Phase 1: The First 30 Days
Discovery Place’s initial program, or “main campus” as we call it, is a 30-day residential retreat that sets the stage for lifelong sobriety. Resting quietly in an idyllic countryside, men get the highly needed separation from drugs and alcohol to start their new life of sobriety.
Most people begin treatment with a “detox plan” to safely detoxify from alcohol and other drugs. Then they are ready to move into a treatment program like ours. Our admissions team works closely with several detox facilities statewide to help facilitate a safe, “door to door” transition to sobriety.
Intro to the 12 Step Immersion
Discovery Place’s program of recovery is called 12 step immersion. Phase 1 of our program gives you an in-depth introduction to the 12 Steps. We teach you how to work the steps and apply the spiritual principles behind them in daily life. Working directly with their guides as well as with each other, guests will learn how to stay sober, live a useful and purposeful life, and be free to make healthy, responsible choices.
The disease of addiction never takes a day off. Guests learn how to identify the root causes and conditions of their addiction. They learn to understand the thought process that precedes a relapse, therefore avoiding another downward spiral into addiction. We also guide them towards healthy habits, sometimes as simple as making their bed every morning.
What to Expect from the 30 Day Program
Personal Recovery Guides: Real-World Sobriety Support
One-on-one guidance from a personal recovery guide, not a counselor, with a real-world action plan for maintaining sobriety (these guides are in recovery and have often been previous guests at Discovery Place).
Daily Exploration of 12 Steps Principles with Staff and Guest Speakers
Daily studies with staff and special guest speakers exploring the principles that embody the 12 steps.
Friday Night Chip Celebrations: Alumni Speaker Meetings on Sustaining Sobriety
Friday night chip celebrations and speaker meetings where alumni come back to show how they are staying sober out in the world.
Building Lifelong Sober Connections: On and Offsite 12-Step Meetings
On and offsite 12-Step meetings to see recovery in action and build relationships that will continue to help them stay sober for a lifetime.
Start Your Day Right: Morning Meditations and Spiritual Discussions
Morning meditations and discussions begin each day in a healthy, spiritual frame of mind.
Fun in Recovery: Recreational Activities for Enjoying Life Substance-Free
Recreational activities such as fishing, cornhole, volleyball, board games, frisbee golf, horse shoes, basketball, trivia and the like all demonstrate having fun and enjoying life without substances.
Nutritious Daily Meals and Late-Night Snack Haven: Culinary Comfort in Recovery
3 healthy meals prepared by our kitchen staff per day as well as a fully stocked guest kitchen with snacks and comfort foods for the late night snacker.
Tailored Guidance for Lasting Success: Personal Recommendations on Departure
Personal recommendations tailored to the guests specific needs upon leaving.
THE CAMPUS
Tour Our Addiction Recovery Facility
Learn how to manage your addiction in a judgment-free community. Unplug at our beautiful campus just outside Nashville, eat great food, and enjoy plentiful activities with a community of men committed to finding sobriety.
FAQs
Understanding the First 30 Days
Answers to common questions about Phase 1 in the 12 Step immersion program and how it supports lasting addiction recovery.
What is Phase 1 of the Discovery Place program?
Phase 1 is a 30-day residential recovery retreat at our campus in Burns, TN, designed to help men step away from alcohol and drugs and begin building a foundation for lifelong sobriety in a peaceful, structured environment.
Do I need to complete detox before arriving?
Yes, most men complete a detox plan before entering Phase 1. Our admissions team works closely with detox facilities across Tennessee to help coordinate a safe, door-to-door transition into treatment.
What is the main focus during the first 30 days of addiction recovery?
The first 30 days focus on stability, connection, and willingness. You’ll begin learning how addiction works, why relapse happens, and how the 12 Steps provide a practical way forward—one day at a time.
How are the 12 Steps introduced in Phase 1?
In Phase 1, guests are guided through Steps 1–5 of the 12-Step program. You’ll learn how to work the Steps with support from Guides and peers, and how to apply their spiritual principles to daily life.
Who will be guiding me through the program during Phase 1?
Each guest works closely with a personal Recovery Guide—a man in recovery who has often been through the Discovery Place program himself. Guides provide one-on-one support, accountability, and real-world experience.
What does a typical day look like during Phase 1 of addiction recovery?
Days include structured recovery work, 12-Step studies, meetings, reflection time, healthy routines, shared meals, and recreational activities. The goal is to create balance—recovery work alongside rest, movement, and connection.
What happens at the end of the 30 days?
Before leaving Phase 1, each guest receives personalized recommendations based on their needs and progress. Many men choose to continue into Phase 2 (Long-Term Recovery) to further strengthen their sobriety.