frequently asked questions

1. What should I bring? Each resident shares a bedroom in a typical house including a bed, a shared kitchen, and washer/dryer. Most residents bring work clothes, toiletries, bedding, and personal items. There is high-speed internet and electronic devices are permitted including cell phones.

2. Are vehicles permitted? Yes. A vehicle is permitted under the condition it is legally insured and operated. We recognize that free access to a car may not be in a resident’s best interest early in their recovery. Therefore we encourage residents to discuss this issue with family members and their program leader.   We are located in an urban area, jobs are located within bicycle or walking distance, ride-sharing to outside meetings is part of our culture. Residents fully function without a vehicle especially within their first 90days.

3. Are visitors permitted? Absolutely. Stepping Stones encourages family and children to visit with their loved ones in public areas. We only ask that visitors respect the privacy of other residents. There is a park, playground nearby as well as numerous restaurants. 

4. What is the policy on taking a pass? When a resident first enters our community, we expect them to focus on their recovery, forming relationships with their housemates, and attaining gainful employment. For the first 30 days, all residents are on Level 1 which means they cannot take a pass and have a 9 pm curfew. After they are promoted, pass requests are reviewed by their program director.

5. How do you deal with finances? How can I afford it? We are a working program, residents are generally employed within 48hr of admission. Our staff is dedicated to helping you find a job and our success rate is nearly 100%. We believe in financial independence and purposely keep our fees affordable in order to support our residents rebuilding their financial lives.  

6. How can I be guaranteed my loved one will be safe and stay clean and sober?
Starting with our rigorous screening process, Stepping Stones makes every effort to ensure only individuals dedicated to a lifestyle of recovery are allowed within our community. Random drug screens are given to provide confidence that our residents and houses are alcohol and drug-free. If a resident returns to active addiction, they are separated from the community immediately. There are no guarantees that any recovering alcoholic/addict will remain abstinent. It is clear that persons who engage in a 12-Step program of recovery, establish healthy social networks, become self-supporting, and live in a sober living setting have a much higher rate of success.

7. Can I be on MAT in sober living? Yes. Stepping Stones encourages Medication Assisted Treatment for those recovering from opiate use disorder. We have strong relationships with several local, FDA approved providers, several on a sliding scale fee and who offer full outpatient programs. 

8. Are you mental health friendly? Absolutely. We recognize that recovery is often more complicated than abstinence from substance abuse. Mental health screening, counseling, outpatient, and medication management by a psychiatrist is available with our local provider.