Our new Veterans Program at First Step Recovery and Parkman Recovery offers specialized treatment for issues commonly experienced by veterans. Learn more here!
Welcome to our blog. Discover something useful for your healing journey, draw inspiration from client success stories or learn what’s new and happening at First Step Recovery.
Learn how “squirrel logic” explains the effects of addiction on the human brain and behavior—promoting empathy for those struggling and insight for effective treatment.
Our new IOP enables clients to fulfill work or other daytime commitments while receiving recovery services in the evening. Learn more about the details!
Learn about the details of our new Relapse Prevention Program in this Q & A with First Step Recovery’s Supervisor of Outpatient Services, Adam Remington, MSW, LSW, LICDC.
Social work requires empathy and a passion for helping others. Our social workers embody these qualities—and more. Learn why we believe social work is a superpower!
Learn how “squirrel logic” explains the effects of addiction on the human brain and behavior—promoting empathy for those struggling and insight for effective treatment.
Even though cravings might, at times, feel impossible to resist—they aren’t! Prepare for the inevitable craving with the expert tips in this blog post!
Joe Novak, CDCA II/case manager (and member of the recovery community), shares why case management plays a vital role in the First Step Recovery treatment process.
The 12 Steps of AA and NA provide a blueprint for good, clean living. This post, the twelfth in a 12-part series, explores the meaning of Step 12 and how to "work it."
The 12 Steps of AA and NA provide a blueprint for good, clean living. This post, the eleventh in a 12-part series, explores Step 11 and how to "work it."
The 12 Steps of AA and NA provide a blueprint for good, clean living. This post, the tenth in a 12-part series, explores Step Ten and how to "work it."
The 12 Steps of AA and NA provide a blueprint for good, clean living. This post, the ninth in a 12-part series, explores Step Nine and how to "work it."
The 12 Steps of AA and NA provide a blueprint for good, clean living. This post, the eighth in a 12-part series, explores Step Eight and how to "work it."
“Wasping” was first documented in Ohio in 2018 and treatment centers have noticed a recent uptick in this drug trend. Learn more about wasping and its dangerous effects.
A new study of more than one million people has identified genetic markers underlying substance use disorders. Learn about the key details and findings!
The 12 Steps of AA and NA provide a blueprint for good, clean living. This post, the seventh in a 12-part series, explains Step Seven and offers tips for working it.
An extended stay in the bitter morass of self-pity can have harmful consequences. Find out how to squash self-pity before it impacts your life (or sobriety).
FSR’s safe discharge planning begins at admission and continues throughout the course of treatment. Learn what’s included in a solid discharge plan (and why it matters).
Xylazine or “Tranq”—an animal tranquilizer now found in many street drugs—is causing an increase in overdose deaths. Here’s what you need to know about this killer drug.
If a loved one struggles with addiction, we might believe we can somehow fix the problem. But we can only control our own behavior. Learn how to support with enabling.
The 12 Steps of AA and NA provide a blueprint for good, clean living. This post, the sixth in a 12-part series, explains Step Six and offers tips for working it.
The 12 Steps of AA and NA provide a blueprint for good, clean living. This post, the fifth in a 12-part series, explains the meaning and importance of working Step Five.
The 12 Steps of AA and NA provide a blueprint for good, clean living. This post, the fourth in a 12-part series, shares potential challenges and tips when working Step 4.
AA and NA provide a basic blueprint for good, clean living through the 12 Steps. This post, the third in a 12-part series, explores how to "work" Step Three.
AA and NA offer a basic blueprint for good, clean living through the 12 steps. This post is the first in a 12-part series that explores the significance of each step.
Research has shown that social support improves sobriety outcomes, including a decreased likelihood of relapse. Here, we explore how social networks help foster recovery.
International Overdose Awareness Day takes place each year on August 31. But understanding the signs of overdose can be important every day. Learn more here.
Our MAT program is unique because it enables clients to become accustomed to medication-assisted treatment and psychotherapy while in an inpatient level of care.
What is treatment court? What are the benefits of participating? How does First Step Recovery help clients navigate and graduate? Find the answers in this blog post.
A rationalization is a way of justifying behavior through (what we perceive to be) logical reasoning. Here, we share common rationalizations that maintain addiction.
Loved ones don’t often quickly forgive and forget the hurt caused by addictive behavior. Here, we share ways for those in recovery to repair the wreckage of the past.
Removing the “drug of choice” from our lives isn’t the only change necessary for a strong recovery. This blog post shares tips for how to maintain long-term sobriety.
Approaching recovery through a continuum of care is critical. Learn more about First Step Recovery’s comprehensive array of addiction treatment services.
The opioid epidemic continues to devastate those who struggle with opioid misuse as well as their loved ones. Here, we cover opioid basics and why they're so addictive.
Whether you’re in recovery or just looking to ditch the drinking this holiday season, we’re here to help you get into the New Year’s Eve spirit—without the spirits.
It has been said that, for a person with alcohol use disorder, “one drink is too many and a thousand is never enough.” Here you'll learn more about the consequences.
In our very first Recovery Points video, you’ll learn about EMDR, an effective trauma treatment, and how it benefits our clients at First Step Recovery.
Kratom was originally used for medicinal purposes, but in recent years it has gained popularity as a recreational drug. Learn more about the kratom controversy.
At First Step Recovery, we care more. In this Staff Spotlight interview, you’ll learn about Kerri Donchess and what inspires her to provide compassionate care.
Working a 12-step program offers so much more than a life without drugs or alcohol. Here, we share 12 more Promises and Rewards to expect from 12-step recovery.
Outpatient Treatment at First Step Recovery enables clients to apply treatment goals in real-life situations—while building upon a structured program of recovery.
First Step Recovery announces its acquisition of Parkman Recovery Center, one of Ohio's leading addiction treatment centers providing quality care in an intimate setting.
If you’re ready for recovery, of course you want the best treatment available. Discover 10 key questions to ask when deciding on the right treatment center for you.
At First Step Recovery, we care more. In this FSR Staff Spotlight interview, you’ll get to know William Aley-Byrne and learn how he provides compassionate care.
If you’ve experienced a relapse, all is not lost. This blog post shares expert advice for how to bolster your future recovery by viewing relapse as a growth opportunity.
Overall wellness includes several dimensions, one of which is spirituality. This blog post will help you boost your spiritual fitness with important questions to ponder.
Making amends (Step 9) is a critical part of recovery. More than just "saying sorry," making amends demonstrates positive change. Learn more in this blog post.
First Step Recovery's Phase II Treatment empowers clients to create a life they’re unwilling to trade for a drink or a drug. Learn how this service fosters independence.
Whether addiction is a disease or a choice has been a question of great debate. In this blog post, we share some compelling evidence that will help you decide.
At First Step Recovery, we care more. In this inaugural FSR Staff Spotlight interview, you’ll meet Erin Heckman, RN, and learn how she provides clients with quality care.
The effects of addiction spread to those closest to the person abusing substances…the family. Learn about why addiction is called "a family disease" in this blog post.
The holiday season can be a challenging time for maintaining sobriety. And, COVID adds extra stress. Get ideas for an enjoyable, safe and sober holiday in this blog post.
When Tammy C. reached "rock bottom," she knew it was time to change. Learn how she has stayed sober for 30 years and has become a different person along the way.
At First Step Recovery, client and employee safety is a top priority. Chief Operating Officer, Cindy Woodford, details how we are helping protect against COVID.
Research suggests that numerous benefits result from adopting an attitude of gratitude. Learn some practical ways you can incorporate gratitude into your life.
Ready for sober summer entertainment? We’ve got some useful ways for you to stay on track in recovery while enjoying the warm weather months with friends and family.
When Tammy C. reached "rock bottom," she knew it was time to change. Learn how she has stayed sober for 30 years and has become a different person along the way.
Learn how “squirrel logic” explains the effects of addiction on the human brain and behavior—promoting empathy for those struggling and insight for effective treatment.
Our new IOP enables clients to fulfill work or other daytime commitments while receiving recovery services in the evening. Learn more about the details!
Learn how “squirrel logic” explains the effects of addiction on the human brain and behavior—promoting empathy for those struggling and insight for effective treatment.
Even though cravings might, at times, feel impossible to resist—they aren’t! Prepare for the inevitable craving with the expert tips in this blog post!
Joe Novak, CDCA II/case manager (and member of the recovery community), shares why case management plays a vital role in the First Step Recovery treatment process.
The 12 Steps of AA and NA provide a blueprint for good, clean living. This post, the twelfth in a 12-part series, explores the meaning of Step 12 and how to "work it."
The 12 Steps of AA and NA provide a blueprint for good, clean living. This post, the eleventh in a 12-part series, explores Step 11 and how to "work it."
The 12 Steps of AA and NA provide a blueprint for good, clean living. This post, the tenth in a 12-part series, explores Step Ten and how to "work it."
The 12 Steps of AA and NA provide a blueprint for good, clean living. This post, the ninth in a 12-part series, explores Step Nine and how to "work it."
The 12 Steps of AA and NA provide a blueprint for good, clean living. This post, the eighth in a 12-part series, explores Step Eight and how to "work it."
“Wasping” was first documented in Ohio in 2018 and treatment centers have noticed a recent uptick in this drug trend. Learn more about wasping and its dangerous effects.
A new study of more than one million people has identified genetic markers underlying substance use disorders. Learn about the key details and findings!
The 12 Steps of AA and NA provide a blueprint for good, clean living. This post, the seventh in a 12-part series, explains Step Seven and offers tips for working it.
An extended stay in the bitter morass of self-pity can have harmful consequences. Find out how to squash self-pity before it impacts your life (or sobriety).
FSR’s safe discharge planning begins at admission and continues throughout the course of treatment. Learn what’s included in a solid discharge plan (and why it matters).
Xylazine or “Tranq”—an animal tranquilizer now found in many street drugs—is causing an increase in overdose deaths. Here’s what you need to know about this killer drug.
If a loved one struggles with addiction, we might believe we can somehow fix the problem. But we can only control our own behavior. Learn how to support with enabling.
The 12 Steps of AA and NA provide a blueprint for good, clean living. This post, the sixth in a 12-part series, explains Step Six and offers tips for working it.
The 12 Steps of AA and NA provide a blueprint for good, clean living. This post, the fifth in a 12-part series, explains the meaning and importance of working Step Five.
The 12 Steps of AA and NA provide a blueprint for good, clean living. This post, the fourth in a 12-part series, shares potential challenges and tips when working Step 4.
AA and NA provide a basic blueprint for good, clean living through the 12 Steps. This post, the third in a 12-part series, explores how to "work" Step Three.
AA and NA offer a basic blueprint for good, clean living through the 12 steps. This post is the first in a 12-part series that explores the significance of each step.
Research has shown that social support improves sobriety outcomes, including a decreased likelihood of relapse. Here, we explore how social networks help foster recovery.
International Overdose Awareness Day takes place each year on August 31. But understanding the signs of overdose can be important every day. Learn more here.
Our MAT program is unique because it enables clients to become accustomed to medication-assisted treatment and psychotherapy while in an inpatient level of care.
What is treatment court? What are the benefits of participating? How does First Step Recovery help clients navigate and graduate? Find the answers in this blog post.
A rationalization is a way of justifying behavior through (what we perceive to be) logical reasoning. Here, we share common rationalizations that maintain addiction.
Loved ones don’t often quickly forgive and forget the hurt caused by addictive behavior. Here, we share ways for those in recovery to repair the wreckage of the past.
Removing the “drug of choice” from our lives isn’t the only change necessary for a strong recovery. This blog post shares tips for how to maintain long-term sobriety.
Approaching recovery through a continuum of care is critical. Learn more about First Step Recovery’s comprehensive array of addiction treatment services.
The opioid epidemic continues to devastate those who struggle with opioid misuse as well as their loved ones. Here, we cover opioid basics and why they're so addictive.
Whether you’re in recovery or just looking to ditch the drinking this holiday season, we’re here to help you get into the New Year’s Eve spirit—without the spirits.
It has been said that, for a person with alcohol use disorder, “one drink is too many and a thousand is never enough.” Here you'll learn more about the consequences.
In our very first Recovery Points video, you’ll learn about EMDR, an effective trauma treatment, and how it benefits our clients at First Step Recovery.
Kratom was originally used for medicinal purposes, but in recent years it has gained popularity as a recreational drug. Learn more about the kratom controversy.
At First Step Recovery, we care more. In this Staff Spotlight interview, you’ll learn about Kerri Donchess and what inspires her to provide compassionate care.
Working a 12-step program offers so much more than a life without drugs or alcohol. Here, we share 12 more Promises and Rewards to expect from 12-step recovery.
Outpatient Treatment at First Step Recovery enables clients to apply treatment goals in real-life situations—while building upon a structured program of recovery.
If you’re ready for recovery, of course you want the best treatment available. Discover 10 key questions to ask when deciding on the right treatment center for you.
At First Step Recovery, we care more. In this FSR Staff Spotlight interview, you’ll get to know William Aley-Byrne and learn how he provides compassionate care.
If you’ve experienced a relapse, all is not lost. This blog post shares expert advice for how to bolster your future recovery by viewing relapse as a growth opportunity.
Overall wellness includes several dimensions, one of which is spirituality. This blog post will help you boost your spiritual fitness with important questions to ponder.
Making amends (Step 9) is a critical part of recovery. More than just "saying sorry," making amends demonstrates positive change. Learn more in this blog post.
First Step Recovery's Phase II Treatment empowers clients to create a life they’re unwilling to trade for a drink or a drug. Learn how this service fosters independence.
Whether addiction is a disease or a choice has been a question of great debate. In this blog post, we share some compelling evidence that will help you decide.
At First Step Recovery, we care more. In this inaugural FSR Staff Spotlight interview, you’ll meet Erin Heckman, RN, and learn how she provides clients with quality care.
The effects of addiction spread to those closest to the person abusing substances…the family. Learn about why addiction is called "a family disease" in this blog post.
The holiday season can be a challenging time for maintaining sobriety. And, COVID adds extra stress. Get ideas for an enjoyable, safe and sober holiday in this blog post.
Ready for sober summer entertainment? We’ve got some useful ways for you to stay on track in recovery while enjoying the warm weather months with friends and family.
Research suggests that numerous benefits result from adopting an attitude of gratitude. Learn some practical ways you can incorporate gratitude into your life.
Learn about the details of our new Relapse Prevention Program in this Q & A with First Step Recovery’s Supervisor of Outpatient Services, Adam Remington, MSW, LSW, LICDC.
Social work requires empathy and a passion for helping others. Our social workers embody these qualities—and more. Learn why we believe social work is a superpower!
First Step Recovery announces its acquisition of Parkman Recovery Center, one of Ohio's leading addiction treatment centers providing quality care in an intimate setting.
At First Step Recovery, client and employee safety is a top priority. Chief Operating Officer, Cindy Woodford, details how we are helping protect against COVID.