Women's Program

More than a half-century ago, Austin Ripley founded Guest House - with what at the time was a revolutionary mission - to treat religious and clergy who suffer from alcoholism in a separate, affirming environment, with a program based on the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Austin Ripley knew that alcoholism is not gender exclusive. His plan was to set up a treatment center for sisters who suffer from alcohol and/or drug dependency.

But it was not possible for Austin Ripley to realize this goal. It was not until 1994 that Guest House for Women Religious was initiated to give treatment to sisters who suffer from alcoholism and whose work is so important to the Catholic Church. Since then, the program has expanded to include addiction treatment for compulsive eating, gambling, and spending.

The Guest House for Women Religious program was created exclusively to treat Catholic women religious. It is located at the Lake Orion Campus and is just north of Detroit, Michigan.

The striking architecture and graceful decor provide sisters with a comforting and non-clinical environment in which to concentrate on recovery.

Guest House provides effective treatment in a warm hospitable setting. The program offers a balance of therapy, spiritual direction, physical healthcare, Twelve Step recovery and the life skills to offer a holistic approach to one's journey.