Recovery Alberta settling into train station location

By Sam Leishman - Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on April 1, 2025.

Herald photo by Scott Sakatch Recovery Alberta admin Suzy Bulechowsky mans the front desk near the renovated entrance to the train station office.

Lethbridge’s Recovery Alberta team is feeling right at home after moving its operations to the downtown train station.

Mental health and addiction programs previously offered through Alberta Health Services (AHS) moved out of the long-term location at the Provincial Building along 5 Ave South back in October. Recovery Alberta was established in July as part of a strategy by the Alberta government to refocus and strengthen the province’s healthcare system.

AHS public health services previously occupied the train station, at 801 1 Ave S, for quite a number of years. That unit moved over to the Melcor Centre along 4 Ave South last summer.

Paul Weiss, Executive Director of Mental Health and Addiction Services for southern Alberta, says there were some feelings of uncertainty when the move was first discussed back in 2022. But both staff and clients have found a sense of comfort in the new building.

He says a few renovations have gone into the train station, which allow for a much better layout than the old location.

“We have a mix in the newer side and then the historic side is the old train station from 1905,” Weiss told the Herald. “We didn’t do anything really that drastic on the inside of the historic side. There was an opportunity to make some group rooms and a family room, so we used what was there in the structure. In the newer side, that’s where the bulk of the individual therapy and the group therapy is. We did remove some walls to make the group room space. What we wanted was to have the ability to increase services.”

Weiss notes that parking and access to public transit are much better at the new building, clinic space grew from one room at the Provincial Building to four now, and a ceremony room was added. An Indigenous pipe ceremony was held in February to bless the room, and a naming ceremony is being planned within the next few months.

The train station is a much more functional space, as well. Weiss says staff felt somewhat disconnected at the previous location due to its layout, while the train station allows for more immediate contact and collaboration. Weiss joked that it’s also easier for clients to find their way around.

“We’re able to meet clients where they’re at, depending on stability and where their needs can be best met. The train station is not for one specific population, but to help support clients with mental health and addiction (issues) that need to come into the space.”

Those in the Lethbridge area seeking non-urgent advice, information and appointments from Recovery Alberta are encouraged to call 1-888-594-0211, or visit the Recovery Alberta website.