More than 35 years
ago, the staff and board of the Harmarville Rehabilitation Center
recognized a need for intensive, long-term rehabilitation for drug
addicts. The addicts they
saw returning from outpatient treatment from Federal Hospital in
Lexington, KY were not getting the level of treatment their problems
required. Under the
supervision of the Harmarville director and board, Alpha House was born.
Alpha House’s
therapeutic residential community program was based on drug-free
therapeutic models established b
y New York’s Day Top Village and
Phoenix House. It began in
1971 as a single house in Shadyside.
In its first year, Alpha House initiated an educational program
so that residents who had not graduated from high school could earn a
diploma. By the end of its
first year, its direction and program were firmly established so it was
incorporated as an independent entity.
Alpha House continued
to grow. Within two years
of opening, Alpha House purchased the house next door and later
connected the two houses. Alpha
House began an outpatient program for people who, with the support of
counseling, could live in the community.
As part of its commitment to the local community, Alpha House
began providing practical training for students and physicians.
It became a field-training site for University of Pittsburgh and
Duquesne University graduate students and for resident physicians of the
Family Center of Shadyside Hospital.
An emphasis on quality
care for all drug-addicted adults has resulted in continual program
expansion. Alpha House
obtained a Pennsylvania Department of Education license for its
Educational Program and developed a women’s program to meet the
specific needs of female addicts.
In addition, realizing
that its staff is its most valuable resource, Alpha House implemented a
dynamic staff training/development program.
Alpha House has evolved into a mature and highly respected agency that fosters personal growth and change in its residents and staff. It is proud of its rich history and its reputation for providing high quality, effective services in a firm, loving therapeutic community.
History
435 Shady Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
(412) 363-42200