Why We Believe in Second (and Third) Chances at Ladoga Recovery

Why We Believe in Second (and Third) Chances at Ladoga Recovery

Sometimes, recovery doesn’t follow a straight line. And sometimes, neither does belief in yourself.

That’s why at Ladoga Recovery Center, we’ve built a program—and a team—that doesn’t give up on people just because they’re struggling. We believe in second chances. And third ones. Not because it’s easy, but because it’s right.

Our addiction treatment team in Indiana is made up of people who understand that healing happens in stages, not all at once. And we’ve seen, time and time again, that when someone feels truly seen, truly accepted, and truly welcomed back—they start to believe in themselves again, too.

We Don’t Count Your Struggles Against You

If your loved one has tried treatment before and it didn’t work, that doesn’t disqualify them from support—it qualifies them for compassion.

At Ladoga, we don’t keep score. We don’t ask, “Why didn’t it stick?” We ask, “What didn’t fit? What do you need this time that you didn’t get before?”

That shift—away from blame and into curiosity—is part of what makes our addiction treatment team different. We know that people heal when they’re not shamed for their setbacks. Instead, we approach each person as someone worthy of care, respect, and individualized support.

We understand the cycles that addiction creates: hope, effort, missteps, and often, shame. But we also understand what breaks that cycle—unconditional support paired with the right tools.

Our Team Sees the Person, Not Just the Pattern

Addiction can make people hard to recognize, even to those who love them most. But beneath the chaos or quiet disconnection, there’s still a person—still your child, your partner, your friend.

That’s who we see. Our clinicians, peer support specialists, and staff are trained not just in clinical care, but in connection. Whether someone walks through our doors for the first time or the fifth, we treat them like they matter—because they do.

At Ladoga, we believe every client deserves to be known beyond their history. We take the time to understand their story, their pain, and their potential. We believe in clinical excellence, but also in human kindness.

You can meet our team and learn more about their backgrounds and approach here: Meet Our Team at Ladoga Recovery

We’re Realistic About the Work—and Hopeful About the Future

Let’s be honest: change is hard. Relapse happens. Progress can stall. That’s not failure—it’s feedback.

When someone feels stuck or disconnected, our team doesn’t try to push them harder. We help them reconnect with their “why,” clarify what recovery means now, and rebuild from there. We believe in progress, not perfection.

That kind of honest support creates a space where people feel safe being real. No masks. No pretending. Just a shared commitment to try again, and the structure to make that possible.

One of our alumni once said:
“I thought they’d be disappointed in me when I came back. But all they said was, ‘We’re glad you’re here.’ That changed everything.”
— Alumni, 2023

Second Chances at Ladoga

We’ve Built a Culture That Honors Resilience

We’ve worked intentionally to create a space where both clients and staff can show up as they are—messy, uncertain, hopeful, tired. Because we know real recovery requires real honesty.

Our team understands that resilience isn’t about never falling. It’s about continuing to rise. And we celebrate that effort.

At Ladoga, we:

  • Normalize relapse as part of many recovery stories
  • Keep an open door policy for returning clients
  • Celebrate small wins as much as big milestones
  • Train staff in trauma-informed, person-centered care

This kind of culture doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of a clear mission: to offer excellent addiction care without judgment. To be the kind of place people want to come back to—not because they have to, but because they feel safe here.

Because the Door Stays Open—Always

We don’t believe in shutting the door on someone who’s struggling. Whether your loved one has relapsed, ghosted treatment, or simply lost momentum—we welcome them back with warmth and structure.

Recovery is hard enough. Getting support shouldn’t be.

That’s why we’ve made our process flexible and welcoming:

  • No judgment for returning clients
  • Easy re-entry assessments
  • Staff who recognize and honor the courage it takes to come back

We know that when someone feels safe coming back, they’re more likely to stay. And when families feel supported, they’re more likely to trust the process.

Because healing doesn’t happen all at once. It happens every time someone hears, “You’re still welcome here.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my loved one has been to rehab before and it didn’t work?
That’s more common than you might think. We believe that past attempts show willingness, not failure. At Ladoga, we tailor each treatment plan to fit the person in front of us today—not the version from last year.

Is your team trained to handle clients with multiple relapses?
Yes. Our addiction treatment team includes licensed professionals, recovery peers, and trauma-informed clinicians who understand the emotional weight of chronic relapse. We focus on connection, not judgment.

Do you allow people to return to treatment after leaving early?
Absolutely. We have an open-door philosophy. Whether someone left after a few days or a few weeks, we welcome them back with care, clarity, and no shame.

How do I know if Ladoga is the right fit?
If you’re looking for a treatment center in Indiana that honors your loved one’s story and believes in second chances, we might be exactly what you need. Call us anytime to talk it through.

Ready to Talk About a New Chance?

Whether it’s the second, third, or tenth time—it’s still the right time to reach out. Call us at (844) 628-6202. Our team is here to listen, not judge.

*The stories shared in this blog are meant to illustrate personal experiences and offer hope. Unless otherwise stated, any first-person narratives are fictional or blended accounts of others’ personal experiences. Everyone’s journey is unique, and this post does not replace medical advice or guarantee outcomes. Please speak with a licensed provider for help.

Tim Grzeskiewicz was raised in the Washington, DC Metro area and completed High School in Fairfax County Virginia before entering the United States Marine Corps where he achieved the rank of Seargent before being honorably discharged. Tim has worked several careers over the years, with his move into mental health and addictions being his final transition, which he refers to as his “move from success to significance”. Tim completed his undergraduate studies at Indiana University, graduating with honors and attending Huntington University for graduate school. Tim’s passion for the addictions population comes from his own experience with substance use issues and is currently a sober man in recovery with over 27 years of sobriety. Tim’s hope is to lead others in love and service to the sick and suffering.

With over 25 years of experience in healthcare and more than a decade dedicated to nursing practice, Mandy brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and compassion to her role as Director of Nursing at Ladoga Recovery. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Indiana University Northwest and has built a career spanning diverse clinical settings, developing expertise in patient-centered care, clinical operations, and team development.

Mandy’s dedication to the field of addiction recovery is not only professional but also deeply personal. Having walked alongside loved ones in the throes of addiction, she understands firsthand the challenges, heartache, and hope that come with the journey of recovery. This perspective drives her passion to ensure that every patient is treated with dignity, empathy, and respect.

Specializing in substance use treatment and recovery support, Mandy is committed to fostering an environment where patients receive safe, evidence-based care during one of the most critical times in their lives. Her leadership style emphasizes collaboration, staff education, and adherence to best-practice protocols to ensure the highest quality of care.

Passionate about guiding both patients and staff toward growth and resilience, Mandy continues to be an advocate for recovery-focused healthcare that not only supports healing but also transforms lives.

Ethan brings over six years of hands-on-experience in the substance abuse and mental health field, where he has built a career rooted in passion, resilience, and a deep commitment to helping other transform their live. Starting from an entry-level role and working his way up through the ranks, he’s gained a strong understanding of the challenges individuals face in recovery – both clinically and personally. 

His journey in the SUD field has been fueled by a genuine passion for supporting individuals as they confront addiction and mental health struggles. He takes pride in meeting people where they are, creating a safe and supportive environment, and helping them recognize their own potential. Whether through patient facing positions or leadership roles, he has strived to show every individual that recovery is not only possible but within reach. 

Throughout his career, he’s been recognized for his ability to lead with integrity, build trust, and foster growth – not only in the clients he’s served but also in the team’s he’s worked with as well. Ethan believes in leading by example, staying grounded in empathy, and always advocating for those who may not yet have the strength to advocate for themselves. Helping other discover their own path to recovery is more than a job to him, it’s a calling. Every step forward that he witnesses in someone else’s life journey reaffirms why he does this work and will be committed to this mission for years to come.

Cristina Monnett

Cristina Monnett is an HR professional with over 12 years of experience supporting teams in manufacturing and healthcare. She partners closely with operations leaders in fast-paced, highly regulated environments to strengthen employee relations, ensure compliance, and implement practical, real-world people strategies. Cristina is passionate about creating workplaces where employees feel supported and organizations run smoothly.

Shane Austin is a dedicated behavioral health professional, bringing a wealth of experience in the field of substance use disorder treatment. As a lifelong resident of Indiana and an alumnus of the Indiana University, Shane embodies a profound sense of empathy and understanding, deeply rooted in his own transformative four-year journey of recovery. This personal experience fuels his passion and relentless commitment to inspiring individuals to embrace the treatment that leads to lasting sobriety and fulfilling lives. By connecting those in need with essential resources, Shane skillfully utilizes his knowledge and personal narrative to illuminate the path to recovery for others, empowering them to embark on their own successful journeys.

Dr. William Cooke is the Medical Director of Ladoga Recovery Center, an inpatient facility dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. With over two decades of experience in addiction medicine, Dr. Cooke leads the clinical team at Ladoga Recovery Center with a focus on evidence-based practices and patient-centered care.

As a board-certified expert in both Family Medicine and Addiction Medicine, Dr. Cooke brings a holistic approach to treatment, integrating medical, psychological, and social support to address the complex needs of individuals on their journey to recovery. Under his leadership, Ladoga Recovery Center emphasizes a “whole-person” philosophy, ensuring that each patient receives tailored treatment plans that foster long-term recovery and overall well-being.

Dr. Cooke is also a Fellow of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), reflecting his commitment to advancing the field of addiction medicine through continuous learning, advocacy, and collaboration. At Ladoga Recovery Center, he is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and effective environment where patients can begin their path to healing.

As Executive Director of Ladoga Recovery Center, Brian Foster brings nearly a decade of experience in behavioral health, specializing in substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health treatment. With a diverse background spanning from inpatient detox and residential care, sober living, outpatient treatment, and both the for-profit and nonprofit sectors, Brian is dedicated to creating comprehensive, holistic treatment programs. Holding a Business degree from Indiana University and graduate degree from Indiana Wesleyan University, Brian combines a strong foundation in business with a personal commitment to recovery, using his own experience to inspire and support others on their journeys. This broad background enables Brian to approach leadership with a well-rounded perspective on the complex needs of individuals in Recovery.

As a person in long-term Recovery, Brian is proud to lead a team that makes a meaningful impact on the lives of those struggling with addiction and helping them rebuild relationships with their loved ones. Living in Fishers, IN, with a supportive wife and two wonderful daughters, family is the heart of Brian’s life, bringing a deep commitment to building a community where individuals can find hope, healing, and a path forward.