At Shawnee Counseling Center, recovery isn’t just about sobriety; it’s about empowering individuals to thrive independently in life. The 88 isn’t merely a number—it’s a transformative philosophy designed to support those in recovery as they transition from surviving to truly living. This structured framework redefines success by focusing on actionable goals and long-term personal growth.
Where Did It Come From?
The development of the 88 grew out of a need to bridge gaps in traditional treatment programs. Initially, Shawnee Counseling Center operated with standard residential and outpatient services, but these lacked a cohesive progression plan. The absence of clinical standards left clients without clear markers of progress or transition between levels of care.
Inspired by experiences in other programs and observations of gaps in care, the concept of the 88 was born. It represents a list of tangible competencies and daily living skills that clients must demonstrate. These are not abstract benchmarks but practical, real-world tasks—like cooking a meal or managing a budget—that signify readiness for the next stage of recovery. The goal was to create a program that guides individuals from sobriety to self-sufficiency while maintaining accountability at every step.
Success Beyond Day-to-Day Sobriety
For many, achieving sobriety feels like the finish line. But at Shawnee Counseling Center, sobriety is just the beginning. The 88 embodies this philosophy: sobriety is the starting point for a fulfilling life. The framework challenges clients to move beyond recovery bubbles and integrate into the larger community.
“Our goal is not your day-to-day sobriety. That is the start line. Now you run the race.”
The 88 emphasizes personal responsibility, mental wellness, and skills development. This includes basic competencies like securing housing, maintaining a job, and adhering to a routine—elements that many people take for granted but can be life-changing for those in recovery. The program helps clients build the foundations of a sustainable life, empowering them to engage with society on their own terms.
Redefining Success
Traditional metrics of recovery often rely on short-term indicators like passing a drug test upon discharge. While these are essential, they don’t tell the whole story. Shawnee Counseling Center’s approach redefines success as long-term independence and community integration. It’s about teaching clients to “run the race” after the starting line of sobriety.
“When people ask what’s your success rate, I can pull some data and tell you how many guys passed their urine test the day they were discharged. But that’s not what people want to know. They want to know how many people did you fix? How many people did you cure? Healthcare just isn’t like that, despite the fact that people want healthcare to be like that.”
Success in this context means being able to support oneself, maintain relationships, and contribute to society. It’s about living a life where one’s history of substance use is undetectable unless voluntarily shared. The 88 equips clients with the tools to live authentically and independently, ensuring they are not just surviving but thriving.
A New Vision of Recovery
The 88 framework is a revolutionary approach to recovery. By focusing on actionable goals and redefining success as more than just sobriety, Shawnee Counseling Center is setting a new standard for what it means to heal and grow. With the 88, clients are empowered to transition from recovery to independence, proving that success isn’t a destination but an ongoing journey.
If you’re looking for a recovery program that prioritizes your long-term well-being and prepares you for life beyond treatment, Shawnee Counseling Center is here to support you.