Understanding and Treating Process Addictions in Chicago
How Front Door Health Supports Lasting Recovery Beyond Substance Use
At Front Door Health, we recognize that addiction doesn’t always involve drugs or alcohol. Process addictions—compulsive behaviors like gambling, shopping, internet use, sex, or even exercise—can be just as disruptive to a person’s life, relationships, and mental health. These patterns may not involve a substance, but the impact is just as real.
What Is a Process Addiction?
Process addictions are behavioral addictions. They occur when a person becomes dependent on a specific activity or behavior to manage emotions, escape reality, or gain a sense of control. These behaviors can provide a temporary high or relief, but over time they create cycles of shame, secrecy, and distress.
Common process addictions include:
· Gambling
· Sex or pornography
· Shopping or spending
· Internet and gaming
· Exercise or eating patterns
· Work or productivity
Just like substance use disorders, process addictions can lead to significant impairment in daily functioning, mental health issues like anxiety or depression, and strained interpersonal relationships.
How We Treat Process Addictions at Front Door Health
At Front Door Health, we approach process addiction treatment with the same comprehensive care that we provide for substance use disorders. Our programs are designed to address not just the behavior itself, but the emotional and psychological root causes behind it.
Our process addiction treatment includes:
Individual Therapy: Focused sessions to help uncover underlying trauma, distorted thought patterns, and triggers.
Group Therapy: Peer support and community-based healing through shared experiences.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A proven method for identifying and changing harmful behavior cycles.
Dual Diagnosis Support: Many of our clients experience co-occurring mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD. We treat both simultaneously for better outcomes.
Aftercare Planning: Long-term recovery doesn’t stop when treatment ends. We help build sustainable strategies for life beyond addictive behaviors.
We understand that no two clients are the same, and neither are their addictions. Whether you're struggling with compulsive gambling or excessive time online, we’ll tailor your treatment to your needs, history, and goals.
Why Seek Help?
People often delay seeking treatment for process addictions because they feel their behavior “isn’t that bad” or because it doesn’t involve a substance. But when a behavior begins to control your life—when it interferes with work, relationships, finances, or emotional well-being—it’s time to get help.
You don’t have to hit rock bottom to begin your recovery. At Front Door Health, we meet you where you are, without judgment. Our team is here to guide you with compassion, experience, and evidence-based tools that help you reclaim your life.
Begin the Journey Today
If you or someone you care about is struggling with a behavioral addiction, we’re here to help. Front Door Health provides expert process addiction treatment in Chicago that’s rooted in understanding, accountability, and hope. Recovery isn’t just possible—it’s within reach.
Reach out today and take the first step toward freedom.