Table of Contents
Introduction
In this article, we’ll explore whether it’s necessary to have a recovery coach in sober living. This is a common question we encounter. While a sober living resident may not absolutely need a recovery coach, having one can be highly beneficial. Many people assume they won’t need a recovery coach while in sober living and might consider getting one afterward. Others may choose to hire a recovery coach after spending some time in sober living.
When to Get a Recovery Coach in Sober Living
The ideal time to get a recovery coach is just before a client transitions from treatment to sober living. In treatment, clients typically experience a highly structured environment for 30 to 60 days, with a regimented schedule that dictates their daily activities, from wake-up times to meals and other routines. However, upon moving into a sober living home, they must begin to establish new healthy habits and routines. This includes setting a morning routine, defining their daily goals, and engaging in activities like school, work, or participating in Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP).
In addition, they should attend 12-step meetings, find a home group, take on a service commitment, and find a sponsor. The initial weeks in a sober living home are critical for setting a positive course, as statistics show that 60 to 80 percent of individuals who complete 30-day treatment programs relapse within the first two weeks. Having a recovery coach during this period can provide essential support and guidance, serving as an insurance policy for the investment made in treatment.
Recovery Coach as an Insurance Policy
A recovery coach provides an elevated level of accountability and support, benefiting not only the client but also the house manager, the wider community, the therapy team, the outpatient program, the therapist, and even the treatment center that referred the client to the sober living home. For those who have the resources and a strong commitment to maintaining sobriety and adopting a new lifestyle, investing in a recovery coach is a wise decision.
While there is some debate about the necessity of recovery coaches, especially for individuals who already have a sponsor or therapist, recovery coaches offer a unique focus. They help clients develop both recovery and life skills, such as daily routines, exercise habits, sleep hygiene, and nutritional guidance. This holistic approach is invaluable for anyone looking to establish a healthier and more balanced way of life.
Recovery Coach and House Manager
In higher-quality sober living homes, a house manager’s role is to uphold community accountability by enforcing the home’s rules and structure. This involves ensuring residents wake up on time, complete their chores, participate in weekly deep cleans, attend house meetings, perform daily check-ins, and undergo drug testing. House managers also oversee meal preparation and grocery shopping, with some homes offering family-style dinners five nights a week.
However, when a house manager is responsible for helping a new client integrate into the sober living community, it can take away from their ability to manage the community effectively. This is where a recovery coach can be especially valuable, as they can handle these integration tasks, allowing the house manager to focus on their core responsibilities.
Recovery Coach as a Liaison
A recovery coach can serve as a liaison between the client and their loved ones, such as parents or spouses. During the transition from treatment to sober living, and potentially while participating in Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) or Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), communication can often become strained. A recovery coach can help bridge this gap, fostering clearer communication and offering support and guidance to both the client and their family during this crucial period.
Conclusion
There are numerous compelling reasons to consider hiring a recovery coach, particularly for those in need of enhanced support and accountability. A recovery coach provides personalized guidance, helping clients navigate the challenges of maintaining sobriety and building a new lifestyle.
For anyone eager to start their recovery journey on the right foot, investing in a recovery coach is highly recommended. They can offer tailored strategies and consistent encouragement, making a significant difference in achieving long-term success in recovery.
For more information, visit our website or get in touch with Resilient Home Living. We offer a safe, structured environment designed to support long-term sobriety and personal growth, with homes starting at just $495 per month.
Contact us at (316) 749-8029 or email us at contact@resilienthomeliving.com to learn more about our program and how we can support your recovery journey. Explore the benefits of partnering with Resilient Home Living for your path to recovery.