Sober Living Los Angeles Homes vs. Halfway Houses – Understanding the Differences
Sober living homes were once commonly referred to as halfway houses. However, halfway houses are typically used to transition individuals who have been released from prison and court-mandated to live in a halfway home as a way of transitioning back into society. Sober living homes are built around the same concept. Sober living Los Angeles homes are safe places that a patient can go once they have completed rehabilitation treatment for a addiction.
Difference Between A Sober Living Home and Halfway House
If you’re searching for support while you work on your sobriety it’s important to know the difference between a halfway house and a sober living home. This will enable you to make the best decision when searching for a facility that’s right for you.
It’s important to note, that sober living homes are typically affiliated with an addiction treatment center or owned by a separate organization. These homes are operated by experts who specialize in all kinds of addiction. These programs are occupied by people who are actively recovering from alcohol or drug use. They work to ensure that individuals who are seeking to create healthy new habits are able to do so in a safe and supportive environment while in the recovery stage. These homes have guidelines and policies in place to establish living boundaries.
On the contrary, halfway houses are run by government agencies. Halfway homes are dorm like and are normally crowded with convicted felons who have been released from a prison institution and are required by law to live there in order to adjust to the life on the outside. Sober living houses are much more structured and are organized to make residents feel like they’re living in a private residence.
One of the biggest difference between a sober living home and a halfway house is the price. Sober living homes tend to be more expensive since they are associated with privately own facilities. However, typically these homes can be covered by an individual’s insurance depending on coverage.
Halfway houses are generally less expensive because they offer a small level of privacy and have limited amenities. Halfway houses place more emphasis on vocational training and group meetings. Residents are expected to volunteer or work during the day.
How Much Does it Cost to Live in A Sober Living Home?
The average monthly cost in living in such a place can run between $400-$800 and up to $2000 on the higher end. Yet, the cost if dwelling in such a space can vary drastically. Some states in the United States regulate how many residents a facility can house which is often no more than ten residents. This can affect the monthly of residing in a sober living home. Whether the home is located in an apartment complex or house can be a determine how much the rent is.
Additional factors that can impact the cost of living in a sober living home in the neighborhood. Facilities in affluent neighborhoods such as in West Hollywood can be expensive. Typically, recovery patients who are attracted to these homes are interested in lots of space and luxury amenities which can include a personal chef, gym and other onsite perks. Therefore, when searching for a sober living home you’ll want to consider the area its located in.
How Can I Afford to Live in A Sober Living Home?
Residents of a sober living home must provide they’re own medication and groceries. While insurance coverage is often used to contribute to the treatment and therapy process, policies don’t cover sober living homes. However, many residents rely on help from family and friends to help with daily living expenses. Counselors will encourage that residents seek part-time employment to help them become independent and offset costs.
Residents who don’t have a part-time job are usually pursuing educational opportunities. Personal growth and establishing a routine is imperative especially during the recovery process. Residents are often encouraged to work towards their goals and to organize their finances so that they are able to support themselves once they leave.
How Long Can An Individual Live in A Recovery Home?
Sober living residences are meant to be transitional dwellings for recovering addicts. They help strengthen addicts by providing them with the tools they need to function in the real world. The amount of time a recovering addict spends in a sober living home depends on several factors including; progress on clinical milestones, outside living situation and strength of the recovery. Some individuals may be encouraged to leave a sober living community after just ninety days. On the other hand, some may require a 6-12 month stay depending on they’re needs.
Leaving a sober living community too fast can be risky. It increases one’s chance of relapsing and falling back into old and destructive habits. This due to the fact that the addiction has yet to develop strong coping mechanisms or an emotional support network to resist the temptation of illicit substances. It’s common for people who have a history of suffering from mental issues, incarceration and homelessness are likely to stay in a sober community for an extended period.
According to research, dwelling in a recovery residence for the recommended ninety days is crucial to recovery. During this time they are able to benefit from working closely with therapists, support groups and develop their network of friends and family for support.
Most of these houses require period drug testing to ensure residents are remaining abstinence. Such features are particularly beneficial to people in recovery.
If you’ve been recently released from a treatment facility a sober living community may be just what you need. These homes provide much-needed structure and responsibility. It allows individuals to experience a measure of freedom which provides the perfect opportunity to utilize newly learned coping skills. Yes, sober living homes are an opportunity to start fresh and learn to make good decisions that are used outside the safety net of the community. A new and improved future is possible. Are you ready?
