Josh Duggar leaves rehab, family says it's "a crucial first step in recovery"

Josh Duggar has officially left his faith-based rehab facility.


Josh's family, who previously starred on 19 Kids & Counting, made the announcement on their website.

"Josh has completed his residential rehabilitation program. We are so thankful for everyone who worked with Josh in this program. It was a crucial first step in recovery and healing for Josh," the statement reads.

"Josh has now returned to Arkansas, where he will continue professional counseling and focus on rebuilding relationships with his family. We look to God for help and guidance and place all of our trust in Him. We are forever grateful for the love and prayers offered by so many and hope you will continue to pray in the days ahead."

After cheating and molestation scandals rocked their world last year, Josh's wife Anna Duggar probably has mixed emotions about her husband's return home.


"If nothing else, this is a happy time for their kids," a source told People.

Josh, 28, entered rehab at Reformers Unanimous in Rockford, IL, seven months ago.

In August of last year, Josh confirmed he had cheated on Anna and developed an addiction to pornography. He's also currently in a legal battle with exotic dancer Danica Dillon, who claims Josh caused her "physical and emotional injuries" during paid sexual encounters in 2015. Dillon alleged intercourse with Josh was rough and traumatizing.

Anna already had enough to deal with when Josh's "teenage mistakes" -- molesting a handful of girls, including his own sisters Jill Duggar and Jessa Duggar, over a decade ago -- came back to haunt them in May. Anna knew about Josh's past before they wed in 2008, but it was still extremely difficult to watch his personal problems splash across national headlines.

However, Anna has said she plans to forgive Josh and stay in their marriage. She took her "until death do us part" vows very seriously. Similarly, Jessa has decided to pardon Josh.


"It is a process, though, that you have to work through in your heart," Jessa told People. "And trust is not quickly rebuilt. It is something that takes a while. We love him very much, though, and we are very hopeful for the future."

The family's new reality show Jill & Jessa: Counting On premieres Tuesday, March 15 at 9PM ET/PT on TLC.

"The Duggar Family has confirmed to TLC that Josh has completed his residential treatment program," the network said in a statement. "Josh is not appearing in [the series]. We wish the family continued healing."






About The Author: Elizabeth Kwiatkowski