Counseling First

Counseling First is a private nonprofit outpatient treatment provider in Chicago's Hyde Park neighborhood, offering substance use counseling for adults and young adults.

The team utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, 12 step facilitation and trauma informed counseling to support clients managing addiction and co-occurring mental health concerns.

Their mission centers on pairing clinical care with practical recovery supports, helping clients build stability inside and outside the therapy room.

Flexible Outpatient Substance Use Programs for All

Counseling First specializes in regular outpatient addiction treatment, delivered through individual, group and couples counseling formats.

The program is designed to support clients with alcohol or substance use challenges while accommodating work, school and family commitments.

Sessions draw on approaches like CBT and motivational interviewing, paired with comprehensive substance use assessments, screening for co-occurring disorders and structured discharge and aftercare planning.

This combination helps clients address underlying triggers while building durable coping strategies for long-term recovery.

DUI/DWI and Criminal Justice Programs

A standout offering at Counseling First is its specially designed DUI/DWI program and dedicated services for criminal-justice-involved clients.

The team also layers in wraparound supports such as case management, recovery coaching, housing services and employment counseling to help clients rebuild stability.

Non Profit with Government Funding for Care

Counseling First serves clients from its East 53rd Street office in Chicago, with telehealth therapy available as an additional access option for outpatient care.

The nonprofit accepts self-pay and offers a sliding fee scale based on income, with government funding for substance use programs also listed among accepted payment options.