The Illinois Department of Human Services/Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery (DBHR) seeks to provide a registry of recovery residences that will serve as a referral resource for individuals seeking continued recovery assistance. A recovery residence is defined as a "sober, safe and healthy living environment that promotes recovery from alcohol and other drug use and associated problems." As such, a recovery residence includes DBHR licensed Recovery Homes, Oxford Houses, and other sober living environments that are independent living residences that only provide peer support and a lengthened exposure to the culture of recovery. The registry indicates if the residence is licensed by DBHR and specifies any accreditation or certification that each recovery residence has received from an entity that has developed uniform national standards. While not required, all registrants are encouraged to seek licensure or national accreditation/certification. To register, visit the Illinois Helpline for Opioids and Other Substances Provider Portal Login Page. For each residence, under Account Sign Up click that you are signing up as a recovery residence and follow the instructions. If you have any questions or concerns, contact Emily Piper at Emily.Piper2@Illinois.gov.
Recovery Residence Frequently Asked Questions
Definitions
Recovery Residences is the umbrella term that includes a range of residences to support those in recovery from substance use, including recovery homes, Oxford Houses and sober living homes. While all recovery residences support people in recovery they may vary in the level and structure of services offered, supervision provided and whether or not entities are licensed by the state
Recovery Home: Facility licensed by DBHR to provide an alcohol and drug-free living environment for persons in recovery from substance use, or individuals who recently completed substance use treatment at another licensed facility. Their rules, peer-led groups, staff activities, and/or other structured operations are directed toward ongoing recovery.
Oxford House: Non-licensed, independent, supportive sober living environment that can be established by any individual in recovery. They are typically democratically run, self-supporting alcohol and drug free environments for those in recovery. More information can be found on the Oxford House website.
Sober Living Home: Non-licensed, alcohol and drug-free living environments for individuals attempting to maintain abstinence from alcohol and drugs.
Peer Recovery Support Services: Formerly called Recovery Support Services (RSS), Peer Recovery Support Services (PRSS) are non-clinical recovery supports provided by individuals trained and certified to utilize their own personal lived experience in recovery from mental health and/or substance use challenges to support other individuals in their journey of recovery from substance use and/or mental health or other behavioral health challenges. These services are not just about offering and receiving help, but about doing so based on a shared understanding, respect, and mutual empowerment, making each individual feel valued and respected.
The use of the registry does not constitute an endorsement by DBHR for residences that are not regulated.
