Freedom House and Liberty Place
Do you Accept Couples?
Yes. However, couples of opposite sexes will be in separate programs in different facilities. You will not share a room or have unlimited access to each other. Members of couples must follow the same rules regarding phone use and visits as all other clients.
For couples expecting a child: Fathers will be able to attend OB/GYN appointments and be there for the birth of the child, so long as they stay with mom, refrain from any drug or alcohol use, and follow all other program rules. If the baby is admitted to the NICU, both parents will be able to visit. Visits may happen together or at different times, depending on whether the parents follow program rules.
Can I smoke or vape?
Yes. We have smoke breaks and designated outdoor smoking areas. You can have up to one carton of cigarettes (no Black & Milds or cigars) or up to two disposable vapes/e-cigarettes that are not refillable (Mr. Fog, Elf Bar, Hyde, etc.) at a time.
What if I need to medically detox?
VOA does not offer medical detox in our facilities. Instead, VOA staff will transport you to a nearby hospital. One of our certified Peer Support Specialists will call you to see how you’re doing, and your spot in our program will be saved for when you’re ready to come back.
How soon can I get into treatment?
We want to get you in as soon as possible. It is not uncommon for someone to enter treatment the same day they call us. We can also schedule admissions for evenings and weekends.
How will I pay for treatment? Do you help with insurance?
Treatment is provided at no cost to you under Kentucky Medicaid plans and some commercial plans. If you are not currently enrolled in Medicaid but could qualify, we will help you fill out the application after admission. If we are not in-network with your insurance coverage, we will help you find a cost-effective treatment option that meets your needs.
What if I don’t have a way to get to the program?
We provide free transportation from anywhere in Kentucky.
How will I get back home after treatment?
You will work with a targeted case manager to create a discharge plan, which includes safe, sober housing and how you will get there. Some people decide to stay in Louisville or Clay County after graduation. Those who want to go back home may be provided with a bus ticket or transported by VOA staff, friends, or family depending on the situation.
Can I have visitors?
Yes. We encourage everyone to have family involvement, which includes weekend visits and family therapy sessions. Visitors must be pre-approved by your therapist and must behave appropriately.
Freedom House Specific
How long is the program?
Our program is not a set number of days. We base stays on clinical medical necessity and individual progress in treatment. On average, it takes three to four months to complete the Freedom House program, but it all depends on the work you put in. You could have the option to stay in VOA’s transitional living for up to two years, if space allows.
Can I have my cell phone?
Yes, once you reach a certain point in the program. In phase one, you can use the house phone for personal calls. In phase two, you can “check out” your cellphone at certain times. In phase three, you can have your cellphone at all times (but it must be turned off during individual and group therapy).
Can I work?
Yes. When you reach the third phase of the program, you can work part-time outside of group therapy time. We do not charge rent, so the money you earn can go toward a deposit for a transitional living program or apartment after graduation, transportation, work clothing, or anything else you many need.
Do you really allow all children under 18?
Yes! We once had a mother with five children- from toddlers to teenagers- in the program. We will make space for all of your children, so you don’t have to make the tough choice of who to bring.
What if I don’t have custody of my children? Will CPS let me bring my kids with me?
It depends on your caseworker and judge. We will advocate on your behalf, but we cannot make any promises. Sometimes children in Cabinet custody will be allowed to stay with mom at Freedom House, but that is not a guarantee.
How does visitation work?
We will accommodate as much visitation as CPS and your judge allow- whether that be a few hours or overnights. Freedom House is considered a sight-and-sound supervision site.
Who will take care of my children while I detox or deliver?
Freedom House staff cannot watch your children while you are in the hospital, but there are a few options. We partner with a couple of nonprofits in Louisville that have trained families who can provide temporary care for your children in a comfortable home environment. Alternatively, you may choose to have your children stay with a trusted friend or family member.
What will my kids do while I’m in group?
Preschool and school-age children will be enrolled in school or summer camps (if appropriate). Freedom House staff can help you enroll younger children in daycare. You may also choose to keep your baby with you in group.
How big is your facility?
You will not be a number in a sea of residents. Right now, our Louisville program can serve approximately 35 women. Our program in Southeastern Kentucky can serve approximately 25. Our clinicians see a maximum of 12 clients, so you will receive individualized care.
Do you help with housing?
Yes. A targeted case manager will help you make a discharge plan, which includes safe and sober housing.
Liberty Place Specific
How long is the program?
Our program is not a set number of days. We base stays on clinical medical necessity and individual progress in treatment. On average, it takes about 45-50 days to complete the Liberty Place residential program, but it all depends on the work you put in. Part of your discharge plan will be a referral to intensive outpatient (IOP) services and transitional/sober living.
Can I have my cell phone?
Yes, once you reach a certain point in the program. In phase one, you can use the house phone for personal calls. In phase two, you can “check out” your cellphone at certain times.
Can I work?
No, but you can begin applying to jobs during the second phase of the program. In the first phase of the program, you will be spending at least 40 hours per week in therapy or other programming. Focusing on yourself and your early recovery during this time will be a full-time job and will empower you to develop coping skills, begin addressing trauma, and establish a strong foundation to maintain sobriety when you reenter the workforce and community. Taking a couple of months to fully focus on yourself will be worth it.
Do you help with housing?
Discharge planning that starts on day one. We will connect you with safe, sober housing and a vetted intensive outpatient(IOP) program to continue your treatment.
How big is your facility?
You will not be a number in a sea of residents. Right now, our Louisville program can serve approximately 35 men. Our clinicians see a maximum of 12 clients, so you will receive individualized care.