You may also have fears about what happens after treatment and about what happens when your family member is no longer actively addicted (using). You may not realize that you may need and deserve assistance because you are suffering too. (If you've read this far, we know you're suffering...we're here to help.)


How can I tell if my family member is an addict? 

Trust your gut, in many cases you've spent the majority of your life with this person and you can tell when they aren't acting normal. If you think something is wrong, it probably is.

There is a way to get better

There is no cure for addiction. However, we provide individualized care to fit every Athens, GA resident's unique needs.  With ten plus years of certified experience (most of which were at the Athens Area Commencement Center) we can help determine an appropriate treatment plan for long term recovery success. Regardless of whether you're the family member of a drug addict, an impaired professional, or a professional looking to further help your addicted client.

For Impaired Professionals 
Since 2001 we have been reporting to professional boards in a monitoring role. As a board approved monitor, we can help you succeed with your consent order compliance and living a life of recovery.

Consent order often require:

  • Drug Screens
  • Meeting Attendance
  • Weekly Monitoring Sessions

We are board approved to monitor consent orders through our established relationships with the Board of Pharmacy, the Board of Dentistry and the Board of Nursing. We are also approved to do quarterly reports. View our pricing options for counseling on our pricing page.


We gladly accept referrals from physicians, members of the ministry, and other professionals 

For medical and other professionals with patients they suspect may be struggling with addiction: With ten plus years certification in addiction counseling and six plus years helping with impaired professionals, we are available to assist and consult whatever concerns you have.

Karen Skinner MEd, GCADC III

  • Drug Addiction Counseling
  • Marriage and Relationship Counseling
  • Breathalyzer & Drug Screening Assistance
  • Detox Assistance Options

1.  "The Hijacked Brain." The Hijacked Brain. 12step.com, n.d. Web. 06 May 2013.
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  • Declined performance in school
  • Trouble maintaining relationships

Alcohol and other drug addictions are chronic illnesses.These illnesses are characterized by a strong and persistent desire for a substance of choice and loss of control over its use, even in the face of harsh consequences.

When a loved one is suffering from drug addiction, you want to make sure their treatment is put in the best hands.

With Board Certification and over 25  years in the industry, let us help them.
Hijacked BrainAn addicted mind is often known as a hijacked brain.

Services​

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​Specific Services Include:​

  • Alcohol Addiction Counseling
  • Impaired Professionals Monitoring
  • Counseling and Support for Family Members of Addicts
  • Treatment Placement Options
  • Consent Order Compliance

A normal brain functions by: 

  • Taking in a stimulus through the frontal lobe.
  • Consulting the logic department.
  • Then taking an appropriate action.


While a hijacked brain: 

  • Takes in a stimulus through the frontal lobe.
  • Completely skips the logic department.
  • Then makes a decision (which is almost always irrational).

​For example, a person with a hijacked brain wants to go home after a night out on the town. Said person is definitely above the legal limit to drive, but instead of asking a friend for a ride or even taking a taxi, the person's hijacked brain decides that he/she should just drive home instead.

What’s worse is that even after active addiction, the brain retains the memory and feelings that came with using. Simply mentioning “their drug” to an ex-addict can create a cascade of interest and cravings. The addict’s eyes might light up as they discuss using, or they simply can’t stop thinking about it – a whole set of emotions are released. And all this just by mentioning their drug.1

Message to family members

When family members or loved ones struggle with addiction, oftentimes they aren't the only ones affected. It is possible that you (the wife, husband, sister, etc.) have gotten off your healthy core. Sometimes, through putting all of your focus and energy towards helping your sick family member, your whole family can get off balance.

This lack of balance can lead to:

  • Suffering at work
  • Marriage troubles