Sober companions are called recovery companions, sober friends, or sober accountability partners. These are people who have specialized training to help people coming out of residential rehab or shifting from partial hospitalization to outpatient treatment. They help those in recovery maintain their sobriety and become healthy, positive contributors within their families, jobs, and society as they ease back into life. If you are a Pennsylvania resident, the Rehrersburg Outpatient rehab center at Pennsylvania Teen & Adult Challenge (PAATC) can offer you excellent treatment options. We offer intensive residential care through a range of step-down programs and aftercare support. A sober companion in conjunction with a recovery treatment plan at PAATC could be an effective option for you.
If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of a sober accountability partner and how to go about finding one, reach out to an addiction treatment program in Pennsylvania today. AT PAATC, our staff is knowledgeable and helpful in offering information and options. Our number is 888.546.2579, or you can complete our easy online form.
Why Should You Consider Getting a Sober Companion?
Addiction recovery is not a one-stop process. It has stages but is not linear, so there are moments of triumph and success and times of struggle and doubt. It can be a vulnerable time when you are being discharged from an addiction treatment program and returning home. You have learned a lot about your addiction, have begun to shift your behaviors, and are clean and sober. The return to your old spaces and routines can present you with some challenging triggers.
It can be beneficial to have someone who understands all you are going through and can provide you with real-time support. Recovery is a difficult path to walk alone. Whether you have a sober companion or access to an understanding and supportive network of sober friends and family, remember to surround yourself with non-judgmental people who care. These people should also be patient as well as have solid knowledge about addiction and recovery.
A sober companion can provide a sense of security, companionship and accountability. This is important as you navigate the transition from inpatient setting to everyday life. They help with relapse prevention and maintaining sobriety. A sober companion is present to assist you in defining your path forward. In the process, you’re developing skills for long-term recovery and providing positive reinforcement each step of the way.
The sober companion can also provide one-on-one coaching, monitoring progress and helping you stay on track. They can help you develop a plan for relapse prevention, providing guidance and support in establishing new behaviors or reintroducing yourself to activities that have been neglected due to active addiction.
Benefits of a Sober Companion
A sober companion is your sober accountability partner. This person is a steady presence in your daily life who supports your recovery in numerous ways. Seeking a sober companion can be beneficial for several reasons, including:
- Offering strength and support – This takes many forms; having a steadfast, determined, compassionate companion to help you over the bumps is invaluable.
- Preparing your living environment – Your sober friend will help you create a safe, trigger-free living space.
- Being available 24/7 – It is often easier to contact a sober companion than a family member you are concerned about “bothering.”
- Offering a listening ear that is not attached to any judgment – You can tell your sober companion anything. There is nothing they’ve not heard before.
- Making sure your choices post-discharge are healthy and sound – This includes everything from good eating habits to fulfilling hobbies, work habits, exercise, and more.
- Providing companionship – Isolation and loneliness can result in relapse. Avoiding isolation in the first fragile months is especially important.
- Coaching you as you repair broken or strained relationships – A sober companion can walk alongside you to offer guidance as you reconnect with those important people you hurt or abandoned while using.
- Reinforcing the skills learned in rehab – Before you are ready for true independence, you can practice and confirm the life skills that will enable you to maintain sobriety.
How to Find a Sober Companion
There are two good options for getting the kind of support that a sober companion can offer. At your local 12-step program, you can find a sponsor. This is someone who entered the program with an addiction and is now on a successful recovery path. Sponsors have been through what you are going through and can relate to the problems and challenges you face. Sponsors usually make themselves as available as possible and respond to your outreach without judgment or impatience.
You can also hire a professional sober companion. This person has undergone specific training for this role, which can be highly beneficial for your long-term recovery. This person is devoted to your recovery and is available throughout the day. Some sober companions actually live in your home for a certain period to be available 24/7.
Professional sober companions come from a wide range of backgrounds and can be any age. In many cases, sober companions have left an old life/career behind, one that was unhealthy or too full of triggers to maintain. They then devote themselves to helping others achieve lasting sobriety.
If you decide to work with a professional sober companion, it’s important to do your due diligence. Make sure they have the appropriate qualifications and experience. It’s also essential to get references from past clients.
Learn More at Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge
If you are concerned about what happens after rehab, we can guide and advise you. Some agencies can connect you to a sober accountability partner. For information about sober companions in Pennsylvania, reach out to us today. Call us at 888.546.2579 or fill out our online form.