Holistic Recovery at FR&D: Empowering Young People Again

Holistic Recovery at FR&D: Empowering Young People Again Dec 14, 2024 | 5 min read | Updated Nov 28, 2025 Imagine being given a safe place not only to recover, but also to grow towards your full potential. On the The Intervention Podcast, Natascha Jurgens, founder of Stichting FR&D (For Recovery and Dialogue), explains how she helps young people reshape their lives. It goes beyond recovery alone. It is about connection, growth and rediscovering a sense of direction. But what makes FR&D different? And why does it work? In this story, we explore Natascha’s vision of active recovery and building a more balanced life. If you would prefer to watch or listen to the full episode of the The Intervention Podcast, you can follow the link on the website to the latest episode. What exactly is FR&D? FR&D is a place where young men aged 18 to 27 can make a fresh start. Many of them have struggled with addiction, trauma or simply with life. Even when active substance addiction is already behind them, the question remains: what comes next? FR&D not only provides accommodation, but also helps them regain balance. The difference lies in its holistic approach. It considers not only substance use, but every aspect of life: emotions, relationships, family, nutrition, routine and future prospects. The key: giving young people a voice According to Natascha, everything revolves around being heard. From her own past, she knows how important it is not to bottle everything up, but to be given the space to speak openly. At FR&D, young people are encouraged to put what is happening into words and to see themselves as valuable and meaningful again. Secrets keep you ill. This idea is reflected in the way FR&D works: young people are given not only guidance, but also the language and space to truly share their story. The power of family and systemic recovery Working with family systems is an important part of the approach. Many problems are rooted in longstanding family patterns: unspoken pain, expectations and behaviour passed down through generations. FR&D therefore looks not only at the young person, but also at the system surrounding them. Family consultations: parents, brothers and sisters are included in consultations.Addressing old wounds: they examine what from the past is still affecting the present.Setting boundaries: everyone learns to manage their own boundaries and responsibilities more effectively. The family system is so important that FR&D is also developing an academy for parents. The idea behind it is simple: when a parent heals themselves, more space is also created for the child’s recovery. Holistic recovery: the bigger picture As at Peggy-Sue Addiction Care, recovery here is not regarded solely as physical or mental healing, but as a process encompassing every aspect of life. Young people are given plenty of time to develop new behaviours and habits. You cannot unlearn old behaviour. You can only learn new behaviour, and that takes time. 1. Developing healthy habits Nutrition: healthy choices and sufficient water directly improve how someone feels.Exercise: sport and activity support both body and mind.Sleep: young people develop a good morning and evening routine.Passion: personal interests, such as music or other creative outlets, are given space. 2. Clearing energy and exploring trauma Many young people carry trauma without fully understanding how deeply it affects them. At FR&D, they explore the role someone was assigned within the family, the beliefs formed during childhood and how old barriers can be released. This approach has been shaped in part by Natascha’s background in healing and awareness. Making big dreams come true One of the most inspiring parts of the conversation is the importance of dreams. Many young people no longer dare to think big because they are afraid of failing again. At FR&D, they are actively challenged to envisage a future again: a home of their own, meaningful work, a loving family or simply a stable life. Dream as big as you possibly can. Conclusion: your shit is your gold The story of Natascha Jurgens and FR&D shows that recovery is not only about letting go, but also about embracing: your past, your family and, above all, yourself. Difficulties are not merely burdens; they can also be where growth begins. FR&D helps young people rediscover that gold so that they dare to dream, live and grow again. If this story has made you curious about the full episode, you can watch or listen to it via the The Intervention Podcast. If you or someone close to you is dealing with addiction, please get in touch using the intake button on the website, email info@peggy-sue.com or call 085 – 1300 700. You can also call or message +31 6 51 61 77 94.