Friendly House

A Historic Program for Women’s Recovery

Since 1951, Friendly House has provided women with a safe, welcoming place to recover from substance use and co-occurring mental health conditions. As one of the first programs of its kind, this non-profit remains rooted in the belief that women recover best in a community of peers who understand their experiences.

Levels of Care and Treatment Approach

Friendly House offers a full continuum of care including medical detox, residential treatment, intensive outpatient programming, and sober living. Services address both addiction and conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and eating disorders. Evidence-based therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused counseling, and relapse prevention, are paired with medications for addiction treatment (MAT) when appropriate, including buprenorphine and naltrexone.

Holistic Therapies and Daily Life

The program integrates holistic and experiential therapies to support whole-person healing. Clients have access to yoga, meditation, equine therapy, music therapy, and art workshops. Fitness programming and life skills training prepare women for independence, while shared meals and group activities build connection. The environment feels home-like, with shared bedrooms, outdoor lounge areas, and walking paths that promote reflection and community.

Community and Long-Term Support

Many staff members have personal recovery experience, which fosters understanding and trust. Alumni programs, peer mentoring, and aftercare planning ensure that women remain connected after completing treatment. With its combination of clinical care, holistic support, and community-driven recovery, Friendly House helps women not only stabilize but also rebuild their lives with dignity and resilience.

Client Reviews

Clients describe Friendly House as a life-changing and deeply supportive environment, with most highlighting the dedication of staff, the strength of the community, and the wide range of recovery tools offered.

• Staff & Care Experience (90% positive): Reviewers consistently praise the warmth, professionalism, and dedication of staff. "The staff truly cares and makes you feel heard."
• Treatment Quality & Outcomes (85% positive): Many clients credit Friendly House with saving or transforming their lives, highlighting coping skills, relapse prevention, and holistic therapies. "This place literally saved my life."
• Support & Community (90% positive): Clients emphasize the strong peer bonds, sense of chosen family, and lasting alumni support that extend well beyond treatment. "I made lifelong relationships that I will cherish."
• Facility & Environment: Several reviews describe the houses as safe, home-like, and beautiful, with activities like yoga and equine therapy enhancing the experience.
• Access & Process: Some reviewers share smooth admissions experiences and strong family involvement, while isolated critiques cite restrictions on outside communication or lack of clarity in policies.