There is an initial period in which new clients are assigned to senior residents or staff for introduction to the program and initial support. In general, by the end of assessment/ orientation, residents are aware of the rules and procedures of the TC, are feeling comfortable as a member of the TC, and have committed themselves to the treatment program. By the end of the main treatment stage, residents have gained some understanding of the issues underlying their drug use, are able to emotionally support other residents, and are not behaving in an ant-social manner. The re-entry stage provides increased contact with the wider community, gives residents increased independence, and focuses on preparing residents to cope with the outside world, including developing supportive friendship networks and, where appropriate, re-establishing communication with their immediate families.