There are many professions within the addiction recovery space. This includes counselors and therapists, social workers, and additional medical or clinical professionals. Many professions are particularly active during treatment, but what about after treatment? Staying sober post-treatment can be difficult. Connecting with the right professionals can be conducive to maintaining recovery, especially early on. One of the professions that can aid in recovery is sober companions. However, many do not know of the work they do.
Sober companions help clients abstain from substance use. They help clients establish healthy routines for themselves after checking out of a residential facility. Understanding what sober companions do is an excellent way to determine whether or not you feel you may benefit from working with one. Continue reading to learn more about sober companions. Furthermore, if you or a loved one still require treatment for active addiction, contact West Coast Recovery Centers today.
What Is a Sober Companion?
When a person leaves an addiction treatment facility, there are many new challenges they may face. Treatment is meant to equip each individual with coping skills and techniques to help them best manage these challenges. However, the fact remains that learning coping techniques and putting them to use are two different things. As such, having individuals who can help you through this transitional post-treatment period is critical.
A sober companion is someone who works with clients who have recently left an addiction treatment facility and are in recovery. These individuals are often in recovery from addiction themselves. Their primary goal is to help clients maintain their newfound sobriety. Though each companionship differs, that may include attending meetings with them, helping clients abstain from substance use, and establishing other healthy routines.
Some other general services that a sober companion may provide to you include:
- Creating a daily routine to help you stay on track during early recovery
- Providing constant support during recovery and holding you accountable post-treatment
- Supporting you as you improve your communication skills and heal relationships
- Managing a crisis when new challenges are presented to you in recovery
- Establishing an aftercare plan and routine, which includes helping you find community support and resources
Like treatment, sober companionships can be tailored to your individual needs. However, the type of services one requires can be acquired based on the type of sober companion hired.
Different Types of Sober Companions
Sober companions can work on a part-time or full-time basis. In any case, here are a few types of sober companions you may decide to hire post-treatment:
#1. On-Call Companions
An on-call companion resides in their own home and is excellent for individuals who do not require around-the-clock assistance. You may meet with a companion at designated times or call last minute when you really need the support. An option such as this is best if you feel ready to be in control of your recovery but may still require some additional support.
#2. Sober Companion Escorts
A sober escort is hired to help someone navigate social events while sober. For instance, you may consider hiring someone to attend a social event with you if alcohol will be present. You may also hire one when you are meeting with someone from your past who may tempt you to use substances. Having the extra support in situations where your recovery will be tested can make all the difference in avoiding a relapse.
#3. Live-in Companions
Lastly, live-in companions are just as they sound – they offer around-the-clock services for clients in dire need of assistance. Live-in companions can help you cope with daily stress, create meal plans to improve health, help you create daily routines, and keep your home organized and substance-free.
Who Can Become a Sober Companion?
As mentioned, many sober companions are individuals in recovery, but anyone can enter the field. Those in recovery who begin working in the field are often called peer support workers. These individuals work to advocate for others in recovery, provide resources, and mentor people in early recovery. Individuals interested in becoming sober companions should research and speak with professionals who may have more advice on becoming one.
Benefits of Working With a Sober Companion
Now, the primary benefit of working with a sober companion is the simple fact that it offers individuals companionship. Recovery can be a beautiful journey that should be celebrated, but it can also be lonely. People who lack support from friends and family can find that support by working with a sober companion. As a whole, working with a sober companion can help you:
- Keep yourself accountable in your recovery journey
- Motivate you and help you achieve short and long-term goals
- Feel supported and encouraged during emotionally distressing challenges
- Integrate back into daily life and integrate into a sober community
- Stay sober, prevent relapse, and maintain long-term recovery
To learn more about sober companions, the benefits of a sober companion, or to seek treatment, contact West Coast Recovery Centers today.
Have you recently completed an addiction treatment program and are worried about returning to your day-to-day life post-treatment? If so, you may want to consider working with a sober companion. Sober companions work on helping people transition from treatment to recovery. That includes helping them learn coping skills, offering emotional support, and helping with the many challenges people may experience post-treatment. The services you require depend on your individual needs, but in any case, a sober companion can help you stay sober, avoid relapse, and integrate into a strong sober community. Call West Coast Recovery Centers at (760) 492-6509 to learn more about sober companions and how working with one may help your recovery journey today.