Young Adult Program Structure & Phases
Safe, Transitional Living Step by Step
At Pivot, we don’t just help young men stay on the right track; we help them build lives that are worth staying healthy for.
Our structured, phased approach is grounded in support, independence, and personal growth. Designed specifically for young men navigating the transition from mental health or addiction treatment to real-world living, our program provides a roadmap that balances clinical support, community connection, and life skill development—each step designed to increase confidence, responsibility, and long-term recovery success.
What is a Transitional Living Phase Model?
Early recovery is delicate. Without structure, purpose, and connection, even the most motivated young adult can struggle to translate what they learned in treatment into the complexity of daily life.
That’s why Pivot uses a phased model of transitional living, built to gradually increase independence as residents demonstrate personal autonomy, engagement in recovery, and progress toward educational, vocational, and therapeutic goals.
Each phase represents more than a checklist—it’s a personal evolution.
Phase I: Settle
Focus: Structure, stabilization, and immersion into recovery
Typical Length: 30 days
In the Settle phase, your only job is to breathe, feel safe, and settle into your new environment. This is your time to focus on transitioning successfully — with extra therapeutic support as you transition into our community. Together, we’ll start mapping out your goals, whether that’s returning to school, starting a job, or discovering new passions. You’ll begin shaping a healthy daily routine filled with purpose — building in recovery work, hobbies you care about, and small wins that rebuild your confidence. This is about laying solid groundwork: emotionally, mentally, and practically.
Key components:
- Daily check-ins with staff
- “90 in 90” AA/12-Step meeting attendance
- Weekly therapy sessions (individual, group, & family)
- Development of short-term academic or employment goals
- Assigned house responsibilities
- Budgeting, cooking, time management training
- Group outings, service work, and house community activities
- Drug/alcohol testing
By the end of Settle, you’ll feel more grounded, connected, and ready to move forward.
Phase II: Move
Focus: Personal responsibility and real-life practice
Typical Length: 60 days
Now that you’ve found your footing, it’s time to move. In this phase, you’ll begin turning your plans into action. You’ll deepen your engagement with therapy, recovery, and your passions while ramping up your daily structure — school, work, or an internship will now be part of your routine. This is when you start to feel your strength return as your schedule gets busier and your confidence grows. The vision of a fulfilling, sober, and healthy life starts to feel real.
Key components:
- Increased autonomy in daily schedule
- More independence in budgeting, transportation, and responsibilities
- Participation in ongoing therapy
- Continued step work and 12-Step involvement
- Deepening relationships with sponsors and mentors
- Active progress toward education or employment goals
- Leading peer activities or service opportunities
Move is about finding your rhythm and gaining momentum toward the life you want.
Phase III: Rise
Focus: Independence and preparation for long-term success
Typical Length: 60 days
Rise is where you step into a higher level of challenge and responsibility. You’ll take on new freedoms — managing late curfews, driving, dating — while holding steady in your recovery and mental health. This phase also invites you to become a leader in our community: mentoring newer residents and shaping our culture. Your days will be full — pursuing your goals, engaging in your passions, and staying connected with a strong, supportive peer network.
Key components:
- Continued clinical support
- Leadership opportunities within the community
- Continued 12-Step participation and spiritual growth
- Ongoing support check-ins with staff
- Mentorship of newer residents
- Support around future planning: graduation, housing, job placement
- Planning transition steps, whether staying in Tucson or returning home
Rise is about proving to yourself that you can meet challenges head-on and be a positive influence, all while maintaining your balance and well-being.
Phase IV: Pivot
Focus: Real-world independence
Typical Length: 45 days
Pivot is the capstone phase — where preparation meets real-world readiness. Here, you’ll live as an independent, capable young man while still surrounded by the safety net of your community. Your schedule, responsibilities, and choices will mirror what life will look like after graduation. This is your chance to fine-tune any areas you want to strengthen before you step out fully on your own.
Key components:
- Continued support as needed
- Leadership opportunities within the community
- Continued 12-Step participation and spiritual growth
- Ongoing support check-ins with staff
- Mentorship of newer residents
- Support around future planning: graduation, housing, job placement
- Planning transition steps, whether staying in Tucson or returning home
Pivot is where you show yourself that you’re ready — managing your life confidently, embracing your future, and pivoting into the next chapter with purpose and pride.
What Makes Our Phased Approach Different
- Achievement-Based, Not Time-Based: Progression is based on behavior, integrity, and engagement—not the calendar.
- Integrated Clinical Care: Licensed therapists are involved throughout every phase, offering tailored support.
- Individualized Pace: Some residents may move through the program faster, others slower—and that’s okay. We meet each young man where he is.
Life After Transitional Living
Many residents continue to live in Tucson, attend college, or stay involved with our alumni community after formal graduation. Pivot remains a resource, a home base, and a launching pad for long-term recovery and life satisfaction.
Build a Life Worth Living
The first year after treatment is one of the most vulnerable—and most important—times in a young man’s life. Our phased structure provides a roadmap to lasting recovery, connection, and independence. Reach out today to learn more about our program and how Pivot can support the young man in your life.