Social Model Recovery Systems - Royal Palms

Affirming Care for LGBTQIA+ Individuals and Allies

The center is designed to be a safe, inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ clients and their allies. The program offers gender-inclusive living quarters, all-gender bathrooms, and staff trained in culturally responsive care who use preferred names and pronouns. Intake forms and support materials reflect LGBTQIA+ identities, helping clients feel recognized and respected. Group counseling and community activities address the unique challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals may face, such as stigma, discrimination, or family rejection. This affirming environment allows clients to focus on recovery while building supportive peer networks rooted in acceptance and dignity.

Integrated Mental Health Treatment

As substance use and mental health challenges often overlap, treatment is designed to address both together. Clients receive counseling that integrates behavioral therapies with trauma-informed practices, helping them understand the connections between thoughts, emotions, and substance use. Individual and group sessions focus on building coping strategies, reducing relapse risk, and strengthening resilience. Case managers coordinate care and connect clients to additional community resources as needed. By treating mental health and substance use at the same time, the program supports more stable, lasting recovery.

Aftercare and Alumni Support

Discharge planning begins early, with counselors helping clients find stable housing and ongoing counseling or vocational programs, depending on their individual circumstances. Alumni are invited to stay connected through monthly meetings and volunteer opportunities, creating a supportive peer network. Education on relapse prevention and overdose awareness equips clients with tools for daily life after treatment. By linking each person to both formal support and informal community connections, the center helps clients maintain a sense of belonging.

Life Skills, Employment Services, and Community Engagement

Clients participate in daily responsibilities such as cooking, cleaning, and facility upkeep to help build accountability and independence. Structured life skills groups focus on communication, problem-solving, and healthy routines. Vocational sessions and referrals connect clients to job training, educational programs, and employment services as needed to help them rebuild financial stability. Community engagement is also central to the approach. Clients participate in service projects, recreational outings, and local events that help build long-term connections.

Client Reviews

Clients describe Royal Palms as a supportive place with caring staff and a structured, community-driven program. Many highlight the strong role it played in their long-term recovery. Some note areas where case management and communication could be improved.

• Staff & Care Experience (80% positive): Staff are often described as friendly and motivating, with several reviewers crediting them for life-changing support. "Awesome staff."
• Treatment Quality & Outcomes (75% positive): Many people share long-term sobriety milestones and gratitude for the program’s impact. Some note frustrations with case management or follow-up. "Royal palms saved my life."
• Facility & Environment: Clients mention a welcoming, non-institutional feel, clean spaces, and home-style meals. Some mention building quirks but overall describe it as a positive place to stay. "The place was very clean and didn't feel institutionalized."
• Access & Process: Policies like initial phone restrictions, structured passes, and group expectations are commonly noted. While many found the program approachable, a few suggest the process could be more supportive in some administrative areas.
• Support & Community: Peer support, alumni connections, and inclusivity for the LGBTQIA+ community are recurring strengths. Some reviewers said they made lasting friendships. "If one is serious and sincere about their recovery, this place will set you up for success."