Specializing in Addictions, Interventions, Recovery

Rick Atwater, is highly respected and known for his straight-forward, behavior-oriented approach to addiction. In a high-risk field where experience is invaluable, Rick has facilitated assessments, substance abuse interventions, treatment and recovery support for over 39 years. He was one of the earliest Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors in the State of Illinois.

Today, he travels nation-wide, is Co-Director of Northwest Community Counseling Services, and founder of Employee Health Consultants, Inc., specializing in comprehensive employee assistant services.  He is published nationally, founder of the Heroin Awareness Foundation, and recognized as the “Home-Town Hero” for helping addicts and supporting their families. Starting in 1984, he has written and responded to readers about addiction-related topics for the Northwest Herald in a column head-lined as “Straight Talk” (archived articles available). Rick also featured a weekly internet radio program broadcast via Blog Talk Radio, “Straight Stuff on Addictions” (episodes can be found on Recovery Internet Radio Podcast).