Resident Testimonials
We know our program works because our residents tell us in so many ways – with hugs and laughter, shared struggles, victories, visits from alumni who are excited to tell us how well they’re doing, and how they’ve made it through another day substance free.
We invite you to read some of the personal testimonies of men we’ve had the privilege of helping.
What Our Residents Are Saying...
"Heartbreak and Triumph"
My journey started in the county jail. Not my first stint as a direct result of my alcohol and drug use. Suffering withdrawal symptoms resulting from nearly 20 years of daily substance abuse.
About a week into my sentence, I did not know it, but my life was about to change drastically. I had several seizures, but one incident led me to rock bottom-- literally. I had fallen off of my top bunk and landed on the cold, unforgiving concrete floor. The force had broken my ribs and my head was split open. All I remember seeing was crimson blood when I came too. The cell filled with the metallic smell of my own blood, pooling around me. This was the result of going cold turkey off of the myriad of narcotics and alcohol I had abused for years.
I remember thinking I was paralyzed from the fall, confused and disoriented, they rushed me to the emergency room. After stapling my head and treating my contusions and other injuries, I slowly regained my faculties and asked for my Higher Power to help me. I went to rehab for the last time, as I had done seven times before, and dozens of detoxes. I had made a promise to God (and myself) that if I pulled through and made a full recovery, I would stop my decades long history of drug use and live my life clean and sober.
I came to NSR of Asheville previously in 2014 and my stay only lasted a week before I crawled back into a bag and a bottle. As I learned, the only way to remain sober for any amount of time takes a willingness and commitment that I did not possess. Susan Stader, the owner, and the amazing staff at NSR of Asheville have helped open up a new world for me I could never have begun to fathom out there in the harsh, deadly confines of my active addiction. I returned in November of 2020 and I was ready to quit and contemplated an end to my suffering. With no clue where to go next or where to begin. They have advocated and supported me in every way imaginable. They even helped to diagnose and treat my underlying mental health conditions.
NSR of Asheville not only saved my life, but helped me build a better life for myself in the process. They have helped me become the man I truly am and had no clue that I was. If I can do it, anyone can do it. I recommend NSR of Asheville to anyone who wants a change for the best. I am doing things I thought impossible such as not only working full-time, but excelling in my career field. I can not emphasize how grateful I am for all NSR of Asheville and the sober community have helped me achieve. They are like a second family to me. If I can do it, anyone can. Thanks for reading.
About a week into my sentence, I did not know it, but my life was about to change drastically. I had several seizures, but one incident led me to rock bottom-- literally. I had fallen off of my top bunk and landed on the cold, unforgiving concrete floor. The force had broken my ribs and my head was split open. All I remember seeing was crimson blood when I came too. The cell filled with the metallic smell of my own blood, pooling around me. This was the result of going cold turkey off of the myriad of narcotics and alcohol I had abused for years.
I remember thinking I was paralyzed from the fall, confused and disoriented, they rushed me to the emergency room. After stapling my head and treating my contusions and other injuries, I slowly regained my faculties and asked for my Higher Power to help me. I went to rehab for the last time, as I had done seven times before, and dozens of detoxes. I had made a promise to God (and myself) that if I pulled through and made a full recovery, I would stop my decades long history of drug use and live my life clean and sober.
I came to NSR of Asheville previously in 2014 and my stay only lasted a week before I crawled back into a bag and a bottle. As I learned, the only way to remain sober for any amount of time takes a willingness and commitment that I did not possess. Susan Stader, the owner, and the amazing staff at NSR of Asheville have helped open up a new world for me I could never have begun to fathom out there in the harsh, deadly confines of my active addiction. I returned in November of 2020 and I was ready to quit and contemplated an end to my suffering. With no clue where to go next or where to begin. They have advocated and supported me in every way imaginable. They even helped to diagnose and treat my underlying mental health conditions.
NSR of Asheville not only saved my life, but helped me build a better life for myself in the process. They have helped me become the man I truly am and had no clue that I was. If I can do it, anyone can do it. I recommend NSR of Asheville to anyone who wants a change for the best. I am doing things I thought impossible such as not only working full-time, but excelling in my career field. I can not emphasize how grateful I am for all NSR of Asheville and the sober community have helped me achieve. They are like a second family to me. If I can do it, anyone can. Thanks for reading.
Brad
Resident
A great launching pad for my journey in recovery. Gaining life skills essential to being successful in the “real world.” A welcoming, supportive staff always here for me with an open door and open arms giving me the knowledge, strength, hope and confidence I needed to be successful on my journey towards recovery.
M.C.
Resident
There are a thousand reasons why I would recommend NSR of Asheville to someone who is looking for help. The most important reason to me is that the staff at NSR of Asheville is there to help you and they truly want to see people succeed. I still have a great relationship with the staff and I left there a year ago. I thought they were just going to be a place to rest my head at night but with all the help they offered me I made life changing decision with the help of the program. They will always be apart of my recovery and I will never forget who I was when I came there and how much better of a person I was when I left.
C.D.
Resident
Grateful for Life...
I write this on my 1 year birthday of being clean & sober (8.7.15). This has been a year of ups and downs. However, through it all I have stayed on track and continued on the journey. I am grateful for my life today. I am grateful for all of those in my network. I am truly grateful to NSR of Asheville for being there for me every minute of everyday. A safe place to live, a staff of caring and loving individuals helping me all the way and loving me when I didn’t love myself. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Sincerely...
C.P.
Resident
I wanted to take this opportunity to write down a few things that I learned here in Asheville in, what I am calling, my “year amongst righteous misfits.” I tend to ruminate deeply on things, as I am sure you all are very well aware, but my quiet nature to those I have not gotten to know on a deeper level keeps those ruminations neatly tucked away until they may become useful at the right time; I feel like this is the right time, and I hope that they are useful.
In looking back at a decade of numbing pain and emotions, I realize now a common thread in the motivation behind many of my self-destructive actions; the ever present question of “why?” I know in my life there has always been, and probably always will be, the question of “why am I doing this?” or “why shouldn’t I do that?” The problem wasn’t that I had no ambition or desire to move forward in life, far from it. The problem was in my questioning, which essentially lead me to a question that usually always ends in defeat of an ambition or goal, “what is the point?” Although, the word “why” is not present in that rhetorical and practical question, it is the underlying concept that gives rise to the words ; it is like translating a foreign language, the words don’t always match but they point to the same idea as the translation.
Lastly, like they (whoever they are) say in the rooms, “give yourself a break.” I know when I first got here I was frustrated that I hadn’t built Rome in a day. I wanted results from this process, and I wanted them right now. Maybe it is something that comes with a little time under your belt, but I had to learn to put some space in between checking my overall progress. Now, that is not to say don’t reflect daily on your actions and reactions, deeds and things left undone, or words and choice to remain silent. It is important to do that daily inventory, but what I found is the only thing that is important is, was I better today than I was yesterday? Keep the reference scale small, so the small steps you do make are noticeable, and then from time to time take a composite and compare it with the person who came into the door.
This has been the most illuminating year of my life, and I am truly grateful for the part each of you has played in it. I look forward to a long friendship with all of you.
WW
Resident
The reason that I moved to Asheville was to learn how to live life on my own while staying clean. The NSR of Asheville community has provided a great environment for that. The weekly in-house meetings keep me focused on my recovery along with the outside meetings each night. The program has done a good job at keeping me accountable but doing so in a manner that lets me feel empowered. The community has made me feel comfortable and safe and has helped me foster some great friendships.
BA
Resident
Before coming to NSR of Asheville I was wading in a sea of desperation, fear, uncertainty, and unbridled addiction. After two months, I have found a solution to the problem of addiction. Next Step is far more than a 12 Step program. It fosters a sense of self by striking a healthy balance of freedom and accountability through fellowship, life skills training, job placement, weekend adventures, and of course, a strong commitment to AA/NA sponsorship and 12 step meetings. The program allows me to work full time and still meet my commitments to my recovery and have a social life as well. The staff are highly skilled and extremely positive. They bend over backwards to help the residents and are always available to talk about a problem or just hang out. I have struggled with my addiction for more than 25 years and have drifted in and out of recovery without finding a meaningful answer to my problems. With NSR of Asheville I believe I have finally found a purpose in life and a solution to the problem of addiction.
DD
Resident
NSR of Asheville as I see it is a program with two primary pillars of functioning. The first is the community, ever fluctuating but always spearheaded by the staff. In my time, I have seen every resident find something they themselves wanted or needed from this diverse and experienced group of people. Whether it is a friend, an ear to listen, or just an unintimidating presence to be available to go to with any variety of questions, I found one or more staff members in whom I was comfortable seeking it. I leaned on this heavily in my first month. I found that spending time with John (house chef and counselor) and other residents was the segue I needed to feel comfortable pursuing friendships with my peers on my own, in a healthy fashion. The second pillar is the structure. There are curfews, mandatory meeting attendance and chores. Thankfully I was at a point in my recovery where I knew that these guidelines were best for me. I saw their benefit and lived contentedly within the parameters laid down for me. All the while I was comforted knowing there existed a structural safety net whose resistance I would feel if I ever started slipping. I am grateful to say that never occurred but I witnessed many to whom it did. The inevitable, sad truth of why the structure is so crucial to the well being of residents is because it puts a glaring spotlight on anyone who isn’t in fit condition or chooses not to follow the simple and ultimately advantageous rules we are asked to follow. It is my experience that those who rigidly clash with the simple structure and harmony are those that relapse. Recovery is for those who want it and NSR of Asheville is a place for people who are ready for it. They gave me a comfortable environment to integrate back into the world after treatment. Asheville in itself provides a beautiful and progressive atmosphere with a strong recovery community. I am now living locally in a house with four friends who I was blessed enough to meet, stick with, and grow with while in the safe haven of NSR of Asheville.
KC
Resident
After trying to get clean numerous times, I knew I needed something more to help me on the road to recovery. After checking myself into a 30-day recovery treatment center, I learned about NSR of Asheville. I was very hesitant, but knew in order to stay clean, I needed structure and accountability. I’ve been there for three months now and can’t express my gratitude enough. I’ve gained so much back in my life in just the four months clean. I now have the knowledge to live a better life, which I owe to the staff. Both the community and staff help me stay focused on what I need to do. Staff expresses so much love and compassion to each of us. Whether I need guidance or just someone to talk to, they’re there for me. I will cherish this experience forever.
TS
Resident
I’m currently nine months clean from all drugs and alcohol. I attribute much of my success to NSR and the framework of accountability presented to me by staff and fellow residents on a daily basis. I will carry thoughts of the caring staff, wonderful facilities, and friendships with me for the rest of my life. Susan Stader is an awesome counselor who truly cares about each of us in recovery. I would recommend the program to anyone focused on living a clean, sober life.
MC
Resident
NSR of Asheville Rafting Trip – I often hear young people share in meetings that one of their biggest concerns in recovery is whether they will be able to have “fun” without drugs and alcohol. While I do not believe early recovery is supposed to be all about fun, I know that NSR of Asheville understands these concerns and the staff and personnel go out of their way to incorporate activities like River Rafting and Carowinds into their program.
For me, this is important on a number of levels. Obviously, the trip was a blast and I had a great time rafting down the Nantahala. The water was cold and paddling was exhausting, but at the time all I could think about was whether this river bend was going to be as exciting as the last. But the trip provided two other equally important opportunities.
For one, the trip allowed me to bond with a group of guys that I don’t regularly see throughout the day at the house. I was in a small raft with six other guys, working together to make it down the river as dry as possible. Although none of us were dry at the end, we were all closer because of it. Closer because we had shared laughs and jokes on the ride down, and closer because we were all soaked and had worked together to keep the boat facing the right direction.
Second, the trip provided me with a unique opportunity, to go rafting. I grew up in a relatively flat area of the country filled with strip malls and soccer moms. They gave me the opportunity to test myself with a new challenge. I’ll be honest, I had some concerns about rafting. However, I was able to put my trust in the staff who had done the trip as many as 4 years in a row and built up the courage to get out on the water and push through the rapids.
Although I originally went rafting for a “fun” time, I am grateful to NSR of Asheville for so much more. Without these opportunities provided by them. I would not be able to bond with my housemates on a completely different level, nor would I have been able to challenge myself in a new and exciting way. I went rafting because I thought it would be fun, and came home with a new friends, strengths, and accomplishments.
BC
Resident
Before coming to NSR, I had reached bottom and didn’t think I could climb out. I felt like a lost cause. Once at NSR, I began to believe things might get better for me. After being here for a while, I felt like the sanity I thought was lost forever was finally returning. By listening and working a solid program, I began regaining things I had lost in my addiction. I still have to deal with life, but realize I don’t have to start using to cope. NSR of Asheville has truly saved me from death’s doorstep. I will never be able to adequately express how grateful I am to NSR. They gave me a reason to live.
CC
Resident
When I arrived at NSR of Asheville, the staff and residents welcomed me and made me feel comfortable, letting me know if I needed help with anything, they would be here for me. NSR provides a great balance between structure and independence. At first, I didn’t feel like I needed the structure, but I know I learned a valuable lesson in responsibility. Everyone here is accountable for doing their part, and staff notices our efforts. Having kept an open mind to change, I have experienced huge personal growth and learned numerous life lessons. The staff has always been available to me when I need advice. Residents have also helped immensely. Because staff members are former residents, we share a common bond. I feel like I’m now part of the family. This is a great place to start a new life!
ZL
Resident
After primary treatment, it was recommended to me that I live at NSR of Asheville. I only intended to live there for 90 days, but ended up staying for much longer. Not only did I find it safe and comfortable, but Susan and the staff helped me build a strong foundation for my recovery.
I graduated from NSR of Asheville more than a year ago, and I still include the team at NSR in my recovery network and extended family here in Asheville.
BC
Resident
NSR of Asheville has really helped me with my recovery. I have already made big steps in my life because the community here keeps me accountable. I owe everything to NSR of Asheville.
JA
Resident
I have only one thing to say about NSR of Asheville: “Life Changing.” If you are a person who is looking to pull your mind, body, and spirit out of the hellish pit of addiction, then this is the place to start your journey. I’m not saying this place will do it for you, but it can give you all the tools and education you will need for your climb out of that pit of despair and hopelessness. It’s up to you!
CC
Resident
The whole year I lived here, everyone I knew would have their up days and their down days. These guys are amazing at taking those down days and turning them into up days. I was shown a lot of respect from day one. They were here for me.
NH
Resident
I had heard of three-quarter houses, halfway houses and transitional living. It just seemed like somewhere to live so you wouldn’t be homeless; but this is definitely a place where you can come in and they work their butts off to help us. As soon as you get here, they don’t waste any time.
KS
Resident
There are halfway houses and there are rehabilitation centers; and then there is a program like NSR of Asheville—something entirely different. NSR of Asheville is the comprehensive type of program that is needed if you truly want to change the way you live. It has been a life- changing experience for me.
AW
Resident
This house is filled with love and compassion. Without this house, I don’t know where I would be, so I am very grateful for NSR of Asheville in giving me a chance to get my life back after the damage drugs have done in my life.
Ira
Resident
NSR of Asheville has been a great blessing to me. It is something I have been praying about for a long time; a peaceful place, a loving and caring place, a place where someone can get a great start back into the world. This is a heavenly living place to be.
Toney
Resident
I love NSR of Asheville. It has given me the opportunity to get my life back together. If this place were not here, I don’t know where I would be. This is the nicest halfway house in Asheville. I really feel like I have taken a step forward by coming here.
Joe
Resident
NSR of Asheville offers me another chance at life. The unity and love we have here is priceless. NSR of Asheville saved my life. It has turned my life around completely, and I am so thankful for it.
Kevin
Resident
In 2002, my life came crashing down, and I could not control it. It became unmanageable. I have been through several treatment programs, and none of them has been as good as NSR of Asheville. I feel that my life is coming back together. I have a child on the way, and I feel that this house will give me the tools I need to live life clean and sober and to become the father my child needs.
NSR of Asheville is a big asset to the community of Asheville, and I am so happy to be a part of it. Susan is more than happy to help us in any way she can. She is truly a wonderful woman. I would greatly recommend NSR of Asheville to anyone who is serious about recovery.
Matthew
Resident
When the recovery process becomes a necessity of one’s life, NSR of Asheville is there for you 100%. Learning how to live life without any mind-altering substances is the next step. Our director, Susan is a licensed professional counselor who offers counseling when needed. Lifelong recovery is difficult; living the NSR of Asheville life keeps my future brighter. Let’s all take the Next Step.
Jeff
Resident
I needed a fresh start in my life. NSR of Asheville has given me a new home, new friends, and new hope for my future living clean and sober!
CA
Resident
NSR of Asheville of Asheville has been great in that it provides a modern living atmosphere and transitional living space between treatment and “the real world.” The facility is outstanding; the kitchen makes any cooking novice aspire to be a chef, but the best things about NSR of Asheville are the staff and people.
TM
Resident
NSR of Asheville is a very big part of my life. To write this small paragraph is difficult because I could really write pages and pages easily on what this place means to me. This place has helped me to get my feet back on the ground. The meetings that Susan holds in the house have shown me how to lead a productive life without using drugs. NSR of Asheville is a fellowship of brothers who are helping each other out on this long road of recovery. This place really is one of kind. NSR of Asheville cares about each one of its residents. I am a better person all around for being a part of NSR of Asheville.
Jason
Resident
NSR of Asheville has been a blessing in my life. I have forged relationships with my fellow house mates that I never thought could be possible. We share each others triumphs and losses. We are not cell mates; we are friends. It has helped me a lot to have a safe place to come home to, a place where we share the same feelings at times, or experiences, strengths and hopes—it is all here. No man stands alone, but together we stand. We might be a motley crew, but we are a crew.
Horace
Resident
I am a recovering drug addict. In my past I made many mistakes, which led to a felony that put me before a judge. That judge helped shape my life by court-ordering me to a two-year drug and alcohol program. During my time at this facility I found this experience to be extremely frustrating and even found myself at the point of begging my probation officer to just send me to prison. She told me to first look for another house to live in, one that my sentence could be transferred to. I found NSR of Asheville through a dear friend and my life has never been the same!
Susan Stader, director of there, literally invited me into her home with open arms when I arrived on December 5th. Living there has taught me that life in recovery is not 100% about work; it is about balancing varying elements of life. Life there was full of daily activities such as attending in-house groups and AA/NA groups in the community, searching for jobs on the Job Van (for those of us who were unemployed) and sharing a house together by dividing up chores and going on Sunday adventures (like hiking) together.
For me, finding a job was challenging because of my drug felony, and it was a search I thought I’d never complete. Thanks to the help of one of my friends, I actually found one! Finding a job and balancing my work with all of my other household responsibilities helped me maintain a steady routine (which is a very important aspect of recovery.) To sum up a day-in-the-life at there I would start by getting up and going to the gym, returning home to do my daily chore, eat lunch with the other men in the house, and then go to work. When I’d come home in the evenings I’d eat dinner and then attend a house group or go to a 12-step meeting. After about three months of living like this I decided I needed to do something to give back. This is when I volunteered to take on one of the third shifts a few nights a week. My responsibilities included watching the houses and doing room and property checks over the course of a night. I continued working like this until I’d spent about five and a half months there. At this point I was referred by NSR of Asheville to manage a three-quarters living house down the street called Grail House. I happily accepted and am still working there today, clean and sober!
My weeks at Grail House consist of going to the gym (a personal hobby), working at both Grail House and my second job, and spending time with my girlfriend. I still try to make it there every Tuesday night that I am not working to participate in the house 12-step meeting and Taco Night! Now that I have a broad network of people in recovery that I trust, I truly stand a chance at remaining clean and sober. To sum everything up, “A broken person cannot go to a broke place to try to be fixed.” It has taken a wholesome environment with skilled and understanding people who have been where I have been and some willingness on my own part to come as far as I have come today. I now possess the humility to admit that NSR of Asheville changed my life, and I could never fully express the amount of gratitude that I feel for finding this wonderful network of support.
Matthew
Resident
NSR of Asheville gave me the perfect environment to practice my recovery tools before going out to live on my own. Their structured living program allowed me to get into a practical routine I can use for the rest of my life. The caring friendly staff is always here to help, and they genuinely care about the residents and want to see everyone succeed.
JH
Resident
I wanted to start over again and NSR of Asheville has given me the opportunity to have a fresh start in a new place with new people. This opportunity has given me freedom and independence as well as support to keep me on the right path.
Anonymous
Resident
NSR of Asheville has been helpful in establishing some basic habits in early recovery by keeping me accountable and providing me with a drug and alcohol free place to stay. The staff has been helpful in providing insight and being there to seek advice from.
Anonymous
Resident
If it wasn’t for NSR of Asheville, I am not sure where I would be today. It gives you the structure you need while at the same time giving you enough freedom to experience sober living for the first time in a long time.
Anonymous
Resident
The structured living and experienced staff have really helped me in my recovery.
Anonymous
Resident
I came to NSR of Asheville to further my recovery from rehab. I did not realize I was just beginning my journey. After being there for three weeks, I finally decided I was a long way from where I wanted to be and thus the journey began. Following the program guidelines and the help of the folks there, my life started to change. I am now in my fourth year of recovery, thanks to NSR of Asheville. I found out a lot about myself and gained the self confidence I had not all my life. This is when I began my recovery.
D.D.
Resident
My name is Fred Wesberry and I came to NSR of Asheville from a drug rehab in Tennessee; one of the best decisions I have ever made. When I got there, I was facing serious criminal charges that could have landed me in prison for ten+ years. I was told to forget all that. Although very tough I tried my hardest. I got a job and got in school. The guidance of the staff is something I will eternally be grateful for. Terry Streeter was my guiding light there. When you’ve had someone do the same thing you are trying to do, and they guide you with love and understanding, you really can’t match that. I graduated. I’m now 18 months clean. I have a career with Ford. I make good money and have full benefits. I’m in a very good relationship. I have never been in a relationship for more than a week; which always revolved around drugs. We have been together for 14 months. I have my own house and pay my own bills. My family absolutely couldn’t be happier with me. Instead of avoiding me at all costs and praying I’m not dead, they call me for my help and advice. Two years ago, I was uninvited to my sisters wedding which took place a few months ago. Not only was I invited to the wedding I was the speaker at the wedding. Afterwards, my sister and brother-in-law told me in tears of joy how the wedding would have not been possible without me. I’m telling you all this because I should be dead. I was a heroine addict that used needles. No doubt about it: DEAD. I have watched 50+ friends die from this disease. I could have been lying next to them. I’m just trying to tell you what is possible through GOD, recovery, and the right guidance. My family and I highly recommend NSR of Asheville. Leave your ego at the door and pick up some humility on the way.
F.W.
Resident
For 20 years I have been in active addiction and seeking out varieties of help in many different locations to no avail until finally I arrived at NSR of Asheville in Asheville, NC. Here I have found a compassionate, diligent community of staff sincere in providing a support based program crucial in this overwhelming time of need and transition. Finally, I have found a program that delivers on the promise of realistic security while still keeping residents within the opportunities of the world. Asheville’s recovery community is unparalleled in focusing on the solution to the addiction problem that plaques our nation. Within two months of residency at NSR of Asheville, I have found more peace than known throughout the majority of my 36 years of life.
JL
Resident
The desperation and hopelessness I felt nearly 6 months ago is gone. I have faith, hope, and a bright future. For that, I have NSR of Asheville to thank.The staff are caring, knowledgable, and always available to help me along my journey of recovery. The counseling, case management and classes have furthered my education about myself and my addiction. Thank you for being here and guiding me one day at a time.
CP
Resident
You can get your recovery anywhere, but if you get honest with yourself, NSR of Asheville might be the place for you!
DE
Resident
After treatment, I knew I wasn’t ready to go back home. I needed to go somewhere with structure and accountability to help me grow in my recovery. NSR of Asheville provided me with that environment. It is an amazing place and has absolutely helped me turn my life around. This is the only place I have been where the staff genuinely care about you and your recovery. The staff here will do whatever they can to help you further your recovery each and every day.
KL
Resident
NSR of Asheville has provided me with a safe and comfortable place to continue growing in my recovery. Although I have only been at NSR of Asheville for 40 days, I already feel like it is home for me. If you are truly ready to grow spiritually and grow in recovery, it is a great place to be.
PS
Resident
Thanks to NSR of Asheville for a great place to continue my recovery. The facility and staff are both excellent. I only have one month so far out of treatment, but I look forward to many more.
KI
Resident
NSR of Asheville has really helped me with my recovery. I have already made big steps in my life because the community here keeps me accountable. I owe everything to NSR of Asheville.
JA
Resident
I wasn’t pleased after I heard I was coming to NSR of Asheville to further my recovery. Once I arrived here in Asheville, my negative perspective quickly changed. I immediately felt welcome. I could see that the staff here genuinely cares about the residents. They actively participate in helping my recovery. They take us out on a job van to help us get jobs, take us to meetings, and hold important meetings in the house which highly benefit us.
On Sundays, we go on Adventures. My first Sunday here, I was climbing up a waterfall. I had an amazing time. We have also gone on hikes, to a lake for a picnic, and even an amusement park. This past Sunday we went white water rafting. It was the most fun I have had sober in a very long time. They offer you so many opportunities. I have been able to really grow in my recovery. I have met many new friends, become more responsible, and have been given a chance to start my life over. Not many people are so lucky.
I am very grateful for all that they have done for me. I am very happy here and I feel comfortable calling this place home: it is more than just a halfway house. I have found a family here in Asheville and I would never have expected it. Everything has begun to fall into place for me and I owe a lot to NSR of Asheville. I would recommend anyone who is serious about their recovery to come here.
LT
Resident
NSR of Asheville has provided many things that my initial treatment facility neglected. Particularly, fellowship with other brothers in recovery, continuing education regarding my disease and, more importantly, a home where I can feel secure, loved and cared for.
DD
Resident
NSR of Asheville as I see it is a program with two primary pillars of functioning. The first is the community, ever fluctuating but always spearheaded by the staff. In my time there I have seen every resident find something they themselves wanted or needed from this diverse and experienced group of people. Whether it is a friend, an ear to listen, or just an unintimidating presence to be available to go to with any variety of questions, I found one or more staff members in whom I was comfortable seeking it. I leaned on this heavily in my first month. I found that spending time with John (house chef and counselor) and other residents was the segue I needed to feel comfortable pursuing friendships with my peers on my own, in a healthy fashion.
The second pillar is the structure. There are curfews, mandatory meeting attendance and chores. Thankfully I was at a point in my recovery where I knew that these guidelines were best for me. I saw their benefit and lived contentedly within the parameters laid down for me. All the while I was comforted knowing there existed a structural safety net whose resistance I would feel if I ever started slipping. I am grateful to say that never occurred but I witnessed many to whom it did. The inevitable, sad truth of why the structure is so crucial to the well being of residents is because it puts a glaring spotlight on anyone who isn’t in fit condition or chooses not to follow the simple and ultimately advantageous rules we are asked to follow. It is my experience that those who rigidly clash with the simple structure and harmony are those that relapse. Recovery is for those who want it and it is a place for people who are ready for it.
They gave me a comfortable environment to integrate back into the world after treatment. Asheville in itself provides a beautiful and progressive atmosphere with a strong recovery community. I am now living locally in a house with four friends who I was blessed enough to meet, stick with, and grow with while in the safe haven of NSR of Asheville.
KC
Resident
After trying to get clean numerous times, I knew I needed something more to help me on the road to recovery. After checking myself into a 30-day recovery treatment center, I learned about NSR of Asheville. I was very hesitant, but knew in order to stay clean, I needed structure and accountability. I’ve been at NSR for three months now and can’t express my gratitude enough. I’ve gained so much back in my life in just the four months clean. I now have the knowledge to live a better life, which I owe to the staff at NSR. Both the community and staff help me stay focused on what I need to do. Staff expresses so much love and compassion to each of us. Whether I need guidance or just someone to talk to, they’re there for me. I will cherish this experience forever.
TS
Resident
I’m currently nine months clean from all drugs and alcohol. I attribute much of my success to their framework of accountability presented to me by staff and fellow residents on a daily basis. I will carry thoughts of the caring staff, wonderful facilities, and friendships with me for the rest of my life. Susan Stader is an awesome counselor who truly cares about each of us in recovery. I would recommend the program to anyone focused on living a clean, sober life.
MC
Resident
When I came to NSR of Asheville, I was broken. I had no idea how to live life. I was terrified of leaving rehab. Because active addiction had kept me from maturing, I had no life skills. The real world was something I felt I couldn’t face without help. As soon as I arrived, the staff and community members made me feel like there was finally hope. I was provided not just with a place to live, but a home. They have provided the support and love I need to help me work a successful program of recovery. Choosing them as my sober living environment has literally saved my life. I could not be living and enjoying the life I am today without them.
PD
Resident
I spent most of the life I remember in a hazy fog. Feeling lost and out of place, I turned to drugs and alcohol. They tricked me into feeling like I belonged, but instead ruined my life. In primary treatment, I learned about my addiction. After treatment, I returned to my hometown for several months. I had no tools – I didn’t know how to find a job or how to handle all the emotions I had bottled up with drugs. While I was abstaining from drugs and alcohol, I was in just as bad shape as when I left for treatment. I turned to NSR of Asheville when I realized I needed to go somewhere to learn how to live life. I traveled 560 miles to reach them. I knew the decision was the right one. Susan and the staff here can and will, if you let them, help you build a life for yourself, just as they helped me. They taught me how to get and maintain a job, how to have fun without drugs, and gave me a solid foundation that will help me for the rest of my life. I am now a responsible, productive member of society, and I owe it all to them.
JD
Resident
Today I am 114 days clean and sober. I have struggled for years with my addiction and disease, entering three different treatment centers throughout the past several years. My past attempts of sobriety have been frugal and without success.
I recently entered my fourth treatment center. This time, I knew that if I wanted to remain clean and sober, I would need long-term care and a structured environment while I focused on my recovery.
I began working with my counselor to find a sober living or halfway house for myself. Several fellow recovering addicts were planning to move to NSR of Asheville House for Men in Asheville, NC. After reading some testimonials and speaking with Brian several times, I decided on NSR of Asheville for my long-term care.
I cannot express my appreciation and gratitude for NSR enough. I have been a resident of NSR for over 2 months now, and I can honestly say without question, it has saved my life. It has, and continues to give me the confidence and the strength to face each day clean and sober.
Just knowing that I have the love and caring support of the staff makes everyday challenges and obstacles seem less difficult and less stressful. NSR continues to help build a safe and secure foundation where I am not only learning more about myself and how to overcome my addictive behaviors, but also how to succeed everyday with relapse-prevention meetings and life skills groups that address budgeting finances, house keeping, goal setting, etc.
Now for the first time during my early recovery, thanks to the support of the NSR team, I feel like I have a fighting chance for a healthy and successful future. I can only hope and pray that all suffering addicts find a place like NSR to call home. I am so proud to be a member of the Next Step community. NSR has proven to be my own private ark, my home, and my family. Thank you Susan and staff members. Myself and many others owe our lives to NSR of Asheville.
JS
Resident
After coming out of detox at age 18, and heading straight into the “real world” as I called it, it did not turn out very well. I was thrust back into the same situation, the same place, the same mind set as when I went in, except there were no drugs in my system—but that quickly changed.
I like NSR of Asheville because it is slowly getting me into the groove of things. Having a way to step back into normal everyday life is essential.
AS
Resident
NSR of Asheville is a really good place for me to continue on the path of my recovery. It provides the right balance of structure and freedom. The staff and the other people in the house are very supportive.
I have been at NSR of Asheville almost 3 months and I feel like this is the closest I have been to home anywhere. This is a safe place to deal with the serious issues of the past and present and re-learn life. I looked at all the other recovery houses in the area, and I am really thankful I chose NSR!
PS
Resident
NSR of Asheville has given me the structure and support to transition into a productive life. The house is comfortable, and the staff are your friends and guides. If you are wanting to lead a better life, there is no better place to start than NSR.
SB
Resident
NSR of Asheville has got to be the best move I have ever made. It used to be very difficult for me to remain sober for any length of time, but with the available counseling, the structure, and camaraderie, NSR of Asheville provides an excellent step to transition back into life without alcohol.
John
Resident
There are very few places in Western North Carolina for guys with the disease of alcoholism and addiction to get help and have a safe place to stay. NSR of Asheville has given me a second chance at life. It is a wonderful and truly blessed place to be. The love and fellowship are very special.
Darrell
Resident
NSR of Asheville has helped me when nobody else seemed to care. Susan is a very special person who I am very grateful to and respect a lot. I don’t know where I would be today without her and the guys at NSR of Asheville.
Shannon
Resident
NSR of Asheville helped me get my life on track, and the excellent staff along with the community keeps me accountable and gives me great support.
ME
Resident
My miracle happened during the course of my stay at NSR of Asheville. When I first came here, I felt welcomed with open arms, like I was at home. Now it is five months later, and I still feel like I am at home. The camaraderie of the patio, the cleanliness and ambiance of the houses and the kitchen, the immediate availability of a manager, mentor, or fellow addict to talk to through bad times is what makes NSR of Asheville special.
Asheville North Carolina is known as a recovery town, and NSR of Asheville is known as one of the best recovery houses in town. If you are serious about recovery, this place gives you everything you need including on-site counseling and relapse prevention.
Park
Resident
NSR of Asheville has been a great foundation for me in the beginning of my journey in recovery. The fellowship and leadership of the home has really given me the vital tools to be successful in my program. The road of recovery is not easy but, with the safety of this program, we can and do recover. I would recommend to anyone who is looking for an experience that will last for a lifetime to come join the family at NSR of Asheville.
Dane
Resident
Before coming to NSR of Asheville my future was anything but certain. After coming to the house, I learned to function in an all-male community and become reunited with some life skills that I had long forgotten. Being given this beautiful home and a safe place helped me to rebuild my self-esteem and confidence that I thought I could never recapture. Upon graduation, I feel I have a greater chance of recovery than I have had in recent years. My prayers and loyalty will always be to NSR of Asheville.
Michael
Resident
At 31, I lost everything I had because of depression and alcohol. I mean everything—the wife, the nice house, great car, good job, and even the dog. I checked myself into a therapeutic community in Western North Carolina that was essentially a work camp. I could not find the recovery that I needed there. After three and a half months in the work camp, I started to look for places I thought would be good for recovery.
I looked at various halfway houses in Asheville. I was very impressed with the staff at NSR of Asheville, so I decided to reside there. Not only was a licensed counselor available on site, but also a group of men that were serious about kicking the addictions that they suffered from. The rules and other criteria that one has to abide by certainly helped me stay the course. For once in my life I was held accountable! I stayed at there for around 8 months. I was able to attain more than 11 months of sobriety before I hit a bump in the road.
I now have almost 90 days of sobriety. During my stay at there, I was the office manager. I found a passion for helping others that suffer from substance abuse and mental health issues, and that is my current occupation. I plan on attending Western Carolina University in the fall of 2008 for a degree in counseling.
If you get a chance, stop by the two well-maintained houses in the Montford area of Asheville. You will find that if you are serious about recovery, the staff and men at NSR of Asheville are even more serious.
SMS
Resident
Before I came to NSR of Asheville, I was living in full blown addiction and my life was completely unmanageable. I was miserable and felt completely hopeless. It took me awhile, but I finally made the decision to come and it has been the best decision of my life. I knew it would be a structured environment with a lot of accountability, which I desperately needed, but what I didn’t know was how much additional help I would receive from all the staff (who really care a lot about every resident). They helped me to get a job right away and helped me to become more reliable. Since I have been here, I have been going to a lot of meetings, working full-time and feeling better now than I have in the past decade. I am so happy I took charge of my life and I could not have done it without Next Step. Coming here was hands down the best decision of my life.
CB
Resident
NSR of Asheville provides an exceptional transition from treatment to “real world” living. While it provides necessary structure and learning tools, it also allows sufficient freedom to ease residents into non-structured living. I highly recommend NSR of Asheville to those who are leaving treatment and wish to increase their success in recovery.
KE
Resident
The services provided at NSR of Asheville are unparalleled. The staff are very supportive and helpful. The amenities and services are excellent. The caring and professionalism of all involved are deeply appreciated by this recovering addict.
JG
Resident
NSR of Asheville is helping me transition into a sober life. It has not only showed me that a sober life is possible; but I am learning that it can be more fun and enjoyable than I ever saw possible. NSR of Asheville has created a great environment for me to see what sober life can be like in a safe, structured, and fun environment. I will be forever grateful.
JA
Resident
NSR of Asheville provides tools that are essential for early recovery. It has allowed me to focus on the importance of life’s obstacles and how to react to them forming solutions that will prepare me for the future.
IM
Resident
NSR of Asheville has provided me with a safe environment to learn about my addiction and to also help me learn about myself. They hold me and others accountable for my behavior. It is a wonderful place for a stepping-stone for the rest of my life. It has been the best decision I have ever made.
Anonymous
Resident
For someone like me, who desperately needed structure and accountability right out of the gate, they has been a necessary and productive transition for me to re-enter life on life’s terms. There were plenty of adjustments that were jarring at first, however, to face such challenges and learning experiences in a safe quasi-controlled environment has provided a solid foundation to progress. The staff are genuine and helpful and their overall empathy makes for as seamless a transition as I could have imagined. I would suggest exploring their program and guidelines for anyone who is ready to move on with their lives.
MN
Resident
One of the primary things NSR of Asheville has offered me is a lot of structure. Another big help for me was the constant help of the staff and residents. Anytime I was struggling with something, I knew I could go to any staff member, as they were all very caring. All of the staff members were willing to help me through anything I was going through in my early recovery, which is a necessary part of this whole process. I also found that the variety of groups we had throughout the week were a big help to me and my recovery. Also, with all of the different commitments throughout the week, there is still just enough “me time”. Honestly, there isn’t much if anything at all I would change about the program.
RF
Resident
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The effects of addiction go beyond the addict.
That’s why testimonials from family members are almost as dear to us as those from our patients. It gives us great joy to hear the stories of the families we’ve helped heal. We also provide a FAQ and information for family members.