By: Michael Walsh, Certified Intervention Professional & Speaker
What you do after inpatient treatment can be one of the most important aspects in achieving long-term recovery and which can determine successful treatment outcomes. How often have we heard or read that “Treatment doesn’t work?” I have often arduously confronted this contention and it is my belief that quality treatment is life altering. But very often, clients leaving treatment adhere to discharge recommendations like most people treat “New Years Resolutions” - they don’t take them seriously or follow through.
In this current post Covid-19 climate, following a discharge plan can be even more critical to successful outcomes as the tendency to isolate or take short cuts in regards to continuing care is high, even under the best of circumstances. The constant worry about health and survival, compounded with early recovery obstacles, highlight the need to be vigilant in adhering to continuing care recommendations.
I have seen many Sober Livings and Recovery Residences as a treatment professional and Florida Alliance of Recovery Residences (FARR) board member. A supportive recovery community like the one at Williamsburg House in Brooklyn can be the difference between a bridge to sustainable lifelong recovery and another disheartening relapse or worse, “jails, institutions and death,” which are the consequences for many alcoholics and addicts not in recovery. I spoke to Director of Operations, Benjamin Fleischer about what makes Williamsburg House special.
“At Williamsburg House, daily involvement in house groups & meetings, accountability via case management, access to therapy, professionally cooked meals, beautiful amenities and the warm welcoming environment created by housemates make a difference,” says Mr. Fleischer.
After my first visit, the first thing I noticed was that the house is set up in a way to truly make it feel like a home to its residents, and the staff is on hand to always help promote follow through.
“The house is set up in a way to truly make it feel like a home... and the staff is on hand to always help promote follow through.”
As an additional bonus, Williamsburg House welcomes four-legged friends. Having a dog friendly environment has been key to keeping residents calm as they transition from inpatient treatment.
“Dogs are able to break through emotional defenses and begin the process of intimacy, which tends to be a common struggle for those early in recovery”, says Benji. “They bring so much joy to the residents and staff and it wouldn’t be a home without them.”
It is my belief that finding a sober living home after treatment is always a good idea, especially during post Covid-19 when community support may be needed the most. At Williamsburg House, their mission is always to provide a safe, comfortable and professional recovery environment that serves as a bridge from treatment to home. Today, it is a destination for newly recovering people to benefit from a vibrant recovery community in the heart of Williamsburg, Brooklyn.