Choosing the Right Addiction Treatment Program

Choosing the Right Addiction Treatment Program

choosing addiction treatment program

Acknowledging that you need an addiction treatment program is a great first step. For the next step, knowing what to look for in a program can make a significant difference in the success of your recovery. If you are not able to attend sessions because of the location or cost, or if the program’s philosophical approach does not mesh with your aspirations and values, then it may not be right for you. There are many factors to consider when choosing the right addiction treatment program.

Your Needs

Whether an addiction treatment program is right for you depends a good deal on your needs. Consider your current situation and your goals. How severe is your addiction? Will an outpatient program work or do you need more intensive residential treatment? Will the cost of the program be a hindrance, or do you have insurance that will help with that? You will also need to consider the geographic location of the program. Perhaps a treatment program farther away, physically, from your “comfort zone” would work better for you. Or, you may need to stay closer to home for logistical reasons.

Asking the Right Questions

When researching various available addiction treatment programs, be prepared to ask questions. It might help to keep a notebook where you can list the answers and compare programs with all the appropriate information at your fingertips. Whether you are searching in Austin or any other locations, be careful about false or misleading information on a program’s website. It is best to call or visit the program to ask these questions of a program representative:

  • What licenses and certifications does your staff hold?
  • What licenses and certifications does your center hold?
  • What is the goal of your addiction treatment program?
  • For a residential program, will my friends and family be able to visit me?
  • What is the cost for your addiction treatment program?
  • Do you have a billing plan?
  • Do you accept my insurance?
  • Do you offer medical services?
  • Which therapeutic model or theories are the foundation of your treatment program?
  • What is your experience dealing with my specific type of addiction?
  • Do you provide follow-up care?
  • Do you have a support group?

Inpatient Treatment Programs

When choosing the right addiction treatment program, it’s helpful to know the difference between inpatient and outpatient programs. Inpatient programs are typically designed for the most severe types of addiction that require more intensive treatment.

Long-term inpatient treatment programs provide 24-hour a day care for 6 to 12 months. In these therapeutic community settings, addiction treatment focuses on developing personal accountability and responsibility, in addition to socially productive lives. In this setting, treatment is highly structured and activities are designed for residents to examine their damaging beliefs, self-concepts, and destructive patterns of behavior. The long-term inpatient program then helps addicts find new and constructive ways to interact with other people. Some may also offer support training, such as employment and life skills training, to residents.

Short-term residential programs are equally intensive but may last 30 days or less. Some inpatient addiction treatment programs are designed for much shorter times, as little as a few days. Depending on your needs, a short-term residential program may be able to provide the treatment you need. Regardless of the length of the inpatient program, you will probably need to follow up with outpatient or aftercare programs to continue your recovery.

Outpatient Treatment Programs

Outpatient programs typically cost less than residential treatment programs and may work better for you if you have job responsibilities or family obligations. There are models such as the intensive day treatment program, that can be just as effective as residential programs depending on your situation and your needs.

When researching available options, it is helpful to ask about support groups and individual therapy programs. Group therapy is also often a component of outpatient treatment programs. If you need help with medical or mental health issues in your recovery, ask about those programs as well. Depending on your current situation, your schedule, and your goals, you may find that an outpatient treatment program is right for you.

IF YOU NEED RESOURCES, CONTACT SOBER AUSTIN

Sober Austin provides resources to people seeking an addiction treatment program for themselves or for their loved ones. If you or your loved is struggling with addiction and need to learn more about available resources, please browse our site to learn more about finding support in Austin. You can also contact us directly by calling 512-640-9661 or emailing contact@soberaustin.com.