Next Step Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions about The Magdalen House Next Step program.
What is the Next Step program?
Next Step is a three-phase, nonresidential program for any woman or man who has a problem with alcohol. Participants are provided with structure and education on foundational tools to help them sustain recovery from alcoholism. The program takes 12 weeks to complete.
Is Next Step an IOP?
No. The Next Step program is peer-to-peer recovery education in a non-residential environment.
Who is Next Step for?
Next Step is for any alcoholic who (any of the following):
- is newly sober, OR
- has established sobriety and is seeking to grow in their recovery
What’s required of a person who wants to participate in Next Step?
We ask that participants have a desire to learn and grow in their recovery while being active in the program.
Requirements include:
- Must identify as an alcoholic
- Minimum 72 hours of sobriety
- Must have a sponsor
If these three criteria are met, they are eligible to phone screen.
What are the three phases?
Each phase of Next Step is 4 weeks long.
Phase One: Foundation
Focus: Building a foundation and connecting with the community.
This phase begins with an orientation that outlines the program requirements. Participants will then attend two 12-step recovery meetings per week at The Magdalen House and a Next Step group once a week to gain education on foundational recovery tools. They will also begin involvement in our volunteer program.
Phase Two: Service
Focus: Being of service and giving to others.
Phase two requirements include attending Next Step group each week, one 12-step recovery meeting each week, and continuing to volunteer at The Magdalen House. Participants must be on steps 10-12 to participate in the three-week mentorship program. If they are not on steps 10-12, they will attend one Maggie’s meeting a week of their choice. During their mentorship, they will learn how to “carry this message,” as outlined in the Big Book, where they will get more comfortable speaking on Steps 1, 2, and 3 each week. By the end of phase two, they will have the tools to give an adequate presentation on the first three steps and have the opportunity to be a backup chair for meetings at The Magdalen House.
Phase Three: Servant Leadership
Focus: Learning and growing in leadership.
In phase three, participants will continue attending Next Step in addition to one 12-step recovery meeting each week and volunteering at The Magdalen House. If they are on steps 10-12 and did not shadow in phase two, they will shadow in phase three. Each participant will share their story with the larger Magdalen House community if they are on steps 10-12.
What is a Next Step Group?
Each Next Step group can have 10 participants. Each week, participants will learn about the following recovery topics: the 12 Steps, Sponsorship, Chairing Meetings, Carrying the Message, Practicing Principles In All Our Affairs, and Magdalen House Resources. To have a complete week and get credit for their progress, participants must do four things: attend required meetings (and sign in for all of them), attend Next Step Group, practice their spiritual principles, and contact their buddy. The focus of Next Step group is to provide participants with education on these foundational tools so that they can sustain and grow in their recovery from alcoholism.
What is the weekly time commitment for Next Step?
Volunteer time commitments may vary, but participants should expect to commit to about 4 hours each week to meet Next Step requirements.
Depending on the size, the group is less than two hours once a week. The remaining requirements may be met on a flexible schedule determined by the participant.
How does Next Step differ from other recovery services at The Magdalen House?
The Magdalen House offers three core recovery services:
- First Step: Our two-week residential program introduces 12-step tools to begin a recovery journey.
- Next Step: Teach individuals with alcoholism how to use and apply the principles learned in the 12-Steps in their everyday lives.
- Community: Meetings and workshops that provide opportunities to learn about and practice the 12-Steps.
Is Next Step only for First Step Alumna?
No, First Step is not a pre-requisite for enrolling in Next Step. Our Next Step program is open to any woman or man who has a problem with alcohol.
Is Next Step required after First Step?
No, First Step alumna are not required to enroll in Next Step upon completing their 14-day stay, but they are encouraged to consider the option.
Is Next Step co-ed?
No, Next Step is available to women and men in gender-specific facilities.
