Charles River Recovery 
Medically supervised drug detox is a clinical process that manages withdrawal so the brain and body can stabilize and reduce short-term risks. 1 This guide explains how evidence-based detox works, why monitoring and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) options matter, and what patients and families should expect during evaluation, stabilization, and the transition into ongoing treatment. You’ll … Read more
Suboxone combines buprenorphine and naloxone and is commonly prescribed to treat opioid use disorder. 1 How long Suboxone detox takes depends on the drug’s pharmacology, the individual’s history, and whether detox is supervised by clinicians. Physical withdrawal from Suboxone usually unfolds over days to weeks, while longer-lasting psychological symptoms can persist for months. Knowing these … Read more
Marijuana detox describes the process of clearing THC and its metabolites from your body 1 while managing withdrawal symptoms and preparing for reliable drug testing or long-term abstinence. People often look for ways to detox from marijuana to pass a drug test, reduce lingering impairment, or start recovery from problematic cannabis use. This guide emphasizes … Read more
“Rehab duration” is the total time someone spends in structured addiction care, from medically supervised withdrawal through therapy and coordinated aftercare. Knowing typical timelines helps you and your family set realistic expectations, arrange logistics, and choose between shorter stabilization programs or longer, skills-based care. This guide outlines the most common program lengths (30-, 60-, and … Read more
Program length for drug rehabilitation varies from person to person, but most structured programs fall between 30 and 90 days, depending on clinical need and level of care. 1 This article explains those common timeframes, why they exist, and how the length of stay relates to outcomes like engagement, skill development, and relapse prevention. You’ll … Read more
“Success rate” in rehab is not a single, fixed number; it depends on how you define success. For some studies, success means staying sober for 30–90 days; for others, it means improved relationships, steady work, or a year of sustained recovery. 1 Published rates vary because researchers and programs use different outcome measures, follow-up lengths, … Read more
Relapse, returning to substance use after a period of abstinence, is a common part of many people’s recovery. Current studies generally place overall relapse rates after treatment in the 40–60% range, a pattern comparable to other chronic illnesses and reflective of addiction’s relapsing–remitting nature. 1 You’ll find recent data trends (including the high-risk first year), … Read more
Recovery after treatment is fragile but manageable when you have a clear plan, practical skills, and steady support. This guide explains what it means to stay sober after rehab, why relapse can happen (including the role of post-acute withdrawal syndrome, or PAWS) 1, and how evidence-based relapse prevention strategies, aftercare programs, social supports, and day-to-day … Read more
Yes, problematic marijuana use can meet clinical criteria for cannabis use disorder, and many people enter rehab for it. [1] This guide explains what cannabis dependence can look like, how to tell when professional care is warranted, and the main levels of treatment used to help people stop or cut back safely. You’ll find signs … Read more
Choosing the right luxury drug detox center can greatly impact your recovery journey. This article will help you understand what to look for in a luxury drug detox center, covering essential aspects like personalized treatment plans, high-quality amenities, and comprehensive medical support. Key Takeaways Luxury drug detox centers prioritize privacy, high-quality amenities, and personalized treatment … 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”.
