ESC

EHN Guardians Gateway

Evidence-based treatment for PTSD, Trauma, and Addiction for Military, Veterans, and First Responders in Peterborough, Ontario

EHN Guardians Gateway offers the supportive space you need to begin rehab.

Watch to find out more about what makes mental health and addiction treatment at EHN Guardians Gateway a unique healing community for military, veterans, and first responders.

“I am a better person today than I was 5 years ago.”
–Darrell Ling, EHN Guardians Gateway alum

What is the EHN Guardians Gateway facility like?

At EHN Guardians Gateway, we blend clinical excellence with a welcoming environment. We’re located in a quiet, rural setting in Peterborough, Ontario, with trails and a lake nearby. We offer the peaceful backdrop often needed for healing and recovery.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive community, where everyone feels safe, respected, and empowered throughout their journey to wellness. Here, you will have access to:

  • On-site medical professionals, with 24/7 access to nurses.
  • Evidence-based approaches to treatment including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT)
  • Detox and withdrawal management
  • Holistic care that includes yoga, fitness, meditation, and art therapy
  • Access to peer support groups, like Alcoholics Anonymous and SMART Recovery, during and after treatment
  • One year of Aftercare and lifelong access to EHN Canada’s Thrive alumni network
  • Family programs that help your loved ones learn how to support you and heal themselves

Better outcomes mean better recovery

Patients choose EHN Guardians Gateway because our results reflect what matters most: clinically validated treatment, structured programs, and measurable improvements in mental health and recovery.

95.7% of patients reported having an overall positive experience in treatment.

At discharge, patients experienced a 71% reduction in substance dependence symptoms.

Find the right evidence-based treatment program for you.

What does evidence-based mean? It means we have the results to show that our treatment programs for mental health disorders and drug and alcohol addiction work for our patients.

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ONTARIO TRAUMA, PTSD & ADDICTION INPATIENT PROGRAM

Integrated inpatient care addressing trauma and addiction through evidence-based, trauma-informed treatment

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ONTARIO TRAUMA, PTSD & PSYCHOLOGICAL INJURY INPATIENT PROGRAM

Inpatient trauma program delivering evidence-based treatment for PTSD and occupational stress injuries.

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What sets EHN Guardians Gateway apart?
A legacy of compassion and a future of innovation.

We have been inspired by the legacy of Dr. Gordon Bell, who first began his practice by treating soldiers returning from WWII. At the time, treating addiction was still heavily stigmatized, but he opened his doors to those who needed help. Today, we still look to his work for guidance, while we also incorporate new treatment modalities and technologies.

And as a result, we’re able to offer an unparalleled level of care through:

The expert treatment you need for recovery from drug and alcohol addiction or a mental health disorder.

At EHN Guardians Gateway, we’re focused on understanding where you’re coming from and what you need as you work towards healing. Our evidence-based, compassionate approach is designed to support you through every step of the recovery journey.

Exceptional Clinical Support

We maintain a high clinician-to-patient ratio, ensuring personalized care through both group and one-on-one sessions.

24/7 Medical Access

Our team includes dedicated nurses and counsellors available around the clock, with doctors and psychiatrists on-site to provide expert medical care.

Holistic Wellness

We address the whole person, offering therapeutic programs such as yoga, art therapy, and fitness activities. We also have on-site detox beds and a pharmacy.

Specialized Mental Health Care

Our mental health team, including on-site psychologists and Master’s level therapists, offers comprehensive support tailored to individual needs.

Family-Focused Care

Recovery is a shared journey, which is why we provide inclusive family programs to foster lasting healing and connection.

Find out more.

Reviews of EHN Guardians Gateway

4.0
Jordan Mason
4 months ago
I’ve had clients who have found this facility, incredibly transformative for them on their healing journey
Jeremy Snyder
2 years ago
This place is special. I went not thinking I needed it. I left with a much larger family. Your cohort will make all the difference here. Foods unreal as are the staff. Thanks guys, I mean it.
A Martinez
8 years ago
Money well spent! If you are looking for effective treatment, are willing to put forth the effort required to transform your life, this is the place to go! They will calibrate your body, mind and will offer a spiritual component that will round off a holistical approach to your treatment. In short, you will leave this place not the same person you were prior to your addiction but a brand new you. The power is yours. Experience a paradigm shift, experience a metamorphosis!
Crow
8 years ago
This centre is by far the best. I have heard of others, and NOWHERE else offers the services they offer. The staff is beyond wonderful, they helped me overcome obstacles that I had for over 6 years and gave me confidence in myself. I have forgiven myself for many of the mistakes I’ve made (which is a lot), and learned how to have proper conversations with people. Besides the fact that I am not addicted to my Drug Of Choice (DOC) anymore, the counselling is world class. Any reviews you see on here that say otherwise are from past clients that were asked to leave for bringing prohibited substances on the grounds. The return rate is not as high as I would have thought. It seems like many people make an incredible recovery and begin a new journey in life. I know I have. The owners are sweet, lovely people and they will provide anything you need, within reason. There is a large hot tub/pool, volleyball, basketball, road hockey, frisbee, football, and every week there is an outing which is usually golf. They have a theatre room where Netflix is available, and in another room, a pool table, air hockey, fooseball & so much more! The gym is amazing and more than that, the diet is what helps the most. I heard so many people talk about how no other treatment centres have diets and supplements that help you forget about your addiction so quickly. Not only will you leave behind your DOC, but you will look and feel healthier within a week! It’s the only recovery centre that focuses on diet and the food DOES taste amazing! Don’t even bother reading Reg, or Sids reviews. I heard they were never even clients, and if they were, they were most likely sent home for doing their DOC at the centre. I highly recommend this place for anybody with an addiction, whether it’s drugs, alcohol, television, gambling or cell phone. It will even help you reconnect with your family if that is an issue you are having. TAKE THE FIRST STEP & set up a screening to check out the place. You won’t regret it!
Al F
8 years ago
Caring and A 1 facility. If you want help and want to find in my opinion a center that is there because they want to help and care about helping you understand and deal with your addiction/depression then make this your first and last choice as it works! You know you have a quality facility when the owner answers the phone most times and takes the time to talk to you. My first cold call lasted over 30 min and He was respectful very caring and I could tell he truly was concerned and wanted to help. Allan
mark peel
4 years ago
Family member attended and they have turned there life around

What happens after you complete treatment at EHN Guardians Gateway?

The end of treatment for your mental health disorder or drug or alcohol addiction is only the beginning. But you will have plenty of support along the way. After treatment from EHN Guardians Gateway, you will have access to:

  • Relapse Prevention Skills to help you navigate challenges and stay on track.
  • 1 Year of Aftercare to guide you as you transition back to daily life.
  • Lifelong belonging in our EHN Guardians Alumni Community, offering peer connections, events, and ongoing encouragement.

Your recovery journey continues with EHN Guardian Alumni Community’s lifelong support.

Meet the EHN Guardians Gateway Team

From the moment you’re greeted upon your arrival and long after you walk out the doors, our passionate team of experts are here to help guide you through your recovery experience. Here are just a few of the people who make it possible.

Here are just a few of the people who make it possible.

Shawn Carter

Executive Director, MADS., BCBA, D.Sc (candidate) & National Director - EHN Guardians Clinical Programs

Nick Halmasy

Clinical Director

Dr. Ross Book

Physician

Krystle Martin

Clinical Psychologist, PhD, C.Psych

READY TO BEGIN YOUR RECOVERY JOURNEY?

FAQs

  • Who is EHN Guardians Gateway for?

    Our Ontario program is designed for Canadian Armed Forces members, Veterans (VAC), RCMP, firefighters, police, paramedics, and corrections professionals—with or without co-occurring substance use. If you serve (or have served) in a uniformed role, we’re built for you.

  • What is an Operational Stress Injury (OSI)?

    OSI refers to persistent psychological difficulties (often related to trauma or chronic operational stress) linked to service. At Gateway we treat OSI/PTSD, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, and related concerns—often alongside addiction.

  • Do I need a physician’s referral to get started?

    No referral required. Contact Admissions for a confidential assessment. We’ll review your history and recommend the most appropriate level of care.

  • Is the program confidential?

    Yes. Privacy and confidentiality are central to our care. Information is only shared with your consent and according to professional and legal standards.

  • Do you offer medical detox or stabilization?

    Yes. Medically supervised detox/stabilization is available as clinically indicated, with 24/7 nursing and medical oversight to help you begin treatment safely.

  • How long is inpatient treatment at Gateway?

    The typical stay is about seven weeks, adjusted to clinical need. Shorter stabilization or extended programming may be recommended based on your progress and goals.

  • What therapies do you use?

    Care plans combine evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT skills, trauma-focused therapies (e.g., EMDR/ART where appropriate), mindfulness, relapse-prevention, and peer support—delivered by a team experienced in service culture.

  • How are families involved?

    Family participation is encouraged through education, check-ins, and therapy sessions to rebuild communication and strengthen support at home.

  • What does a typical day look like?

    Days include group therapy, individual sessions, skills practice, wellness activities (e.g., fitness/yoga/mindfulness), peer support, and time for reflection and rest—all within a structured schedule.

  • What is the facility like?

    Gateway is a purpose-built, secure environment in Ontario, with private and semi-private rooms, dedicated therapy spaces, fitness/wellness areas, nutritious meals, and access to outdoor spaces—designed for privacy, safety, and connection.

  • Do you offer outpatient or virtual treatment options?

    Yes. Clients can step down to virtual outpatient or intensive outpatient (IOP) programs and structured aftercare through EHN’s national network.

  • What happens after I complete treatment?

    You’ll receive a personalized aftercare plan, access to continuing care groups, and connection to our alumni community to help maintain recovery.

  • Can I use Veterans Affairs or employer benefits/insurance?

    Many clients use VAC coverage, employer benefits, or private insurance. Admissions can help verify eligibility and guide you through the process.

  • Is the program inclusive and accessible?

    We provide an inclusive, culturally safe environment (including supports for 2SLGBTQIA+ and Indigenous clients) and work to accommodate accessibility and dietary needs—please share any requirements during your assessment.