Sober College: Transforming Young Lives Through Addiction Recovery
If our students can just get it for themselves, they're bigger and brighter than most out there once they leave, because they've had so much self-work and so much growth that the sky's the limits for them.
Imagine a place where young people can rebuild their lives while gaining essential life skills. That's what Sober College offers, and in this episode of Recovery Innovators Radio, Mindi Levins-Pfeifer shares her journey and the innovative approach behind this unique institution. With over two decades dedicated to helping youth in crisis, Mindi has crafted a program that goes beyond traditional recovery methods.
At the heart of Sober College are the Five Competencies: sobriety, productivity, mental health and emotional growth, physical fitness, and life skills. These pillars work together to provide a holistic approach to addiction recovery. Mindi's passion for helping young people shines through as she discusses how basic skills like getting up on time, dealing with roommates, and returning items at a store are integral parts of the program.
These may seem simple, but they are often overlooked in high school or at home. Sober College provides a supportive environment where young adults can develop these skills over six to nine months. But it's not just about sober living; it's about creating a 'college of life'. The academic team at Sober College is highly qualified, with staff members holding master's degrees or higher. They even serve as adjunct professors at Woodbury University, blending academic rigor with practical life skills.
Emotional growth is another cornerstone of the program. Mindi emphasizes that emotional intelligence often carries people further than IQ alone. Her dedication to seeing the good in people and fostering a family-like atmosphere makes Sober College a nurturing space for recovery. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in innovative approaches to addiction recovery for young people. Tune in to hear Mindi's insights and discover how Sober College is making a difference.