Overview
Positive Sobriety Institute (PSI), located in a professional, discreet office setting in the heart of downtown Chicago, is a nationally recognized outpatient treatment center specializing in addiction recovery for professionals. As the addiction treatment program for the Department of Psychiatry at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine, PSI offers unparalleled clinical expertise. Their individualized programs, including Partial Hospitalization (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient (IOP), are built on a neuroscience-driven model to treat substance use and co-occurring disorders. While an outpatient center, PSI can arrange for stays in high-end, apartment-style housing to create a residential-like experience. By tailoring treatment to the unique needs of executives, physicians, and attorneys in a community of 16-30 clients, PSI provides a discreet, peer-supported environment that fosters sustainable recovery while addressing professional and personal challenges. Visit their website here.
Your First Step is a Conversation
Reaching out can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone. The admissions team is here to listen without judgment and help you understand your options.
- Your call is 100% confidential. Speak with Positive Sobriety Institute's admissions.
- There's no commitment to enroll. They're here to answer questions.
- Talk next steps clearly. Discuss costs and what treatment looks like.
Treatment
Levels of Care
Partial Hospitalization (PHP)
Intensive, structured daytime treatment.
Intensive Outpatient (IOP)
Flexible day & evening programs.
Programs for Professionals
Tracks for physicians, attorneys, etc.
Approaches
Policies
Medical Clearance
Clients requiring detox are referred out before admission.
MAT Integrated
MAT is a core component of treatment plans as needed.
Smoking/Vaping Policy
Permitted outdoors in designated areas only.
Electronics Welcomed
Cell phones and laptops are permitted for use.
Mandatory Participation
Full engagement in all scheduled therapies is required.
Routine Drug Testing
Random screenings are conducted to ensure safety.
Cost
Payment Structure
Positive Sobriety Institute is in-network with Aetna and Cigna and can bill most other PPO plans as an out-of-network provider. They do not accept Medicare or Medicaid.
Enquire About CostsSelf-Pay
The estimated self-pay cost is $18,000 - $60,000, depending on care level, duration, and optional housing.
- IOP (No Housing): Approx. $20,000 / month
- PHP (with Housing): $50,000 - $60,000 / month
Reviews
Based on 57 Google reviews
What Clients Appreciate
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Professional Staff: Praised for being compassionate, professional, and highly knowledgeable.
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Peer Environment: Specialized focus on professionals is highly valued, creating a supportive peer group.
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Life-Saving Program: Many clients describe the program as transformative, crediting it with saving their careers.
"As an alumnus of PSI, I can wholeheartedly attest to the transformative and life-saving care that they provide. Their evidence-based treatment modalities, compassionate staff, and individualized care plans create an environment where healing is not only possible but probable..."
"PSI has provided me with invaluable tools to maintain my sobriety. The entire team is wonderful and has shown great compassion, support, and dedication to my recovery... It is a well-structured program that will challenge you but the reward is a life beyond your wildest dreams."
View additional context from reviews
Some negative reviews mention high costs and challenges with insurance billing and communication. A few individuals felt the program was not the right personal fit for their needs. These are less frequent than positive accounts.
Location
Address
Positive Sobriety Institute142 E Ontario St Suite 1000
Chicago, IL 60611
Hours
Admissions: Mon-Fri, 9am - 5pm
Program hours vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Program & Treatment
Why choose this program? What makes it different?
PSI stands out for its specialization in treating professionals, its direct academic affiliation with Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, and its expert team led by on-site psychiatrists. They provide recovery in a discreet setting among adult peers with similar life experiences.
What substance use disorder programs do you offer?
They offer a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) for intensive day treatment and an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), which is available in both daytime and evening formats to accommodate professional schedules.
How do you treat dual diagnosis / co-occurring disorders?
Yes, they specialize in dual diagnosis. Treatment integrates evidence-based therapies, medication management, and peer support to address co-occurring substance use and mental health conditions (like depression, anxiety, trauma) simultaneously.
What types of therapies are used?
They use evidence-based and trauma-informed approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), experiential therapies, somatic therapy, yoga, and art therapy.
Does this program use the 12-Steps, SMART Recovery, or Celebrate Recovery?
The program is customized to each client's needs. It incorporates and provides an introduction to the 12-Step program, but it is not a mandatory or exclusive component. If a client finds the 12-Step model beneficial, it will be integrated into their plan.
Is the program faith-based?
No, the program is not faith-based. It is a clinical, evidence-based program rooted in medicine and neuroscience.
How long has this facility been open?
Positive Sobriety Institute was founded in 2014.
Cost & Admission
What will my costs be for treatment?
The estimated self-pay cost ranges from $18,000 to $60,000. The final cost depends on the level of care (PHP/IOP), length of stay, specific clinical services needed, and whether you opt for housing. An IOP program without housing may be around $20k/month, while a PHP program with high-end housing and intensive services could be $50-60k/month.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes, they are in-network with Aetna and Cigna. They can also bill most other PPO insurance plans as an out-of-network provider. They do not accept Medicare or Medicaid.
Do you provide detoxification services?
No, detox services are not offered on-site. The admissions team will coordinate a referral to a trusted partner facility for clients who require medical detox before starting treatment.
Is Suboxone (MAT) permitted?
Yes, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is a key part of their clinical offerings and is integrated into treatment plans where appropriate.
Daily Life, Rules & Family
How long is the program?
The typical program duration is 6 to 9 weeks, though the exact length is based on individual clinical needs and progress.
What is the living situation like? Can I get my own room?
This is an outpatient center, so clients do not live at the facility. However, for those needing accommodation, PSI can arrange for high-end, apartment-style housing. The specifics of these arrangements (e.g., private vs. shared rooms) would be determined during the admission process.
Is this a closed/locked facility?
No, as an outpatient facility, it is an open environment. Clients attend programming during the day and return to their homes or arranged housing in the evenings.
Can I use my phone/laptop? Is smoking allowed?
Yes to both. Recognizing the needs of their professional clients, cell phones and laptops are permitted, and Wi-Fi is available. Smoking and vaping are allowed in designated areas outside the building.
What should I bring? What should I leave at home?
Since this is an outpatient program, you will not need to pack for an overnight stay unless you are using their optional housing. Please confirm with the admissions team about what to bring for daily sessions or for your housing arrangement. Are you the owner? Claim this listing to provide a packing list.
Who provides care here? Are there psychiatrists on staff?
Care is provided by a multidisciplinary team of board-certified psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and addiction specialists. The presence of on-site psychiatrists is a key feature of their program.
Who will be in treatment with me?
You will be in treatment with other co-ed adults, many of whom are high-functioning professionals such as physicians, attorneys, and executives. This creates a unique environment of peer support among individuals with shared experiences. The total occupancy is typically between 16-30 clients.
What is the family involvement and visitation policy?
Family involvement is a critical component of treatment. PSI offers a comprehensive family program that includes educational workshops, family therapy sessions, and dedicated support groups to help heal relationships and build a strong support system for recovery.
What kind of aftercare and follow-up support is available?
Yes, PSI provides a robust continuing care program. This includes relapse prevention planning, professional re-entry support, aftercare group therapy, and alumni events to ensure long-term support after treatment completion.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Their team is available to answer your questions confidentially.
Call NowAccreditation & Support
Joint Commission
Gold Seal of Approval
Northwestern Medicine
Academic Affiliation
State of Illinois
Licensed Treatment Facility