FOUR CIRCLES RECOVERY CENTER
Asheville, North Carolina

Aspen Education Group Launches Unique Young Adults Substance Abuse Recovery Program

Contacts:
Clarke Poole, MA      
Jack Kline, MS, LPC, NCC   
877-893-2221             
www.fourcirclesrecovery.com

September 15, 2006
                                   
Aspen Education Group, the nation’s largest and most comprehensive network of therapeutic schools and programs, today announced the opening of Four Circles Recovery Center in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina near Asheville.   

Four Circles Recovery Center is specifically designed to assist young adults ages 18-28 through a recovery protocol that addresses the unique needs of this age group.  The comprehensive program is one of the first to integrate a 12 step-based campus with a wilderness intervention component.  The Four Circles mission is to help young adults recover from chemical dependency and grow emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually.

“It is estimated that 22 million people suffer from substance dependence or abuse, with the 18-24 age group reported to have the highest rate of alcohol abuse,” said Elliot Sainer, CEO of Aspen Education Group.  “Aspen is dedicated to offering young adults the promise of a new life in which personal, academic and career choices will no longer be clouded by self-doubt and the diminished decision-making skills fostered by substance abuse.”

 “Young adults face unique social and cultural challenges that require a special understanding of the situations and feelings that trigger substance abuse,” said Sue Crowell, senior vice president for Aspen Education Group.  “Our program was created to meet the needs of this age group and to provide the opportunity to share their recovery with others who face similar issues and challenges.”

The Four Circles treatment philosophy is based on the widely recognized 12-Step recovery model that includes daily participation in 12-Step meetings.  The program is built on a 45-day flexible length of stay that is integrated with a therapeutic wilderness program to increase confidence through outdoor experiential education and strengthen each client’s resolve to change.

“We believe that the healing power of nature can serve as a highly effective and inspiring complement to a 12-Step program and help young adults build a healthy sense of self-esteem.  This program presents sobriety in an inspiring and rewarding manner that can be embraced by them on all levels,” added Crowell.

“At Four Circles we focus not only on healing and recovery, but on equipping young adults and their families with life skills that will broaden their opportunities for success,” said Four Circles Executive Director Jack Kline, MS, LPC, NCC. 

The Four Circles program includes mentoring, off-campus support groups, academic and career guidance, and an extensive family support plan.  Four Circles is staffed by a team of highly trained and experienced therapists, counselors and clinicians who are committed to living a life guided by 12-Step principles.

 Aspen Education Group is recognized nationwide as the leading provider of education programs for struggling or underachieving adolescents and young adults.  With over 30 programs in 12 states and the United Kingdom, Aspen provides to students and families a comprehensive range of therapeutic interventions, including wilderness therapy, boarding schools, residential treatment, and weight-loss programs.  Aspen’s success in helping young people overcome substance abuse has been documented and featured in international media, including the United States’ nationally syndicated “Dr. Phil,” A&E Television Network’s documentary series “INTERVENTION™” and in the United Kingdom on ITV’s “Britain’s Youngest Boozers.”  Aspen’s programs also have been featured in the New York Times, USA Today, CNN, National Public Radio, “Dateline NBC,” and NBC’s “Today.”

For enrollment information, or to learn more about Four Circles Recovery Center, visit www.fourcirclesrecovery.com or call 877-893-2221.  To learn more about Aspen Education Group, visit www.aspeneducation.com or call 888-972-7736.