Member FAQs

Who will help me find an apartment?

We do! If you are joining us from home, the wilderness, another program, or anywhere else, you may want to consider temporarily staying at our Guest House, but this is subject to availability. We also help members find and secure an apartment before enrollment, regardless of their current location.

Our program has always been non-residential. As an essential life skill, all young adults must learn to find and secure an apartment. New members can start the program while working with our staff to locate and secure the perfect apartment that matches their personal preferences and financial resources.

What does day-to-day life look like for a member?

Community members begin their morning routines from their apartments at the start of the day. They attend multiple groups at the Pine House and any individual clinical or coaching sessions they have scheduled. Apart from the individual therapy programming, members engage in part-time work, exercise, volunteer in the community, and attend courses. This allows them to schedule time to keep up with apartment responsibilities, participate in social events, and explore all Portland offers.

Things to do in Portland?
Portland is the largest city in Maine, with a population of around 65,000. The city boasts many diverse cultures and neighborhoods, making it an exciting place to visit. Portland has much to offer regarding attractions, including a historic downtown area with art galleries, restaurants, and many shops. The working waterfront is also a popular spot to visit. Portland Trails, which maintains over 70 miles of hiking, walking, and biking trails, is a great way to explore the city's natural beauty and spend time outdoors.

Can I visit my family/travel while with OT? 

We kindly request that you seek your family's support before finalizing any travel plans and inform us beforehand of any such plans. Traveling for more than a week can pose challenges in terms of returning and may also disrupt the progress of a member's treatment. Additionally, we welcome friends and family members to visit members here in Portland, and we are more than happy to assist in planning logistics for such visits.

Member culture: what are OT members like? 

Our members are between the ages of 18 and 30. We welcome all genders. OT members are kind, accepting, affirming, bright, and motivated to live independently. Members are looking forward to creating social connections and exploring their new city! They want to and are ready to be a part of the changes needed in their lives. They have insight into, motivation towards, and a willingness to master learning to live more independently. Members are talented, funny, and creative, with lots to contribute to the world around them. 

Will I have a roommate?

In the past, our members have reported that they enjoy living without the drama that often arises from having roommates. We have noticed that living alone allows individuals to be accountable for their actions and to create personalized systems that work best for them. Additionally, living alone gives members the time and space to focus solely on their personal needs and the work they are dedicated to doing.

What are some examples of goals other members are working on? 

Our staff is dedicated to helping members identify and achieve their individual goals. These goals may include finding and maintaining part-time employment, earning college credits through part-time enrollment, creating organizational systems and structures to improve daily life, establishing a plan to promote overall wellness, or identifying strategies to strengthen executive function skills. We are committed to providing personalized support to help our members succeed.

How will I be able to track my growth?

Our members' growth is not always straightforward, and they often work towards several goals simultaneously. As they achieve their initial goals, new or more complex challenges are introduced. To track your progress, you will have regular discussions with your primary therapist, coaching staff, and family and conduct self-assessments weekly and monthly. You may also choose to create your own system for tracking progress.

What does day-to-day life look like at the Pine House?

The Pine House is a place that members visit daily from Monday to Friday for therapy and coaching sessions. It is a spacious location where members can socialize, play musical instruments, cook, work on individual tasks, engage in creative projects, and enjoy the outdoor space. Additionally, OT provides a family-style brunch and evening meal to end the day every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.