Getting Straight

Online sobriety groups offer something mere health apps cannot: community.

A 2019 survey by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services found that nearly 90 percent of adults with substance use disorders do not get treatment. Covid has exacerbated this problem. Now a number of startups are offering recovery programs that can support those in need wherever they are. While these digital-first communities can’t replace detox and inpatient programs, they address two of the biggest challenges faced by people in recovery: isolation and accountability. TEMPEST

Founder and CEO Holly Whitaker says the idea for Tempest came from her struggle to find a recovery program that catered to her own circumstances: She knew her drinking had become a problem, but the label

alcoholic put her off, and 12-step programs didn’t appeal. Annual Tempest memberships start at $149 for access to a private online community of more than 5,000 members and virtual support groups, rising to $850 for a guided fourweek intensive online program, weekly streamed workshops and lessons, and smaller, exclusive virtual support groups. While open to anyone, more than 80 percent of members are women.

MONUMENT

When co-founder and CEO Mike Russell launched Monument in beta in January 2020, he thought the recovery program’s therapistmoderated support groups would become a source of revenue. But as he saw how Covid cut people off from treatment, he decided to open up the groups for free. Now the Monument anonymous online community numbers around 15,000. Monument also offers consultations with physicians to discuss medication options and individual therapy sessions. Next up: programs for families and friends of Monument members. Plans range from $10 to $249 a month, plus a one-time $90 initiation fee.

DYNAMICARE

This program, founded by Eric Gastfriend and David Gastfriend, takes the unusual approach of offering financial rewards for healthy behavior— members who reach their goals can earn up to $100 a month on a smart debit card that can’t be used at bars, liquor stores, or ATMs. It’s a methodology called contingency management, which uses positive reinforcement to change behavior. In addition to coaches and accountability tools like a Breathalyzer device, DynamiCare offers free, daily online recovery support meetings open to anyone. Monthly plans range from $80 for text-only support to $200 for a program that includes one-on-one coaching.