Overview
Since 1973, Dawn Farm has offered a unique path to recovery on a 64-acre working farm in Ypsilanti, Michigan. This non-profit provides long-term, low-cost addiction treatment in a distinct, non-clinical setting focused on community and shared responsibility. The environment is rustic and communal, with residents living in dorm-style rooms with bunk beds to break down isolation and build peer support. A core part of the therapy involves engaging in the farm's daily operations—from caring for animals to gardening—which helps build accountability and life skills. While not strictly an AA program, Dawn Farm incorporates the 12-Step model into its comprehensive approach, offering a continuum of care that includes residential treatment, social detox, outpatient services, and extensive sober living options. It's a place where people find hope and learn to live a new life, free from addiction. 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 Dawn Farm'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
Social Detox
A supportive, non-medical start.
Residential Program
Immersive, 24/7 structured care.
Outpatient Services
Flexible support for ongoing recovery.
Sober Living & Aftercare
Maintaining sobriety for the long term.
Approaches
Policies
Open Campus
This is not a locked facility; commitment is voluntary.
No MAT Policy
Medication-Assisted Treatment is not permitted.
Smoking Policy
Cigarettes allowed outdoors; no vapes or e-cigs.
Electronics Policy
No personal phones, laptops, or smart watches.
Visitation Policy
Weekly visits for children are allowed; other visits limited.
Mandatory Chores
All residents participate in farm & house duties.
Cost
Payment Structure
Dawn Farm is a non-profit committed to affordable care. To keep costs low, they do not accept insurance or Medicaid. All services are private-pay, with a sliding scale for outpatient care.
Enquire About CostsSelf-Pay
Costs are estimates. Please call to confirm current rates.
- Residential (Per Day): $189
- Social Detox: Free of charge
- Sober Living (Per Month): ~$560
- Outpatient Assessment: $130
- Outpatient Group (Per Session): $40
Reviews
Based on 21 Google reviews
What Clients Appreciate
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Life-Saving Program: Many credit the farm with giving them a solid foundation in recovery.
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Affordability: The low cost makes treatment accessible for those without insurance.
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Accountability: Learning responsibility through structured work is highly praised.
"Dawn Farm saved my life! If you are TRULY ready to do the work and change your life for the better, there is no better place in the state... It isn't easy, but NOTHING worthwhile is."
"Dawn farm gave me the structure and accountability I needed to be a productive member of society. I spent almost 2 years in their transitional program and it was the best decision I ever made for myself."
View additional context from reviews
Critical reviews often state that the program's rigid, "tough love" approach is not suitable for everyone. Some felt the rules were excessively strict or punitive. The lack of on-site medical staff is a significant concern for those with co-occurring health issues, and the social detox model was described as very challenging.
Tip: Success at Dawn Farm often depends on a client's willingness to embrace a highly structured, community-driven, and work-based recovery model.
Location
Address
Dawn Farm6633 Stony Creek Rd
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
Hours
Admissions: 8am - 6pm
Residential programs operate 24/7.
Frequently Asked Questions
Costs & Admission
What will my costs be for treatment?
Dawn Farm is a low-cost, non-profit. Estimated costs are: Residential at $189/day; Outpatient includes a $130 assessment, $40 per group, and $85 for individual therapy (sliding scale available); Sober Living is around $560/month. Social Detox is free. Please call to confirm current rates.
Do you accept insurance?
No. Dawn Farm is a private-pay, non-profit organization. They do not accept private insurance or Medicaid in order to keep their costs low and accessible to all.
Do you provide detoxification services?
Yes, they offer non-medical "social detox," which is provided at no cost. This is a supportive environment for withdrawal, but no medications are administered. If medical intervention is needed, you will be sent to an ER at your own expense.
Treatment Details
Why choose Dawn Farm? What makes it different?
Dawn Farm stands out due to its long history (since 1973), its unique setting on a working farm, and its commitment to providing very low-cost, long-term care. It is a non-profit, community-based program focused on building life skills and personal accountability.
How do you treat dual diagnosis / co-occurring disorders?
Dawn Farm has limitations in treating co-occurring disorders. There are no psychiatrists on site, and they cannot accept clients who require monitored psychiatric treatment or are at risk of a psychotic episode. Their focus is primarily on addiction within a peer-support model.
What types of therapies are used?
The core of the program is daily group therapy within a therapeutic community. They also offer individual therapy and have clinical specialists trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma.
Does this program use the 12-Steps?
While Dawn Farm is not an AA program itself, it heavily incorporates the 12-Step model and philosophy into its comprehensive treatment approach. Attendance at 12-Step meetings is a key component of the program.
Is the program faith-based?
No, the program is not faith-based. It is built on the 12-Step spiritual principles of recovery, which are adaptable to people of any or no faith background.
Is Suboxone (MAT) permitted?
No, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) like Suboxone or Methadone is not permitted. Dawn Farm's programs are abstinence-based.
Who provides care here? Are there psychiatrists on staff?
There are no doctors, psychiatrists, or medical staff on site. Care is provided by licensed counselors, therapists, and support staff. The model is peer-driven, not medical. For trauma, care is provided by clinical specialists trained in EMDR.
What kind of aftercare and follow-up support is available?
Dawn Farm has a very strong aftercare network, primarily through its extensive transitional housing (sober living) program. With over a dozen homes, they offer a clear and supportive path for residents to continue their recovery for up to two years after completing the residential program.
Daily Life, Rules & Family
How long has this facility been open?
Dawn Farm was founded and has been offering addiction treatment services since 1973.
What substance use disorder treatment programs do you offer?
They offer a full continuum of care including Social Detox, long-term Residential Treatment, Outpatient Services, Transitional Housing (Sober Living), Jail and Community Corrections services, and Youth and Family services.
How long will I be there?
The average length of stay for the residential program is 3 to 4 months. Outpatient programs range from 12 to 48 weeks. Transitional (sober) living can last from 6 months up to 2 years.
What is the living situation like? Can I get my own room?
The living situation is communal and rustic. Bedrooms are dorm-style with bunk beds. There are no private rooms available, as the program emphasizes community living and peer support.
Is this a closed/locked facility?
No, it is an open campus, not a locked facility. Residents are expected to commit to the program and adhere to the schedule, but they are not physically locked in.
Can I use my phone/laptop? Is smoking allowed?
Cigarette smoking is permitted in designated outdoor areas, but vapes and e-cigarettes are prohibited. Personal electronics like cell phones and laptops are not allowed and will be locked in the office to help residents focus on their recovery.
What should I bring? What should I leave at home?
Bring: About a week of practical clothing (no drug/alcohol logos), work boots, twin-sized bedding, an alarm clock (no radio), alcohol-free toiletries, ID cards, prescribed medications (14-day supply), one carton of cigarettes, and up to $75 cash.
Leave at home: All electronics (phones, laptops, smart watches), products containing alcohol (cologne, hairspray), makeup, expensive jewelry, vapes/e-cigarettes, and non-recovery related books.
Who will be in treatment with me?
The program is co-ed for adults (18+). The clientele is diverse, as the low-cost model makes it accessible to people from all walks of life. The farm has a 36-bed capacity, creating an intimate, community-focused environment.
What is the family involvement and visitation policy?
Family involvement is limited. Once a resident is formally accepted into the residential program, their children may visit once a week during scheduled times. Visitors under the influence will be asked to leave.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Their team is available to answer your questions confidentially.
Call NowAccreditation & Support
CARF Accredited
Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities.
State Licensed (MI)
Licensed by the State of Michigan.
501(c)(3) Non-Profit
A charitable, tax-exempt organization.