"I think it is important for my patients to understand how to make healthy choices regarding their relationships. If I were to explain the rationale behind not having an intimate relationship with someone else who is suffering from addiction ,I would begin by telling my patient that in the early stages of recovery, the main focus should be on self. This means self-awareness, such as triggers that may cause a desire or a feeling of 'need' to relapse and how to avoid them. In early recovery, patients should be educated on why it is important to avoid establishing any new intimate relationship."

"I believe when educating a patient regarding intimate relationships, it is important for the patient to realize that relationships take work. For an addict, recovery has ups and downs. I would explain to my patient that, although friendships are good, relationships (intimate or not) should be built with people who can offer them strength and encouragement during their recovery rather than people who are suffering with addiction, who may not be as helpful in stress times."

"The best way I have learned to educate addiction patients on this is to explain to them that recovery from addiction is like recovering from an abusive relationship. It takes time and hard work, and when other things are thrown into the mix it often creates more turmoil and frustration. I like to encourage my patients to take time for themselves and to learn to love themselves again. It is a process, a lifelong process. In time, other people can be added in the mix, but careful consideration should be given to when and who should be allowed in an addict's circle."