When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Hensley House Sober Living Home

Why Hensley House Sober Living Home is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Hensley House Sober Living Home, located in Austin, Texas, stands out as an exceptional place for men seeking supportive and structured recovery in a sober environment. Known for its uniquely effective program, Hensley House boasts the lowest relapse rate and the longest average length of stay among sober living homes in the central Texas area. This speaks volumes about the community’s success in fostering sustained sobriety. The home emphasizes camaraderie and brotherhood, cultivating strong bonds among residents which contribute to a positive and encouraging atmosphere. Unlike typical sober living environments, Hensley House offers a dynamic and fun approach to recovery, ensuring members not only focus on long-term sobriety but also enjoy their journey. The structured program is purpose-built to provide stability while promoting personal growth and accountability. This blend of support, community, and enjoyable activities makes Hensley House an inviting and effective place for men to rebuild their lives in sobriety and connect with others who share similar goals and challenges.
Here's what people think of Hensley House Sober Living Home
As of recent, Hensley House Sober Living Home holds a 4.9-star rating based on 160 reviews.
Reviews of Hensley House Sober Living reflect a highly positive and affirming experience for most residents. Users frequently praise the strong sense of brotherhood within the community, highlighting how the structured yet friendly environment has helped them maintain sobriety and rebuild their lives. Positive feedback often mentions the caring and supportive staff, the effectiveness of the program in promoting long-term sobriety, and the enjoyable social atmosphere that encourages participation and mutual support. Many reviewers note the low relapse rates and the home's unique approach to recovery as standout features that differentiate Hensley House from other sober living options. On the other hand, some less positive reviews point to occasional challenges such as adjustments to the structured lifestyle or interpersonal dynamics within a communal living setting, which is common in sober living environments. However, these critiques do not outweigh the overwhelmingly positive consensus. In summary, the reviews collectively portray Hensley House as an exceptional sober living home that excels in creating a supportive, structured, and engaging recovery environment where men can thrive and sustain lasting sobriety.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Andrew Lopez
Best decision I ever made! I’m one of those guys who unfortunately Has bounced around more than a few of the many sober living houses in Austin. My experience at Hensley House has been absolutely wonderful and transformative. There is a real brotherhood here and more than that it’s a family. We play together, live together, and we support each other together to navigate this journey. Here it’s not just about being sober. It’s about balance, growth, and being shown that a life in sobriety doesn’t have to be small lonely and dull. It can be full, connected, and most importantly it can be so much fun.
Todd Campbell
Hensley House was a wonderful experience for me! I most certainly did not think it was necessary, but it was crucial for my journey moving forward. The level of accountability and acceptance proved instrumental in my integrating back to home life after treatment. The house was professionally managed and cared for. The gentlemen I met there were open and welcoming, as well as, vulnerable enough to discuss life as we see it. I appreciate and applaud Patrick Hensley for his commitment and love for those in need of that extra push to bring their life back together and begin to excel at it.
Catherine Bobbitt
** Update: Son returned March 2023 * - I had to log into another account to enter an update since my first review was lengthy 😁. You can scroll down to see my first as well as from a Father's perspective (John Bobbitt) review. Chiming in for an update. Hensley House deserves nothing but personal testimonials for those researching for this subset population. My son was Hensley House 1 from February 2023 - November 2023 with complete growth, accountability, and great relationships within the homes. Given the disease, he relapsed and asked for Hensley House first during treatment discharge planning. Although he would be more home and family sick, he resounded the most happy sober and actively working the steps in recovery - it was at Hensley House. The stars aligned and a bed opened up for him! To think that Patrick Hensley would, not once but revisit, keep continual contact with the discharge coordinator on bed availability for this 1 young man. For the one, Patrick will reach out to tend that lost sheep. My eyes fill with tears to KNOW that Patrick is serving his calling. He sought my son as someone equipped and caring to reach his hand out to. Patrick seeks these men in turmoil, to walk with them, welcomes in love despite how they come through Hensley House doors, and tends to the illness in recovery for a sober life to celebrate thankfully. Come as you are. The Hensley House crew is family to each other and us. Now I'm referring to Patrick Hensley as his mission, but the house managers walk and live the same! The house mangers are fully supported, invested, and believe in their calling to be near auto pilot. The agreement is beyond thorough and these men are empowered in their own accountable journey. The requirements are from long standing learning and show for it! The guys are expected to do the work, but know it's to their gain! Re: the homes. We were, briefly, in 1 sober living before. It was somber and desolate feeling. I toured another, more costly than Hensley House, and it was nice/fair but not nearly as clean or "home" as any 1 of the 3 Hensley House homes. I did say "home" because it is palpable from the first step in the door. The guys have more than enough to feel home. Clean... I mean clean from a mother. Comforts all as a true home. The backyard renovations (3 yards connected) are a vision coming true. Outdoor living as anyone would love. 2 pools, a bridge over connection, basketball court, TV, grills, outdoor seating, and more. Indoor pool tables, shuffleboard, game systems, etc. Fully ready to live in besides clothing and food. The beds are comfortable and fully dressed with so many pillows. Shared refrigerator for 2 residents each. Own gym equipment. My son was in house 1 and now is in 2. All amazing and worth it. We'll drive out of town for him to be in Hensley House and the guys there. True camaraderie and transparency in working the steps. They are brothers living life in recovery. They keep each other on their phones and reach out without a hiccup. That's what my son did, called one of the guys from before when we drove up. The joy in his voice to return back home with Patrick and the guys.... priceless. Much love to Hensley House! Patrick Hensley and all his supporting network, the house mangers, and the guys there - praying for every single one of you.
Andrew Cafferky
Hensley House is hands down one of the best sober living experiences that you will find. What sets it apart is the strong community that you are apart of from the very beginning. It's a family of friends who support each other and enjoy having fun! We do group events all the time; too golf, hunting, bowling, paintball, sporting events, just to name a few. There is very strong and healthy accountability. I could go on but do yourself and your family a favor and come to Hensley House to experience a fun and vibrant life of recovery !!!!!!
Jon Baum
Incredible experience at the Hensley House. You are walking into a culture of guys that really care about one another and about recovery. Patrick is an incredible leader and a role model in the recovery community. Best decision I made in my recovery. Thank you to all Hensley house members for their participation and contributions to the community.
How to reach Hensley House Sober Living Home
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Why Hensley House Sober Living Home may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Hensley House Sober Living Home with your friends?
Choosing to rally at Hensley House Sober Living Home is a unique and meaningful way to connect with friends and family in a supportive and uplifting environment. With an outstanding 4.9-star rating from 160 reviews, this sober living home has earned a reputation as an exceptional venue that fosters community, healing, and genuine relationships. Beyond just a place to gather, Hensley House offers a safe haven where attendees can engage authentically with one another without the distractions or pressures of alcohol or drugs. This promotes deeper, more honest conversations and meaningful bonds that truly nourish emotional well-being. The atmosphere at Hensley House is one of care and respect, allowing everyone to feel included regardless of their path to sobriety. Whether your group is supporting someone in recovery or simply cherishing a healthy, vibrant lifestyle together, this sober living home provides the perfect setting for connection, celebration, and renewal. Rallying here means prioritizing wellness, shared experiences, and personal growth—all while having fun in a warm, welcoming space designed for group joy and lasting memories.
What activities can you enjoy at Hensley House Sober Living Home for a group meetup?
Hensley House offers a diverse and engaging range of activities that perfectly suit group meetups, ensuring that everyone can find something enjoyable and fulfilling to do. Many of these activities encourage camaraderie, skill-building, and relaxation—key elements for a successful group gathering.
One popular group pastime is hosted movie nights, where residents and their guests watch films together, creating a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere for conversations and shared experiences. Whether your friends prefer classic favorites or new releases, movie nights at Hensley House create an inviting social experience without any need for alcohol.
Outdoor activities like day hikes and organized walks are also common, providing a great chance for your group to bond while immersing in nature. These gentle adventures promote wellness and mindfulness, allowing group members to connect on a deeper level while enjoying fresh air and scenic views.
Fitness and wellness classes, including yoga and meditation sessions, are regularly available and make for excellent group activities, too. These classes support mental and physical health while fostering group participation through shared mindfulness and movement. Engaging in yoga or guided meditation as a group often enhances the sense of community and peace.
Moreover, Hensley House encourages involvement in creative hobbies such as learning musical instruments, cooking new recipes, or joining book clubs. These activities stimulate the mind and build new friendships through teamwork and shared goals, perfect for groups wanting to deepen connections in a supportive space. Social BBQ events and group volunteering opportunities, like helping at animal shelters, add a communal spirit to any meetup, combining purposeful fun with the satisfaction that comes from giving back.
Why is Hensley House ideal for a group meetup?
Hensley House stands out as an ideal meetup location for groups because it emphasizes a balanced, sober lifestyle embedded in community and personal growth. Its environment nurtures emotional safety and trust, which are crucial for people in recovery or anyone who values sober socializing. Group meetups here benefit from professionally facilitated activities that encourage inclusion, accountability, and mutual encouragement.
Groups find Hensley House perfect because it eliminates the usual social distractions and risks associated with alcohol or substances. This sober setting ensures that everyone remains fully present, creating opportunities for meaningful engagement. The home’s well-designed spaces and amenities accommodate both large gatherings and intimate conversations, catering to the needs of various group sizes.
The focus on holistic wellness—covering emotional, physical, and social health—means every meetup here can be both joyous and restorative. Whether it’s through fitness classes, creative pursuits, or simply sharing meals during community BBQs, groups thrive amid supportive structures that celebrate sobriety and friendship.
In addition, Hensley House builds its calendar with consistent group activities, meaning meetups can easily incorporate shared experiences that deepen bonds and build lifelong sober social networks. The home's commitment to enhancing recovery journeys by mixing fun with focus creates a unique gathering place for families, friends, and support groups who want to rally around mutual respect and positive lifestyle choices.
How does participating in group activities at Hensley House support long-term recovery and social connection?
Joining group activities at Hensley House is a powerful way for individuals not only to maintain sobriety but also to develop invaluable social skills and emotional tools necessary for long-term recovery. These activities combat isolation—a common challenge in recovery—by fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging open, honest communication among peers.
Group engagement at Hensley House builds accountability; members encourage each other in their goals, creating a positive feedback loop that motivates sustained progress. Sharing personal stories and struggles within these activities normalizes experiences and reduces stigma, making recovery feel less lonely and more attainable.
Moreover, skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and emotional regulation are naturally honed in group settings through various interactive events. This equips attendees with practical tools they can apply beyond Hensley House, helping them navigate life’s challenges confidently and soberly.
Emotional support from peers during group activities strengthens resilience and builds trust, essential pillars for anyone moving forward after addiction. This support network often extends beyond the sober living home, forming lifelong friendships based on mutual understanding and shared commitment to health.
Ultimately, Hensley House makes group meetups more than just enjoyable gatherings; it transforms them into vital healing and growth experiences that profoundly impact attendees’ lives, enhancing wellbeing for years to come.
What makes social events like BBQs and harbor cruises at sober living homes special for group gatherings?
Social events such as BBQs and harbor cruises hosted at sober living homes like Hensley House add a special dimension to group meetups by combining leisure with community spirit and sober celebration. BBQs are particularly effective as they center around food—a universal connector—creating a casual and welcoming atmosphere where group members can relax, chat, and bond easily.
These events often draw large groups together, fostering a lively and joyful environment filled with shared laughter and stories. For those new to sobriety, BBQs can be comforting, proving that fun doesn’t require substances and that social inclusion is fully possible in sober settings.
Harbor cruises offer a unique and memorable experience, bringing groups out on serene waters where conversation flows naturally amid beautiful surroundings. Such excursions break the routine and create lasting memories, reinforcing group cohesion while providing a stunning backdrop for celebration.
Both BBQs and cruises encourage teamwork, light-hearted competition, and social interaction, all of which are essential for rebuilding trust and companionship during recovery. These shared experiences make group meetups at Hensley House truly extraordinary, blending the pleasure of outing with the solid framework of sober community living.
Why is the setting of a sober living home important for group meetups compared to other venues?
The setting of a sober living home like Hensley House is fundamentally important for group meetups because it offers a substance-free environment intentionally designed to promote health, safety, and positive social interaction. Unlike bars, clubs, or private residences where alcohol or drugs might be present or tempting, sober living homes provide a neutral ground where everyone can feel comfortable and secure.
This environment removes common stressors or triggers associated with substance use, allowing groups to focus fully on connection and enjoyment without worry. The dedicated support structures, resident counselors, and peer networks embedded within the sober living home enhance group experiences by ensuring any challenges faced during socializing can be addressed compassionately and effectively.
Furthermore, the ambiance of a sober living home typically emphasizes calm, order, and wellness—qualities not always found in conventional party spaces. This makes it easier for groups to engage in meaningful conversation, participate in thoughtful activities, and experience genuine emotional closeness.
Choosing a sober living home for a meetup signals a commitment to wellness and inclusivity, supporting both individual recovery journeys and collective joy. This creates an unmatched atmosphere for celebrating friendships and family ties while embracing a healthy lifestyle.
How can Hensley House foster lasting friendships and community through group meetups?
Hensley House fosters lasting friendships and a strong sense of community by intentionally facilitating repeated, meaningful group meetups that revolve around shared experiences and mutual support. Regularly scheduled activities build routines of connection where attendees not only share successes but also lean on each other in moments of challenge.
The sober living home encourages openness and vulnerability, allowing friendships to develop on foundations of trust and authenticity rather than superficial socializing. Whether bonding over yoga classes, group volunteering projects, or casual conversations at social events, members cultivate empathy and understanding that deepen over time.
Hensley House also promotes inclusivity, welcoming individuals at different stages of recovery and diverse backgrounds. This variety enriches the social fabric, introducing new perspectives and fostering wide-reaching support networks.
Peer-led groups and community meetings organized as part of the sober living model further cement friendships by providing safe spaces for dialogue and celebration of milestones. These strong connections help individuals resist relapse triggers by proving they are part of a caring, steadfast community.
In this way, Hensley House transforms group meetups into powerful opportunities for building durable relationships that extend well beyond the physical home, influencing lives in recovery and wellness journeys far into the future.