The first step towards recovery is recognizing that you may have a problem with substance use. The next step is getting help. Laura Parise, MD, Medical Director of the Doreen E. Chapman Center at NorthShore, shares those next steps. 

The Chapman Center offers confidential counseling and treatment to help you on your journey towards health and an improved quality of life. Individuals are first encouraged to come in for an assessment. During an assessment, a clinician will review your history and make potential recommendations for treatment. These recommendations do not mean you have to commit to treatment. Treatment is an individual decision and it is always your choice if you want to continue. 

Each person's path to recovery is different. At the Chapman Center, they know that one treatment program does not work for everyone. Their team works hard to ensure each treatment program fits an individual's specific needs and journey.

Below are examples of what a treatment program may look like:

• Partial-Hospitalization Program- Individuals meet with their care team five days a week for daily outpatient withdrawal management and monitoring. 
• Intensive Outpatient Program- This program meets between 9 to 15 hours a week depending on individual need. 
• Family Program- This program includes private and multi-family sessions. It is intended to support family members throughout the treatment process which benefits the individual's recovery.
• Relapse prevention planning - This plan includes a referral to program-facilitated continuing care groups. 

If you are interested in learning more about the path to treatment with the Chapman Center, the next steps to take are:

1. Call the Chapman Center and speak with a member of the clinical staff who can arrange an assessment. Remember, assessment appointments do not mean that you are obligated to move forward with treatment. 
2. Attend the assessment appointment. The Chapman Center encourages you to bring family members or friends for support. Family and friends can only attend the appointment with the individual's written consent. 
3. Individuals will then receive individualized treatment recommendations that may include one of the programs listed above. Continuing treatment is always your choice.