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Empowering Students to Make Safe, Informed Decisions.
SoberU, formally New Directions, is one of CARE-Dallas's longest-running and most impactful programs, dedicated to empowering you with the knowledge and awareness needed to make the best choices for your life.
This course is designed with one goal: to equip you with the tools to navigate your path forward with confidence. We're proud to share that one of our experienced instructors is a graduate of the program himself, bringing a deep, personal understanding to the material.
Who is SoberU for?
Our classes are designed for anyone and everyone who wishes to attend, regardless of their age, school level, or background. While we receive many students who are referred to us by institutions such as schools or municipal courts, we strongly encourage anyone interested in the program to sign up!
Registration Details
CARE-Dallas is thrilled to offer the New Directions Course at NO CHARGE!
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Cost: Free
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Certificate of Completion: To receive a certificate, you must attend all 4 scheduled class sessions.
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Attendance Policy: If you sign up and miss a class without giving prior notice, a $25 re-instatement fee will be required to resume attending class.
Program Guidelines
(Please Read Before Registering)
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Students under 18 require a parent or guardian present in class.
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CARE-Dallas does not provide any medical evaluation or assistance. This is a preventative education course. While we may invite guests speakers who do have a medical background, Sober U should not be seen as counseling or therapy.
Course Outline
Session 1
Real Talk Kickoff
Kick off the course with myth-busting, open dialogue, and setting a safe space for honest discussions.
Session 2
The Brain Game
Explore the science behind how substances affect the developing brain and decision-making abilities.
Session 3
Pressures, Parties & Real-life Choices
Navigate social media, peer influence, and the legal realities of substance use with insights from law enforcement guests.
Session 4
What's Next? Strength, support, & Showing Up
Build resilience, focus on recovery, and learn how to be a resource for others. Includes optional Naloxone training and creative reflection.
Key Outcomes
-A better understanding of the science behind addiction
-Practical strategies for dealing with peer pressure and stress
-Increased confidence to say “No” in social situations
-Tools to support friends and know when to ask for help
-A foundation for making lifelong healthy decisions
Meet Your Instructors
Our SoberU instructors bring a powerful combination of professional experience and personal insight to every class.
Peter Pursely and Fritz Deichert both draw from real-life experience and years of field work to connect with students in an authentic, meaningful way. Their guidance helps create a supportive and safe learning environment where participants can ask questions, gain understanding, and feel empowered to make healthier choices.
Peter Pursley
Strategic Director
Fritz Deichert
Addiction Recovery Coach
John Campbell
Clinical Social Worker & Therapist
(Fill-In Teacher)
Savannah Goudreau
Licensed Professional Counselor & Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor
(Fill-In Teacher)
Frequently Asked Questions
What?
A comprehensive, 4-session course focused on personal empowerment and informed decision-making.
When?
Wednesday at 6:00 PM
(Once enough students have signed up)
Where?
Our Regular location is at the Moody YMCA, located on Preston Road in Dallas (6000 Preston Rd, Dallas, TX 75205).
HOWEVER, that is subject to change, so make sure to read any reminder emails.
Duration
The course is broken down into 4, 1-hour class sessions.
Class Location & Time:
Moody YMCA
Wednesdays
6:00pm - 7:00pm
Free Parking available in the YMCA parking garage, located on the corner of Preston Rd and Normandy Ave.