Transitional Housing

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), relapse rates for drug addiction are between 40-60%. Studies also show that individuals who maintain and participate in recovery programs for at least 9 months of sobriety are more likely to continue their sobriety long-term. Due to new economic and policy shifts, we are concerned that rates of relapse will only increase. First, the recent changes to Medicaid policy make it more difficult for women in recovery to qualify for residential programs long enough to support sustainable rehabilitation. Options are limited to 30, 60 or, 90 day treatment unless there is continued proof of medical necessity. They may leave treatment without having had the chance to build the foundation they need to successfully reenter society and minimize relapse. Second, as the rents have astronomically skyrocketed and the affluence of the average San Franciscan has increased, there is an ever greater shortage of affordable housing for individuals with low incomes and those in recovery in San Francisco. As a result, they may turn to former friends or family who, often, do not possess the skills to support them.

Many transitional programs will discharge an individual with a positive drug screen. However, at Epiphany Center Step-Down, if an individual test positive for a substance, we will explore the individual’s unique relationship with relapse. If additional supportive services are deemed necessary, we facilitate this extra support. This may or may not include a return to residential treatment or perhaps a requirement for the individual to participate in an out-patient program. Perhaps, the relapse was related to a situation at work and the individual needs supportive counseling services to assess the ongoing occupational demands.