Emmaus Community: A Place of Healing and Hope
The Emmaus community, founded and managed by the “La Ricerca” Association, is a residential community that provides treatment for individuals struggling with addictions. Each person that arrives at Emmaus has a unique story and experience, but they all share the common goal of wanting to overcome their addictions and rebuild their lives.
The community was established in 1998 in Piacenza, Italy as a pilot experience for the reception and care of people with psychiatric complications associated with substance and alcohol addiction, also known as dual diagnosis. Since its establishment, Emmaus has been dedicated to treating individuals with dignity and respect, providing them with a therapeutic path prescribed by the local healthcare system.
The team at Emmaus, led by the community manager Federica Grillo, is committed to helping patients overcome their addictions and reintegrate into society. The treatment program typically lasts 18 months and is tailored to meet the individual needs of each patient. The team also provides opportunities for patients to undertake training courses, internships, or work placements to facilitate their reintegration into society.
The community consists of a dedicated team of eleven individuals, including operators, a psychotherapist, a psychiatrist, and a nurse, who support the residents 24 hours a day. The team works closely with the patients, providing them with assistance and guidance in all aspects of their daily lives.
The daily routine at Emmaus is structured and designed to help patients develop new skills and habits. From morning responsibilities such as making the bed and cleaning the room to afternoon activities like group therapy, outings, and workshops, the residents are encouraged to engage in normal daily activities while receiving the support they need.
One of the key elements of the treatment program at Emmaus is the psychotherapeutic groups led by Silvia Pettinari, which focus on relational dynamics and skills training. These groups provide residents with an opportunity to share their stories, learn from one another, and gain a deeper understanding of their own struggles.
Ultimately, the goal of the Emmaus community is to help its residents regain a sense of self-awareness and dignity so that they can reintegrate into society and live fulfilling lives. Thanks to the dedicated work of the community’s team and the determination of the residents, Emmaus continues to be a place of healing and hope for individuals seeking to overcome their addictions and start anew.