Supporting a Spouse or Loved One with an Addiction

An addiction is difficult enough for an individual who is struggling with substance abuse; when marriage enters the picture, addiction harms not only the person addicted but also the spouse and, in turn, the marriage as a whole. Living with a spouse who has become addicted to drugs or alcohol can be extremely difficult, and you might find yourself at a loss for how to support your spouse as he or she attempts to overcome addiction. Here are some healthy ways in which you can offer support to a spouse who is coping with an addiction.

Become educated.

First, it’s important to become more educated about the addiction at hand. Try learning everything you can, becoming more informed about the drug itself, what factors might have lead to addiction, and what treatment options are out there for the particular addiction. The more you know about the addiction, the more prepared you’ll be to help your spouse. Becoming more educated also happens to be an outward expression of your support.

Be willing to listen.

It’s also important to be there as a listening ear when your spouse needs it. This will prove crucial at those times when your spouse might need to alleviate the type of stress that triggers relapse. Your willingness to listen also shows your spouse how deeply you care, which will help at those times when your spouse might be feeling low in self-confidence.

Recognize the importance of self-reflection.

Early recovery from addiction is a time that is deeply self-reflective and requires a certain measure of “selfishness.” Your spouse might need to spend some time focusing inward in order to get a grip on sobriety, and it’s important to remember that this period of inward focusing will not last forever. Once your spouse has had an opportunity to regain a handle on life post-treatment, he or she will be better prepared to offer the same kind of support that you have already shown.

Take care of yourself.

Don’t forget that addiction has also affected you in negative ways. Be sure to take care of yourself as your spouse undergoes care, such as by watching your own health and by becoming involved in an addiction recovery family program.

Beware of codependency.

There are some risks involved with attempting to support a spouse who is working to overcome addiction. It can be easy to fall into the role of enabler or codependent spouse, where you might make excuses for your spouse’s addiction or take on some of the responsibilities that your spouse should be handling. Be sure that the support you offer your spouse will help your spouse to progress forward—and will not be detrimental to you.

What Our Clients are Saying

Renaissance Recovery is the real deal! They get down to causes and conditions and use a compassionate approach to effect change. I’ve known Steve Brown for over 17 years, and his loving influence showed me I was worthy of change and a life of long term recovery.

Richie-Convalesce Wilson

21:10 05 Dec 23

The men running this program are the real deal. Very competent in treating substance use disorders. Very experienced staff. Steve helped my brother find himself and heal. For that I am grateful. Keep on keeping on guys.

Preston Dixon

20:15 03 Dec 23

I will attempt to describe in words what Renaissance has meant for me in my life. People that truly care about you as a person and about your recovery. The ability to connect and uncover the real pain that may have led you astray in life. If you’re struggling with substance abuse, I would recommend a place that can start you on the path to true freedom and inner peace, that place is Renaissance! The level of care provided is life changing. If you’re in a tough place, looking for a way to dig yourself out, look for a place with the people who not only have the expertise in the field but who you can call family

Phil

20:30 11 Sep 23

Graduate of this IOP and 20 months sober. The thoroughness of the program delved into the core of me and helped me find myself again. I strongly recommend Renaissance Recovery. Steve holds you accountable and keeps you in his heart like family. He has helped me and my family multiple times. He is just a phone call away. If you need help, this is where you need to be.

Ana Buzan

18:36 28 Jul 23

Just over six months ago, I realize that my life was a complete mess. Being chemical dependent and carrying so much shame and guilt. It caused so many issues in my life. I tried doing it on my own so many different times I couldn’t even count. It greatly affected my family life, my marriage, my work life and was damaging myself and loved ones around me. I searched a couple other IOP‘s and actually attended one out in Mesa, I’ll keep them disclosed, but I can’t share my experience there. It seemed as if I was just another number there.My mother had done some research though on Renaissance and told me to reach out to them so I set up an appointment and came in and met with Stephanie. From immediately walking in the front door through intake process I felt that I had found the right place already. She was so kind and comfortable to talk to and was confident that I could get the help that I needed there. She was so right. I started group the next week and boy was I in for. A wonderful experience! Steve and Dan ran groups in such a different way than I’ve ever experienced, and truly showed their passion and care For their clients here! I was able to also get therapy through Lindsey there who was amazing and helping me deal with all my buried shame and guilt so that I could be free of the chains that kept me tied to my chemical dependency. They also offered on weekends. Back to basics a 12 step program which I took and was able to get through the steps in five weeks to find freedom. Dan and Steve are trust worthy people that I am so grateful to have found and I can’t leave out Mills who help me stay accountable with drug screenings. I can truly say that these people are my forever family. I know their recovery and how to walk people through difficult times in their life to find freedom from their hurts habits and hang ups in life. Much love, Graham.

Graham Gilbert

17:05 30 Jun 23

This place saved my life. I completed a 3 month outpatient program at Renaissance after a 6 year meth addiction. This was my first rehab experience. Steve, Dan and the other amazing staff created an environment that allowed me to be honest and expose my truth (for the first time in my life) allowing us to get to the root of my trauma and then carefully have been helping me rebuild a new life of sobriety. The program doesn’t end after your outpatient program is complete, they continue to provide support through meetings and events. My gratitude runs deep and I love these people.

Brad Smith

22:38 06 Jun 23

The group at RRC is outstanding. You will learn to access a solution to fix things in your life that feel upside down. Steve and the rest of the crew are dynamic in helping you steer the ship in the right direction. Sail on my bros!

John Durkin

02:38 26 May 23

Renaissance is a game changer!! It was the greatest move I have ever made. At 53 years old and lifetime of abuse I was sure nothing would change me; I thought my situation was unique. I started IOP with an open mind and as I grew more and more my life started to get clearer. I have over 10 months now and going strong. Renaissance saved my life and gave me hope. Thank you!~James R

James Ronzoni

22:23 27 Jan 23

These folks seriously do the lords work. I've been to a few treatment places, and none made me actually convinced that the staff cared about me the way Rennisance did. They helped me stay safe, they are there any time you need to call, the facility is open and designed to just use as a hang out spot outside of sessions. Pool table and everything! I learned most of my strongest recovery tools here. I've got 11 months and some change of sobriety now, and I owe so much of that to Rennisance.

laurel oxenborg

06:34 25 Jan 23

Steve brown is a WEALTH of knowledge… having personally dealt with both addiction to substances AND mental illness. We have looked into many resources and feel that Steve has a greater understanding than any other resources we have found. He is incredibly generous with his time and truly is in this work to heal and help those struggling with addiction. Is a heaven sent that we found him and the resources offered at renascence ranch AZ.

Stephanie Eastman

23:02 17 Nov 22

Renaissance Recovery is an empathetic, loving, supportive, realistic and holistic breath of fresh air in the valley's recovery community. Each employee that works there has your success and support as their number one goal. For those looking for hope, answers and solutions there is no finer establishment. I have witnessed absolute miracles happen in the rooms at Renaissance. Don't over think it.......give them a call! 🙏

Craig Owens

21:03 14 Oct 22

As a treatment provider, I’ve been aware of Renaissance Recovery Center for many years. I know Steve both personally and have worked with him professionally. I would highly recommend this program to anyone needing help with substance use challenges. Renaissance is caring, compassionate, and committed to providing the highest level of treatment. The team is experienced and uniquely skilled. They will always put the needs of each person first. If I need to make a referral in the Phoenix area, Renaissance is at the top of my list. If you need help, don’t hesitate to call Steve. Renaissance Recovery Center does it the right way.

Mike Brown

00:54 13 Oct 22

Steve is an absolutely remarkable guy! I felt I got more benefit after a 30 minute assessment than I have from other providers in a very long time. His foundation is clearly built upon the genuine care and concern for those he serves, and his understanding and support for those in recovery is beyond reproach. Thank you!

Stephen Connolly

19:22 17 May 22

Having known Steve Brown for many years, and seeing his dedication to the service of those struggling with addiction and life disruptions, I know he and his team are dedicated to helping anyone searching to move from difficult times towards a more inspired and purposeful future. This is a place to re-design your future!

Bruce H Jackson

18:36 15 May 22

There are 2 kinds of life savers. Those lil circular mints and renaissance recovery center. One freshens your breath, the other freshens every aspect of your life!! Everything about this place is top notch. From the facilities where groups are held, down to couches in the lobby and everything in between. There are no words for how incredible the staff is. From the first intake call on the phone down to your last graduation ceremony where not only the whole staff from RRC comes to support you, but the lifelong friends you make throughout your journey. I’ve done my fair share of treatment programs. This one tops them all. With that being said, I WILL NEVER BE BACK…as a client!! But you can bet your circular mint chewin’ beehind that I’ll be back every week for the alumni meeting!! Let’s get. Renaissance on 3!1…2…3!RENAISSANCE!!!!!

Sean Hornbeck

01:31 11 May 22

I have been in touch with Steve for a few months now. All I can say is that if you or a loved one are struggling with addiction there are people who will understand you, and when I called this place for the first time I finally felt understood. Addiction is complex and if you have concerns, one phone call can change your life. Start having a conversation. Don’t suffer in silence. Educate yourself about addiction and all it’s complexities. It starts with you and this place will help you.

Erin Ware

17:30 07 Feb 22

Absolutely hands down the epitome model of what real caring for individuals with addiction looks like. This is not a run of the mill experience with just a clinical look but with a deep understanding of addiction and what recovery looks like. Caring, compassionate, highly effective program that comes with support that is above and beyond after graduation.

Paola Palacios

20:57 17 Dec 21

It is seldom that in a hard time you think you will gain from the experience, but because of this phenomenal center that is exactly what I got. Learned so much about myself as well as learned I’m not alone in my struggles. I made lifelong friends that walk beside me through it all and I with them. The staff is beyond compare! They’re there for you through thick and thin. They honestly and truly care with love understanding and respect. Zero guilt pushed just genuine looking out. So happy I chose this path with these amazing people.

Joshua Kelben

16:40 16 Dec 21

Highly recommend!! 5 stars!!! Great staff who took the time to get to know me. They have a lot of experience in this field and have first hand experience with what I was going through. IOP is outstanding and really built up a ton of great relationships and found this program to be a ‘breath of fresh air’. They got a lot of love and empathy and will always go the extra mile to help their clients!When I first called Renassaince Recovery to ask some questions, someone locally answered and spent time with me just talking. No big admissions call center! I knew this was place for me after that first call!I encourage anyone reading this, if you think you have a problem and need help Renaissance Recovery is a safe place and will change your life! Their program works… if you make the decision and take suggestions.

Dustin

17:02 24 Jul 21

I want to say thank you so so much to Steve. Thank you doesn’t truly express my gratitude. I called Renaissance as a broken-hearted grandmother to my grandson. We just found out at 22 years old he has Alcoholic Hepatitis. We had no idea he was even drinking. Steve calmed me down where I felt cared about and understood. I am so grateful that I have hope for a complete recovery for my precious grandson. Thank you and may God continue to Bless you and your staff.A Crenshaw

World Marketing Group

17:20 09 Jul 21

I was introduced to Renaissance Recovery Center in June of 2020 when my husband decided to join their IOP program. As a spouse of someone who has battled addiction of all sorts for our entire 18yr relationship, I was not very convinced that this program would change anything but he was so sure this was where he needed to be so I agreed to it. I am so thankful that I chose to support my husband and his decision to partake in this program because it completely changed our life for the better. For the first time since we were 18yrs old, I finally saw the man I fell in love with coming back to life. This program, Steve, Dan, Lindsay, Nils and many of the men that my husband met in this group truly saved his life and our family. Ryan just celebrated 8months sober from everything and on 2/17/21 he celebrates 1 yr sober from opiates ( which was his achilles heel) Renaissance took the time to invest in Ryan and Ryan gave his all to Renaissance and the outcome of this relationship is one that changed his course in life for the better. Ryan finally got down to the core of why he did things that he did and learned how to cope in different ways which led him back to a much stronger relationship with God and a core group of men that he continues to grow with and support throughout their individual recoveries. I am forever grateful to Steve and Lindsay especially as they played such a HUGE ROLE in helping Ryan deal with all his trauma and addiction. If you or someone you love struggles with addiction, I highly recommend Renaissance!! I have never seen anyone more genuine in their calling to help others as what Steve and his team are to the individuals in their programs. Thank you for saving my family and showing Ryan what it means to LIVE a full and meaningful life outside of addiction.

Ashley Wisniewski

16:23 16 Feb 21

"Sick and tired of being sick and tired". "Wanna get clean and sober but don't know how". These were my thoughts to myself before coming to Renaissance in June of 2020. Renaissance was literally a God-Send for me and my family. I had struggled with addiction(s) for almost 20 years and it was destroying my life. I did a lot of research about different programs but ALWAYS kept coming back to Renaissance for some reason. After my initial call with Steve I understood why right away. The team is truly one of a kind and the family atmosphere is felt right away. Steve, Lindsay, Dan, Chad, and Nils all will forever have an impact on my life. The thoughtfulness, caring, genuine emotional support, and knowledge that they provided and gave to me is exactly what I was looking for in a program. Words can't express what their program did for me and the gift of recovery/sobriety that they helped me gain for the 1st time in almost 20 years. I will always be in recovery and with their help and support I have a GREAT foundation and tools to work with to continue what they started from here on out. From the bottom of my heart (My wife and soon to be 4 boys hearts) I/we say THANK YOU for helping me get my life back and so much more!!Ryan Wisniewski

Ryan Wisniewski

21:05 04 Feb 21

I came to Renaissance bruised and battered by my own doing. Monday, January 4, 2021 is my last day of IOP. I now look back and see how different of a person I am. This is thanks to Chad, Dan, Steve, and Nils (and team). These men are the epitome of compassion, passion, and love (true Agape). I bonded with each and every one of them as they work tirelessly to help bring recovery and peace to us all. I have met amazing brothers in this program. I will never forget speaking to Steve on the morning of September 8, 2020. He immediately took me in as one of his own (he called me "brother", which had such a profound impact on my soul). I could feel his love and I knew immediately that this was my message from God (whom I was without for many years). I look forward to being in the aftercare program. I feel as though these gentlemen are an extension of my family. I am forever grateful for everything they have taught me and for helping me to become the better man I am today.

Pod Luthier

18:20 31 Dec 20

At first I was hesitant to start recovery because I didn’t feel my addiction was as severe and I thought I could overcome Alcoholism on my own. Once I started with Renaissance I immediately felt surrounded by people who genuinely cared about me as a person and wanted to help me along my journey to recovery. I quickly realized that this was the right place to receive the help I needed to recover and that I couldn’t do it on my own. They gave me the necessary support and helped me realize that I couldn’t overcome my addiction by myself. They allowed me to dig deep into what would trigger me to drink and helped me to understand more about myself and the reasons I was drinking. I felt educated about this disease and it made me realize I wasn’t alone in my recovery. I feel like a new person and it gave me power and confidence to move on and be myself again. Steve and Chad helped me to open up and admit that I needed to do this for myself and I couldn’t do it for others. During group meetings I felt comfortable and connected to other people going through the similar situations. It enabled me to express my struggles and feelings about this addiction that I had never shared with anyone. Before coming to Renaissance Recovery, I did not open up or trust people as I do now and it has allowed me to build closer relationships with family and friends. I would highly recommend the Renaissance team because they truly provide an individualized experience and care about every person that comes through their door.

James Dangelo

18:12 27 Jul 20

Renaissance is an incredible establishment!! Every single counselor will get to know you, and help you with your own personal struggles. I’ve never met more caring people in any other recovery program. This is the first time that I have truly been confident in my recovery and have began to understand the process! Almost one year sober and the counselors still check in on me! I can’t say thank you enough to Steve, Lindsay, Dan, and Chad! You guys are amazing!!

Jamie M

00:29 24 Jul 20

A very professional and experienced staff with many years in the Addiction business. They focus on the solutions for their clients, approaching each on an individual basis with individual treatment plans. Their staff truly CARES about everyone that they work with. I would highly recommend this facility for anyone that is truly seeking sobriety.

HR Brown

21:02 02 Mar 20

I have worked for several other treatment providers and renaissance by far is the best treatment facility and is my forever home. I chased this job for years and am glad to be part of such an amazing team.

Chad Metz

05:41 28 Feb 20

Fundamental to my recovery are qualified counselors especially Steve Brown and treatment centers as effective Renaissance Recovery Center. I am in long term recovery through your efforts!

Nils Johansson

16:44 17 Dec 19

Finding Renaissance Recovery Center was a Godsend for our family! My daughter was in a safe and supportive environment that helped her succeed in her recovery. The staff are amazing...Chad, Lindsay and Steve, I can't say enough about about what they do. They're a Family, and they treat not only their clients as family but all the rest of us that are involved and going through this our loved ones!!

Nani Pickell

02:23 14 Nov 19

I would highly recommend Renissance! It’s a family that you never knew you had or needed. They saved my life and I am forever grateful.

Dominique Hylton

04:00 04 Sep 19

Exactly what I dreamed for in my life to get me off the path of destruction when I was in desperate need for help, where I thought no one would be able to help me no friends or family could talk me out of my stubbornness to have drugs or alcohol be the resort to fix my problems. I had to be all in when I got to renaissance to want to get better and 9 months later I still believe it to be the greatest blessing in my 19 years of life, the structure the counselors with big hearts but most importantly the people is what made it great my higher power was the group not God but seeing the love at renaissance of staying connected and keeping each others heads up made me glad that Jesus was with us in our time of trouble seeing a man barely holding on about to fall with not just tears but another hurt alcoholic and drug addict on each side keeping him standing and head straight while also hugging to make sure he knows he's not alone, that man I like to believe was an angel and his hurt brothers and sisters was his wings to not only keep him from falling but soon be able to stand on his own.

Dallas Brower

07:47 19 May 19

Renaissance Recovery Center has been a gift for me personally and professionally! There is no other place I would recommend to receive the love, compassion and understanding I experienced while here! Everyone has been a resource for recovery and all understand what addiction truly is! I cannot thank Renaissance Recovery Center, Lindsay and Dan, but especially Steve Brown for the tools to change my life in ways I could not imagine before meeting them. I am truly grateful to God for placing them in my life! Words cannot express how my life has remarkably changed from a seemingly hopeless state of body and mind!Dr. Black

Seth Black

18:04 03 Apr 19

When life became unmanageable, I reached out to Renaissance Recovery and was astonished at the amazing professionalism, attention to detail, great education, and overall quality of service and care. They really do care and have a dynamic I haven't found at several other facilities I've tried. Reaching out for help is the the hardest part. They made it easy and the rest fell into place.Steve, Lindsey, Dan, and Chad are what make this program work. Head and shoulders above the rest. It's changed my life for the better and given me quilty of life that other places didn't deliver. It is always the first place I talk about (really brag about) and recommend if someone is suffering from this terrible affliction of chemical dependency.If you need help and are struggling with addiction... Look no further. 12 step based recovery with one on one and group therapy. It was the best thing I ever did for me and my family. I'm now enjoying a new sober life I never thought possible. Thank you Renaissance for what you do. The place was a Godsend. Eternally grateful. Best luck and be well.

Charles Lyons

04:09 11 Mar 19

Five years ago I had the opportunity to meet Steve Brown, the owner of Renaissance Recovery. At the time, I was working with a physician who treated dependency with medication, but realized his patients also needed skilled counseling and therapy as a part of their recovery plan if they were to succeed in achieving long-term sobriety. He routinely referred his patients to Renaissance Recovery. I have had numerous occasions to observe Steve and his excellent staff as they interact with clients and their families. There is no condemnation or judgement for any client who walks through the door at Renaissance Recovery, only acceptance and empathy.The staff and the beautiful facility promote a therapeutic environment that fosters restoration of the mind, body,and soul. I encourage anyone seeking help for an addiction for themselves or for a loved one to contact Renaissance Recovery. Your call will be welcomed.

Barbara Bontempi

02:42 05 Mar 19

I am a spouse of someone who has been through Renaissance. This was our first rehab rodeo and hopefully our last! This program is full of counselors who love the individuals who are suffering. Renaissance recognizes that not only the addict is suffering, family and close friends may need support as well.During this time, I found the support I needed through the family group and workshops Renaissance puts together. I cannot say enough good things about this program and the process they encourage for healing as a whole. They want what’s best for those in thier program and their families as well. They offer addiction education and support to family members which helped me better understand my spouse and the process he was going through. They offer an after care program and have continued to show support to our family with therapy referrals and counseling suggestions. Steve Brown and his team listens intently to know the needs of who goes through thier program. I am so thankful the impact Renaissance has had on my husband and also myself by encouraging a healing process for the family members as well. I was extended a hand of support from other struggling family members and the comradery of this program is one that can’t be beat. My husband has left this program with friends he will have forever just like I have. You are not alone and you don’t have to suffer alone!

Farnsworth Farnsworth

02:18 25 Jan 19

If you are looking for THE place for recovery look no further! These are amazing individuals that have many years helping those who suffer from alcholism and addiction. They are as genuine as they come and I promise you will get the care you need. I've been sober over ten years using this program as a base for my recovery . Steve brown and company continue to touch so many lives and take their profession seriously . You will never regret coming to this special place.

R-Factor LLC

19:27 13 Sep 18

Renaissance Recovery Center has incredible and caring staff who truly want to help you get better. The staff makes you feel comfortable, safe and private.

Tatum

03:13 26 Jun 18

I would absolutely recommend for addiction recovery. The staff is caring, wonderful, and extremely knowledgeable.

Richard Mezzia

12:48 08 Jun 18

My experience with Renaissance Recovery Center was nothing but absolutely wonderful. When I first walked thru the front door, I was greeted by a caring staff. I first met with Dan and knew this was the place for me. Steve and Lindsey provided me with invaluable tools and a mindset to be successful. Renaissance Recovery Center tailored my recovery process to my specific needs which is very important because each person's story and circumstances are different. I have now been sober for over 120 days and I could not have done it without the love and support of the wonderful staff at Renaissance Recovery Center!

Jody Bradshaw

14:26 10 May 18

I participated in the Intensive Outpatient Program from late September to late December. This program is amazing, run by three people who really know what they're doing! Our group meetings did follow a structure, but there was quite a bit of time for sharing and interacting with peers and staff members. Because of this format, our group became very close. We shared personal thoughts and stories in a very comfortable and responsive setting.The program also includes one-on-one therapy sessions every week, as well as individual help with the first four steps of the 12 step AA program. The combination of treatments and the supportive atmosphere is effective, and leaves many clients wanting more. I am currently enrolled in the aftercare program which meets once a week for two hours. In this group we focus more on strategies for coping and recognizing and diverting signs of relapse in everyday life. I highly recommend this program to anyone who is struggling with addiction.

Kathleen Anderson

07:49 02 Mar 18

I spoke with Steve he took the time to generously answer all my questions for my loved one, he even met with us on his day off! All without asking for a dime, he is in this for the recovery of people to get their lives back and not trying to sell spots! Don't second guess this is the place for you!

MoniqueFlores Beauty

16:49 16 Nov 17

I cannot say enough good things about renaissance recovery. They really care and truly love everyone who comes in for help. There is a strong spirit that I felt all the way through my treatment. Highly recomended

Greg Johnson

19:52 10 Aug 17

My husband and I have known Steve Brown for several years. We know him to be a wonderful man who has keen insight into the causes of addiction and the steps to recovery. Steve is a man of great integrity who genuinely cares about people and is very willing to help others.

Carolyn Payne

20:20 15 Jul 17

Known some of the staff there for many years. Their commitment and experience in treating addiction is some of the best available. Renaissance's alumni is a powerful group that has helped many of my friends get and stay sober.

Russ Bird

19:03 14 Jul 17

Accredited, Proven Outpatient Drug Addiction Treatment and Alcohol Abuse Rehabilitation Programs

NAADC certified - Renaissance Recovery Center in Arizona

CCYSA Renaissance Recovery Center Arizona

Licensed Out-Patient Treatment Center in Arizona - Renaissance Recovery Center Arizona

International Association of Trauma Professionals - Renaissance Recovery Center Arizona

Renaissance Recovery Center works with the Arizona Department of Health Services

We Accept Most Insurance Plans

Verify Your Coverage

Call Now

(480) 526-7738

OUR MISSION: To promote healing and wellness for the suffering addict, their families, and others struggling with psychological and emotional challenges; to provide care within an environment of safety, respect and regard for each individual.