STEP2 - Lighthouse of the Sierra

Medically Supervised Detox and Residential Care

Stepworks of Nicholasville offers a structured residential setting for adults who need 24-hour support while beginning recovery from substance use disorders. Treatment often starts with withdrawal management (detox), where clients are medically monitored and supported through the early, and sometimes uncomfortable, stages of stopping alcohol or drugs. Detox-only stays are available for people who are ready to return home after stabilization, while others transition into the facility’s 30-day detox and residential program for continued care.

A Group-Centered Approach to Recovery

The residential program is built around daily clinical groups, which form the core of treatment. In these groups, clients work through the causes and consequences of substance use, learn relapse prevention strategies, and build practical coping skills. Group counseling is complemented by individual therapy and evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing. This balance helps clients learn from peers while also addressing personal challenges in one-on-one sessions.

Medical Support and Medications for Addiction Treatment

Medical oversight is integrated throughout treatment. Stepworks of Nicholasville uses established detox protocols and provides medications when appropriate to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Medications for addiction treatment (MAT) are available through contracted prescribing partners, and the program accepts clients who arrive with MAT prescribed elsewhere. Ongoing medical care also includes health screenings, infectious disease testing, and coordination of medications for co-occurring mental health needs.

Family Involvement and Life Skills

Family participation is encouraged as part of the recovery process. Family counseling sessions give loved ones a chance to better understand substance use disorders and learn how to provide healthier support. Within the residential setting, clients also practice everyday life skills — such as shared responsibilities and basic routines — that support accountability and help ease the transition back to independent living.

Support for Co-Occurring Needs and Specific Populations

The program serves adults with co-occurring substance use and mental health conditions and offers tailored support for a range of populations, including pregnant or postpartum women, veterans, older adults, and individuals involved with the criminal justice system. Trauma-informed counseling is available for clients who have experienced trauma or sexual abuse, as well as support for those managing chronic pain alongside substance use.

Planning for Life After Treatment

Preparation for life after residential care begins early. Stepworks of Nicholasville provides discharge planning, aftercare referrals, overdose education with naloxone, and follow-up after discharge. Additional recovery supports — such as peer mentoring, recovery coaching, housing assistance, and help accessing social services — are designed to support stability and continued engagement in recovery after leaving the program.

Client Reviews

Many clients describe caring staff and a group-focused program that helps them build recovery skills and confidence. Some reviews point to inconsistent structure, delays in medical follow-up, and occasional concerns about upkeep and rules.

• Treatment Quality & Outcomes (75% positive): Reviews often highlight strong groups, helpful counseling, and meaningful progress when clients engage with the program. A smaller set of reviews suggests outcomes can vary when clinical follow-through feels limited. "An incredible treatment facility."
• Support & Community (70% positive): Clients frequently mention peer connection, outside speakers, and access to meetings that help reinforce recovery in day-to-day life. Some reviews describe a community experience that can feel uneven depending on house dynamics. "Outside volunteer speakers come at least 4 times a week."
• Staff & Care Experience (70% positive): Many reviews describe staff as respectful, encouraging, and invested in clients’ growth. A handful of reviews raise concerns about unprofessional communication. "The staff are wonderful and have treated me with nothing but respect."
• Facility & Environment (65% positive): Several clients note a clean space and basic comforts. Some reviews flag issues like maintenance concerns or food quality. "The facility is clean and the staff is amazing."
• Access & Process (35% positive): Some reviews describe supportive coordination with outside providers. Others report frustration with limited access to a doctor, medication continuity, and inconsistent rule enforcement. "This is a wonderful place that has helped me numerous times."