Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join The Grounds program?
The program is open to young men aged 18-30 who are ready to move forward in their recovery.
Why do you call residents of The Grounds, ‘members?’
When young men join our program they become members of a small community. There is a group support/brotherhood aspect, where they hold each other up and hold each other accountable. It’s more like a family than a facility, a home rather than a halfway house.
How long is the program?
The Grounds program is designed to be six months in length which includes ninety days in our Main House and ninety days in the Step Down House. If a member needs or wants additional time to get a little stronger or to coordinate with his independent living plans, we can usually accommodate this.
How much supervision do you provide?
At the Main House, we have staff on site 24/7, and there are many structured and required participation activities. After an initial orientation phase (approximately seven days), unsupervised time increases as members gain employment, show responsibility with program requirements and use free time blocks for work and other pursuits. At the Step Down House, we have a live-in house manager for check-ins and house meetings. All members (at both houses) have contact information for program administration in case of emergencies. Program participation requirements are significantly fewer for Step Down members, as their programming shifts to self-directed and independent living, but they are always welcomed and encouraged to participate in Main House activities as their schedule allows.
Does The Grounds drug test their members?
Maintaining a sober environment and accountability is critical to our work. The Grounds uses both urinalysis and breathalyzers weekly (more if necessary) to test all members for substance use.
What about transportation?
Transportation to program activities is provided while at the Main House. Many members learn to use public transportation, skateboard, bike, or walk to their jobs and other free time activities. At the Step-Down House, members are permitted to have their own vehicles depending on the progress of their treatment in the program and must be approved.
How are clinical services provided?
We require all members to participate in clinical services. All services are provided off-site with local professionals with whom we have long-standing relationships and who understand our mission. Licensed and credentialed clinicians offer a variety of services that can be matched to best support each member’s individual needs. Typical weekly services include individual, family, group and equine therapy; psychiatric oversight; and medication management. While clinicians operate independent from The Grounds, they are active and integral members of the treatment team. Clinicians participate and offer guidance with program planning, crisis intervention and family integration. Because clinicians are independent practitioners, members can continue receiving their services after leaving The Grounds.
Why is there a community service component to The Grounds?
We believe that service is a cornerstone to healthy living, so we work alongside and contribute to numerous worthy, local organizations. Stepping outside of themselves, members gain new perspectives on their own life. Oftentimes our members find community service a way of making amends to the larger community and maintaining the humility necessary for a sober and purposeful life.
What about educational pursuits?
Many of our members have negative experiences related to education. Past failures, expulsions, substance use triggers and undiagnosed or unsupported learning issues are common. When members transition to the Step Down House, we encourage them to develop an educational plan that supports their future goals to help re-write this part of their story. San Diego offers a variety of post-secondary options and resources including adult schools for high school completion, community colleges, vocational training courses and world-renowned universities. Oftentimes, we encourage our members to engage educational consultants, tutoring organizations or other educational resources to make sure that they find the right fit for their needs.
Do Grounds members have to have prior work experience?
No, but work and employment is a primary component of our curriculum. We want members to experience the satisfaction of knowing they can support themselves. We’ll help you prepare by building a resume, performing mock interviews, and guiding you to seek employment that matches your skills, experience and interests.
Is there support after leaving the Grounds?
The main goal while in the Step Down House is to create a post-Grounds plan that fits your needs. We’ll help you pull the pieces together so that when you leave The Grounds, you have a solid plan for your future that includes a budget, living arrangements and relapse prevention plan.
When do I get my phone, laptop and other electronics?
When members progress to Phase 1 from orientation (typically 7 days), they are eligible to have their phones, laptops and other electronics. In the orientation phase, we want members to be focused on acclimating to the new environment and getting to know staff and other members. The easiest way to do this is to minimize the distractions as much as possible. Many of our members have struggled with electronic overuse and addiction. If warranted, we’ll ask members or parents to monitor or restrict usage temporarily if other responsibilities and goals are being neglected.
Do you allow members to be on medication?
We determine this during the admission process.
