Transitional housing addresses the desires, goals, strengths, abilities, needs, health, safety, and lifespan issues of the persons served, regardless the scope, duration, and intensity of the services they receive. These services/supports are designed to assist the persons served to achieve success in and satisfaction with community living. They may be temporary or long term in nature. The services/supports are focused on home and community integration and engagement in productive activities.

Transitional housing enhances the independence, dignity, personal choice, and privacy of the persons served. For persons in alcohol and other drug programs, these services/supports are focused on providing sober living environments to increase the likelihood of sobriety and abstinence and to decrease the potential for relapse. The safety and security of the living arrangements of the persons served are assessed, risk factors and accessibility issues are identified, and modifications are made to make the housing choices accessible. Transitional living is typically provided for six to twenty-four months and can be offered in congregate settings that may be larger than residences typically found in the community.