Wheeler Difference

Our Stories

Acquiring Tools for Long-Term Success
Ana’s Story

Ana Olivier’s life was marked by anger, drug use and a troubled family life two years ago. Her involvement with the court system led to resources that changed her life.

She was referred to Wheeler Clinic’s New Britain Alternative in the Community (AIC) program where she spent four months in intensive one-on-one and group sessions, which gave her the tools to more constructively express herself.

Wheeler Clinic’s Alternative in the Community program, funded by the State of Connecticut Judicial Branch, Court Support Services Division, offers community-based intervention services for adults involved with the court or on probation. The program uses a curriculum-driven, evidence-based model to assess the needs of each individual and reduce their involvement in the court system. The program offers substance abuse intervention, community service and skill-building opportunities; job development and placement; case management, educational, basic needs and vocational supports; and gender-responsive programming. Wheeler Clinic has AIC programs in locations throughout Connecticut, including New Britain, Bristol and Meriden.

“Before Wheeler Clinic, I was angry all the time,” said Olivier, who was 18 when she entered AIC. “The program helped me to manage my feelings and taught me to reach out to others when I need help.

“It was really good to talk with staff and other girls my age who were going through the same thing,” she added. “I didn’t feel so alone.”

Fast forward two years. Olivier has a full-time job as a swing manager at a local restaurant and a busy life with friends and family. She visits the Wheeler Clinic AIC staff from time to time to update them on her progress and has an optimistic perspective on the program and her future.

“I was very hesitant to go to this program at first,” she admits. “But I learned that if you go in with an open mind, it can be a good experience . . . it certainly was for me.”