Admissions Overview

Who Comes To Covered Bridge ​
Covered Bridge residents are men 18 years of age or older, have a primary diagnosis of substance abuse and express a readiness for treatment.

Success at Covered Bridge depends upon many factors, but in general, we have found that people gain the most benefit when they are:

1. Interested in increasing their understanding of how substance abuse affects their relationship with God.
2. Willing to receive correction and guidance.
3. Interested in forgiving those who have hurt them and understanding how they have hurt others.
4. Accepting of physical work and community participation.

Most of our residents are recovering from drug or alcohol abuse. They must, however, have an absence of active use. Individuals should have some self-care skills and be in reasonable good physical health. 
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Covered Bridge does not have the ability or resources to serve those with a history of arson, sociopathic disorders, violence, unresolved legal entanglements, or severe developmental disorders.

Program Cost
Covered Bridge is a nonprofit facility and as such the administrative fees and care of our residents is paid for by ADAP, churches and individual donations. Our residents are expected to pay 20% of their gross income to Covered Bridge toward their room & board unless other arrangements are made with staff.  

Apply for Admission

Our admissions process begins with a phone or in-person interview with the applicant. The following forms are required for admission. You can click on the link to download each form:

COVERED BRIDGE - RESIDENT HANDBOOK
The handbook is to be read in its entirety by the prospective resident before the application for residency is completed and handed in.

​APPLICATION FORM
This full application is to be completed in its entirety and signed by the prospective resident after reading the resident handbook. The completed application can be faxed to Covered Bridge at 866-294-8658 or you can scan and e-mail to dpiers@covered-bridge.org.

NEXT STEPS
Once the application has been reviewed, the applicant may be invited for an interview in person (whenever possible) or for a phone screening.

At any point in considering Covered Bridge as a treatment option, please connect with our Executive Director, David Piers, at 802-748-6948 or dpiers@covered-bridge.org

FAQS

What type of residents are in the program at  Covered Bridge?
Residents at Covered Bridge are all men in recovery from drug or alcohol abuse. They must have an absence of active use to be accepted into the program.

How many residents can Covered Bridge accommodate at any given time?
We can accommodate up to 8 residents at our St. Johnsbury location. 

What does Covered Bridge charge for its program?
Covered Bridge is a nonprofit private-pay facility.  After a resident moves into phase 2 (typically 6 weeks) he will begin to look for work.  After employment is secured he will be expected to pay 20% of  Gross income to Covered Bridge toward his room & board. 

What is the average length of stay and how long can one remain in the program?
The average stay at Covered Bridge is about 9 months. Some residents come for a shorter period, while others stay longer. Residents using the full continuum of care may stay for up to one year, with possible extensions when appropriate. 

What is the resident age range?
We have served men from 18 to 70.  The average age is around 40.  

What kind of work do residents engage in while at Covered Bridge?
Toward the end of Phase I residents can work with the Department of Labor and/or Vocational Rehab to inventory skills and determine what kind of work they would be best suitable for. After Phase I residents will begin a job search. In addition to their job, residents may participate in community services such as yard maintenance, snow removal, construction, maintenance, painting, carpentry, plumbing, equipment repair and auto repair - depending on the needs of the community and the residents skill. Also there are usually projects to be done on Covered Bridge property which many residents volunteer to be involved with.