Aftercare Following Residential Treatment

What to Expect From Aftercare Following Residential Treatment

Learn more about the importance of aftercare following residential treatment at Mile High Recovery Center.

Our Approach to Your Sustainable Recovery

At Mile High Recovery Center (MHRC) in Denver, CO, we are committed to providing comprehensive addiction and mental health treatment that goes beyond residential care.

We understand that the journey to long-term recovery requires:
  • Ongoing support
  • Relapse prevention strategies
  • Continued growth
This is where aftercare following residential treatment plays a critical role in sustaining progress.
Aftercare Following Residential Treatment

Understanding Aftercare Following Residential Treatment

Aftercare refers to the ongoing support and treatment provided to people following the completion of a residential treatment program.
It is an essential component of the continuum of care, as it helps people:
  • Maintain their sobriety
  • Address ongoing challenges
  • Continue their personal growth in recovery

Benefits of Aftercare Following Residential Treatment

Studies have shown that people who engage in aftercare programs have significantly higher rates of long-term recovery compared to those who do not:
  • A study published in Psychiatric Services found that people who received continuing care (defined as having yearly primary care and specialty substance abuse treatment and psychiatric services when needed) had twice the odds of achieving remission at follow-ups.1
  • A study in Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Policy found that the length of time spent in aftercare predicted 12-month return-to-prison rates, whereas the type of aftercare (outpatient vs. residential) did not. This suggests that longer engagement in aftercare, regardless of modality, is associated with better outcomes.2
  • A study published in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment examined predictors of participation in step-down continuing care in publicly funded substance abuse treatment programs. They found that greater participation was associated with higher rates of abstinence.3
  • A systematic review found that addressing internal factors and underlying issues (i.e. ‘human capital’) provided confidence for continued recovery, while motivators focused on external factors such as family and maintaining social and physical capital. Aftercare engagement was high and felt to be particularly positive for recovery.4
These findings underscore the importance of aftercare following residential treatment. Aftercare programs help people build upon the foundation established during residential treatment and maintain their commitment to a sober, fulfilling life.

Components of Aftercare Following Residential Treatment

At MHRC, we offer comprehensive aftercare following residential treatment with various components designed to support people in their ongoing recovery journey.
These components may include:
  • Outpatient therapy: Individual, group, and family therapy sessions that provide ongoing support and guidance.
  • Support groups: Participation in 12-Step programs, SMART Recovery, alumni networks, or other peer support networks.
  • Sober living arrangements: Structured, supportive living environments that help people transition back into daily life while maintaining sobriety.
  • Continued medical and psychiatric care: Ongoing management of co-occurring disorders and any lingering physical or mental health issues.
Each of these components plays a vital role in helping people maintain the progress made during residential treatment. It allows them to develop new coping skills and build a strong foundation for long-term recovery.

Our Relapse Prevention Group

At Mile High Recovery Center, we have a dedicated relapse prevention group. This continuing care group is designed to help individuals learn how to prevent relapse, heal holistically, and get the support they need after they transition out of more intensive treatment.

Long-Term Rehab Programs

Additionally, we offer a long-term rehab program, which is a step-down treatment program to help those who need more intensive continuing care after their initial treatment has ended. This may extend up to a year or more of additional, supportive care.

Opportunities for Aftercare Following Residential Treatment

Outpatient therapy is a crucial aspect of aftercare following residential treatment. It provides people with ongoing support and guidance as they navigate the challenges of early recovery.

At MHRC, we offer a range of outpatient therapy options, including:

Individual Therapy

One-on-one sessions with a licensed therapist provide a safe, confidential space for people to:
  • Explore personal challenges
  • Process emotions
  • Gain valuable insights
  • Develop effective coping strategies
  • Work toward achieving their unique recovery goals
  • Build essential skills for long-term recovery

Through individual therapy, clients can address underlying issues, such as trauma, self-esteem, or co-occurring mental health disorders. They then develop a stronger sense of self-awareness and resilience.

Group Therapy

Facilitated by experienced professionals, group therapy sessions bring together peers who are at various stages of the recovery process.
These sessions focus on shared experiences, mutual support, and developing essential skills for maintaining sobriety. By taking part in group therapy, clients benefit from the collective wisdom and encouragement of others who understand the challenges of recovery.
It provides a platform for:
  • Practicing effective communication
  • Building healthy relationships
  • Learning from the successes and setbacks of others

Family Therapy

Addiction and mental health challenges often have a profound impact on the entire family system. Family therapy sessions involve the person in recovery and their loved ones, working together to improve communication, rebuild trust, and create a supportive home environment.
These sessions help family members:
  • Understand the nature of addiction
  • Learn effective ways to support their loved one’s recovery
  • Address any unhealthy dynamics or enabling behaviors that may have contributed to the problem

Benefits of Family Therapy

Family therapy can help repair damaged relationships and strengthen the family unit by:
  • Fostering open dialogue
  • Setting healthy boundaries
  • Promoting forgiveness and understanding
A supportive and engaged family can be a powerful source of motivation and encouragement for people in recovery, increasing the likelihood of long-term success.

Aftercare Following Residential Treatment: Support Groups and Peer Networks

Support groups and peer networks are valuable resources for people in recovery. They offer encouragement, accountability, and a sense of belonging.
At MHRC, we may encourage participation in support groups such as:
  • 12-Step programs: Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and other 12-Step fellowships that provide a structured approach to recovery based on spiritual principles.
  • SMART Recovery: A secular, science-based support group that focuses on self-empowerment and evidence-based techniques for maintaining sobriety.
These support groups provide a platform for people to share their experiences, learn from others, and build a network of peers who understand the challenges of recovery. Engaging in support groups has been shown to increase the likelihood of sustained recovery and reduce the risk of relapse.

Transitional and Sober Living Arrangements

Another key component of aftercare following residential treatment is transitional and sober living. These arrangements offer a structured, supportive environment for people transitioning from residential treatment back into daily life.
At Mile High Recovery Center, we understand the importance of a gradual transition back into everyday life after completing residential treatment.
Sober living homes are designed to provide a safe, substance-free environment where people can continue to build upon the skills and strategies learned during treatment.

Benefits of Sober Living Arrangements in Aftercare Following Residential Treatment

The benefits of sober living arrangements include:
  • Accountability: Regular drug testing and a structured daily routine help people maintain their commitment to sobriety.
  • Peer support: Living with others who are also in recovery provides a built-in support system and a sense of community.
  • Life skills development: Sober living homes offer assistance with daily living skills, such as cooking, cleaning, and budgeting, helping people develop the tools needed for independent living.
  • Continued access to treatment: Residents have access to ongoing support services, such as therapy, support groups, and medical care, ensuring a continuum of care.
  • Gradual reintegration: Sober living arrangements allow people to gradually reintegrate into society, with increasing levels of independence and responsibility over time.

Our Sober Living Homes

Our sober living homes provide a supportive environment where clients can:
  • Practice newly acquired coping skills
  • Build healthy relationships
  • Develop a strong foundation for long-term recovery.
Residents are encouraged to attend support group meetings, engage in sober social activities, and work towards personal goals such as education or employment.

Maintaining Commitments

By offering a structured, supportive transition between residential treatment and independent living, sober living arrangements at Mile High Recovery Center help people maintain their commitment to recovery and reduce the risk of relapse.
Our dedicated staff is committed to providing the guidance and resources needed for clients to develop the skills and confidence necessary for a successful, fulfilling life in recovery.

Aftercare Following Residential Treatment: Continued Medical and Psychiatric Care

Many people struggling with addiction also face co-occurring mental health disorders or chronic medical conditions. Ongoing medical and psychiatric care is essential for managing these issues and promoting well-being in recovery.5
At MHRC, we facilitate access to medical and psychiatric services in aftercare following residential treatment. This ensures that our clients receive the comprehensive care they need to sustain their recovery. This may include:

Medication Management

At Mile High Recovery Center, we understand that many people struggling with addiction also face co-occurring mental health disorders.

Our comprehensive aftercare program includes ongoing medication management to ensure that clients receive the appropriate support for conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

By working closely with our psychiatrists and medical professionals, we can:
  • Monitor the effectiveness of medications
  • Make necessary adjustments
  • Help clients maintain emotional stability as they navigate the challenges of early recovery

Treatment for Chronic Pain or Other Medical Conditions

Chronic pain and other medical conditions can be significant barriers to long-term recovery, as people may be tempted to self-medicate with substances to alleviate their symptoms.
At MHRC, we recognize the importance of addressing these health concerns as part of aftercare following residential treatment.
Our team of medical professionals works with clients to develop personalized treatment plans that incorporate evidence-based, non-opioid pain management techniques, such as:
  • Physical therapy
  • Mindfulness-based interventions
By providing effective, alternative approaches to managing chronic pain and other medical conditions, we can help clients maintain their sobriety while improving their health and well-being.

Coordination with Primary Care Physicians and Specialists

Effective aftercare following residential treatment requires a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to address the complex needs of people in recovery.
At MHRC, we prioritize coordination with our clients’ primary care physicians and specialists to ensure continuity of care and a holistic approach to their health.
Our team:
  • Maintains open lines of communication with external healthcare providers
  • Shares relevant information about clients’ progress in recovery
  • Discusses potential drug interactions
  • Collaborates on treatment plans
By fostering a strong partnership between addiction treatment professionals and primary care providers, we can help clients receive comprehensive, integrated care that supports their ongoing recovery and well-being.

Referrals to Community Resources and Support Services:

Recovery is a journey that extends beyond the walls of a treatment center. At MHRC, we recognize the importance of connecting clients with a wide range of community resources and support services to help them build a strong foundation for long-term recovery.
Our aftercare program includes referrals to:
  • Local 12-Step meetings
  • Sober living homes
  • Vocational training programs
  • Educational opportunities
  • Other resources that can help clients reintegrate into society and build fulfilling lives in recovery

Benefits of Referrals in Aftercare Following Residential Treatment

By providing these referrals and helping clients navigate the available support services, we aim to empower them with the tools and connections they need to:
  • Maintain their sobriety
  • Develop new skills
  • Create a thriving, purposeful life in recovery
At MHRC, we address the full spectrum of a person’s health needs to promote holistic healing and reduce the risk of relapse.

Developing a Personalized Plan for Aftercare Following Residential Treatment

At MHRC, we recognize that each person’s recovery journey is unique. That’s why we work collaboratively with our clients, their families, and our treatment team to develop personalized aftercare plans that address their specific needs and circumstances.
The aftercare planning process begins during residential treatment, as we assess a person’s strengths, challenges, and goals for the future. We then create a comprehensive plan that incorporates the various components of aftercare, tailored to their individual situation.

Aftercare plans are designed to be flexible and adaptable, allowing for adjustments as a person’s needs and circumstances evolve over time. Our team provides ongoing support and guidance throughout the aftercare process, helping clients navigate challenges and celebrate successes along the way.

Importance of Family and Community Support in Aftercare Following Residential Treatment

Family and community support play a crucial role in facilitating successful aftercare and long-term recovery. Research has consistently shown that people with strong support networks are more likely to maintain their sobriety and experience positive outcomes in recovery.
At MHRC, we emphasize the importance of family involvement and community engagement in the recovery process.
We provide education and resources to help families:
  • Understand addiction
  • Communicate effectively
  • Create a supportive home environment

Community Connections

We also encourage our clients to build connections within the recovery community through:
  • Support groups
  • Sober social activities
  • Volunteer opportunities
Engaging with others who share similar experiences and values can provide a sense of belonging, purpose, and accountability that is essential for sustained recovery.

Monitoring Progress and Adjusting Plans

Recovery is a lifelong journey, and it’s normal to experience setbacks and challenges along the way. That’s why monitoring progress and adjusting aftercare plans as needed is an essential part of the recovery process.
At MHRC, we provide ongoing support and guidance to our clients throughout the aftercare phase of treatment.
This may include:
  • Regular check-ins with a therapist or case manager
  • Adjustments to the frequency or intensity of therapy sessions
  • Referrals to additional support services or resources
  • Collaboration with family members and support networks
  • Celebration of milestones and achievements
By closely monitoring progress and making adjustments as needed, we aim to help our clients stay on track and maintain their commitment to recovery.
Aftercare Following Residential Treatment

Recovery Begins Here

At Mile High Recovery Center, we understand the importance of aftercare following residential treatment.
Our comprehensive aftercare program, includes:
  • Outpatient therapy
  • Support groups
  • Sober living arrangements
  • Continued medical and psychiatric care
Our goal is to provide our clients with the ongoing support and resources they need to maintain their sobriety and continue their personal growth.

How We Do It

We aim to enhance the likelihood of long-term success for our clients by:
  • Developing personalized aftercare plans
  • Emphasizing family and community support
  • Closely monitoring progress
We invite our clients to embrace aftercare as an integral part of their recovery journey and to utilize the resources and support available at MHRC.

Contact Mile High Recovery Center Today

At Mile High Recovery Center, you don’t have to navigate your recovery journey alone. Let us help you build a strong foundation for lasting recovery through our comprehensive aftercare program.

Reach out to us today for more information.

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Reach Out Today to See How Mile High Recovery Center Can Help You Heal

If you or a loved one are ready to regain autonomy over your lives and well-being, recovery starts here. Let us guide you toward sustainable wellness and sobriety through our personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs and experiences. We look forward to hearing from you!

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