Better Way of Miami Inc

Whole-Person Support in the Heart of Miami

Better Way of Miami serves adults navigating substance use and mental health challenges, especially those also facing social, legal, or housing-related obstacles. Located just outside downtown, this nonprofit facility is deeply embedded in the local community and focuses on helping people rebuild their lives through accessible, person-centered care.

Residential and Outpatient Treatment for Complex Needs

The facility offers both residential and outpatient programs, providing flexibility for individuals at different stages of recovery. Treatment includes evidence-based therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and both individual and group counseling. These services are tailored to meet the needs of people with co-occurring disorders, including those living with HIV or involved with the justice system.

Emphasis on Practical Recovery Tools

Beyond clinical treatment, Better Way of Miami helps clients strengthen life skills that support long-term recovery. Vocational counseling, job readiness programs, and case management services are central to care. These offerings are especially helpful for individuals seeking financial independence or transitioning out of legal or correctional systems.

Trauma-Informed and Culturally Responsive

The facility takes a trauma-informed approach, offering specialized support for veterans, people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and those who have experienced significant life disruptions. Services are available in English, Spanish, Creole, and French, with accommodations for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. This inclusive approach helps ensure that care is linguistically and culturally attuned to the people being served.

Client Reviews

Feedback on Better Way of Miami reflects a mix of personal transformation and criticism. While many clients credit the program for life-changing support, others describe concerns around environment, care quality, and staff treatment.

• **Support & Community (90% positive): Alumni and current clients often speak to a strong sense of community and belonging, especially through peer-led support and meetings. Some described the experience as “life-saving” and affirming.
• Treatment Quality & Outcomes (55% positive): Several reviewers say the program helped them recover, citing structured programming and long-term benefit. However, others described the treatment as superficial or disorganized, with rare one-on-one counseling and inconsistent support.
• Staff & Care Experience (60% positive): Many clients praised individual staff members for their compassion and dedication. Yet others noted burnout, poor communication, or punitive dynamics, especially when it came to leadership.
• Facility & Environment (40% positive): Some praised the facility’s growth and efforts to improve, but a larger number described unsafe or unsanitary conditions, that undermined their sense of dignity and safety.
• Technology & Communication Policy: A few comments noted rigid or outdated technology rules that conflicted with recovery goals or modern learning opportunities.