Standards to Be Released this Summer
Consistent with its person-centered approach, CARF has created new accreditation standards for sobering centers. Appearing more frequently in the United States due to the clearly better alternative to jail or the emergency room, sobering centers are increasing in number, with close to 100 now open in the United States. Primarily located on the east and west coasts and in Texas, it is a community-based facility that allows an individual under the influence of alcohol or drugs a low-barrier space to stay safe and access SUD and other social services.
Launching Sobering Centers
Established in 1971 by the Uniform Alcoholism and Treatment act of 1971, sobering centers have been around for over 55 years, but the number of centers has not increased significantly until recently. Providing a short-term care bridge to recovery, a primary goal of sobering centers is to help connect clients to other community services providing care for substance use, mental health, or stabilization.
The new interdisciplinary, field-driven CARF accreditation standards are located within the Behavioral Health Standards Manual, specifically incorporated into the Crisis Programs Section and will be included in 2026, with accreditation available beginning June 2026.
CARF’s Behavioral Health Services staff met with the National Sobering Collaborative to discuss developing standards before creating an International Standards Advisory Committee (SAC) in August 2025.
With multiple CARF accreditation consultants in several U.S. states, PowderHorn Consulting is prepared to assist sobering centers across the country. Please contact Kevin Robertson, PowderHorn Consulting, at krobert6@san.rr.com if you or an associated facility is interested in pursuing CARF accreditation for a Sobering Center.
Q&A: New CARF Accreditation Standards for Sobering Centers
Q: What are sobering centers and why are they becoming more common in the United States?
A: Sobering centers are community-based facilities that offer individuals under the influence of alcohol or drugs a safe, low-barrier space to stabilize instead of being taken to jail or the emergency room. The numbers of centers are increasing in the U.S., especially on the east and west coasts and in Texas, as they provide a more effective and compassionate alternative for people in need of help.
Q: How do sobering centers help their clients beyond providing a safe place to recover?
A: In addition to short-term care, sobering centers act as a bridge to recovery by connecting clients with other community resources, such as substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, mental health services, and stabilization support, helping them transition toward longer-term care and well-being.
Q: What do the new CARF accreditation standards for sobering centers involve?
A: The new CARF standards, developed with input from the field and interdisciplinary experts, are included in the Behavioral Health Standards Manual under the Crisis Programs Section.
Q: When will CARF accreditation be available for sobering centers?
CARF accreditation for sobering centers will be available starting June 2026, ensuring these centers meet high-quality, person-centered care guidelines. PowderHorn can assist with CARF consulting as soon as the standards are released, but don’t hesitate to contact PHC.
Q: Who should be contacted for assistance with CARF accreditation for a sobering center?
A: Facilities interested in pursuing CARF accreditation for a sobering center can contact Kevin Robertson at PowderHorn Consulting via email at krobert6@san.rr.com for guidance and support.
