Odyssey House Inc - Women and Children Program

Residential Care for Mothers And Children

Odyssey House Women and Children Program is designed for pregnant/postpartum women and mothers who need residential substance use treatment without separating from their children. The program focuses on keeping families together in a structured, supportive setting while helping parents strengthen daily routines and caregiving skills that support long-term family stability.

Childcare And Early Learning Support

A defining feature of this program is its on-site childcare. Daycare services are licensed by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, and an Early Head Start preschool option is available for eligible children. This integrated model allows parents to fully participate in treatment while their children receive consistent, developmentally appropriate care in the same environment.

Evidence-Based, Trauma-Informed Counseling

Treatment includes individual, group, and family counseling, along with evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, relapse prevention, anger management, and trauma-related counseling. Odyssey House also incorporates structured programming for women and families, including Trauma Recovery and Empowerment and a nurturing parent curriculum developed specifically for families affected by substance use.

Integrated Health Services

The program offers on-site primary medical care with specialties in OB/GYN, psychiatry, and HIV/AIDS, as well as pediatric services through a partnership with the Institute for Family Health. For clients who may benefit from medications for addiction treatment (MAT), the facility offers options such as buprenorphine and naltrexone, along with medications for alcohol use disorder.

Aftercare and Transitional Planning

Preparation for life after residential care is built into the program. Transitional support may include discharge planning, housing services, assistance accessing social services, peer mentoring or recovery coaching, and vocational or educational support such as high school equivalency test preparation. Fitness, wellness, and cultural activities are also part of care plans, helping clients practice healthier routines while working toward long-term stability.

Client Reviews

Many clients describe a structured, long-term recovery setting with caring staff and meaningful progress. Some reviews point to concerns around consistency, communication, and facility conditions.

• Staff & Care Experience (65% positive): Many clients say staff are supportive, committed, and encouraging when individuals are engaged in the program. Some note uneven enforcement of rules, favoritism, or interactions that felt dismissive or unprofessional. "The staff is exceptional — they do their best to accommodate."
• Treatment Quality & Outcomes (60% positive): Reviews often reflect real personal growth and long-term recovery for people who commit to the structure and expectations. Others felt the approach was too rigid or not therapeutic enough for their needs. "This facility saved my daughter’s life."
• Facility & Environment: Several clients describe a clean, well-equipped campus with gyms, art spaces, and common areas, while others report concerns about cleanliness, temperature control, or safety in shared spaces.
• Access & Process: Transportation access and daily structure are frequently mentioned as helpful, but some clients and family members describe frustration with communication, rule clarity, and follow-through on concerns or incidents.
• Support & Community: Many reviews emphasize peer connection, routine, and accountability as strengths of the program. Others felt the environment could be stressful.