The Waters Process

Growth is a Process—Flourish in Every Phase

OUR PHASES

At The Waters Sober Living Homes, we believe that true transformation takes time, structure, and commitment. Our phased approach is designed to guide residents through a steady journey of personal growth, accountability, and independence. Each phase builds on the last, providing the necessary support and structure to help men develop the habits, responsibility, and stability they need for long-term success.

  • The process begins with an entry period that we call the Planted Phase. This is a crucial time of planting yourself by establishing stability, securing employment, and demonstrating commitment to the program.

  • The next phase is an open phase that we call the Rooted Phase, where residents gain more freedom while maintaining strong accountability and responsibility.

  • The Transplant Phase prepares residents for successful independent living. This includes securing stable housing, maintaining consistent employment, building a strong budget, and creating a practical move-out plan. Residents must also be rooted in healthy community, practicing sustainable disciplines, and connected to ongoing accountability to support lifelong sobriety.

This process isn’t just about following rules—it’s about building a foundation for a new way of life. By embracing each phase with commitment and integrity, residents move toward lasting freedom, renewed purpose, and the ability to make a difference in their own lives and the lives of others.

Growth Takes Time

At The Waters, we trust that every step of this process—no matter how challenging—is shaping men into who God created them to be. By embracing each phase with commitment and integrity, residents move toward lasting freedom, renewed purpose, and the ability to make a difference in their own lives and the lives of others. Just like a tree doesn’t bear fruit overnight, lasting change comes through a process of steady growth and refinement. The Bible reminds us:

"Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." — Philippians 1:6

Planted Phase

  • Planted Phase - This phase is a maximum of 8 weeks.

    (This will extend until both employment, a schedule, and your personal plan has been established and entry is paid in full.)

  • Below are the guidelines for this phase of the program. This period is determined by you, once you are employed and have your entry fee paid in full you will move to phase one.

    • Curfew - 9:30 PM

    • Communication - Check in 2 times per day. Approval from staff must been given for all house leave.

    • Conditions - Can only leave the house for TWO hours a day for productive activities only. (Examples: gym, job hunting, interviews, meetings, family time, groceries, church)

      • Some exceptions to this rule is: approved sharing of live locations or going with upper management.

      • Entry fee must be paid in full within 8 weeks of moving in or subject to discharge.


  • Establish stability and commitment. This phase focuses on securing employment, adjusting to the structure of the home, and demonstrating a willingness to engage in the process. It’s a foundational time to build discipline and consistency.

Rooted Phase

  • Open Phase - This phase is 4-6 months.

  • Below are the guidelines for the Rooted Phase. The graduation of this phase is dependant on the needs of the individual and their growth.

    • Curfew - 11PM weekdays | 12AM weekends

    • Communication - Check in 2 times per day. Communicate when you leave the house, where you go, and who you’re with.

    • Conditions -2 overnight passes per week. Location and the people you are with must be disclosed.

  • Strengthen accountability and routine. Residents develop daily habits of responsibility, communication, and trust while maintaining structure and curfew. This phase reinforces the importance of consistency in work, relationships, and personal growth.

Transplant Phase

  • Transplant Phase- 1 - 3 months

  • Below are the guidelines for phase one. The graduation of this phase is dependant on the needs of the individual and their growth.

    • Curfew -11PM weekdays | 12 AM weekends

    • Communication - Check in 3 times per week.

    • Conditions - Up to 4 overnight/out-of-town passes per week. Location and the people you are with must be disclosed.

  • Transplant Phase: Prepare for full independence. This final phase allows for greater flexibility while still maintaining accountability and a connection to the community. The goal is for each resident to leave fully equipped to live a sober, purpose-driven life with the confidence and structure needed to thrive.

    This includes securing stable housing, maintaining consistent employment, building a strong budget, and creating a practical move-out plan. Residents must also be rooted in healthy community, practicing sustainable disciplines, and connected to ongoing accountability to support lifelong sobriety.