5 Questions to Ask When Hiring a Sober Companion

Addiction treatment is certainly no cake walk, but there is a certain amount of insulation from the real world that occurs in rehab. It is often referred to as the “treatment bubble.” So when clients transition back into the flow of daily life, they are opening themselves up to living life on life’s terms and the potential for relapse is high in the beginning.

For many, hiring a sober companion offers an extra layer of accountability and support. It’s like having a safety net while they find their footing. But how do you choose the right person? Let’s run through five questions that can help guide your decision.

What Are Their Qualifications & Experience?

This one’s a no-brainer. Before you trust someone to support your recovery, you want to understand their background. What kind of experience do they have in addiction recovery? Do they have certifications like peer support specialist credentials or licensures in counseling? Or, are they someone with lived experience?

Different sober companions bring different skillsets to the table. Some might specialize in mental health support if dual diagnosis is part of your journey. Others may have years of experience helping people navigate early sobriety. And while lived experience can be incredibly valuable, make sure their vision aligns with your needs. You don’t just want someone who’s lived it - you want someone who knows how to help you through it.

How Do They Handle Boundaries?

This is important: a peer recovery assistant is not hired to be your best friend or your personal therapist. Their job is to provide accountability and support. In order to do that job correctly, there will need to be clear boundaries. 

During the interview process, ask how they define their role. Do they stick to professional boundaries, or is there a risk of things getting too casual? Will they accompany you to work events or family gatherings? How will they handle situations where you might feel tempted to drink or use? Their answers should give you confidence that they’re focused on supporting your sobriety without crossing lines that could blur their effectiveness.

What’s Their Approach to Relapse Prevention?

Relapse prevention is a cornerstone of recovery, so it’s vital to understand how your sober companion will help you stay on track. Do they use specific strategies like mindfulness techniques, identifying triggers, or creating a daily routine? How would they respond in real-time should a relapse happen?  

While nobody wants to think about it, relapse does happen. A good sober companion won’t just offer support when things are going smoothly; they’ll also have a game plan for helping you course-correct if challenges arise. 

Can You Spend Time Together Comfortably?

Just because they aren’t hired to be your best friend doesn't mean you shouldn’t be able to get along. There is a very real human element to sober companions. You might spend hours, or days, by their side. That means personality fit matters. Are they someone you feel at ease with? Do they inspire trust? Or do they come across as overly rigid or judgmental?

It’s okay to be picky. This relationship is an investment in your recovery, and you deserve to feel comfortable with the person who’s walking this path alongside you. Trust your gut. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to keep looking until you find someone who clicks.

What’s Their Availability & Flexibility?

Recovery isn’t a 9-to-5 job, and sometimes, life throws curveballs. Can your sober companion adapt to your schedule? Are they available for emergencies or late-night calls when cravings strike?

Ask about their typical availability and any limitations upfront. Some companions might work part-time, while others offer 24/7 support. Be clear about what you’re looking for. If you travel for work, you might need someone who’s comfortable going on the road with you. The goal is to ensure their availability aligns with your lifestyle because recovery doesn’t take weekends off.

It’s Okay to Ask Questions

Hiring a sober companion is a deeply personal decision. You’re inviting someone into one of the most vulnerable seasons of your life, so it’s okay to ask questions. In fact, it’s encouraged. Take the time to find someone who not only checks all the professional boxes but also feels like the right fit for you.

If you’d like to learn more about the sober companions at Hired Power, give us a call. We’re here to help you surround yourself with the right people, tools, and resources to set you up for success.