Intake Criteria
To ensure the success and safety of all residents, individuals must meet the following criteria to be eligible for admission into the sober living home:
Criminal Background History
Applicants with convictions of a sexual nature ("sex offender"), arson, and certain violent crimes will not be admitted.
Physical Health
Applicants must be in good physical health and capable of managing daily activities without the need for significant medical supervision or assistance.
Applicants must provide documentation of a recent health evaluation (if required) to confirm they are medically stable.
Mental Health Stability
Applicants with a mental health diagnosis must be independently compliant with prescribed medications and demonstrate stability for a sustained period before admission.
Applicants must not present immediate risks to themselves or others, such as suicidal ideation, aggression, or acute psychiatric symptoms that require a higher level of care.
Substance Use Recovery
Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to recovery, including: Being free from drugs and alcohol for a minimum period (e.g., 30 days, if applicable).
Willingness to participate in random drug and alcohol testing as part of the program.
Applicants must not exhibit behaviors or conditions indicative of withdrawal or detoxification needs at the time of admission.
Medication assisted treatment (MAT) such as Vivitrol and Antabuse is allowed. Controlled substances like methadone and Suboxone are not allowed at this time.
Legal and Behavioral Considerations
Applicants must not have a history of violent or dangerous behavior that would pose a threat to the safety of other residents or staff.
Applicants with legal issues (e.g., probation or parole) must provide documentation verifying compliance with legal obligations.
Financial Responsibility
Applicants must agree to and demonstrate the ability to meet the financial requirements of the program, such as rent or program fees.
Financial assistance may be available for eligible individuals, but applicants must communicate any financial constraints during the intake process.
Willingness to Participate
Applicants must agree to abide by the house rules, including maintaining sobriety, attending required meetings, and participating in recovery-related activities.
Applicants must demonstrate a willingness to engage in communal living and contribute positively to the sober living environment.
Referral or Endorsement
Applicants must provide a referral or endorsement from a qualified professional, such as a therapist, counselor, or recovery sponsor, confirming their readiness for this level of care.
Transportation
Applicants must have a reliable means of transportation for attending work, appointments, or recovery meetings. This may include access to public transportation, bicycles, or personal vehicles, if applicable.
Prohibited Items and Behaviors
Applicants must agree to adhere to restrictions regarding prohibited items (e.g., drugs, alcohol, weapons) and behaviors that conflict with the recovery-focused environment.
Interview and Screening
All applicants must participate in a pre-admission interview to assess readiness and compatibility with the program.
Applicants must complete an intake screening to ensure they meet the criteria and do not require a higher level of care than the sober living home can provide.
Residents rights
The right to be treated with respect, dignity, and compassion by all staff, volunteers, and other residents.
The right to live in an environment free from discrimination, harassment, bullying, or retaliation based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other protected status.
The right to privacy in personal spaces, including bedrooms and bathrooms, within the limitations of house rules and safety considerations.
The right to confidentiality regarding personal information, treatment plans, and recovery progress, except as required by law or for safety concerns.
The right to a clean, safe, and sober living environment.
The right to live in a home free from violence, abuse, or illegal activities.
The right to access essential services, such as plumbing, heating, electricity, and secure housing.
The right to voluntarily participate in house activities, employment, or recovery programs without coercion or undue pressure.
The right to decline work assignments or other opportunities without fear of retaliation or preferential treatment.
The right to actively participate in developing your recovery plan and to make decisions about your recovery goals and strategies.
The right to access peer support and resources for recovery, including external services and community programs.
The right to provide feedback about the sober living home and its operations without fear of retaliation.
The right to access a formal grievance process if concerns or conflicts arise, with the assurance that issues will be addressed promptly and fairly.
The right to have visitors in accordance with house rules.
The right to reasonable access to personal communication devices, such as phones or computers, unless restricted for therapeutic reasons.
The right to nutritious meals or the ability to prepare your own meals.
The right to access medical care, mental health services, and substance use disorder treatment when needed.
The right to be informed of and consent to any medical or therapeutic interventions offered by the sober living home.
The right to a clear explanation of all financial obligations, including fees, deposits, and payment schedules.
The right to receive receipts for all payments and refunds for eligible deposits, as outlined in the house policies.
The right to practice or not practice any religion, spirituality, or belief system without pressure or discrimination.
The right to a fair and transparent process if asked to leave the residence, including adequate notice (unless there are immediate safety concerns).
The right to access resources and referrals to support your transition out of the sober living home.
The right to be informed of house rules, policies, and expectations.
The right to participate in house meetings and decision-making processes related to communal living, where applicable.
The right to make choices about personal activities, relationships, and recovery pathways, as long as they align with house rules and recovery goals.
