A trauma-informed alternative to psychiatric hospitalization

Soteria Las Cruces is a home-like residential community program where adults experiencing psychosis or extreme states can find belonging, dignity, respect, and healing. Soteria is a Greek word meaning “deliverance,” serving as a metaphor for guests finding their own path to recovery when navigating extreme states. Inspired by Soteria houses around the world, our approach is grounded in relationship building and social connection as the primary path to recovery.

Research has shown that Soteria Houses are highly effective: in one study, 83% of participants reported significant improvements in quality of life after their stay (Mosher, Vallone, & Menn, 1995). More recent findings published in The Lancet Psychiatry confirm that adding relational and social support to care, beyond medication alone, leads to better mental health outcomes for individuals experiencing psychosis (Jauhar & Lawrie, 2022).

When someone is in crisis, connection matters most

At times conventional approaches to behavioral health care can feel overwhelming particularly for people with trauma and psychiatric histories that may not fully align with standard models of care. Whether you are seeking support for yourself or exploring options for someone you are supporting, Soteria offers a compassionate, community-based approach.

Self-determination in psychosis recovery

Soteria Las Cruces is designed for individuals in the early stages or active experience of psychosis. The program is entirely voluntary, and built on the belief that a better quality of life is possible for individuals who experience psychosis. Soteria Las Cruces is a 5-bedroom home where guests can stay an average of 3-6 months.

Guests are supported by our highly trained team including our medical director, program director, and Certified Peer Support Workers (professionals with lived experience). All clinical consultation is available, but never central. There are no locked doors. No required medications. No coercion.

What Soteria offers

• Trauma-informed residential support
• 24/7 Staffing
• Recovery plans co-created with each Guest
• Optional access to psychiatric services
• Medication is self-managed but never required
• Cultural responsiveness with bilingual staff
• Help navigating resources for housing, healthcare, legal aid, and more
• Respect for spiritual and cultural views of psychosis, especially within Indigenous and Pueblo traditions

Who it’s for

Soteria Las Cruces is for adults (18+) experiencing psychosis or emotional distress who may not benefit from (or want) conventional treatment or hospitalization. Many Guests have histories of trauma, systemic harm, or prior psychiatric involvement. Participation is completely voluntary.

Self-referrals are welcome and/or with the support of providers, families, advocates, and first responders. Individuals must give their consent in order for the referral to be accepted.

Getting started

• Contact us – We’ll discuss the situation and determine if Soteria is a good fit.
• Welcome and orientation – Guests arrive voluntarily and co-develop a daily living and recovery plan.
• Support begins – Healing happens in a safe, supportive environment rooted in mutual respect.

A path toward stability and hope

Soteria isn’t just an alternative, it’s an opportunity. For many, it’s the first time they’ve felt truly safe, respected, and seen as a whole person. This program is designed to reduce hospitalization, support reintegration into the community, and interrupt cycles of crisis and re-traumatization.