Recovery Residence vs. Halfway House: What You Need to Know

Which offers the best sober living option, a recovery residence vs. halfway house?

Comparing recovery residence vs. halfway house The biggest difference between halfway house and recovery residence is that the term halfway house has become associated with housing for individuals who are unable to live independently for a variety of reasons, while a recovery residence exclusively refers to housing for individuals who are recovering from addiction and substance abuse. What is halfway house? The term halfway house may refer to a residence for the newly sober, but it can also mean a facility for inmates who are leaving the prison system or a residence for patients who have recently left a residential mental health facility. It can also refer to a long-term dwelling for individuals who are unable to care for themselves in an independent living situation because of a mental or physical handicap. Because of these mixed definitions, the term halfway house is falling into disfavor in the addiction rehab community and is no longer the preferred designation for aftercare facilities for individuals in addiction recovery. What is recovery residence? A recovery residence is a safe and healthy living environment that promotes sobriety and recovery from substance abuse, drug addiction, and associated problems. When it comes to choosing the right recovery residence for your rehab aftercare, it is important to compare the different levels of care and supervision.

Peer-run recovery residence A peer-run recovery residence provides supportive housing where individuals recovering from substance abuse live in a community with others who are also in recovery. There are no in-house counseling services provided, just weekly house meetings. These self-monitoring sober living communities have a single overseer who manages placements and deals with any serious issues that may arise. A peer-run recovery residence is the best option for mature individuals who are well established in their sobriety, committed to recovery, and are just seeking a safe community where residents are accountable to each other for sobriety and responsible living. Monitored recovery residence In monitored recovery residences, individuals live in a community-based environment supervised by a house manager, either a senior resident or staff member. Some inpatient care may be provided, as well as outpatient care addiction recovery counseling and therapeutic sessions in conjunction with a drug rehab treatment center. This is an affordable aftercare choice for individuals who are motivated but need some support and structure.

Supervised recovery residence A community-based recovery residence that provides supervised recovery services that provide structure and oversight for individuals. and a degree of in-house clinical care. These residences offer a combination of peer-run accountability for house rules, chores, and responsibilities with case management that provides guidance and help with developing life skills as well as recovery coping skills and techniques. A supervised recovery residence is a good choice for individuals who need structure and support to aid them in recovery.

Treatment center recovery residence Individuals who need a high level of support and structure to aid their recovery efforts should consider a stay in a recovery residence that is associated with an inpatient addiction treatment center. These sober living residences are overseen by a credentialed management team that provides structure and in-house support services. Residents participate in classes, therapy sessions, group counseling, and twelve-step meetings to support their recovery efforts. Fees for this type of recovery residence vary, but you can count on insurance to reimburse you for a large percentage of costs.

If you are trying to decide which type of sober living/ recovery residence would be best for you, call BetterAddictionCare at (800) 429-7690 today. Our knowledgable staff can assess your needs and help you locate the best recovery residence for your long term sobriety success.