Westminster House

Westminster House has been helping women recover from addiction since 1981. Located at 228 7th Street in New Westminster, BC, this CARF-accredited, women-only treatment centre offers one of the Lower Mainland’s most comprehensive residential recovery programs — serving both adult women (90 days to 6 months) and youth girls (6-month program). With medically supervised detox, primary residential care, sober living, and long-term recovery housing under one umbrella, Westminster House provides a complete continuum of care that supports women from crisis through to lasting independence.

Social Model and Holistic Women’s Treatment

Westminster House uses a social model approach, recognizing that environment, relationships, and community are as important to recovery as clinical treatment. Programming integrates 12-step principles, holistic therapies, faith-based elements, Elder-led programming, and traditional ceremonies — addressing the whole woman across physical, emotional, spiritual, and cultural dimensions. Individual and group substance abuse counselling, relapse prevention, drug education, and family services are core components of the program. Cellphones are not permitted during treatment, allowing clients to fully immerse in the recovery community.

Medically Supervised Detox and Stabilization

Westminster House is equipped to support women through medically supervised detox and stabilization before transitioning into primary residential care. Addiction physician Dr. AE Dennis Wardman (MD) and pharmacist Salim Datu (B.SC.PHM) provide medical oversight, ensuring that detox and medication-assisted treatment are delivered safely and effectively. Program Director Sandra Glass (CCAC) leads a licensed staff team experienced in working with women across the full spectrum of addiction severity and complexity — including those dealing with concurrent mental health challenges and trauma.

Transition Housing and Alumnae Support

Recovery doesn’t end with treatment, and Westminster House knows it. Substance-free recovery housing provides a supported bridge between residential programming and independent living — with stays extending up to one year. Transition services help women navigate the practical aspects of re-entering the community: employment, housing, family reconnection, and financial stability. The active alumnae support network keeps graduates connected to a community of women who understand their journey and can offer ongoing encouragement and accountability.