Q – Who can be affected by addiction?
A – Anyone.  Like many other diseases, from the common cold to cancer, addiction does not discriminate by race, age, gender, religion or financial wealth.  Addiction is known as the equal-opportunity disease.

Q – How can you tell when someone has a problem?
A – Take an alcohol screening test by clicking here.

Q – How long does it take before someone is “cured” from addiction?
A – There is no real “cure” for addiction, however; through counseling, attendance at 12-Step meetings and certain life style changes, people can lead a clean and sober life.

Q – Does substance abuse counseling work?
A – First Step provides clients with the educational resources, support networks and tools to be successful in their recovery once they leave the safety net of our programs.  Given this, many individuals are successful in maintaining their sobriety.  Others may have episodic success, meaning they will do fine for a period of time, and then relapse into old habits.

Q – What is the process of getting my family member into a program?
A – Contact our Admissions Office by calling 941-366-5333.  An Admissions counselor will meet with you and your family member to discuss treatment options, if Detox will be necessary, and financial considerations.

Q – Is substance abuse counseling at First Step expensive?
A – Counseling services at First Step, whether residential or outpatient, are relatively inexpensive compared to private, for-profit organizations.  Also, compared to the cost of using illegal drugs, loss of jobs and the emotional burden placed on family members, the cost is not high.  First Step charges fees based on a sliding scale for many programs and accepts most insurance.

Q – Can people in a residential recovery program receive visitors?
A – Yes, each program varies, but time is designated to visit family and friends each week.