As a treatment professional we know you are aware that a client's chances of achieving true freedom from chemical dependency increase exponentially the longer the client remains in a healthy recovery community. Since 1996, the Herbert House has worked closely with therapists, psychiatrists, counselors, aftercare specialists and others, to provide a continuum of care and support for clients transitioning out of inpatient treatment, a detox facility, or, in certain instances, coming directly from home. Our philosophy of honoring and supporting each individual’s authentic contribution to the community and the world around them translates into a compassionate, practical and effective sober living approach. The Herbert House structure provides the best "fit" for clients who are able to work toward the following program goals and ideals:
Commit to a minimum 90-day stay:
To begin to cast off destructive behavior patterns, develop habits that reinforce productivity and recovery, and adopt new skills for coping with real-world situations requires time, commitment and a lot of encouragement and care.
Embark on a path of twelve step recovery:
Each member of the community is required to attend regular twelve-step meetings and is encouraged to develop a relationship with a sponsor and a network of recovering friends, mentors and support.
Become productive:
After a period of orientation to the house, every member of the community must either work, attend school, attend an outpatient or day patient chemical dependency program, or enlist in volunteer work. Our staff members are available to assist in every aspect of this process, from helping to create a resume and complete academic applications, to creating a daily progress strategy, and providing hope and encouragement throughout the process.
Become dependable and reliable: Each person is to wake up at a reasonable hour every morning and perform a household task by 10:00AM. Residents must account for their whereabouts at all times by signing in and out with details of their daily agenda and observing a curfew. Random weekly urinalyses and a zero tolerance rule ensure maintenance of a safe, drug-free environment for the entire community.
Remain medication-compliant:
It is a cardinal rule of the house for all members to remain medication-compliant. Residents are held accountable for administering their own medications and must report to Herbert House staff any prescription changes by medical professionals.
Embrace a support network:
Residents are encouraged to recognize and utilize their entire treatment team, including therapists, counselors, sponsors, Herbert House staff members, peers in the community and others. Our staff seeks to maintain ongoing communication with treatment professionals concerning clients' needs and any issues that may come up.
Communicate with peers and staff:
All members must attend the weekly house meeting and are encouraged to utilize it as an opportunity to share successes and challenges, ask for help and/or discuss any issues that arose in the week. Here, residents are also asked to complete and return a "weekly plan" questionnaire to provide details of their schedules and responses to stimulating questions that require attentiveness to thoughts, feelings, and intentions. Residents are also encouraged to attend onsite 12-step meetings and a weekly recovery series, conducted by a respected local treatment professional or Herbert House staff member.
Create a healthy foundation of recovery and personal growth: Residents progress through a "level system," designed to continuously grant more freedom and opportunity, as individuals are more able to exercise wise choices, utilize their support networks, and enjoy and nurture the gift of sobriety. The end result is a graceful transition out of sober living, with continued support as an alumni member.
Treatment professionals are welcome to come to Herbert House for a tour and meet with Directors to discuss whether this sober living
environment would provide the right fit for a specific client. Or please feel free to call the Herbert House with any questions or to schedule a visit of your facility by a Herbert House representative.