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In the past, Stepping Stones has had some excellent employees. Unfortunately, management doesn't seem eager to hold on to top notch employees. It's apparently not a priority of theirs. Some excellent employees remain. It has yet to be seen ho the newest employees will ...
About Stepping Stones of Rockford
At Rockford, you’ll have residential care that consists of 24/7 support, psychiatric and medical programs, and counseling. The apartment or house where you’ll be staying has a full-time staff, which can include mental health experts, nurses, and social workers. That way, your addiction and any underlying conditions can be treated.
The apartments and houses are allocated depending on the level of care you need, with some more restrictive than others. The apartments are gender specific, with different numbers of clients allowed in each center. The staff and residents are responsible for getting food, the upkeep, and providing for managing the calendars. To encourage independence, you’ll be allowed to use public transportation to go to school, work or volunteer in the local community. Smoking may be allowed, depending on what you all decide.
When inpatient care is complete, you’ll be eligible for an outpatient program, where you can continue your recovery. Outpatient is available for children 6+ and adults, and options include family conferencing, medication management, and an online telepsychiatry platform.
The Stars of Light program is a theatrical troupe made up of Stepping Stones alumni. It started back in 1955, and they travel the country performing and bringing awareness to the public. They’ve appeared on stage, radio, videos, and television. They also provide motivational speakers and assist with rehabilitation.
Fact checked and written by:
Peter Lee, PhD
Edited by:
Anna Spooner
Facility Overview
40 Number of Available Beds
15 - 30' Avg Length of Stay in Days
Latest Reviews
Richard Eischen
Reviewed on 10/02/2025
In the past, Stepping Stones has had some excellent employees. Unfortunately, management doesn't seem eager to hold on to top notch employees. It's apparently not a priority of theirs. Some excellent employees remain. It has yet to be seen ho the newest employees will be at working with clients. Management seems to be the source of red tape and problems, making Stepping Stones of Rockford IL self-focused (business focused) rather than client focused.
Unfortunately, Stepping Stones is living in the Dark Ages, when it comes to their ability to understand and appreciate comfort dog therapy. They disapppoint by choosing to be opposed to a dog-friendly experience in healing emotional and other crises and obstacles. It is quite disappointing that in the 21st Century, this agency should shackle it's policies and regulations to a backwards, antiquated model. Nevertheless, I remain hopeful that this agency will reexamine this issue, and adspt in today's world, where we continue to learn of the interconnectedness of different therapies in overcoming past and present challenges. One particular staff member at the Morray Drive location seems to be holding them back within the out-dated business business model of opposing a dog-friendly approach to healing for clients. Perhaps when he moves on some day to other employment opportunities, more open minded staff can reconsider the need to do all we can to help clients, not just stagnating with the mentality that is afraid to try a more integrated system of health and healing.
They don't consider the fact that someone's age doesn't make them know how to make adult decisions. I have dealt with them in the past and that time wasn't pleasant either. If you have an adult child with learning disorders, please go somewhere else for help! They act as if age gives them the right to speak to someone who doesn't clearly understand. I have yet to get guardianship to make medical decisions for my daughter that I never needed before, some places will talk to you because you handle your adult Childs financial needs and are the disabled adults payee for SSI without guardianship. In my opinion, this is just a sad way to control people with barriers and micro aggressive behavior with certain groups of people.
Stepping stones has really been a blessing to me and my life …the people I have met there have truly impacted my life for the greater good and are a major part of my life and my support system. Truly grateful for them especially at the main office !
Rehab Score
Our Methodology
Scoring is assigned by a proprietary system which helps surface key metrics that determine quality. The 10-point scale factors in categories such as operations, customer satisfaction, and trust metrics. Read Full Methodology
7.3 / 10
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Other Forms of Payment
Private insurance refers to any kind of healthcare coverage that isn't from the state or federal government. This includes individual and family plans offered by an employer or purchased from the Insurance Marketplace. Every plan will have different requirements and out of pocket costs so be sure to get the full details before you start treatment.
Self-pay involves paying for treatment out of your own pocket. You can use savings or credit, get a personal loan, or receive help from family and friends to fund your treatment. If you don't have insurance or your insurance plan doesn't cover a specific program, self-pay can help ensure you still get the care you need.
Financial aid can take many forms. Centers may have grants or scholarships available to clients who meet eligibility requirements. Programs that receive SAMHSA grants may have financial aid available for those who need treatment as well. Grants and scholarships can help you pai for treatment without having to repay.
Sliding scale payments are based on a client's income and family size. The goal is to make treatment affordable to everyone. By taking these factors into account, addiction recovery care providers help ensure that your treatment does not become a financial burden to you or your family, eliminating one barrier to care.
Military members, veterans, and eligible dependents have access to specific insurance programs that help them get the care they need. TRICARE and VA insurance can help you access low cost or no cost addiction and mental health treatment. Programs that accept military insurance often have targeted treatment focused on the unique challenges military members, veterans, and their families face.
Medicaid is a state based program that helps lower-income individuals and families pay for healthcare. Medicaid covers addiction treatment so those enrolled can use their coverage to pay for rehab. When a program accepts Medicaid the client often pays very little or nothing out of their own pocket.
Medicare is a federal program that provides health insurance for those 65 and older. It also serves people under 65 with chronic and disabling health challenges. To use Medicare for addiction treatment you need to find a program that accepts Medicare and is in network with your plan. Out of pocket costs and preauthorization requirements vary, so always check with your provider.
Private insurance refers to any kind of healthcare coverage that isn't from the state or federal government. This includes individual and family plans offered by an employer or purchased from the Insurance Marketplace. Every plan will have different requirements and out of pocket costs so be sure to get the full details before you start treatment.
Addiction Treatments
Levels of Care
Outpatient Programs (OP) are for those seeking mental rehab or drug rehab, but who also stay at home every night. The main difference between outpatient treatment (OP) and intensive outpatient treatment (IOP) lies in the amount of hours the patient spends at the facility. Most of the time an outpatient program is designed for someone who has completed an inpatient stay and is looking to continue their growth in recovery. Outpatient is not meant to be the starting point, it is commonly referred to as aftercare.
When participating in an inpatient rehab program, you'll reside at the treatment center for the duration of the program. Your housing and meals are provided, allowing you to focus on your recovery without outside triggers, stressors, and other distractions. You'll receive daily addiction counseling, drawing on various psychotherapeutic approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing. Many inpatient drug rehabs also offer complementary holistic therapies, such as yoga, meditation, or animal therapy, and creative arts therapy.
Intensive outpatient programs (IOP) enable clients to receive high-level care while living at home. Clients may choose to enter IOP instead of enrolling in inpatient care post-detox or they may transition from an inpatient rehab into IOP. Intensive outpatient treatment involves multiple therapeutic sessions per week and includes a combination of psychotherapy and addiction and recovery education. Many programs also offer medication assisted treatment (MAT) and/or holistic therapies, such as acupuncture and massage.
Rehab aftercare programs provide a full continuum of care for clients who are exiting inpatient treatment. Though outpatient care is often considered an element of drug rehab aftercare, services typically continue for the remainder of the clients' life and long after formal treatment is completed. Clients work with their case managers and care team to formulate a customized portfolio of medical, mental health, and social service resources designed to evolve as the client's needs change.
Participants in 12 step programs focus on emotional, psychological, and spiritual growth as the foundation for long-term sobriety. They engage in regular 12 step meetings, which are anonymous, free, and accessible day and night, year-round, in most communities. Participants also receive one-on-one mentoring from a self-selected sponsor. Though the 12 steps of recovery are based on spiritual principles, religious affiliation isn't required. Specialized formats are available, including programs for seniors, teens, and families.
Living in a sober living home in Illinois is a lot like living in a traditional home. Everyone must contribute to household chores and maintenance. All residents must work and pay rent. Individuals can mostly come and go as they please, but they must be home before curfew. Most men's and women's sober living homes also host house meetings where they resolve disputes, assign responsibilities, and welcome new residents.
As a flexible option, a partial hospitalization program (PHP) is tailored for those who don't require 24-hour care. PHP treatment can include daily therapeutic sessions and services such as relapse prevention and medication management. Based on your needs, PHP treatment duration can average 90 days and require a minimum of 20 hours of commitment weekly. While a partial hospitalization program typically requires a commute, telehealth may be available. PHP treatment costs can vary but are often covered by most insurance.
Addiction treatment often begins with 24-hour clinical care in Illinois. This supervised setting is the best environment for detox.where medical staff can provide 24/7 supervision and responsive care as your body is cleansed of addictive substances. Doctors may prescribe antagonist and partial agonist drugs to counteract the effects of drugs or alcohol, or they may slowly taper down dosages of substances to end physical dependence on the drug.
Treatments
Many of those suffering from addiction also suffer from mental or emotional illnesses like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, or anxiety disorders. Rehab and other substance abuse facilities treating those with a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder administer psychiatric treatment to address the person's mental health issue in addition to drug and alcohol rehabilitation.
Mental health rehabs focus on helping individuals recover from mental illnesses like bipolar disorder, clinical depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and more. Mental health professionals at these facilities are trained to understand and treat mental health issues, both in individual and group settings.
Mental Health And Substance AbusePrograms
Adult rehab programs include therapies tailored to each client's specific needs, goals, and recovery progress. They are tailored to the specific challenges adult clients may face, including family and work pressures and commitments. From inpatient and residential treatment to various levels of outpatient services, there are many options available. Some facilities also help adults work through co-occurring conditions, like anxiety, that can accompany addiction.
Young adulthood can be an exciting, yet difficult, time of transition. Individuals in their late teens to mid-20s face unique stressors related to school, jobs, families, and social circles, which can lead to a rise in substance use. Rehab centers with dedicated young adult programs will include activities and amenities that cater to this age group, with an emphasis on specialized counseling, peer socialization, and ongoing aftercare.
Nearly one million adults age 65 and older live with a substance use disorder. Treatment providers who specialize in senior care understand the social, psychological, and physical effects of aging and how they relate to recovery. They can help clients address particular challenges and risks they may face as they get older such as overdosing and medication interactions and dependencies.
Clinical Services
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a therapy modality that focuses on the relationship between one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is used to establish and allow for healthy responses to thoughts and feelings (instead of unhealthy responses, like using drugs or alcohol). CBT has been proven effective for recovering addicts of all kinds, and is used to strengthen a patient's own self-awareness and ability to self-regulate. CBT allows individuals to monitor their own emotional state, become more adept at communicating with others, and manage stress without needing to engage in substance abuse.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a modified form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a treatment designed to help people understand and ultimately affect the relationship between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. DBT is often used for individuals who struggle with self-harm behaviors, such as self-mutilation (cutting) and suicidal thoughts, urges, or attempts. It has been proven clinically effective for those who struggle with out-of-control emotions and mental health illnesses like Borderline Personality Disorder.
Group therapy is any therapeutic work that happens in a group (not one-on-one). There are a number of different group therapy modalities, including support groups, experiential therapy, psycho-education, and more. Group therapy involves treatment as well as processing interaction between group members.
In individual therapy, a patient meets one-on-one with a trained psychologist or counselor. Therapy is a pivotal part of effective substance abuse treatment, as it often covers root causes of addiction, including challenges faced by the patient in their social, family, and work/school life.
Motivational interviewing in Illinois is person centered and collaborative. This method allows the therapist to come alongside the client to address the issue of ambivalence toward change. By listening and reflecting, the therapist helps the client see the need for change and commit to making changes.
Family therapy helps to rebuild trust and strengthen relationships that have been affected by addiction. Therapists use guided interventions to help families improve their interactions and address underlying issues that impact their relationships. This helps create a supportive atmosphere for the recovery process.
Life skills training in Illinois gives you the tools you need to meet daily demands. These fall into three main categories: personal skills, interpersonal skills, and cognitive skills. While in rehab, you'll work on each of these areas as part of your recovery treatment.
Amenities
-
Residential Setting -
Private Rooms
Staff & Accreditations
Staff
Susan Schroeder, LCSW
CEO
Candice O’Brien
Director of Finance
Christina Overton, LCSW
Director of Services
Luke Salberg
Associate Director of Services
Joann Rossi, LCSW
Director of Buildings and Grounds
Accreditations
The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) is a non-profit organization that specifically accredits rehab organizations. Founded in 1966, CARF's, mission is to help service providers like rehab facilities maintain high standards of care.
CARF Accreditation: Yes
State Licenses are permits issued by government agencies that allow rehab organizations to conduct business legally within a certain geographical area. Typically, the kind of program a rehab facility offers, along with its physical location, determines which licenses are required to operate legally.
State License: Illinois
Contact Information
706 North Main Street
Rockford, IL 61103
Get Help Now - 708-470-6914
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