Soteria House is a 5-bedroom therapeutic community residence in Burlington, Vermont operated by Pathways Vermont since 2015. Implements the Soteria model developed by psychiatrist Loren Mosher in 1971 as a humane alternative to psychiatric hospitalization for early psychosis. Uses 'being with' as its core therapeutic approach. Staff include people with lived experience. Modalities include dreamwork, breathwork, herbalism, and meditation. On-site psychiatry available but medication is a personal choice. The only operating Soteria program in the U.S.
Best for
Vermont adults experiencing early psychosis who want a non-coercive, relationship-based alternative to psychiatric hospitalization, particularly those interested in minimal or no medication.
Modalities
Depth elements
Direct descendant of Loren Mosher's radical 1971 experiment proving people experiencing early psychosis could recover in a home-like setting with non-professional caregivers using 'being with' rather than medication. The 'being with' approach — actively staying present and learning about someone's experience without pathologizing or medicating — is a profoundly depth-oriented stance. Dreamwork offered as a modality. The only operating Soteria model program in the United States.