The Compass House at Providence College
in partnership with Herren Wellness

A substance-free living community for wellness, recovery, connection, and academic success

A community built for the whole student

The Compass House is a professionally staffed substance-free living community where students are supported in pursuing emotional wellness, recovery, resilience, personal growth, meaningful connection and academic success. Grounded in the belief that college is both a time of challenge and opportunity, The Compass House provides a supportive environment where students can build healthy routines, develop meaningful relationships, and thrive academically, personally, and socially.

Located just steps from campus on Huxley Avenue, The Compass House allows students to remain fully engaged in the life of Providence College while benefiting from a structured, supportive community centered on well-being, accountability, and purpose.

Who The Compass House Welcomes

The Compass House is intended for students who choose to live in a substance-free environment while pursuing greater emotional wellness, personal growth, academic success and a strong sense of community. We welcome students with a variety of experiences and goals, including those who may be:

• Recovering from substance use disorders
• Recovering from eating disorders
• Managing anxiety, depression
• Transitioning from higher levels of care (PHP/IOP)
• Seeking additional structure, accountability, and support

At The Compass House, students are met where they are and encouraged to define their own path toward a healthier, more connected, and purpose-driven life.

Wellness and Community Engagement

Recovery looks different for every student. Individualized wellness plans may include:

• AA, NA, SMART Recovery, or Refuge Recovery
• Recovery coaching, resiliency coaching and counseling
• PHP or IOP support
• Nutrition and eating-disorder support
• Wellness coaching and alumni programming
• Movement, service, and other approved supports

Community Participation

Residents participate in a community grounded in respect, accountability, and connection, including:

• Weekly resident gatherings
• Herren Wellness alumni programming, on campus and/or via Zoom
• Herren Wellness and/or Providence College alumni mentorship
• Adherence to visitor, overnight, and travel guidelines

Program Details

• The Compass House accommodates up to 10 residents
• Dedicated floors for men and women, each with its own kitchen and bathrooms
• Shared community dining and living spaces
• Outdoor gathering space
• Live-in house manager
• Individualized recovery coaching

Eligibility

Active students who meet the eligibility requirements to live on campus. Students are eligible when they demonstrate a commitment to living in a substance-free community and contributing positively to the wellness of fellow residents.

In Partnership with Herren Wellness

Chris and Heather Herren share deep ties with Providence College. Heather is an alumnus, and their daughter is also proud graduate. Chris Herren – a former NBA player and nationally recognized recovery advocate – founded Herren Wellness, a residential recovery community based in Seekonk, Massachusetts. Drawing on his lived experience, he has reached more than two million students, athletes, and community members through speaking engagements that promote honest dialogue about substance use disorder and wellness.

Providence College proudly partners with Herren Wellness to operate The Compass House. This collaboration brings the nationally recognized Herren holistic support model into a collegiate setting, emphasizing connection, accountability, skill-building, and community as essential components of lasting recovery. The goal is to support students in maintaining recovery, strengthening resilience, and fostering sustainable, lifelong well-being.

Our Shared Goal

Wellness. Connection. Accountability. Purpose.

Students do not need to identify as being in recovery from substance use to benefit from The Compass House. The community is designed for students who recognize that a substance-free environment can provide a strong foundation for personal well-being, academic success, meaningful relationships, and lifelong flourishing.

At its core, Compass House is built on a simple belief: no one should have to navigate life’s challenges alone. Whether pursuing recovery, strengthening resilience, or simply seeking a supportive community grounded in wellness and personal growth, students find encouragement, connection, and a place to thrive.

Have questions or wondering if The Compass House would be a good fit for you?

Complete this interest form and one of our team members will be in touch!