When alcoholics and other addicts detox their bodies, they feel great. The downside to this so-called pink-cloud feeling is that the newly sober can mistakenly believe they’re “cured,” writes Nowinski, a clinical psychologist. This guide for them and their loved ones can be a lifesaver, literally. Nowinski compares recovery to a “voyage across open water,” with obstacles along the way and no guarantees of success. Indeed, the National Institute on Drug Abuse cites a 40 to 60 percent chance of relapse from a substance-abuse disorder. How to help? Loved ones can strive to be partners instead of feeling like stigmatized “enablers.” As the afflicted progress from a “casual friendship” to “a serious relationship” to “commitment” to their drug of choice, they tragically betray their values and those closest to them. This damages crucial relationships, which need to be rebuilt after treatment. Hang on and don’t leave a recovering addict struggling alone. Nowinski convincingly makes the case for the vital role of family and friends, who can increase the odds of a loved one staying sober by remaining committed and connected.

Booklist

For too long, residential rehab has been thought of as a cure for addiction. In this wise, well-written book, Dr. Nowinski helps patients and their families understand that rehab is but the first step on a long-term journey of life-enriching recovery.

Keith Humphreys, Esther Ting Memorial Professor, Stanford University School of Medicine

Dr. Joseph Nowinski is a pioneer of addiction psychology. In this new book, Dr. Nowinski addresses the role of the family in the recovery process. Too often, treatment programs provide families with minimal guidance as to the recovery process, creating a potential minefield. This book fills that void by providing families an understanding of the role of rehab, and the necessary tasks for promoting recovery for the patient and for the whole family. Masterfully written, based on Dr. Nowinski’s lifetime of clinical experience, this book provides relief and direction for those who are accompanying a loved one along the often-mysterious journey of recovery. Patients and family members alike will benefit from its wisdom, and even experienced practitioners will gain useful insights. A highly recommended work.

Mark Schenker, PhD, author, “A Clinician's Guide to 12-Step Recovery”, former board member, APA Society of Addiction Psychology, and board member, Philadelphia Society of Clinical Psychologists

Nowinski nails it again! Recovery After Rehab is an amazing guide for loved ones invested in recovery. I can’t wait to buy some copies for friends and family to help take the confusion out of ongoing recovery!

Judi Bixby, director of Alaska services, Lakeside-Milam Recovery Centers

Recovery After Rehab by Nowinski provides an owner’s manual to a new life-of-recovery from a substance use disorder. Daily reflection books offer comfort and insight, but this new book empowers the inflicted with a map to navigate the "but, how?" perils of recovery's realities that we each face.

Joe C, host of Rebellion Dogs Radio, author of “Beyond Belief: Agnostic Musings for 12 Step Life”

For people struggling with addiction and those who love them, this book is a must-read for anyone who wants to gain a better understanding of what to expect from treatment. It aims to demystify the process while offering clear suggestions of how to maintain treatment benefits. It pulls back the curtain and takes an honest look at the reality of what happens during and after treatment and how we can help—not hinder—progress toward recovery. Presenting loved ones as collaborators in recovery, Dr. Nowinski empowers those affected by addiction with the knowledge required to evaluate various treatment options and to make informed decisions beyond the walls of formal care settings that will promote recovery over time.

Cara M. Renzelli, PhD, former vice president, operations and clinical advancement, Gateway Rehab