Patrick Riley (he/him), BA, CSAC, CS-IT, has worked in the recovery field for more than 10 years and has had a relationship with the recovery field for more than 20 years.  He has experience working with a diverse group of people in various settings, including residential treatment, group homes, crisis intervention, and wrap-around case management.  For the past 5 years, his primary focus has been providing substance use disorder counseling within the Dane County CCS network.

Patrick’s practice is person-centered and rooted in the principles of trauma-informed care and harm reduction.  He believes that each person’s story is worthy of being heard, and that every person has the right to be treated with empathy and respect.  He takes a non-judgmental approach to addressing substance use concerns, believing that addiction is a complex brain disorder.  He rejects the notion that it is the result of moral failings, and instead works with clients to recognize and build upon their value and strengths.  He believes that recovery provides people the opportunity to bring their actions, thoughts, and values into alignment so that they can live a satisfying life. 

Patrick is currently attending graduate school at the University of Wisconsin – Superior, working towards a degree in Clinical Mental Health and Counseling.  Through this experience, he is continuing to develop a holistic approach to providing support to those in recovery from substance use and/or mental health disorders.