Frequently Asked Questions

Still have a specific question about Recovery Point?

What is Recovery Point West Virginia?

Recovery Point West Virginia is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization providing several recovery programs to clients in need at NO COST.

Recovery Point WV provides a long-term, residential recovery program, based on the social model of recovery. We also offer drop-in recovery coaching services and transitional recovery residences through HER Place at Recovery Point programs. Recovery Point WV programs follow the 12-Step model of Alcoholics Anonymous to help clients find lasting recovery. We offer a board-recognized Peer Recovery credential training at no cost to those with a desire to become certified. Also, Recovery Point WV works to promote hope and recovery across the state.

Recovery Point West Virginia consists of:

  • Our facilities have served over 3500 individuals
  • Over 1200 residents have completed our programs
  • 90% of graduates that responded to our survey reported that they are still in recovery
  • 90% received additional training, education, and/or employment after graduation
  • 100-bed women’s long-term facility in Charleston
  • The Point Apartments: 30-bed transitional living space with space for 15 men and 15 women
  • 60-bed men’s long-term recovery facility in Bluefield
  • 100-bed men’s long-term facility in Huntington
  • 100-bed women’s long-term facility in Charleston
  • The Point Apartments: 30-bed transitional living space with space for 15 men and 15 women
  • 60-bed men’s long-term recovery facility in Bluefield
  • 100-bed men’s long-term facility in Huntington

Recovery Point West Virginia’s long-term recovery program alumni maintain a 68 percent sobriety rate one year after graduating the program. Please contact us to learn more about what we offer in your community.

What is a peer-driven social model?

Traditional treatment centers operate under a clinical model comprised of licensed technicians, counselors, and physicians. The Recovery Point family of organizations utilizes a peer-driven social model –pioneered by The Healing Place of Louisville, KY—which uses Peer Mentors as class facilitators. A Peer Mentor is a recent graduate of our program who remains in the program with the express duty of leading other clients on their path of working our curriculum/program. Each Peer Mentor shares their recovery experience with another peer early in recovery. Our program places individuals in real-life experiences where they learn how to live sober. This same model is being replicated throughout West Virginia through funding from the Justice Reinvestment Act.

Why choose Recovery Point?

RECOVERY POINT WEST VIRGINIA PROGRAMS ARE COST-EFFECTIVE: The non-medical detox and residential recovery program are provided at absolutely NO COST to the individual person with substance use disorder. Residents contribute to their room and board in ways such as – food preparation, housekeeping, building and grounds maintenance, security, peer mentoring, teaching, etc.

This way, the organizations are able to keep costs down to an average of $32 per person, per day (considerably less than the average $250 per day in a traditional treatment facility, and less than the $50 per day it costs to stay in a local jail).

THE RECOVERY POINT FAMILY OF ORGANIZATIONS HAVE A PROVEN RECORD OF SUCCESS SINCE 2011:  Statistics show that  90% of graduates remained abstinent for at least one year after completing the program. This is roughly five times the national average for a successful recovery from alcohol and drug addiction in traditional facilities.

Our programs save lives and restore individuals to their families and communities. These programs take the client from detox to sustained recovery. Our program is long and intensive, so it is not for everyone, but it is effective in helping many find lasting, meaningful recovery from addiction.

How does the program of recovery work?

Our model is based upon the 12-step program of Alcoholics Anonymous that A.) VIEWS ALCOHOL AND DRUG ADDICTION AS A CHRONIC PHYSICAL, MENTAL, AND SPIRITUAL DISEASE; AND B.) ADVOCATES A UNIQUE “SOCIAL” METHOD OF RECOVERY – ONE RECOVERING PERSON WITH SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER HELPING ANOTHER TO ACHIEVE SOBRIETY. Residents are not only required to attend outside AA/NA meetings but to complete the curriculum of Recovery Dynamics, a systematic program of application of the 12 steps. The curriculum consists of 28 group sessions and 40 written assignments.

Instead of relying on outside professional counselors as staff, we utilize in-house Peer Mentors – alumni who have recently completed the program and thus may serve as successful role models of recovery. These Peer Mentors are uniquely qualified to facilitate meetings and classes, provide peer-to-peer support and guidance, and model appropriate social and life skills. Residents form a therapeutic community that operates on the principles of peer mentoring, group conscience, and consensus decision-making. The community’s emphasis on taking personal responsibility for one’s actions – through self-discipline and accountability to the peer group – provides the primary catalyst for change for the recovering person with substance use disorder.

What is non-medical detox?

This refers to the process of detoxification from alcohol and drugs without pharmaceutical intervention. A typical stay in detox lasts 5-7 days. At least one detox monitor trained in CPR and first-aid is on duty at all times to monitor vital signs for withdrawal symptoms. No medication is administered during the detox stage unless deemed medically necessary prior to the individual arriving. If a client requires medical attention, they will be immediately admitted to one of the local hospitals and remain under the care of hospital staff until medically cleared. As soon as the client is medically stabilized, he/she is required to attend in-house meetings and classes that will prepare them to participate in the recovery program.

What are the specific phases in the recovery program?

Off The Streets (OTS) I and II: OTS residents are required to attend daily classes and participate in 12-step meetings where they are introduced to the core concepts of recovery through interactions with peers who provide guidance, support, and model appropriate social and life skills. Participants are challenged daily to practice sober living skills acquired through peers and staff in recovery. OTS residents will learn the basics of personal accountability to the group and begin to move away from the “street” mentality.

After an initial period of being restricted on-property, OTS clients eventually are allowed to sign out and be with friends/family on weekends between the hours of 8:00 am and 4:00 pm.

RECOVERY PHASE I: Being a member of the Recovery Point community, you are required to complete daily chores and fulfill the requirements of the formal program of recovery; 1.) the curriculum of Recovery Dynamics, 2.) Peer Mentoring, and 3.) Community meetings.
Phase I clients are allowed to sign out after 4:30 pm on weekdays, as well as having weekends to visit with friends/family.

RECOVERY PHASE II: Residents who become Silver Chip eligible will have one of two options upon graduation: 1.) Move into the Peer Mentor office, and 2.) Move into the transitional living house. Peer Mentors are compensated through a small stipend, while transitional residents must be gainfully employed, pay rent, and meet the house requirements as set forth by the Phase II Coordinator.

My friend/family member has been admitted to the program. What do they bring with them?

Our program is residential in nature, so clients should come with clothing and personal toiletries, etc. to get them through one week, initially. While all food is provided as part of the program, clients may wish to have money for extras such as sodas, tobacco, etc. We recommend no more than $20-30 per week per person, to keep the exposure of theft low.

All client possessions will be searched upon admission to the program, and all clothing will be laundered on-site before use.

When can I visit a client?

All clients are actively attending classes and meetings throughout the day, and we ask that no friends or family members visit during these times. Early in the program, clients can invite friends/family members to attend our evening meetings. Friends/family can sign in 15 minutes before the 6 pm and 8 pm meetings, and stay approximately 15 minutes after the end of the meeting.

All visits must take place in the meeting room. No visits are permitted in any other location.

How do I drop off (supplies, money, etc.) for a client?

If you need to drop off money or supplies for a current client, simply drop by the facility during normal business hours of 8 am – 8 pm. Once inside, our security will guide you to a staff member, who is the only person that can take/deliver the supplies to a current client. Rest assured that staff members will take care to deliver the items to the client in a timely manner. You may also call between 8 am – 5 pm with any questions or concerns.

I need help. How can I get a bed?

WILLINGNESS IS NECESSARY TO BE ADDED TO THE WAITING LIST FOR ANY OF OUR FACILITIES. You may call any of our facilities at 304-523-HOPE (4673).

Because our program is provided at no cost to the client, willingness is the currency that is used. If you live in the Huntington, Charleston, Parkersburg or Bluefield areas, attending our daily meetings is a great way to show willingness (and get some help at the same time!). Our waiting list is based on that willingness; those who call in every day or come to meetings go to the top of the list.

If you are incarcerated, you can have family/friends call in for you or mail letters. We ask that phone calls be conducted during regular business hours, please.

Can I have _____ with me in the program?

No using drugs or alcohol; no cell phones or computers; no driving a car while in the program; no physical threats or violence; no sexual overtones, threats, or touching. Those are the FIVE GOLDEN RULES of the social model of recovery that we use at Recovery Point facilities.

I have been accepted, what can I bring?

  • Hygiene items – shampoo, conditioner, soap, body wash, toothpaste, toothbrush, brush, shower caddy (excluding items with alcohol in them)
  • Tobaccoo products
  • Notebooks and pens
  • Hard candy ONLY
  • Money – We recommend no more than $20-$30 per week, per person, to keep the exposure of theft low.

Clothing Limits

Specifics – Quantity
Jeans – 7
Shirts – 10
Hoodies – 3
Jogging Pants – 3
Undershirts – 10
Boxers or Underwear – 10
Socks – 10
Belts – 2
Coats – 2
Sports Jackets – 1
Shoes – 3 Including work shoes
“A” Shirts – 7
Shorts, all types – total 6
Hats – 3
Pajamas/nightgown – 3
Shower shoes – 1
Bras – 4

**Note, the quantities may vary slightly based on each Recovery Point location.

Can I have visitors?

Yes, at the three men’s facilities in Huntington, Parkersburg, and Bluefield there are daily open meetings at 6 pm and 8 pm. Visitors are welcome to any of these meetings and can visit for 15 minutes prior to and 15 minutes after each meeting.

At the women’s facility in Charleston, visitors are welcome 15 minutes prior and 15 minutes after each of the Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday 6 pm meetings only.

All visits must take place in the meeting room. No visits are permitted in any other location.

Can loved ones send mail?

Yes, loved ones can send participants mail and packages which will be dispersed by a staff member Monday through Friday. Mail and packages must be opened in front of a staff member to ensure there is nothing illicit included. Please be sure to include the first and last name of who you are mailing.

If you are mailing cash or any item with monetary value, please use certified mail.

How do I apply for the program?

Pre-Screen Admission Form is found here.

Can I bring a cell phone?

No. Cell phones are not permitted at Recovery Point as we try to eliminate distractions and focus on the present. (This includes internet-capable devices like iPods or smart watches.)

Once a resident reaches Phase II, they are permitted to have access to these devices.

What is the personal phone call policy?

While program participants are in Detox (up to 7 days) they can only make one personal phone call. Once participants reach OTS (Off the Streets) they can make phone calls every day from 7 PM – 8 PM and 9 PM – 10 PM. Once participants reach Phase I, they can make phone calls any time from 8 AM – 11 PM. If you call to ask about a loved one you believe to be in one of our centers, due to HIPPA, we can neither confirm nor deny if they are in our care.

What is the tobacco use policy?

There are no restrictions on smoking or the use of chewing tobacco while participants are in Detox. Once participants reach OTS, they can smoke once every 10 minutes to the hour. There are no limitations on smoking or chewing once participants are in the “Phase” portion of the program. All smoking and chewing MUST be done in the designated areas outside the facility.