Overview
Founded in 1940, High Watch Recovery Center is the world's first treatment facility based on the 12-Step principles of Alcoholics Anonymous. Located on a serene 300-acre campus in the hills of Kent, Connecticut, High Watch provides a comprehensive continuum of care for adults struggling with substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders. The campus has a lodge-like, cozy "B&B" feel, promoting peace and introspection. With over 50 beds, guests reside in private rooms with shared bathrooms, fostering a balance of personal space and community. The open campus environment, complete with hiking trails and gardens, is an integral part of the therapeutic experience, blending evidence-based clinical therapies with the spiritual teachings of the 12 Steps. Visit their website here.
Facility
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Amenities & Details
Your First Step is a Conversation
Reaching out can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone. The admissions team is here to listen without judgment and help you understand your options.
- Your call is 100% confidential. Speak with High Watch's admissions.
- There's no commitment to enroll. They're here to answer questions.
- Talk next steps clearly. Discuss costs and what treatment looks like.
Treatment
Levels of Care Offered
Medical Detox
Medically supervised withdrawal.
Residential Program
Immersive, 24/7 structured care.
Outpatient Programs (PHP/IOP)
Flexible support for ongoing recovery.
Sober Living
Transitional housing & support.
Healthcare Professionals Program
Specialized Care for Healers.
Approaches
Policies
No Electronics
Cell phones, laptops, and smart watches are strictly prohibited.
Smoking Policy
Cigarettes permitted in designated areas; vaping is not allowed.
Mandatory Participation
Active engagement in all scheduled activities is required.
12-Step Immersion
Willingness to engage with the 12-Step model is essential.
Visitation Policy
Family involvement is encouraged via workshops.
Safety & Sobriety
Random drug and alcohol screenings are conducted.
Cost
Insurance
High Watch is an out-of-network provider with most major commercial insurance plans. They do not accept Medicare or Medicaid. Contact admissions for a free benefits check.
Verify InsuranceSelf-Pay
For clients paying out-of-pocket, please call to confirm exact pricing.
- Residential / Detox (21 days): $15,825
- Outpatient / Sober Living: Additional Cost
Reviews
Based on 147 Google reviews
What Clients Appreciate
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Compassionate Staff: Consistently described as dedicated, knowledgeable, and genuinely caring.
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Serene Environment: The beautiful 300-acre campus is praised as a perfect setting for healing.
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Effective Program: Many alumni call the program "life-saving," crediting its 12-Step foundation.
"High Watch is a life saving place. I went in a complete mess and broken, and left a completely different person. The staff are all amazing... If you are serious about getting and staying sober, this is the place to be."
"A remarkable place for recovery. An incredible setting on a beautiful campus, a dedicated, knowledgeable, and compassionate staff, and a deep history of success. The oldest 12-Step based treatment center on Earth."
While most reviews are positive, some find the rules, particularly the strict no-electronics policy, to be challenging. A few reviews also mention negative interactions with specific staff members or communication issues. The rigid, 12-Step-centric approach is highly effective for many but may not be the best fit for those seeking alternative recovery models.
Location
Address
High Watch Recovery Center62 Carter Rd
Kent, CT 06757, USA
Hours
Admissions: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Daily
Residential programs operate 24/7.
Frequently Asked Questions
Costs & Admission
What will my costs be for treatment?
Costs depend on your insurance coverage and the specific level of care required. The estimated self-pay rate for a 21-day residential/detox stay is $15,825. Please see the "Costs" tab for more details and contact admissions for a personalized quote.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes, High Watch accepts most major commercial/private health insurance plans as an out-of-network provider. They do not accept Medicare or Medicaid. Contact them for a free, confidential insurance benefits check.
Do you provide detoxification services?
Yes, High Watch offers 24/7 medically supervised detoxification on-site to ensure a safe and comfortable start to the recovery process.
Is Suboxone (MAT) permitted?
Information regarding a specific Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) policy, such as the use of Suboxone or Methadone, is not available on their website. Please contact the admissions team directly to discuss their approach. Are you the owner? Claim this listing to add MAT details.
Treatment Details
Why choose this program? What makes it different?
As the world's oldest 12-Step treatment center (founded 1940), High Watch uniquely combines decades of spiritual wisdom with modern, evidence-based clinical care for the neurobiology of addiction. Its serene 300-acre campus and full continuum of care offer a comprehensive path to recovery.
What types of therapies are used?
They use a range of evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, trauma therapy (Seeking Safety), Art Therapy, and Equine Assisted Learning, all integrated with 12‑Step facilitation.
How do you treat dual diagnosis / co-occurring disorders?
High Watch fully integrates treatment for substance use disorders and co-occurring psychiatric conditions. A multidisciplinary team provides an individualized bio-psycho-social evaluation to create a treatment plan that addresses both addiction and mental health within the 12-Step framework.
Does this program use the 12-Steps, SMART Recovery, or other models?
The program is fundamentally based on the spiritual principles of the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. It is the core of their treatment philosophy. Other models like SMART Recovery or Celebrate Recovery are not part of their primary curriculum.
Is the program faith-based?
While not affiliated with a specific religion or denomination, the program is spiritually-based, built on the 12-Step model which encourages reliance on a "Higher Power" as understood by the individual. It is not a clinical-only program.
What kind of aftercare and follow-up support is available?
Yes, High Watch offers a robust continuum of aftercare, including an Extended Stay program, IOP with housing at Hope House Farm, women's sober living at Eden Hill, and a strong alumni network with ongoing support meetings to help maintain long-term sobriety.
Daily Life, Rules & Family
How long is the program?
The recommended minimum length for the residential program is 21 days. However, the total duration of care is customized based on individual clinical needs and can be extended through their continuum of care options.
What is the living situation like? Can I get my own room?
The living situation is lodge-style in a serene, natural setting. Guests are provided with private bedrooms, but bathrooms are shared. This setup offers a balance of personal space and community living.
Is this a closed/locked facility?
No, High Watch operates as an open campus. Guests are not locked in, fostering an environment of trust, accountability, and personal responsibility for one's own recovery.
Can I use my phone/laptop? Is smoking allowed?
No, personal electronics like cell phones, laptops, and smart watches are strictly prohibited to minimize distractions. Smoking of traditional cigarettes and use of chewing tobacco are permitted in designated outdoor areas; vaping and e-cigarettes are not allowed.
What should I bring? What should I leave at home?
Bring: ID, insurance/prescription cards, list of current medications (in original bottles), comfortable clothing, toiletries (alcohol-free), and laundry detergent.
Leave at Home: ALL electronics, weapons, aerosol cans, outside food/drinks, supplements, and any vaping products.
Who provides care here? Are there psychiatrists on staff?
Care is provided by a comprehensive, multidisciplinary team. This includes board-certified psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, physician assistants, licensed social workers, professional counselors, trauma specialists, and other dedicated clinical staff.
Who will be in treatment with me?
The program is for co-ed adults and young adults (18+). You will be in a community of peers from various backgrounds, most of whom have private insurance. The environment is gender-inclusive with separate living arrangements and groups for men and women to ensure safety and focus. Total occupancy is over 50 guests.
What is the family involvement and visitation policy?
High Watch recognizes the importance of family in recovery and offers family education workshops to strengthen support systems. Specific policies regarding on-site family visitation schedules and rules are not listed. Please contact admissions for details. Are you the owner? Claim this listing to add visitation details.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Their team is available to answer your questions confidentially.
Call NowAccreditation & Support
Joint Commission
Gold Seal of Approval
State of Connecticut
Licensed Treatment Facility
LegitScript Certified
Verified Healthcare Provider
Sacred Heart University
Clinical Site of the Year