The Model in Context
Recovery Cafés are not treatment programs, drop-in centers, or housing providers. We are a type of recovery community center, offering long-term, community-based support that many clinical or social service systems are often not designed to provide.
As part of broader Recovery-Oriented Systems of Care (ROSC), the Model complements treatment and other social services through a person-centered, strengths-based approach.
“Recovery Community Centers are peer-operated centers that serve as local resources of community-based recovery support. People do not live at these centers, but rather these resources can help individuals build recovery capital at the community level.” (Recovery Research Institute)
“A Recovery-Oriented Systems of Care (ROSC) is a coordinated network of community-based services and supports that is person-centered and builds on the strengths and resiliencies of individuals, families, and communities to achieve recovery and improve wellness and quality of life for those with or at risk of alcohol and drug problems.” (SAMHSA)
Members are actively engaged in their healing and growth, grounded in the stability and support needed to reclaim their lives and identities as people worthy of giving and receiving love. In addition, each Café is connected to a wider network of local, community-based services (such as housing, healthcare, and employment), essential for helping individuals gain stability and rebuild whole, meaningful lives.
The Research Behind the Model
The Recovery Café Model is anchored in six trusted, research-supported recovery frameworks. Our programs are thoughtfully designed to be therapeutic and rooted in best practices that support long-term recovery and healing.
Trauma-Informed Care:
Emphasizes understanding the widespread impact of trauma on behavior and healing, and integrates this knowledge into all aspects of care.
Motivational Enhancement:
Builds on motivational interviewing techniques, alongside other strategies to strengthen a person’s internal motivation for change.
Stages of Change Model:
Recognizes that recovery is a process, and individuals move through different phases of readiness for change.
Community Reinforcement:
Uses positive reinforcement, such as tangible rewards, to encourage and sustain behaviors that support recovery.
Recurrence Prevention:
Focuses on identifying triggers, building coping strategies, and fostering self-awareness to reduce the likelihood of returning to substance use and/or unhealthy behaviors.
Life and Social Skills Training:
Aims to build emotional regulation, communication, and interpersonal skills that support long-term recovery and reintegration.