How to Find the Right Addiction Treatment Program

When you’ve had enough of addiction taking over your life, it’s time to seek treatment. The majority of people cannot conquer addiction on their own, so treatment is the right path. Choosing the right addiction treatment program is critical to ensuring that your specific needs are met so that you can find success in recovery.

Determine Your Needs and Goals

You’ll want to find a program that meets your needs and goals. Assess what you want out of the program in terms of the treatment itself and logistics. For example, you may need a medically supervised period of detox to keep you safe during withdrawal. Alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous, so if you’ve been drinking heavily for a long time, you need an inpatient detox program.

In terms of logistics, you may want a facility close to home. Additionally, you may need a facility that offers a flexible outpatient program rather than inpatient so that you can still attend work or school. You also likely need a facility that accepts your health insurance.

Research Treatment Facilities

Your next step is to research treatment facilities to see what kinds of programs they offer, and whether the facility can meet your needs. You can do your research online, but you also may need to call the facilities to ask questions. Make a list of your questions before you call. Most treatment facilities are happy to take the time to walk you through what they offer and their process, and to answer all your questions.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Addiction Treatment Program

Several factors should be considered when you’re researching treatment facilities.

Levels of Care Offered

Four levels of care are commonly offered by treatment facilities, but not all facilities offer all of these levels. The four levels of care are:

• 7 to ten day inpatient medically supervised detox programs: These programs offer limited therapy and are intended to allow you to withdraw safely and comfortably, sometimes with medication. While you can choose this option as a standalone treatment, it should be followed by another level of treatment.
• 30 to 90 day inpatient program: Inpatient treatment involves intensive group therapy as well as individual therapy. In this program, you may also be treated for co-occurring mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression.
• Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs): A PHP involves intensive therapy for four to six hours per day, five days per week, and lasts for four to ten weeks. It allows you to live at home during treatment.
• Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs): An IOP involves therapy for two to three hours per day, three days per week, and lasts for six to ten weeks. Often, therapy is in the evening so that you can still attend work or school.

You can also opt for a comprehensive program that consists of a 30 to 90 day inpatient program, followed by a PHP and an IOP. When researching facilities, look for those that offer the level of treatment that you think is right for you.

Specialization

Some programs specialize in treating specific types of addiction, such as alcohol addiction or opioid addiction. Sometimes this is beneficial because you’re in treatment with people who are going through the same struggles that you are. Programs also may be offered for specific groups, such as veterans or the LGBTQ community.

Evidence Based Therapies

It’s best to look for facilities that use evidence-based therapies, meaning that there is scientific evidence that they are effective. Evidence-based therapies include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing.

Location

You may want a treatment location that is close to home for convenience, particularly if you choose an outpatient program. However, some people prefer not to be close to home, both for privacy purposes, and to stay away from places or people that may trigger substance cravings.

Cost and Insurance

Many health plans cover addiction treatment, but not all. If your insurance does not cover the type of program that you need, you should compare costs from facility to facility. Some also offer payment plans.

Accreditations and Certifications

You should look for facilities that have accreditations and certifications. They should have at least some from the following organizations.

• The Joint Commission
• Compliancy Group HIPAA Seal
• State-Specific Chemical Dependency Facility Licensure
• National Association for Behavioral Healthcare (NABH)

In Closing

If you’re struggling with addiction and ready to get treatment, you’re on the right path. Just be sure that you choose a treatment facility that will meet all of your needs. New England Medical Group offers a variety of treatment options and resources. We are committed to providing high quality, compassionate, and personalized care to help you being your recovery journey.