What is a Sober Companion? Complete Guide
Sober companions provide 24/7 support and accountability for individuals in recovery, offering personalized assistance during vulnerable periods of the recovery journey.
A sober companion, also known as a recovery companion or sober coach, is a trained professional who provides personalized, one-on-one support to individuals in early recovery or those facing high-risk situations. Unlike traditional counselors who meet clients for scheduled sessions, sober companions offer real-time, 24/7 support when it's needed most.
These specialized professionals serve as a bridge between formal treatment and independent living, providing accountability, emotional support, and practical assistance as individuals navigate the challenges of maintaining sobriety in their daily lives.
What Do Sober Companions Do?
24/7 Accountability & Support
Round-the-clock presence to provide immediate support during challenging moments and help maintain sobriety.
Services Include:
Relapse Prevention
Proactive strategies and interventions to identify potential triggers and prevent relapse before it occurs.
Services Include:
Emotional Support & Guidance
Compassionate companionship and emotional guidance throughout the recovery journey.
Services Include:
Social Support & Reintegration
Assistance with rebuilding healthy relationships and social connections in recovery.
Services Include:
Lifestyle Management
Help with daily activities, healthy routines, and building structure in recovery.
Services Include:
Communication & Advocacy
Bridge communication between clients, families, and treatment teams while advocating for client needs.
Services Include:
Types of Sober Companionship
Residential Companionship
Live-in support for individuals in their home environment or transitional living situations.
Travel Companionship
Accompanies clients during business travel, family visits, or vacation to maintain sobriety.
Transitional Companionship
Support during specific life transitions such as returning home from treatment or starting work.
Event Companionship
Support during specific events where triggers may be present, such as weddings or social gatherings.
When You Might Need a Sober Companion
Early Recovery
First few months after treatment when relapse risk is highest
High-Risk Situations
Individuals with multiple failed treatment attempts or severe addiction
Transition Periods
Moving from inpatient treatment back to daily life or work
Family Events
Weddings, holidays, or gatherings where alcohol may be present
Business Travel
Professional obligations that require travel to unfamiliar environments
Court Requirements
Legal mandates for supervised sobriety or probation requirements
Sober Companion Qualifications
Professional sober companions typically possess a combination of education, training, and personal experience that qualifies them to provide effective support:
Sober Companion vs. Other Recovery Support
Sober Companion
- • 24/7 availability
- • Real-time support
- • Live-in or travel options
- • Crisis intervention
- • Lifestyle management
Recovery Coach
- • Scheduled sessions
- • Goal-oriented coaching
- • Skills development
- • Long-term planning
- • Peer support model
Therapist/Counselor
- • Clinical treatment
- • Therapy sessions
- • Mental health focus
- • Diagnosis and treatment
- • Insurance coverage
Cost and Investment
Sober companion services are typically private-pay and vary based on level of care and duration:
Typical Rate Ranges:
- Hourly rates: $50-150/hour
- Daily rates: $500-1,500/day
- Live-in weekly: $3,500-10,000/week
- Travel companions: $1,000-3,000/day + expenses
Factors Affecting Cost:
- • Level of supervision required
- • Geographic location
- • Companion's experience and credentials
- • Duration of service
- • Special circumstances or risk factors
How to Choose the Right Sober Companion
Selecting the right sober companion is crucial for success. Consider these important factors:
- Experience and Training: Look for certified professionals with specific addiction training
- Personality Fit: The companion should be someone the client feels comfortable with
- Specializations: Some companions specialize in specific populations (executives, adolescents, etc.)
- Availability: Ensure they can provide the level of support needed
- References: Ask for and check professional references
- Insurance and Bonding: Verify professional liability coverage
- Treatment Team Coordination: Ability to work with existing treatment providers