Halfway Houses

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Gerardo Sison

April 1, 2019

Therapy For Substance Abuse Options

Also known as sober houses, this type of facility helps ease recovering addicts back into their normal life. Choosing a suitable halfway house isn’t always easy, as they vary greatly. Some adhere to much stricter rules, while others are more lax. Attending meetings, counseling sessions, and day-to-day chores are often expected of the inhabitants. Individuals failing to meet expectations may be asked to leave the house.

Benefits Of Using A Halfway House For Substance Abuse

Recovery presents many challenges along the way, and transitioning from an inpatient treatment program to the outside world can be difficult. Many recovering alcoholics and drug abusers relapse because they cannot keep up with techniques learned in rehab. Halfway houses bridge the gap between inpatient treatment and the outside world.

By limiting the situations that could jeopardize an individual’s recovery, the halfway house acts as therapy for substance abuse after a treatment program is completed. Most of these facilities will monitor sobriety through urine and blood tests. This greatly aids in the successful recovery of individuals using halfway houses after treatment.

Living in a sober house can also provide a feeling of safety. It gives the individual a sense of control and allows for a gradual assimilation back into society. With the support of other recovering addicts in the home, individuals learn how to follow rules, avoid bad friends, and alleviate stress. A halfway house provides group support alongside of a structured program to help recovering addicts cope with overwhelming change.

Common Guidelines Used During Therapy for Substance Abuse

Therapy comes in many forms, with many different guidelines. Most halfway houses follow specific guidelines, but they can vary somewhat. Mood or mind-altering substances are absolutely forbidden, all house members are assigned chores, some halfway houses impose a curfew, and many require individuals to stick to an after care plan.

With these and other rules in place, individuals live in a structured environment and adapt to a productive and sober life. Often, individuals will receive job coaching, learn how to manage money, and accept responsibility as they move through their after care program.

The Importance Of Aftercare

After leaving a long-term treatment facility, it’s important to enter the right after care program. A halfway house allows recovering addicts to slowly adjust to a healthy routine and regain control of their lives. For many, this is the only way they can reenter the world without relapsing within the first couple of months. Spending these first few months in a sober house can make the difference between a long-term recovery and a long-term addiction.

If you are undergoing therapy for substance abuse and you think a halfway house is the next step, contact us today for free information.