Starfish Recovery & Wellness employs a Wellness-Recovery Oriented System of Care, designed to increase the likelihood of long term recovery. Our "whole person" approach addresses the emotional, mental, social, physical, and educational needs of our residents.
Starfish Recovery & Wellness is the leading recovery organization for the use of holistic wellness to support addiction recovery and improve recovery outcomes. We are a structured recovery residence organization dedicated to supporting individuals recovering from Substance Use Disorder through holistic, evidence-based wellness programming. Our whole-person approach is designed to improve recovery outcomes and increase the likelihood of long-term success.
In addition to supporting traditional recovery pathways, Starfish Recovery & Wellness integrates a diverse set of wellness practices that help residents build emotional resilience, physical strength, life skills, and a renewed sense of purpose. Our goal is simple: to help each resident create a stable foundation for a meaningful, independent life in recovery.
Our unique five-pronged approach at Starfish Recovery & Wellness addresses the emotional, mental, social, physical, and educational needs of every resident. These five areas are represented by the five arms of a starfish, each one essential to sustainable recovery.
Learning to identify, understand, and manage emotions is a crucial skill in early recovery from Substance Use Disorder. Our mindfulness programming helps residents develop the ability to focus on the present moment without judgment. Through practices such as body scanning, meditation, and guided imagery, residents build practical tools they can use in everyday life, especially during times of stress or uncertainty. Weekly mindfulness classes are offered through our partnership with the InnerWork Center.
Substance Use Disorder is recognized as a chronic, relapsing brain disorder that affects reward, stress, and self-control systems. Many individuals experiencing Substance Use Disorder also face co-occurring mental health conditions.
Starfish Recovery collaborates with trusted clinical partners to ensure residents receive comprehensive, coordinated care that addresses both substance use and mental health needs. This integrated approach strengthens recovery and supports long-term stability.
Isolation and loneliness are common risk factors for substance use and relapse. Our program is intentionally designed to foster connection, belonging, and community.
Shared experiences, particularly those that build new skills and create a sense of teamwork, promote camaraderie and long-lasting bonds. Residents participate in activities such as CrossFit, creative arts, and group wellness programming that encourage healthy relationships and mutual support.
Physical wellness plays a critical role in recovery. Exercise supports brain healing, improves mood, increases energy, and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression.
We partner with Shockoe Bottom Performance to offer weekly CrossFit training to all residents. This structured, team-based fitness model fosters accountability, confidence, and a strong sense of belonging, all of which support long-term recovery from Substance Use Disorder.
The curriculum at Starfish Recovery, WELLBEING, aligns with Virginia’s Standards of Learning (SOLs) for Health. It provides science-based education about Substance Use Disorder while also teaching practical coping strategies, communication skills, financial literacy, and life management tools.
In addition, our 12-week employment readiness course, delivered in partnership with a nationally recognized nonprofit, prepares residents for meaningful employment and long-term self-sufficiency.
Accredited by the Virginia Association of Recovery Residences