Central Peninsula General Hospital - Serenity House Residential Treatment

Small, Hospital-Backed Program in a Wooded Setting

Serenity House Treatment Center is an intensive residential program operated by Central Peninsula Hospital, set in a private 40-acre wooded area between Kenai and Soldotna in Alaska. Adults typically stay for 6–8 weeks, combining the calm of a nature-based setting with the resources of a general hospital. This mix can be especially helpful for people who want a quieter space without giving up access to medical and psychiatric care.

12-Step, MAT, and Care for Co-Occurring Conditions

The program uses a 12-step model alongside evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed counseling. Medications for addiction treatment (MAT) are available for opioid and alcohol use disorders. Medications can also be prescribed as needed for mental health conditions, nicotine cessation, HIV, and hepatitis C. The broader behavioral health team can also address co-occurring mental health concerns, chronic pain, and suicidality.

Step-Down Support and Skills for Daily Life

Serenity House is designed as a full recovery pathway rather than a single stay. After residential treatment, clients can step down into intensive outpatient (IOP) and then standard outpatient programs, often receiving close to a year of structured support. Daily group options include relapse prevention, mindfulness skills, art therapy for self-discovery, interpersonal skills, future planning, and Seeking Safety groups focused on trauma and substance use. Clients also have access to individual and family counseling, vocational or educational support, employment counseling, and social skills development.

Family Involvement, Safety, and Practical Supports

The center hosts a Weekly Family Day which brings loved ones into therapy groups to learn about substance use, practice communication, and build a shared recovery plan. Transportation assistance is offered to help people reach appointments when travel is a barrier. The program serves a wide range of adults, including young adults, older adults, veterans, active-duty military, pregnant and postpartum women, and justice-involved clients. Recovery supports such as self-help groups, housing services, peer mentoring, suicide prevention services, and overdose education with naloxone extend care beyond discharge.