Balance House: A Glimpse Inside ‘Honest Engine’ with Robbie Bills

Phocus projects are an integral part of programming at EVN|SQ. During a client’s stay, they will complete a self-directed project in which the sky is the limit; this project gives them the opportunity to discover new passions or redefine old hobbies, skills, or gifts that may have slipped away during recent years. ‘Honest Engine’ is a Phocus track that allows CEO and Founder Robbie Bills to connect with clients on a day-to-day basis outside the confines of traditional clinical modalities.
While working in the ‘Honest Engine’ garage and workshop, Robbie has the chance to build connection with clients, teach them a little about cars and how they work while simultaneously getting a unique glimpse into their minds, how they learn, process information, and communicate.
Last week, those participating in ‘Honest Engine’ finished a complete overhaul of a 1972 Chevy C-10. Over the course of several months, Robbie taught and worked with clients to replace the engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, exhaust, and interior making the truck a fully operational vehicle. Clients were extremely proud and excited to see the truck that they spent countless hours working on go for its first successful test drive.
About Balance House
Balance House is a year-long continuum of care for young men ages 18-32 years old. We are located in Salt Lake City, Utah at the base of the Wasatch Mountains. Balance House offers four, distinct levels of care from residential treatment to independent, sober living. Residents of the program are offered a chance to explore the outdoors, and beauty that Utah has to offer, as well as to participate in group and evidence-based treatment modalities. Our treatment program is different by design. We offer a space in which young men can help make decisions about their treatment plans and goals as well as feel supported as they begin to realize what is important to them outside of the treatment setting.