Charles River Recovery 
For individuals on probation who are also navigating addiction, a common and important question arises: Is it possible to enter rehab without violating probation terms? In many situations, the answer is yes. In fact, seeking treatment is often viewed as a positive and responsible step that may support compliance, reduce the likelihood of new violations, … Read more
When a loved one is struggling with severe substance use and refuses help, families often ask a difficult and emotional question: Can you force someone into rehab? In certain situations, the answer is yes. Involuntary commitment, also known as court-ordered or forced rehab, is a legal process that allows a judge or authorized clinician to … Read more
Helping a loved one enter rehab is often one of the hardest and most emotional challenges a family can face. Addiction impacts not just the person struggling, but also the family’s relationships, safety, health, and stability. With the right approach, families can help their loved one get treatment, whether that means having caring conversations, planning … Read more
Embarking on the rehab journey signifies a crucial shift from uncertainty and potential harm toward a structured, evidence-based path designed to stabilize your health and initiate recovery from substance use disorder. In this guide, we will outline how to access rehab, emphasize the importance of prompt, clinical admissions for safety and successful outcomes, and provide … Read more
Addiction recovery is a deeply personal journey, and selecting the right treatment program is crucial for long-term success. Understanding the differences between residential, inpatient, and outpatient rehab can help you or a loved one choose a path that aligns with clinical needs, lifestyle, and recovery goals. From medical detox to dual diagnosis treatment, therapy intensity, … Read more
Deciding on the right level of addiction treatment is a key step in early recovery. Many people wonder if acute or subacute rehabilitation will suit them better. Both options offer structured support, but they vary in medical supervision, therapy intensity, and how quickly progress is expected. Knowing these differences helps patients, families, and clinicians choose … Read more
Subacute rehabilitation is an important step in addiction recovery for people who have finished detox but need support before moving to independent living or outpatient care. In this article, we discuss subacute rehabilitation as a mid-intensity, clinically guided level of care for those who are medically stable but still require structured therapeutic support. We will … Read more
A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) is one of the most structured and clinically intensive outpatient levels of care for addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. Designed for individuals who need daily therapeutic support but do not require 24/7 residential treatment, PHP offers a full-day schedule of evidence-based therapy, medication management, psychiatric oversight, and recovery-focused education. … Read more
Residential rehab provides a structured, 24/7 therapeutic environment where individuals live on-site to receive medically supervised care. Unlike outpatient programs, residential rehab removes external triggers and offers intensive support, making it especially effective for those with moderate to severe substance use disorders or co-occurring mental health challenges. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything … Read more
Can alcoholism be genetic? Yes, studies have shown that genetics significantly influence the risk of developing alcohol use disorder (AUD). This article explores how genetic factors contribute to alcoholism and what this means for prevention and treatment. Key Takeaways Genetics account for 45-65% of the risk for developing alcohol use disorder (AUD), highlighting the importance … Read more
Dr. Salah Alrakawi brings over 30 years of expertise in clinical medicine, academia, and administration. He is dual board-certified in Internal Medicine and Addiction Medicine, reflecting his deep commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care.
Currently serving as the Medical Director at Charles River Recovery, Dr. Alrakawi also holds roles as an Attending Physician in the Department of General Internal Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Atrius Health, and the Massachusetts Alcohol and Substance Abuse Center (MASAC). His multifaceted work underscores his dedication to advancing both the treatment of addiction and general internal medicine.
Dr. Alrakawi earned his medical degree from Damascus University and completed his Internal Medicine residency at Woodhull Medical Center. He is also a valued member of the teaching faculty at Harvard Medical School, where he helps shape the next generation of physicians.
Throughout his career, Dr. Alrakawi has been recognized with numerous awards and honors from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Tufts University School of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Lemuel Shattuck Hospital, and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, highlighting his contributions to public health, education, and patient care.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Dr. Alrakawi is an avid traveler who enjoys hiking, playing soccer, and immersing himself in diverse cultures around the world.
Steven Barry holds a B.A. in Economics from Bates College with extensive professional experience in both financial and municipal management. In his role as Director of Outreach, Steve leads the Charles River team in fostering relationships across the recovery community, local cities and towns, labor partners, and serving as a general resource for anyone seeking help.
Steve’s Charles River Why – “Anything I have ever done in my professional career has been rooted in helping people. There is no more direct correlate to that end than assisting people find their path to reclaim their life from the grips of addiction”.
