Types of Recovery Residences
Understanding the four levels of recovery housing
Recovery Residence Levels
GSARR follows the National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR) standards, which define four distinct levels of recovery residences. Each level offers different services and support structures to meet varying needs in recovery.
Level I: Peer-Run
Democratically run recovery residences that are often single family homes.
Key Characteristics
- Drug screenings
- House meetings
- Self-help meetings encouraged
- Peer-run structure
Length of Stay
No time limits
Level II: Monitored
Structured recovery residences with paid staff who monitor operations.
Key Characteristics
- House manager or senior resident
- Service hours provided
- Structured recovery programming
- Clinical services utilized in outside community
Length of Stay
Generally several months
Level III: Supervised
Supervised recovery residences with organizational hierarchy.
Key Characteristics
- Credentialed staff
- Clinical services provided in-house
- Life skill development emphasis
- Administrative oversight
Length of Stay
3-12 months typical
Level IV: Service Provider
Residential treatment providers that offer recovery housing.
Key Characteristics
- Clinical services and programming
- Licensed treatment services
- Staff credentials required
- Organizational hierarchy
Length of Stay
Based on treatment plan
| Feature | Level I | Level II | Level III | Level IV |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Staffing | Peer-run | Monitored | Supervised | Clinical |
| Services | Peer support | House rules | Life skills | Treatment |
| Structure | Democratic | Structured | Hierarchical | Clinical |