Recovery Residences
Counseling
Group Treatment
Family Support
Peer Support
Care Navigation
Mental Health Counseling
Meet with a trained counselor—alone or with your partner—to learn practical strategies to cut back or stop using opioids. Sessions focus on your goals, coping with triggers, and trying skills between visits. Many people benefit, and the skills often help long after counseling ends.
Personalized, flexible support
Practical skills for long-term change
What it is
- Talking with a trained counselor to learn and practice new skills for cutting down or stopping taking opioids.
- It's more than "just talking" — you'll try out strategies between sessions and bring back what you've learned.
- These new skills and strategies can continue to help you after you stop counseling.
How it works
- Meet with your counselor regularly (30–60 minutes, every 1–2 weeks).
- Practice strategies between visits — this "homework" is a big part of what makes counseling effective.
- Skills you learn can keep helping you long after sessions end.
Types of counseling proven to work
Who it can help
How long it lasts
Things to consider
Anyone having problems with opioid use. Especially helpful if you drink to cope with things like trauma, stress, sadness, pain, or anxiety.
May involve costs if not fully covered by insurance, may take time to find the right counselor, and requires scheduling sessions and time to practice skills.
Most people benefit from 4–20 sessions, but it can be shorter or longer depending on your needs.
Helen's Story
I decided to start seeing a counselor. She helped me realize that I was drinking to deal with my loneliness and grief. Now, instead of drinking when I feel lonely, I call and make plans with a friend.
- Helen
Transcript
Ask about their experience.
Find a counselor
Ask which approaches they use, since many blend methods rather than follow one strategy.
Look for someone you feel comfortable with, who understands your concerns, and is trained in alcohol treatment. They may have a master’s or PhD in psychology, counseling, or social work. When looking for a new counselor, you can "interview" them to see if they might be a good match.
Consider availability, location or virtual options, and what your insurance covers.
Contact your health insurance or use psychologytoday.com
A reminder that if you don't feel comfortable with your therapist, you can always find a new one.
Recovery Residences
Counseling
Group Treatment
Family Support
Peer Support
Care Navigation
SUD Counseling and Group Treatment
Meet with a substance use disorder professional or other specialized provider to learn practical strategies to cut back or stop using opioids. Sessions focus how to reduce and stop your substance use and address related harms. Many people benefit, and the skills often help long after counseling ends.
Medical support for recovery
Helps cut down or stop drinking
What it is
Structured programs are often staffed by professionals who have lived experience with alcohol and other substance use. Groups include other people who are also making changes to their substance use. Most group-based treatments are focused on stopping opioids and other substance use (abstinence), but not all.
How it works
- Treatment staff will start with an assessment. They will then recommend a level of care (outpatient, intensive outpatient, residential/inpatient). You decide whether that level of care is right for you, or if you'd prefer another option.
- Group counseling is central (often 12-step–informed), led by staff following structured plans. You participate alongside people who have similar concerns, which adds to what you learn and helps you feel less alone.
- Skills classes cover addiction education and relapse prevention; staff help you set and track goals.
- Services vary in how much one-on-one, couples, and family counseling they include.
- Programs may use different approaches. Some methods aren’t well-studied yet, but many people find them helpful.
- Aftercare links. Programs may connect you to peer or community supports for ongoing recovery.
Types (levels of care)
Important notes
Pros
Things to consider
Time commitment, costs, and insurance coverage vary by level of care. Inpatient programs may be limited and have waitlists, and program quality differs, so it’s important to review questions before enrolling. Pregnant people in Washington state may access inpatient care through the Substance Using Pregnant People (SUPP) Program with Washington Apple Health.
These programs offer a built-in community of people who understand, along with professional guidance that often includes people with lived recovery experience. They provide clear structure, skills practice, and support that can continue over time.
Keisha's Story
As soon as I would hit a rough patch, I’d start drinking again. I realized I needed something more, so I tried intensive outpatient treatment. It really helped me get my feet under me.
Transcript
- Keisha
Questions to consider when comparing treatment facilities
For Inpatient/Residential Treatment
For all Treatment Facilities (all levels of care)
For Withdrawal Management Programs
For Intensive Outpatient and Outpatient Programs
Recovery Residences
Counseling
Group Treatment
Family Support
Peer Support
Care Navigation
Peer Support Programs
Peer support programs bring people together who share the goal of cutting back or stopping opioid use. They are free, often anonymous, and available both online and in person.
Shared experience and support
Free and often anonymous
What it is
Free groups where people help each other cut down or stop opioid use. Often anonymous. Many treatment programs encourage joining one during treatment. Especially helpful for people who want more control over their schedule.
Why they help
- Positive, non-judgmental environment.
- Learn from others' experiences and get support.
- Provides a sense of hope since you get connected with others who have maintained changes.
- Works well alone or with other treatments, like counseling, medications, and/or group-based treatment.
- Each group has its own "personality" — you may need to try a few to find the right fit.
- Find social connections and activities with other people who also want to cut down or stop drinking.
Pros
Things to consider
Peer support programs are free, private, and flexible—you choose if and when you go to meetings. They connect you with people who share similar goals and can offer long-term support.
Each group has its own culture, and the fit can vary depending on the group. You may need to try more than one option to find support that feels right.
Alex's Story
Each group has its own personality, so don’t judge them all after going to one or two. Ask a group-based treatment program or counselor if they know a good program or meeting for you to try.
- Alex
Transcript
If you want to cut down
If you want to stop using
Recovery Residences
Counseling
Group Treatment
Family Support
Peer Support
Care Navigation
Care Navigation
Care navigators are professionals who help you access, coordinate, and stay engaged in treatment and recovery services. Care navigators focus on reducing barriers to care, improving follow-up, and supporting patients in meeting their recovery goals
Consistent point of contact
Support and guidance
What it is
Care navigators can help you learn about medication options, sign you up for insurance, connect with other providers, and remove barriers to care. They serve as a consistent point of contact, guiding you through complex healthcare and social service systems.
Why they help
- Provides a consistent point of care.
- Coordinates across complex systems to bridge gaps in resources.
- Helps overcome barries to treatment such as insurance, cost, transportation, and wait times.
Pros
Things to consider
Insert information here
Insert information here
Recovery Residences
Counseling
Group Treatment
Family Support
Peer Support
Care Navigation
Family Support
Family support includes therapy, peer groups, and education that help loved ones understand addiction and support recovery. It focuses on communication, boundaries, and practical strategies, often alongside clinical treatment.
Personalized, flexible support
Practical skills for long-term change
What it is
- Support services for families affected by OUD
- Includes family therapy, peer support groups, and education
- Focuses on understanding addiction and recovery
- Provides tools for communication, boundaries, and support
How it works
- Connects families to trained counselors or peer groups
- Teaches practical skills (e.g., communication, boundary-setting)
- Offers regular meetings or sessions for ongoing support
- Aligns with the individual’s treatment and recovery plan
- Provides guidance during challenges like return to use or crisis
Why it helps
Who it can help
Why people choose this
Anyone affected by a loved one’s opioid use—such as parents, partners, siblings, and close friends—especially those feeling overwhelmed or unsure how to help.
OUD can affect the entire family. Family support helps improve communication and build healthier dynamics that support recovery.
People choose family support to feel less alone, gain practical tools, and better support their loved one while maintaining their own well-being.
Helen's Story
I decided to start seeing a counselor. She helped me realize that I was drinking to deal with my loneliness and grief. Now, instead of drinking when I feel lonely, I call and make plans with a friend.
- Helen
Transcript
Ask about their experience.
Find family support
Ask which approaches they use, since many blend methods rather than follow one strategy.
Look for ...
Consider availability, location or virtual options, and what your insurance covers.
Contact your health insurance or use psychologytoday.com
Recovery Residences
Counseling
Group Treatment
Family Support
Peer Support
Care Navigation
Recovery Residences and Other Housing
Recovery residences provide safe housing free from opioids and other substances, along with peer support and structure, to help people maintain sobriety and rebuild their lives.
Supportive sober environment
Daily structure for recovery
What it is
Recovery residences, also called recovery houses, are safe and supportive places to live for people in recovery from substance use disorder. There are different types of recovery residences with different levels of support, structure, and services.
How it works
- Recovery residences are substance-free and built on peer support.
- Residents live alcohol- and drug-free, and being on prescribed medications do not prevent someone from living there.
- Peer support builds connection, community, and long-term recovery support.
Levels of recovery residences
Why it helps
Who it can help
Why people choose this
Being around others in recovery provides accountability, motivation, and a sense of community—helping you stay focused on recovery and not feel alone.
Continued recovery support and a safe, substance-free place to live during or after treatment. Social connection and accountability from others in recovery from substance use disorder.
Anyone in recovery from substance use disorders interested in living in an environment free from opioids and illicit drug use with others who are also in recovery.
Amelia's Story
A friend from the program told me about a recovery house, and after an interview, I was accepted. Living there has helped me stay sober — my roommates are supportive, and we hold each other accountable.
- Amelia
Transcript
Find a residence
There are several ways to find recovery residences in Washington State:
- Oxford Houses (Level 1): Oxford House Vacancies
- Washington Alliance of Quality Recovery Residences maintains a Housing Directory: Washington Recovery Housing Directory
- Washington State Health Care Authority has a registry of Level 1 and Level 2 recovery residences, Tribal recovery homes, and Oxford Houses: Recovery residences | Washington State Health Care Authority (click “view the registry”)
- Level 3 and Level 4 residences: Require an assessment and referral from a treatment program or provider. Some family-based residences also require an open CPS case and referral from a social worker.
Amelia's Story
I finished an inpatient program six months ago and have been sober from fentanyl and alcohol since. The staff, many in recovery themselves, really understood what I was going through. While planning aftercare, finding a safe place for me and my 3-year-old daughter was my top priority. A friend from the program told me about a recovery house, and after an interview, I was accepted. Living there has helped me stay sober — my roommates are supportive, and we hold each other accountable. I still attend peer support groups, get my monthly buprenorphine shot, and plan to start counseling soon. Today, I have a job, custody of my daughter, and a home where I feel healthy and hopeful again.
Maya's Story
I wanted to see if I could make changes on my own. I started tracking my drinks on my phone and set a small goal: no more than 2 drinks, 3 days a week. I swapped my after-work wine for a walk or tea, and I asked a friend to check in with me on Fridays. I slipped a couple of times, but the tracker showed my progress—more alcohol-free days, better sleep, and money saved. Seeing that kept me going.
Helen's Story
Now that I am a widow and my children are grown, I spend a lot more time alone. I’m still dealing with losing my husband, and there are days I miss him so much it hurts. Drinking became something I did to try to enjoy myself. But then I started drinking every day. And after I had had a drink, I didn’t want to do much else. I sometimes didn’t even want to talk to my grandkids when they called. So I decided to start seeing a counselor. She helped me realize that I was drinking to deal with my loneliness and grief. Now, instead of drinking when I feel lonely, I call and make plans with a friend.
Helen's Story
Now that I am a widow and my children are grown, I spend a lot more time alone. I’m still dealing with losing my husband, and there are days I miss him so much it hurts. Drinking became something I did to try to enjoy myself. But then I started drinking every day. And after I had had a drink, I didn’t want to do much else. I sometimes didn’t even want to talk to my grandkids when they called. So I decided to start seeing a counselor. She helped me realize that I was drinking to deal with my loneliness and grief. Now, instead of drinking when I feel lonely, I call and make plans with a friend.
Juan's Story
I've had a hard time sleeping since I got home from being stationed overseas. Drinking at night became a way to help me fall asleep. At first, it didn't seem like a big deal. But I started noticing that I had a lot less energy and motivation. I was even having a hard time keeping up with our daily training drills. I tried to cut back on my own, and then started counseling, but the desire to drink was so strong that I always gave in. My friend told me how medication had helped him stop drinking, so I gave it a try. It really helped take the edge off my cravings. It let me focus on practicing what I was learning in counseling, without being distracted by my cravings. I was able to get back into the habit of falling asleep without alcohol, and I feel like my old self again.
Keisha's Story
My problems with alcohol go all the way back to high school. My friends and I would binge drink on the weekends, and it seemed normal because so many people did it. But after I moved out and got my own place, I started drinking more and more often. I had a hard time holding down a job because I was hungover so often. It got so bad that I tried a peer support program, and that really helped for a while. But as soon as I would hit a rough patch, I’d start drinking again. I realized I needed something more, so I tried intensive outpatient treatment. It really helped me get my feet under me. After finishing treatment, I went back to my peer support program to help keep up my momentum. I finally feel like I’ve made a change for good.
For Intensive Outpatient and Outpatient Programs
- Do you have online treatment?
- Do you offer transportation to the treatment facility?
- If I’m interested in medications, will I have access to a prescriber?
- What are the rules and restrictions?
- What are the consequences if I use alcohol or have a positive urine analysis?
- Can I use my car?
- Can I continue to go to work?
Important notes
For most people, outpatient and intensive outpatient programs work as well as—or better than—inpatient.
This is because you can practice skills in your real environment.
Privacy:
Paying out of pocket can keep treatment off insurance records.
Withdrawal:
Many programs don't manage alcohol withdrawal; ask your medical provider or the program before you start.
Who's in group:
You will be in a group with people from a variety of experiences, including those who use different substances and potentially those court-mandated to treatment.
A treatment program is a beginning:
Ongoing aftercare, like peer support or counseling, helps you continue with positive changes.
For all treatment facilities (all levels of care)
Intake & Access
- Does the facility take walk-ins, or does it require referrals?
- What kind of intake questions are there?
- What is required to get into the program (a form of identification, a consistent or regular health provider, etc.)?
- Does my health insurance cover care (e.g., Medicaid)? What other costs are there?
Treatment approach & structure
- Is the treatment program abstinence-focused vs. reduction-focused?
- Is the treatment center faith-based or 12-step-based? Are there other options to choose from?
- What does a typical day in treatment look like?
- Is the program staffed by people who are also in recovery with lived experience?
Counseling
- How often and for how long do group and 1-on-1 counseling sessions run? How big are groups?
- If my 1-on-1 counselor isn't a good fit for me, would I be able to switch counselors?
- Is family counseling available? How does that work?
Medications for alcohol & other substance use
- What do you offer for medications to treat alcohol and other substance use disorders?
- If medications are not offered within the treatment program, how would I be connected to a prescriber?
Mental health
- How does the program treat co-occurring mental health conditions (diagnosis, treatment, and medications)?
- Is there mental health-focused counseling, apart from substance use-focused counseling?
Aftercare & supports
- What kind of support is there for aftercare? For example, certified peer specialists, housing and work opportunities, job support (resume writing, finding jobs), and funding to help with recovery residences
Client rights, safety, and complaint processes
- What rules and restrictions should I be aware of?
- What am I allowed to decline or say no to?
- What are my rights as a client?
- Who can I contact if I feel discriminated against, unsafe, or not treated with dignity and respect? (For example, an advocate or ombudsperson)
- What is the formal process for filing a complaint or grievance?
Types of counseling proven to work
For people who want to cut down or stop drinking:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Learn and practice personalized strategies to help in situations where you may be tempted to drink.
- Behavioral Couples Therapy: Work with your partner to identify supportive ways you can work together to change your drinking and improve your relationship.
For people who want to stop drinking:
- Community Reinforcement Approach: Learn how to make changes with your daily activities at home and with friends to make life more joyful and rewarding without alcohol.
- Twelve Step Facilitation: Work with a counselor who will support you in going to 12-step groups like AA (Alcoholics Anonymous).
For people who are deciding what they want to do:
- Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET): Explore the pros and cons of making changes to your drinking and get support for a plan that works for you.
What research tells us
Proven counseling approaches help about 2 out of 3 people. Each of these proven approaches works equally well for people in general.
If you want to cut down
Moderation Management:
Helps people reduce drinking to below risky levels; emphasizes self-control and choice, mostly online support; not spiritually based. Find more information, including meetings and chat forums, on their website.
SMART Recovery:
Teaches practical skills from cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational enhancement therapy; secular and self-reliance focused. Led by peers or trained facilitators; meetings plus forums/chats online and in person.
There are different levels of recovery residences:
Level 1 (Peer-Run):
Peer-run and democratically governed (least structured option).
Level 2 (Managed):
Similar to Level 1, except that there is a paid house manager and there is more structure with house rules, groups, and house meetings.
Level 3 (Supervised):
Includes weekly structured programming and support services delivered by trained peers (often graduates of a recovery residence) for more intensive support.
Level 4 (Clinical):
The most structured programming and support services, delivered by trained peers and other clinical staff. These are licensed treatment programs.
Note: Different houses have different rules, policies, and rent and fee structures.
There are houses that serve specific populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals, individuals or couples with children, court-involved individuals, pregnant people, Indigenous people, blind and/or deaf and hard-of-hearing people.
To learn more about recovery residences,
Recovery Residences | Washington State Health Care Authority
Residence Recovery FAQ
If you want to stop drinking
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA):
Widely available 12-step program with sponsorship; most groups have a spiritual focus. Many meeting types (e.g., young people, women/men only, LGBTQ-friendly, agnostic). Offers online meetings and 24/7 email support.
LifeRing:
Secular, cognitive behavioral therapy-informed strategies with a self-empowerment focus; you build your own recovery plan. Offers online and in-person meetings.
Wellbriety:
Indigenous, culturally-based healing addressing alcohol/substance use, co-occurring conditions, and intergenerational trauma. Resources and Circle Meetings available online and in person.
Women for Sobriety:
Women-only program centered on self-esteem and emotional/spiritual growth. Support via chats and phone, plus online and in-person options.
Celebrate Recovery:
A Christian, faith-based recovery program that combines peer support with spiritual principles. Meetings are available both online and in person.
Recovery Dharma:
A peer support program based on Buddhist teachings, focusing on mindfulness and compassion in recovery. Meetings are offered online and in person.
For Inpatient/Residential treatment
What are the rules and restrictions?
- Can I smoke while I’m there?
- What is my access to phone calls to family/loved ones - how much, how often?
- Can family and loved ones visit?
- Is the facility co-ed? What are the rules related to this?
- Is this a locked facility? Can I go outside?
Size of program
- How many people are being treated in the facility at one time?
- How many people would I share a room with?
Program structure and schedule
- What does a typical day look like?
- Are there activities or programming outside the facility?
- Are there people or groups that come in from outside the facility?
- How much downtime is there?
- What types of activities are there? E.g., art classes, exercise.
Amenities
- Is there a gym?
- Do you provide clothing and other basic needs?
Aftercare
- What information do I need to have gathered to get access to other services such as housing, health insurance, medical appointments, etc.?
For Withdrawal Management programs
- Do you offer medical detox? What medications do you use for the treatment of withdrawal?
- What medical staff work there?
Alex's Story
They say if you don’t like one meeting, try another. That was really true for me. Each group has its own personality, so don’t judge them all after going to one or two. Ask a group-based treatment program or counselor if they know a good program or meeting for you to try. What’s important is that you feel it’s a positive experience for you. If it’s not, try another group until you find one that fits.
Types (levels of care)
Outpatient:
- Once a week for 60 to 90-minutes, for at least 3 months
- Often covered by insurance
- Most flexible level of care and widely available.
- A good place to start if you've never been in alcohol treatment.
Intensive Outpatient:
- About 3 hours per day, 3 days per week, for at least 2 months
- More structure and support than outpatient programs
- A good choice for you if you feel like you need more structure or if you've tried a regular outpatient program and want more support.
Residential (Inpatient):
- Live-in program for 28–90 days
- The highest level of support and structure
- Not as widely available compared to outpatient and intensive outpatient options, especially in rural areas.
- If insurance does not cover, it can be expensive.
- A good option if you need a highly structured, alcohol- and drug-free place to live.
Helen's Story
Now that I am a widow and my children are grown, I spend a lot more time alone. I’m still dealing with losing my husband, and there are days I miss him so much it hurts. Drinking became something I did to try to enjoy myself. But then I started drinking every day. And after I had had a drink, I didn’t want to do much else. I sometimes didn’t even want to talk to my grandkids when they called. So I decided to start seeing a counselor. She helped me realize that I was drinking to deal with my loneliness and grief. Now, instead of drinking when I feel lonely, I call and make plans with a friend.
Types of counseling proven to work
For people who want to cut down or stop drinking:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Learn and practice personalized strategies to help in situations where you may be tempted to drink.
- Behavioral Couples Therapy: Work with your partner to identify supportive ways you can work together to change your drinking and improve your relationship.
For people who want to stop drinking:
- Community Reinforcement Approach: Learn how to make changes with your daily activities at home and with friends to make life more joyful and rewarding without alcohol.
- Twelve Step Facilitation: Work with a counselor who will support you in going to 12-step groups like AA (Alcoholics Anonymous).
For people who are deciding what they want to do:
- Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET): Explore the pros and cons of making changes to your drinking and get support for a plan that works for you.
What research tells us
Proven counseling approaches help about 2 out of 3 people. Each of these proven approaches works equally well for people in general.
Counseling and Recovery Supports
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Transcript
Recovery Residences
Counseling
Group Treatment
Family Support
Peer Support
Care Navigation
Mental Health Counseling
Meet with a trained counselor—alone or with your partner—to learn practical strategies to cut back or stop using opioids. Sessions focus on your goals, coping with triggers, and trying skills between visits. Many people benefit, and the skills often help long after counseling ends.
Personalized, flexible support
Practical skills for long-term change
What it is
How it works
Types of counseling proven to work
Who it can help
How long it lasts
Things to consider
Anyone having problems with opioid use. Especially helpful if you drink to cope with things like trauma, stress, sadness, pain, or anxiety.
May involve costs if not fully covered by insurance, may take time to find the right counselor, and requires scheduling sessions and time to practice skills.
Most people benefit from 4–20 sessions, but it can be shorter or longer depending on your needs.
Helen's Story
I decided to start seeing a counselor. She helped me realize that I was drinking to deal with my loneliness and grief. Now, instead of drinking when I feel lonely, I call and make plans with a friend.
- Helen
Transcript
Ask about their experience.
Find a counselor
Ask which approaches they use, since many blend methods rather than follow one strategy.
Look for someone you feel comfortable with, who understands your concerns, and is trained in alcohol treatment. They may have a master’s or PhD in psychology, counseling, or social work. When looking for a new counselor, you can "interview" them to see if they might be a good match.
Consider availability, location or virtual options, and what your insurance covers.
Contact your health insurance or use psychologytoday.com
A reminder that if you don't feel comfortable with your therapist, you can always find a new one.
Recovery Residences
Counseling
Group Treatment
Family Support
Peer Support
Care Navigation
SUD Counseling and Group Treatment
Meet with a substance use disorder professional or other specialized provider to learn practical strategies to cut back or stop using opioids. Sessions focus how to reduce and stop your substance use and address related harms. Many people benefit, and the skills often help long after counseling ends.
Medical support for recovery
Helps cut down or stop drinking
What it is
Structured programs are often staffed by professionals who have lived experience with alcohol and other substance use. Groups include other people who are also making changes to their substance use. Most group-based treatments are focused on stopping opioids and other substance use (abstinence), but not all.
How it works
Types (levels of care)
Important notes
Pros
Things to consider
Time commitment, costs, and insurance coverage vary by level of care. Inpatient programs may be limited and have waitlists, and program quality differs, so it’s important to review questions before enrolling. Pregnant people in Washington state may access inpatient care through the Substance Using Pregnant People (SUPP) Program with Washington Apple Health.
These programs offer a built-in community of people who understand, along with professional guidance that often includes people with lived recovery experience. They provide clear structure, skills practice, and support that can continue over time.
Keisha's Story
As soon as I would hit a rough patch, I’d start drinking again. I realized I needed something more, so I tried intensive outpatient treatment. It really helped me get my feet under me.
Transcript
- Keisha
Questions to consider when comparing treatment facilities
For Inpatient/Residential Treatment
For all Treatment Facilities (all levels of care)
For Withdrawal Management Programs
For Intensive Outpatient and Outpatient Programs
Recovery Residences
Counseling
Group Treatment
Family Support
Peer Support
Care Navigation
Peer Support Programs
Peer support programs bring people together who share the goal of cutting back or stopping opioid use. They are free, often anonymous, and available both online and in person.
Shared experience and support
Free and often anonymous
What it is
Free groups where people help each other cut down or stop opioid use. Often anonymous. Many treatment programs encourage joining one during treatment. Especially helpful for people who want more control over their schedule.
Why they help
Pros
Things to consider
Peer support programs are free, private, and flexible—you choose if and when you go to meetings. They connect you with people who share similar goals and can offer long-term support.
Each group has its own culture, and the fit can vary depending on the group. You may need to try more than one option to find support that feels right.
Alex's Story
Each group has its own personality, so don’t judge them all after going to one or two. Ask a group-based treatment program or counselor if they know a good program or meeting for you to try.
- Alex
Transcript
If you want to cut down
If you want to stop using
Recovery Residences
Counseling
Group Treatment
Family Support
Peer Support
Care Navigation
Care Navigation
Care navigators are professionals who help you access, coordinate, and stay engaged in treatment and recovery services. Care navigators focus on reducing barriers to care, improving follow-up, and supporting patients in meeting their recovery goals
Consistent point of contact
Support and guidance
What it is
Care navigators can help you learn about medication options, sign you up for insurance, connect with other providers, and remove barriers to care. They serve as a consistent point of contact, guiding you through complex healthcare and social service systems.
Why they help
Pros
Things to consider
Insert information here
Insert information here
Recovery Residences
Counseling
Group Treatment
Family Support
Peer Support
Care Navigation
Family Support
Family support includes therapy, peer groups, and education that help loved ones understand addiction and support recovery. It focuses on communication, boundaries, and practical strategies, often alongside clinical treatment.
Personalized, flexible support
Practical skills for long-term change
What it is
How it works
Why it helps
Who it can help
Why people choose this
Anyone affected by a loved one’s opioid use—such as parents, partners, siblings, and close friends—especially those feeling overwhelmed or unsure how to help.
OUD can affect the entire family. Family support helps improve communication and build healthier dynamics that support recovery.
People choose family support to feel less alone, gain practical tools, and better support their loved one while maintaining their own well-being.
Helen's Story
I decided to start seeing a counselor. She helped me realize that I was drinking to deal with my loneliness and grief. Now, instead of drinking when I feel lonely, I call and make plans with a friend.
- Helen
Transcript
Ask about their experience.
Find family support
Ask which approaches they use, since many blend methods rather than follow one strategy.
Look for ...
Consider availability, location or virtual options, and what your insurance covers.
Contact your health insurance or use psychologytoday.com
Recovery Residences
Counseling
Group Treatment
Family Support
Peer Support
Care Navigation
Recovery Residences and Other Housing
Recovery residences provide safe housing free from opioids and other substances, along with peer support and structure, to help people maintain sobriety and rebuild their lives.
Supportive sober environment
Daily structure for recovery
What it is
Recovery residences, also called recovery houses, are safe and supportive places to live for people in recovery from substance use disorder. There are different types of recovery residences with different levels of support, structure, and services.
How it works
Levels of recovery residences
Why it helps
Who it can help
Why people choose this
Being around others in recovery provides accountability, motivation, and a sense of community—helping you stay focused on recovery and not feel alone.
Continued recovery support and a safe, substance-free place to live during or after treatment. Social connection and accountability from others in recovery from substance use disorder.
Anyone in recovery from substance use disorders interested in living in an environment free from opioids and illicit drug use with others who are also in recovery.
Amelia's Story
A friend from the program told me about a recovery house, and after an interview, I was accepted. Living there has helped me stay sober — my roommates are supportive, and we hold each other accountable.
- Amelia
Transcript
Find a residence
There are several ways to find recovery residences in Washington State:
Amelia's Story
I finished an inpatient program six months ago and have been sober from fentanyl and alcohol since. The staff, many in recovery themselves, really understood what I was going through. While planning aftercare, finding a safe place for me and my 3-year-old daughter was my top priority. A friend from the program told me about a recovery house, and after an interview, I was accepted. Living there has helped me stay sober — my roommates are supportive, and we hold each other accountable. I still attend peer support groups, get my monthly buprenorphine shot, and plan to start counseling soon. Today, I have a job, custody of my daughter, and a home where I feel healthy and hopeful again.
Maya's Story
I wanted to see if I could make changes on my own. I started tracking my drinks on my phone and set a small goal: no more than 2 drinks, 3 days a week. I swapped my after-work wine for a walk or tea, and I asked a friend to check in with me on Fridays. I slipped a couple of times, but the tracker showed my progress—more alcohol-free days, better sleep, and money saved. Seeing that kept me going.
Helen's Story
Now that I am a widow and my children are grown, I spend a lot more time alone. I’m still dealing with losing my husband, and there are days I miss him so much it hurts. Drinking became something I did to try to enjoy myself. But then I started drinking every day. And after I had had a drink, I didn’t want to do much else. I sometimes didn’t even want to talk to my grandkids when they called. So I decided to start seeing a counselor. She helped me realize that I was drinking to deal with my loneliness and grief. Now, instead of drinking when I feel lonely, I call and make plans with a friend.
Helen's Story
Now that I am a widow and my children are grown, I spend a lot more time alone. I’m still dealing with losing my husband, and there are days I miss him so much it hurts. Drinking became something I did to try to enjoy myself. But then I started drinking every day. And after I had had a drink, I didn’t want to do much else. I sometimes didn’t even want to talk to my grandkids when they called. So I decided to start seeing a counselor. She helped me realize that I was drinking to deal with my loneliness and grief. Now, instead of drinking when I feel lonely, I call and make plans with a friend.
Juan's Story
I've had a hard time sleeping since I got home from being stationed overseas. Drinking at night became a way to help me fall asleep. At first, it didn't seem like a big deal. But I started noticing that I had a lot less energy and motivation. I was even having a hard time keeping up with our daily training drills. I tried to cut back on my own, and then started counseling, but the desire to drink was so strong that I always gave in. My friend told me how medication had helped him stop drinking, so I gave it a try. It really helped take the edge off my cravings. It let me focus on practicing what I was learning in counseling, without being distracted by my cravings. I was able to get back into the habit of falling asleep without alcohol, and I feel like my old self again.
Keisha's Story
My problems with alcohol go all the way back to high school. My friends and I would binge drink on the weekends, and it seemed normal because so many people did it. But after I moved out and got my own place, I started drinking more and more often. I had a hard time holding down a job because I was hungover so often. It got so bad that I tried a peer support program, and that really helped for a while. But as soon as I would hit a rough patch, I’d start drinking again. I realized I needed something more, so I tried intensive outpatient treatment. It really helped me get my feet under me. After finishing treatment, I went back to my peer support program to help keep up my momentum. I finally feel like I’ve made a change for good.
For Intensive Outpatient and Outpatient Programs
Important notes
For most people, outpatient and intensive outpatient programs work as well as—or better than—inpatient.
This is because you can practice skills in your real environment.
Privacy:
Paying out of pocket can keep treatment off insurance records.
Withdrawal:
Many programs don't manage alcohol withdrawal; ask your medical provider or the program before you start.
Who's in group:
You will be in a group with people from a variety of experiences, including those who use different substances and potentially those court-mandated to treatment.
A treatment program is a beginning:
Ongoing aftercare, like peer support or counseling, helps you continue with positive changes.
For all treatment facilities (all levels of care)
Intake & Access
Treatment approach & structure
Counseling
Medications for alcohol & other substance use
Mental health
Aftercare & supports
Client rights, safety, and complaint processes
Types of counseling proven to work
For people who want to cut down or stop drinking:
For people who want to stop drinking:
For people who are deciding what they want to do:
What research tells us
Proven counseling approaches help about 2 out of 3 people. Each of these proven approaches works equally well for people in general.
If you want to cut down
Moderation Management:
Helps people reduce drinking to below risky levels; emphasizes self-control and choice, mostly online support; not spiritually based. Find more information, including meetings and chat forums, on their website.
SMART Recovery:
Teaches practical skills from cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational enhancement therapy; secular and self-reliance focused. Led by peers or trained facilitators; meetings plus forums/chats online and in person.
There are different levels of recovery residences:
Level 1 (Peer-Run):
Peer-run and democratically governed (least structured option).
Level 2 (Managed):
Similar to Level 1, except that there is a paid house manager and there is more structure with house rules, groups, and house meetings.
Level 3 (Supervised):
Includes weekly structured programming and support services delivered by trained peers (often graduates of a recovery residence) for more intensive support.
Level 4 (Clinical):
The most structured programming and support services, delivered by trained peers and other clinical staff. These are licensed treatment programs.
Note: Different houses have different rules, policies, and rent and fee structures. There are houses that serve specific populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals, individuals or couples with children, court-involved individuals, pregnant people, Indigenous people, blind and/or deaf and hard-of-hearing people.
To learn more about recovery residences,
Recovery Residences | Washington State Health Care Authority
Residence Recovery FAQ
If you want to stop drinking
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA):
Widely available 12-step program with sponsorship; most groups have a spiritual focus. Many meeting types (e.g., young people, women/men only, LGBTQ-friendly, agnostic). Offers online meetings and 24/7 email support.
LifeRing:
Secular, cognitive behavioral therapy-informed strategies with a self-empowerment focus; you build your own recovery plan. Offers online and in-person meetings.
Wellbriety:
Indigenous, culturally-based healing addressing alcohol/substance use, co-occurring conditions, and intergenerational trauma. Resources and Circle Meetings available online and in person.
Women for Sobriety:
Women-only program centered on self-esteem and emotional/spiritual growth. Support via chats and phone, plus online and in-person options.
Celebrate Recovery:
A Christian, faith-based recovery program that combines peer support with spiritual principles. Meetings are available both online and in person.
Recovery Dharma:
A peer support program based on Buddhist teachings, focusing on mindfulness and compassion in recovery. Meetings are offered online and in person.
For Inpatient/Residential treatment
What are the rules and restrictions?
Size of program
Program structure and schedule
Amenities
Aftercare
For Withdrawal Management programs
Alex's Story
They say if you don’t like one meeting, try another. That was really true for me. Each group has its own personality, so don’t judge them all after going to one or two. Ask a group-based treatment program or counselor if they know a good program or meeting for you to try. What’s important is that you feel it’s a positive experience for you. If it’s not, try another group until you find one that fits.
Types (levels of care)
Outpatient:
Intensive Outpatient:
Residential (Inpatient):
Helen's Story
Now that I am a widow and my children are grown, I spend a lot more time alone. I’m still dealing with losing my husband, and there are days I miss him so much it hurts. Drinking became something I did to try to enjoy myself. But then I started drinking every day. And after I had had a drink, I didn’t want to do much else. I sometimes didn’t even want to talk to my grandkids when they called. So I decided to start seeing a counselor. She helped me realize that I was drinking to deal with my loneliness and grief. Now, instead of drinking when I feel lonely, I call and make plans with a friend.
Types of counseling proven to work
For people who want to cut down or stop drinking:
For people who want to stop drinking:
For people who are deciding what they want to do:
What research tells us
Proven counseling approaches help about 2 out of 3 people. Each of these proven approaches works equally well for people in general.