What to expect
Admission is voluntary, and a person may leave at any time. These are the practical answers we can confirm.
- Identification Identification is preferred, but nobody is turned away because they do not have it.
- Belongings You may bring one small bag.
- Leaving You may leave voluntarily at any time. Otherwise, discharge takes place during daylight hours.
Who you will meet
EMTs and paramedics are on staff.
Every client is offered a conversation with a peer recovery support specialist — someone who has walked in their shoes.
Partners in Recovery offers peer recovery support and connection beyond a Sobering Center stay.
Why it matters
The sobering center has kept a bad night from becoming a worse night for Houstonians and visitors from out of town who never receive an arrest record and avoid a night in jail.
If this is not the right place
The Sobering Center cannot help everyone. If someone needs a different kind of care, these services are available now.
Medical Intake can also point you to another service: 713-236-7855.
Emergency and crisis lines
- Call 911 for an overdose, serious injury or medical emergency.
- Call or text 988 for a mental health or suicide crisis.
- The Harris Center crisis line, 24 hours a day: 713-970-7000
Next steps
For referral partners
Law enforcement, hospitals, courts and community partners receive referral criteria through partner agreements and training.
After a stay
Questions after a stay, or ready to talk about recovery resources? Medical Intake can help.