Grateful Minds Recovery offers sober companionship and community programs in the beautiful mountains of Costa Rica. We believe in holistic health and aim to increase accessibility to well-being supporting people recovering from drug and alcohol addiction . Our programs  create a structured and supportive environment that fosters each person’s unique growth in recovery through holistic wellness practices and personal development while contributing meaningfully to our farm community. Each program includes the following: a recovery commitment plan, personal development and goal setting, leadership and community contribution, routine and structure, technology independence plan, fitness and physical well-being, and holistic practices and learning.

Who We Work With

We welcome people who are truly ready and hungry for recovery. Our guests are:

• Recently out of treatment or stabilized and looking for their next step.

• Seeking a spiritual, nature-based setting to heal, reflect, and grow.

• Aligned with our holistic approach, incorporating the Big Book of AA, meditation, breathwork, yoga, nutrition, and a structured yet personalized recovery plan.

• Willing to commit to preparation, deep introspection, and aftercare.

Selection Process: Finding the Right Fit

We firmly believe that the success of our program is rooted in alignment, trust, and connection. That’s why we have a careful selection process before anyone joins our recovery community or engages in a one-on-one sober companion journey.

1. Initial Contact & Inquiry

   • Those interested in working with us will first fill out a brief inquiry form to share their background and recovery journey.

2. Zoom Meetings & Personal Connection

   • We schedule multiple Zoom meetings to get a feel for each other and ensure we are the right match.

   • This conversation helps determine if the individual is mentally, emotionally, and spiritually ready for this level of deep work.

3. Commitment & Intention Setting

   • Every participant must express clear intentions for their recovery and choose which program option is best for them.

   • We require a genuine desire to engage in the 12-step recovery process, holistic healing, and long-term wellness.

Our Program Options:

One-on-One Sober Companion Experience:

• A uniquely tailored approach, personally led by John.

• Intensive support, including guidance for both the individual and their family.

• Travel assistance, home integration, and 24/7 accountability.

• Deep recovery work, bringing my 34 years of lived experience in sobriety to the table.

• Flexible support, whether short-term immersion or long-term mentoring.

Recovery Community:

• Immersive 3-6 month stay in the Costa Rican jungle, free from distractions.

• Guided Big Book-based recovery work, paired with holistic wellness.

• Daily meditation, yoga, breathwork, and movement. Growing a holistic understanding of all these modalities and more.

• Attendance at AA meetings.

• Healthy, nourishing meals prepared in community with guidance from a professional chef.

• Reflection time in nature, hikes, waterfalls, and ocean trips.

• Deep, meaningful conversations, with a focus on personal transformation.

The Recovery Community Journey in 3 Phases :

At Grateful Minds Recovery, we believe in empowering individuals to reclaim their lives through the 12 steps, cultivate inner peace, and embrace a future filled with hope and possibility. All phases beyond the Core Program are optional, allowing participants to choose the path that best aligns with their needs and aspirations.

Phase 1: The Core Program (3 months)
During this intensive phase, participants immerse themselves in a supportive and structured environment where they focus on foundational aspects of recovery and personal growth. Central to this journey are practices of breathwork, yoga, meditation, and mindfulness, which serve as pillars for healing and self-discovery. Through guided sessions and individual exploration, participants learn to cultivate inner peace, resilience, and self-awareness, laying the groundwork for sustainable sobriety and spiritual development.

Phase 2: Step-Down Program (Optional Month-to-Month)
Following the completion of the Core Program, participants have the option to transition into a step-down phase where they can continue to receive support as they integrate newfound skills into their daily lives. Here, the emphasis remains on nurturing the mind-body connection through regular breathwork, yoga, meditation, and mindfulness practices. Participants are encouraged to deepen their understanding and application of these techniques at their own pace, fostering a sense of balance, clarity, and inner strength as they navigate the complexities of recovery and independent living.

Phase 3: Independent Living (Optional)
The final phase offers participants the opportunity to live independently while remaining connected to the Grateful Minds community. With a maximum stay of one year, individuals have the option to incorporate breathwork, yoga, meditation, and mindfulness into their daily routines as they continue their spiritual journey. This phase serves as a continuation of their growth and empowerment, empowering participants to embrace life with presence, purpose, and gratitude on their terms.

Post-Program Support: Upon completion of their journey at Grateful Minds, participants have access to sober coaching services to provide ongoing support and guidance as they navigate life beyond the community. This ensures that individuals continue to prioritize their well-being and maintain their sobriety through continued practice and integration of breathwork, yoga, meditation, and mindfulness into their lives.

Why Our Programs Work:

• Deeply Intentional: No mass recovery model—every guest is met where they are and given what they need.

• Spiritual & Holistic: More than just sobriety, we focus on a full mind, body, and spirit reset.

• Connection Over Systems: No corporate policies or bureaucracy—just passion, experience, and heart-led guidance.

• Lifelong Support & Community: Even after leaving, participants remain connected to the Grateful Minds network for continued growth and accountability.