Getting in is simpler than you think. Six clear steps, a supportive team, and no surprises along the way — from your first call to move-in day.
Every step is designed to be clear and low-pressure. We're not here to screen you out — we're here to find the right fit for you and for the house.
Call, email, or submit the online application — whichever feels easiest. You don't need anything prepared. Just reach out and tell us a little about where you're at.
A brief 15–20 minute conversation with Shawn or Harley. We'll talk about your recovery history, what brings you here, and what you're hoping to build. This helps us understand whether AfterHouse is the right fit — and gives you a chance to ask us anything.
The AfterHouse team reviews your full application within 24 hours. This includes a background check. We're not looking for a clean record — we're looking for commitment to recovery and fit with house culture.
You'll hear from us by email or phone. If accepted, we'll schedule your move-in date together. If we're not the right fit right now, we'll be honest about why and, where possible, point you toward other resources.
Welcome home. We keep move-in day simple and welcoming. Here's what happens when you arrive:
The first week is about getting settled, not proving yourself. You'll go through orientation, learn the house rhythm, and start building the routine that holds everything else up.
We keep it straightforward. You don't need a spotless past — you need a real commitment to recovery and the willingness to follow the house structure.
We're not looking for perfect people. We're looking for people who are ready to do the work, respect the house, and support their housemates.
From first contact to move-in, the process typically takes 2–5 days depending on bed availability. We respond to initial inquiries within 24 hours. Application review and background check take another 24 hours. If a bed is available and you're accepted, you can move in as soon as the paperwork is signed.
Yes. Family involvement is encouraged. You're welcome to tour the house before committing. During the stay, we encourage family contact and support — though we ask that visits follow house guidelines to maintain the recovery environment for all residents.
A relapse doesn't automatically end your stay, but active use in the house violates our house agreement and puts other residents at risk. We take a case-by-case approach — transparency and willingness to re-engage with treatment matter. Consistent or concealed use will result in a difficult conversation about whether AfterHouse is the right fit at this time. See the house rules for more detail on our accountability process.
Yes. We support residents on MAT, including Suboxone, Vivitrol, and methadone. MAT is a medically recognized form of recovery and we don't require abstinence-only approaches. Medications must be taken as prescribed and kept secured. This is not a barrier to admission.
We have 8 beds. When full, we maintain a short waitlist. If you're accepted but a bed isn't immediately available, we'll give you an honest estimate of timing — typically days to two weeks. We recommend applying now so you're first in line when a bed opens. Call us at 515-518-9417 to check current availability.
Very. Families can reach out on behalf of a loved one, join the phone screening call if the resident wants them involved, and help with first month's rent. We've found that family support — when done in a healthy, non-enabling way — is one of the strongest predictors of success. See our family guide for more on how to support a loved one in recovery housing.
The process is simple and we're here to help every step of the way. Apply online or just give us a call — no pressure, no judgment.