EHN Guardians Nanaimo
Trauma and Addiction Treatment for Military, Veterans, and First Responders in Nanaimo, Vancouver Island
EHN Guardians Nanaimo
EHN Guardians Nanaimo provides dedicated treatment created for Canadian Armed Forces members, Veterans (VAC), RCMP personnel, municipal/provincial first responders, and eligible individuals covered under Presumptive Legislation for PTSD/Operational Stress Injuries (OSI)—with or without addiction. Our trauma-informed clinicians understand service culture and deliver individualized, evidence-based care on Vancouver Island.
Why EHN Guardians Nanaimo is Vancouver Island’s Leading Treatment Centre for Those Who Serve
With more than 30 years of experience, EHN Guardians Nanaimo offers confidential, culturally competent care for PTSD/OSI, addiction, and concurrent mental health disorders. Clients receive medically supervised detox (as clinically indicated), physician- and psychiatrist-led programming, and 24/7 nursing, ensuring safety and personalized treatment from admission through Aftercare.
We offer an unparalleled level of care through:
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- Personalized Treatment Plans customized to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring effective and meaningful recovery outcomes.
- Innovative, Evidence-Based Rehab Treatments incorporating the latest advancements in mental health care to provide results-driven therapies.
- Canada’s Largest Network of Inpatient Mental Health Facilities with an extensive support system, offering a continuum of care across the country.
Find the right evidence-based treatment program for you.
What does evidence-based mean? It means we have the results to show that our programs work for our patients.
TRAUMA AND PSYCHOLOGICAL INJURY PROGRAM
An inpatient PTSD and OSI treatment program dedicated to military, veterans, and first Responders.
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CONCURRENT PTSD AND ADDICTION PROGRAM
Designed for members of the Canadian Armed Forces, Veterans Affairs Canada, RCMP, healthcare professionals, and other first responders experiencing PTSD and/or operational stress injury with addiction.
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FAMILY TREATMENT SUPPORT
As our patients work towards recovery from an addiction or other mental health disorders, we provide their families with the knowledge and skills they need to support their loved ones and themselves.
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What is the EHN Guardians Nanaimo rehab facility like?
Set on the EHN Edgewood Nanaimo campus amid Vancouver Island’s natural beauty, EHN Guardians Nanaimo offers a secure, purpose-built environment where clients can recover among peers who understand their experiences. All rooms are private and thoughtfully designed group spaces support privacy, connection, and healing.
Here, you will have access to:
- Comfortable rooms and community spaces for connection
- Fitness and wellness facilities
- Chef-supported, nutritious meals
- Access to natural walking trails and outdoor recreation
- Inclusive, culturally safe environment (2SLGBTQIA+, Indigenous)
- 24/7 nursing presence and on-site medical professionals
The expert treatment you need for recovery from addiction or a mental health disorder.
At EHN Guardians Nanaimo, 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. In fact, we’re the top choice for doctors who need treatment for themselves or loved ones.
Exceptional Clinical Support
We maintain a high clinician-to-patient ratio, ensuring personalized care through both group and one-on-one sessions.
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.
EHN Guardians Nanaimo is fully accredited by Accreditation Canada.
What happens after you complete rehab and treatment at EHN Guardians Nanaimo?
The end of treatment is only the beginning. But you will have plenty of support along the way. After rehab and treatment from EHN Guardians Nanaimo, 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 Canada Alumni Association, offering peer connections, events, and ongoing encouragement.
Your recovery journey continues with lifelong support from EHN Guardians Nanaimo.
Meet the EHN Guardians Nanaimo Team
Here are just a few of the people who make it possible.
Kita Lafrance, BBA, MBA, MScIB
Executive Director, EHN Edgewood Nanaimo & EHN Guardians Nanaimo
Dr. Christina Basedow
RCC, CSAT, CMAT; Chief Operations Officer
Joel Hughes
Clinical Director, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
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What does inpatient treatment at EHN Guardians Nanaimo include?
At EHN Guardians Nanaimo, inpatient treatment is trauma-informed and evidence-based. Clients receive 24/7 nursing and physician oversight, individual and group therapy (including CBT, DBT, and CPT), holistic modalities such as yoga and art therapy, peer support, and specialized trauma work integrated with addiction care. The goal is to provide comprehensive healing by addressing PTSD/OSI and/or co-occurring substance use issues, depending on each client’s needs.
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How long is the stay for inpatient rehab at EHN Guardians Nanaimo?
Our inpatient programs are designed to last between 7 and 9 weeks, tailored to support recovery and symptom integration. For individuals who may benefit from additional support, extended care programs are available to continue treatment beyond the initial stay, ensuring ongoing stability and long-term healing.
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Do you offer detox services at EHN Guardians Nanaimo?
Yes. EHN Guardians Nanaimo provides medically supervised detox and stabilization as part of the admission process. This ensures clients receive safe medical oversight before transitioning into full inpatient treatment.
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What is the cost of treatment at EHN Guardians Nanaimo?
As a specialized trauma and addiction facility, the cost of treatment varies based on program length, clinical complexity, and individual needs. Our admissions team provides personalized cost estimates and assists clients in exploring financing options or insurance coverage.
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Can I use insurance to cover treatment at EHN Guardians Nanaimo?
Many private and group health insurance plans may cover part of the cost of trauma and addiction treatment at EHN Guardians Nanaimo. Our admissions team works directly with clients and insurers to verify benefits, manage claims, and maximize coverage.
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Who does EHN Guardians Nanaimo serve?
EHN Guardians Nanaimo serves veterans, active military members, first responders, and healthcare workers experiencing trauma, operational stress injuries (OSI), PTSD, or related substance use disorders. Programs are built to support recovery within a safe, peer-based environment among individuals with shared experiences.
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What is the focus of treatment at EHN Guardians Nanaimo?
The program focuses on treating trauma, PTSD, and co-occurring addiction through evidence-based therapies such as EMDR, CPT, CBT, and DBT. Group therapy with peers who share uniformed service backgrounds encourages mutual understanding, compassion, and connection in recovery.
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How is treatment at EHN Guardians Nanaimo different from other rehab centres?
Unlike general addiction treatment centres, EHN Guardians Nanaimo specializes in trauma and operational stress injury (OSI) recovery. Programs are designed specifically for veterans and first responders, guided by clinicians trained in trauma-informed care, military culture, and moral injury treatment.
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What types of therapy are used at EHN Guardians Nanaimo?
Clients participate in a variety of evidence-based therapies, including:
- Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
- Mindfulness-based interventions
Treatment also includes resilience training and peer support groups to strengthen recovery and emotional regulation.
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What kind of environment will I find at EHN Guardians Nanaimo?
The facility offers a peaceful, secure, and restorative environment located in Nanaimo, B.C. Clients enjoy comfortable accommodations, access to nature, therapeutic spaces, and wellness activities that encourage reflection, grounding, and connection throughout their recovery journey.
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Does EHN Guardians Nanaimo accept insurance or VAC/WSIB coverage?
Yes. EHN Guardians Nanaimo works closely with Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), WSIB, RCMP Health Services, and other benefits programs to support coverage for treatment. Private insurance plans may also be used, and our admissions team assists clients with eligibility verification and claims.
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What Aftercare support is available after completing treatment at EHN Guardians Nanaimo?
Graduates receive ongoing support through structured Aftercare programs, relapse prevention groups, and alumni connections. Continued therapy and peer engagement are available both in-person and virtually through the EHN nationwide network to maintain recovery momentum.
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Is there support for moral injury recovery at EHN Guardians Nanaimo?
Yes. The EHN Guardians program includes specialized moral injury therapy, which helps clients process guilt, shame, or moral conflict arising from traumatic or operational experiences. Treatment emphasizes meaning-making, forgiveness, and rebuilding trust in self and others.
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What professional qualifications does the EHN Guardians Nanaimo clinical team have?
The clinical team includes registered psychologists, psychiatrists, nurses, trauma therapists, and addiction specialists. Each team member is trained in trauma-informed practices and has extensive experience supporting uniformed professionals, ensuring high-quality, compassionate care tailored to this community’s needs.
