South Suburban Council on - Alcoholism and Substance Abuse

Community-Based Care With a Long History in the South Suburbs

Founded in 1967 by community members, including people in recovery, South Suburban Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse has longstanding roots in the Chicago south suburbs. The organization is structured as a private nonprofit and centers its work on helping people access care regardless of financial situation. Over time, it has built strong connections with public systems and community referral sources, including criminal justice partners, making it a practical option for clients balancing recovery with legal, family, or community obligations.

Withdrawal Management, Residential, and Outpatient Options

Services span withdrawal management (detox), residential treatment, and outpatient care, including intensive outpatient programming and regular outpatient services. Residential programming is structured to address chemical dependency while also working on stabilizing areas that often get disrupted by substance use, such as self-esteem, spirituality, health and nutrition, parenting responsibilities, and trauma-related concerns. Outpatient programs are offered in day and evening formats, helping clients stay engaged in treatment while continuing daily responsibilities.

Structured Programming for Co-Occurring Needs and Justice-Involved Clients

Treatment includes individual, group, and family counseling, relapse prevention planning, discharge planning, and continuing care. The Council offers targeted tracks and curricula designed for specific needs, including co-occurring substance use and mental health concerns and programming for criminal justice clients. Co-occurring disorder groups use an integrated curriculum built around combined therapies and 12-step facilitation. Additional outpatient services include DUI programming, tobacco screening and cessation counseling, and support for gambling disorder.

Recovery Housing, Daily Routine, and Medication Support

For clients who need a stable place to live while rebuilding routines, the peer-run Recovery Home provides short-term, substance-free housing for men and women. Residents take responsibility for a daily schedule that includes recovery activities, peer-led support groups, weekly recovery education or relapse prevention groups, and case management, alongside work or other meaningful activities and outpatient participation. The Council also provides medications for addiction treatment (MAT), including buprenorphine and naltrexone, and accepts clients who receive certain medications elsewhere. Residential programming also includes recovery coaching and wellness-focused activities such as daily meditation, group exercise, and creative writing, with air-conditioned rooms and private or shared room options.