All recovery residences are not created equal. That is why it is incredibly important to know exactly what it is you are looking for and what can benefit you, personally. Thankfully, because we are all different and have different lifestyles, interests, and needs, there is an array of recovery residences to choose from. If you take the time to search, you will find one that will offer just what you need to make this a successful transition.
Choosing a recovery residence that caters to your specific needs means that you can learn how to manage your recovery while handling the specific things that you face in life.
The importance of finding your recovery residence
Your recovery is nothing to gamble with. Because, let’s face it – moving into a recovery residence is one of your first steps toward gaining independence and freedom as a new – and sober – you. To ensure a victory, you will want to make sure the recovery residence you choose is everything you could want and need.
First, you will want to take some time to decide what you are looking to get from a recovery residence. Talking this over with your counselor or therapist may help you form a realistic vision. Then, begin researching the residences available based on your needs. Please note that this is not something you will ever want to settle on.
Here are a few things to look for in a recovery residence:
- What services are offered? Are they offered at the residence?
- How strict is the structure throughout the day?
- What is the daily routine?
- Who supervises the home?
- Have there been any safety threats? Is there security at the home?
- How many residents reside on the property?
- Does the home have all the necessary certifications and licenses?
- Is it clean?
In addition, look for homes that may be specific for your needs. For example, if you fall into the LGBT category, you may feel more comfortable in a home that is created around those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender. If you are a teen, you will want to surround yourself with other teens dealing with recovery.
LGBT residences
LGBT residences are designed for those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender. They are focused on understanding this population and approaching recovery in a manner that is geared toward them. For example, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has determined that there is a greater amount of drug use among the LGBT population than the general population.
This group faces a series of problems and issues that aren’t always faced by the heterosexual population – such as coming out struggles, discrimination, and gender identity issues. Therefore, an LGBT specific recovery residence will have counselors and therapists (and others on staff) who are skilled in treating these issues. Mental health issues are also prevalent among individuals in the LGBT population, these residences may have a strong focus on continued mental health treatment.
Single-sex residences
For good reason, life can take you on a journey that may force you to realize that you need to focus on yourself first. Sometimes, it can put you in a situation that may make you want to stay away from the other sex. For example, some of these situations may be:
- Those individuals with a history of dealing with male/female dominance or, even worse, domestic violence.
- Those individuals who have experienced sexual abuse.
- Those who need to not be tempted by the opposite sex – especially those with sex addiction issues.
- Those who are looking for treatment while avoiding interactions, challenges, or drama that comes with hetero relationships.
If you are serious about your recovery, then you may want to consider a single sex residence that will grant you the opportunity to work on yourself, avoiding any interruptions that may come from co-ed dynamics.
Teen residences
Teens have a different life than adults. While adulting can be tough – with a ton of responsibilities –the struggles that teens face are difficult in their own way. This is especially true when it comes to relationships with peers.
For teens who are are looking to live in a recovery residence, they should seek those that are designed with them in mind. For instance, many teens may have a stressed relationship with their parents’ due to their addiction.These residences will work to begin re-building this back into a healthy relationship.
Teen residences are also likely to include:
- more adult guidance and supervision
- more structure and format
- the inclusion of education
- the teaching of living skills, including conflict resolution
The staff at these residences will be more able to address issues that teens face normally and while in recovery.
Single-mother residences
Single-mothers require a lot of special needs. These residences allow children and mothers to either stay together or in close proximity of one another. The rules and structure of single-mother residences include taking care of the children.
A mother’s job does not stop. So, having the opportunity to heal while learning how to be the parent they truly want to be is a win on both sides. At these residences, there is often special attention paid to:
- daily living skills – learning proper nutrition, cleaning, proper hygiene, budgeting, etc.
- parenting skills
- employment or education skills, as well as job placement.
Religion-based residences
Religion-based residences are perfect for individuals who are strong in their faith. Whether they have a strong-hold on their faith, have stepped away from it, or are searching for something to believe in, these religion-based residences are the perfect solution.
Here, staff guide residents on recovery with a faith-based approach. Residents will also participate in spiritual services and events. In addition, they may also focus on finding strength for recovery in the religious belief.
Recovery residences that have a special focus – such as those discussed above – also maintain the traditional role of the residences. That means that they receive the structure, guidance, and learn all the skills they can (including those specific to their needs) to become strong, independent, and sober once they transition out of the residences.
Dr. Deena is the Chief Clinical Officer of Westwind Recovery®, an award-winning outpatient treatment center in Los Angeles where she oversees the clinical and administrative program and treatment methods. Dr. Deena is a doctor of psychology and licensed clinical social worker since 1993. LCSW #20628. Originally from the East Coast, Dr. Deena has worked running treatment centers, worked as a therapist in psychiatric hospitals as well as school settings and currently has a thriving private practice in the LA area. Dr. Deena has appeared regularly on the Dr. Phil Show as an expert since 2003. She has also been featured on many other TV shows, podcasts and has contributed to written publications as well as podcasts.
