About The Forest Recovery Sober Living

A strong sense of community in a safe, sober environment.

Meet The Members

Antony Payne

Founding Partner
Antony Payne co-founded The Forest Recovery Sober Living with one goal: to pass on the tools that helped him in early recovery. A devoted husband and father of two, Antony’s road to sobriety has been a rough one, shaped by humble beginnings. Introduced to recovery as a teenager, he spent over a decade wrestling with addiction before finding lasting sobriety.

Growing up in a home torn apart by addiction, Antony’s youth was marked by chaos. As a young man, he struggled with self-care and a lack of purpose, which only fueled his battles. But through a solid recovery program, meaningful relationships, and unwavering support from his family, he was able to turn it all around. Today, he credits his success to these pillars of recovery—many of which were built in quality sober living.

Derek Eckley

Founding Partner
Derek Eckley, born and raised in New Jersey, spent over a decade locked in a battle with addiction. He went through eighteen rehabs, almost losing hope before taking one last shot in California. It was there, in an men’s sober living home, that he found the lessons that changed his life—lessons he’s now devoted to passing on to men fighting the same fight.

Derek knows that getting rid of the substances is just the start of building a meaningful life. As a mentor, he helps men navigate the rocky road of early recovery, tackling everything from mending family ties to managing money and landing a job. His own journey is anchored in the 12 steps, the same steps he credits for his sobriety.

He’s about discipline, transparency, responsibility, and honesty above all. For Derek, recovery isn’t handed out; it’s earned, day by day, with an eye on a brighter tomorrow.

Sameer Mongia

Founding Partner
Sameer Mongia founded The Forest Recovery with a mission close to his heart: to provide the kind of support and safe space that helped him rebuild his life in recovery. Married to a supportive wife and a proud father of three, Sameer’s journey to sobriety began in 2008 after years of searching for stability and purpose. Having faced the ups and downs of recovery himself, he wanted to create a haven where others could reconnect with their potential and rebuild their lives.

Through his own healing, Sameer discovered the power of community, structure, and compassion—elements he now weaves into every aspect of his sober home to support each resident’s path. Alongside this passion, he manages several other businesses and invests in commercial real estate, bringing resilience and dedication to all his ventures. For Sameer, the sober home isn’t just business; it’s a commitment to helping others find their way to a brighter future.

An Forest Recovery nurtured can spark a blaze - turning the shadows of addiction into the light of a new life

Helping Men Rebuild Their Lives One Day at a Time

At The Forest Recovery, we’re about more than just getting sober. Our programs are built to help men face life head-on, with mentoring,  house meetings, job support, financial planning, family support, and a foundation rooted in the 12 Steps. We’re here to guide residents toward a meaningful, sustainable future grounded in long-lasting recovery.

At The Forest Recovery, residents don’t just clean up the mess of the past—they build something new from scratch. Many find their first job, go back to school, and forge real connections, both with their brothers and within the Phoenix recovery community. Life here is about more than staying clean—it’s about truly living.

Driven by the vision and values that sparked its creation, The Forest Recovery has become a cornerstone of recvoery in Phoenix. Located in the historic Central Corridor, our upscale residences offer a safe, comfortable base where you can connect, have fun, and find fulfilling work. You’ll see us at local 12-Step meetings, and many of our residents and alumni go on to work in detox centers, treatment facilities, and outreach programs across the region. They don’t just rebuild their own lives—they become mentors, leaders, and role models, paving the way for others. Ready to take the next step? Call now to learn how The Forest Recovery can help light your way forward.

Keep the Fire Burning: Your New Life Starts at The Forest Recovery

Step into a close-knit fraternity of men who are all about lifting each other up on the road to sobriety. At The Forest Recovery, it’s not just about getting clean—it’s about creating a life you’re proud of, with a crew that’s got your back. Here, you’ll find the support, friendships, and tools needed to chase your goals and build a life worth living.

Getting sober isn’t the end—it’s just the start of something bigger. If you’re ready to see what’s possible and want to start fresh, call today to learn  about our premier sober living program for men in Phoenix, Arizona.

Stay Connected to Our Thriving Sober Community in Phoenix, AZ

Join our newsletter and become part of a community that understands your journey. Whether you’re just starting to consider sobriety or have been living sober for months or years, our quarterly newsletter is a valuable resource filled with support, shared experiences, and guidance. It serves as a reminder that you’re not alone, offering helpful resources, upcoming events, and insight from those who’ve walked a similar path. Let us support you on your journey to lasting sobriety.