Outpatient Addictions Services Launches in South Bend

South Bend, IN – Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fort Wayne - South Bend (CCFWSB), has announced the launch of its outpatient drug and alcohol addiction treatment program. The program is currently available in South Bend only and is now taking referrals from healthcare professionals, courts, attorneys, and self-referrals. 

“Addiction is a common companion to mental illness, and it affects people of all ages and backgrounds with devastating results,” says Chris Nowak, Catholic Charities Clinical Director and certified addictions therapist. “It has the power to destroy health, relationships, and livelihoods. And people in our diocese are suffering from addiction to drugs and alcohol in record numbers.” 

A recent report from the U.S. surgeon general estimates that more than 20 million Americans have problems with prescription drugs, illegal drugs, or alcohol. However, only a small percentage get meaningful help. 

“What sets us apart is our ability to attend to the spiritual needs of clients,” says Gloria Whitcraft, CEO of CCFWSB. “We don’t impose faith on our consumers, but we provide a safe and encouraging environment to nourish the mind, body, and spirit for the sake of healing” 

For now, the new program is limited to outpatient treatment for alcohol and drug addiction. CCFWSB will not be addressing other addictions such as gambling until further notice. 

Nowak says the program is abstinence-based, meaning clients need to remove themselves completely from the addicting substance. Clients are also strongly encouraged to participate in support programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous. 

“Support groups are critical to long term success,” says Nowak. “So, we strongly encourage clients to find one and stick with it.” 

CCFWSB acquired an established outpatient treatment program from owner Rob Morgan, who is a certified addictions counselor. Morgan now provides the same services for clients through the Catholic Charities office in South Bend. Nowak, who has 25 years of experience in addiction treatment, acts as clinical supervisor. Catholic Charities received state certification for the program on January 5, 2021. 

Over nearly 100 years, CCFWSB has responded to the needs of the most vulnerable in the diocese. Today, addictions are tormenting individuals and destroying families. Providing treatment that honors the dignity of every person and strengthens families aligns well with CCFWSB’s mission. As such, CCFWSB has plans to expand its addictions practice over time. 

Outpatient services are by appointment only and are conducted on site at the Catholic Charities office in South Bend. These services are provided in person, observing all the COVID-related safety protocols. 

For program and referral information, contact: 

Catholic Charities 

1817 Miami Street 
South Bend, Indiana 46613 
(574) 234-3111 | (574) 289-1034 fax 
Chris Nowak cnowak@ccfwsb.org