeks to help maintain abstinence and transition away from prize-based reinforcement s.
Key Benefits
- Evidence-based care for stimulant use disorder
- Individualized and holistic support for recovery
- Multidisciplinary team approach
- Opportunity to build community and peer support
- Access to structured programming and positive reinforcement
How to Access the Service
For Patients and Care Partners:
Individuals must self-refer to the program. Call Street Health Centre (a part of Kingston Community Health Centres) at 613-549-1440 or visit in-person at 115 Barack Street, Kingston, ON to book an appointment.
Once your referral is received, you will be booked with a Street Health Centre clinical provider for an initial assessment. If you are eligible for the program, you will then meet with a member of the care team to complete program intake.
When a spot becomes available, you will be contacted with a start date.
For Referring Partners
Healthcare providers, social service providers, case managers, etc may assist you with the self-referral, but the participant must be present at the time of referral.
Eligibility criteria
The individual must:
- have the goal of abstaining from crystal methamphetamine or cocaine use
- be available to attend programming 2 times per week for up to 16 weeks. You must be available Mondays and Thursdays (mornings at the Street Health site and afternoons at the Providence Care site – 533 Montreal Street)
- not be prescribed certain stimulant medications (to avoid false-positive results)
- not be in recovery for a gambling addiction (as this may trigger a relapse – informed consent approach used)
Appointment Information
The program takes place twice per week.
What To Expect
- Street Health site:
115 Barrack St. Kingston, ON. Monday and Thursday 9 am – 12 noon - Providence Care Community Services site: 533 Montreal Street, Kingston, ON. Monday and Thursday 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Urine samples will be tested for methamphetamines/cocaine to determine eligibility for prize draws.
Group sessions are led by an addictions counselor or occupational therapist. Attendance at group sessions give participants the chance to win another small price. 1 on 1 counselling is also available.
A community support worker and volunteer with lived experience are available for support at each session.
Transportation support can be provided, if required.
A program nurse can coordinate medical care for participants when needed.
Stabilization beds may be available for unhoused participants (availability, eligibility and support is determined by Addictions & Mental Health Services).
Discharge
Once you complete the 16-week program, you may be eligible to re-enroll for a second round or participate in the “graduated program” to help with maintaining sobriety. Speak to a member of the care team for more information.
When you are discharged from the program, there are many things to keep in mind. When you are being discharged:
- Ask for explanations and written instructions about your care and your medications (if applicable).
- Discuss with your clinician their recommendations to other community-based services such as Recovery College or Peer Support Ontario
- Ask and be informed of appointments that have to be made when you are discharged, how to contact the providers, and to understand the reason for each appointment and what information you will need to bring with you.
- Know who you should call if you have questions after discharge – write down contact names and phone numbers or have a member of the care team provide this information to you in writing.
For more information, please speak to a member of your care team.
FAQs
Can I join if I use other substances?
Yes, but the program focuses on crystal methamphetamine and cocaine. Your team will discuss how your use may affect participation.
What happens after 16 weeks?
Participants might be eligible to re-enroll for a second round or have the option to participate in the “graduated program” to support continued abstinence. Team members will speak with you prior to your 16 weeks ending to discuss eligibility.
Do I have to pay for prizes or programming?
No, prizes are provided as part of the program at no cost to participants.
Do I have to participate in group sessions?
Group sessions are mandatory for full participation in the program. Please speak to the team during intake if you have any concerns around this.
Related Services
Contact Information
Kingston Community Health Centres
Street Health Centre
115 Barrack St.
Kingston, Ontario K7K 1G2
613-549-1440
info@streethealthkchc.ca
Providence Care Community Services
533 Montreal Street
Kingston, Ontario K7K 3J1
613-540-6165
Hours of Operation
Our facilities operate 24/7, but building access and available services vary by location and time of day. Some entrances may be locked, and ID badge or intercom access may be required.
Clinic and outpatient service hours also differ. Please contact your specific care area or clinic for details.
Program Secretary
613-540-6165
Regional Director
613-544-4900, ext. 53552
Vice President, Mental Health and Community Teams
613-544-4900, ext. 51219
