As many individuals living with substance abuse disorder (SUD) transition out of treatment and into a stable recovery lifestyle, a sober living home can be an important resource to support their continued sobriety. Many sober living homes in Arizona provide support and structure that individuals need to remain abstinent from substances and embark on the journey of long-term recovery.

When sober living homes operate without a license, it opens the door for unethical practices such as exploiting recovering individuals financially or neglecting their health needs. Even worse, this lack of licensure can lead to unsafe environments that are conducive to relapse.

To ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens as they transition out of treatment and back into society, Arizona state law requires that all sober living homes are licensed by the Arizona Department of Health Services. At a minimum, licensed homes are required to meet minimum building safety standards like having smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and evacuation procedures; they must foster an environment that prioritizes abstinence from alcohol and drugs along with full participation in 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Additionally, licensed sober living homes must have staff who meet certain qualifications to ensure the health and safety of the residents living there; while not providing any clinical services within the sober living home.

Today, Arizona Medicaid, known as the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS [pronounced “access”]) does not cover the cost of sober living placements. Having a clear understanding of funding resources and options for sober living services is also ket before anyone should consider opening a sober living home.

Ultimately, if we want our loved ones struggling with SUDs to have access to quality care throughout their recovery process, then more must be done to ensure all sober living homes in Arizona are operating safely and ethically. With proper regulations in place we can protect vulnerable populations from exploitation while also providing them with better access to the resources they need for lasting sobriety.

If you are interested in opening a sober living home in Arizona or have questions about a sober living home you are currently operating, please connect with us today!