Choosing a Drug & Alcohol Rehab Center Definitive Guide

Experienced and Qualified Staff

The staff at the treatment center plays a critical role in your recovery.

 It’s important to know that if a facility has already received accreditation from JCAHO, CARF, or other accrediting bodies, this can be proof of experienced and qualified staff.

 Usually, you will see this proof of accreditation as a badge on the treatment center’s website.

Having qualified treatment professionals and staff is a part of the accreditation process.

Look for a facility with experienced and qualified professionals, including physicians, nurses, therapists, and addiction counselors. 

They should be trained in addiction treatment and have experience working with people who have substance use disorders.

It’s also important to look for a treatment center with a low staff-to-patient ratio. 

This ensures that you will receive individualized attention and care during your treatment.

Family Involvement

Addiction affects not only the individual but also their family and loved ones. 

Look for a treatment center that involves family members in the recovery process. 

Family therapy can help repair relationships, build support systems, and promote healing.

How Families Can Get Involved in the Addiction Treatment Process

Family therapy

Family therapy is a type of counseling that involves the person in treatment and their family members. 

The goal is to help family members improve communication and resolve conflicts that may have contributed to the person’s addiction.

Family education

Family education programs are designed to educate family members about addiction, its effects on the individual and the family, and how to support their loved one’s recovery.

Support groups

Support groups, such as Al-Anon or Nar-Anon, are specifically designed for the loved ones of people with addiction. 

They provide a safe and supportive environment where family members can connect with others who are going through similar experiences.

Family involvement in aftercare planning

Aftercare planning is an important part of the rehab process. 

Family members can be involved in helping their loved one make plans for continuing care, such as attending support group meetings or finding a therapist.

Communication with the treatment team

Family members can communicate with the treatment team to share information about their loved one’s progress and to ask questions about the treatment plan.

Positive reinforcement

Family members can provide positive reinforcement by acknowledging their loved one’s progress and encouraging them to continue their recovery efforts.

Setting healthy boundaries

Setting healthy boundaries is important to supporting a loved one in recovery. 

Family members can help their loved ones by setting boundaries around enabling behavior and encouraging them to take responsibility for their recovery.

Location, Amenities, & Accommodations 

The location of the treatment center can play a significant role in your recovery. 

Look for a facility in a peaceful, natural setting, away from the stresses of everyday life. 

This can help you focus on your recovery and promote a sense of calm and relaxation.

It’s also important to look for a treatment center that provides comfortable and safe accommodations. 

Look for private rooms, nutritious meals, and recreational activities.

When it comes to choosing drug and alcohol treatment, some accommodation considerations to keep in mind include:

Comfort and privacy

Choosing a facility that provides comfortable and private accommodations is important to help individuals feel more relaxed and at ease during their recovery. 

Consider whether the facility provides private or shared rooms and amenities such as comfortable bedding and furnishings.

Accessibility

For individuals with mobility impairments, it’s important to choose a facility that provides accessible accommodations. 

Consider factors such as wheelchair ramps, accessible bathrooms, and elevators.

Safety and Security

Drug and alcohol treatment facilities should prioritize safety and security to protect individuals during their recovery. 

Consider whether the facility has security measures such as 24-hour monitoring and secure access to the building.

Recreational facilities

Recreation is an important component of recovery, and choosing a facility that provides recreational facilities such as a gym or pool is important. 

These amenities can help individuals stay active and engaged during their recovery.

Nutritious meal options

Good nutrition is important during recovery, and choosing a facility that provides nutritious meal options is important. 

Consider whether the facility provides healthy meals that meet dietary restrictions and preferences.

Outdoor spaces

Spending time outdoors can be beneficial for mental and physical health during recovery. 

Consider whether the facility provides outdoor spaces such as gardens or walking paths.

Family accommodations

Family involvement can be important during the recovery process, and choosing a facility that accommodates family members who may be staying overnight is important.

Consider whether the facility provides private family rooms or accommodations nearby.

Internet and phone access

Staying connected with loved ones and the outside world can be important during recovery. 

Consider whether the facility provides internet and phone access for individuals to stay in touch with loved ones.

Cost and Insurance Coverage

The cost of addiction treatment can vary significantly depending on the type of program and the level of care you need. 

Look for a treatment center that is transparent about its pricing and can provide you with a detailed breakdown of the costs.

It’s also essential to check whether the treatment center accepts your insurance. 

Most insurance plans provide some coverage for addiction treatment, but the coverage can vary significantly. Check with your insurance provider.

When choosing a drug and alcohol treatment center, some cost and insurance coverage considerations to keep in mind include:

Overall cost

It’s important to consider the overall cost of treatment, including any hidden fees or additional costs. 

Some facilities may offer all-inclusive packages, while others may charge extra for additional services or amenities.

Insurance coverage

It’s important to check whether the treatment center accepts your insurance coverage and what costs will be covered. 

Be sure to ask about any deductibles, co-payments, or out-of-pocket expenses.

In-network providers

Choosing an in-network provider can help reduce out-of-pocket costs.

 Check with your insurance provider to see if the treatment center is an in-network provider.

Out-of-network providers

If the treatment center is out-of-network, be sure to ask about any out-of-network benefits available under your insurance plan.

Financial assistance

Some treatment centers may offer financial assistance or payment plans to help individuals afford treatment.

 Be sure to ask about any financial assistance options that may be available.

Sliding scale fees

Some treatment centers may offer sliding scale fees based on income. 

Be sure to ask about any sliding scale fee options that may be available.

Medicare or Medicaid coverage

If you have Medicare or Medicaid, be sure to check whether the treatment center accepts these forms of insurance and what costs will be covered.

Employee assistance programs

Some employers may offer employee assistance programs that provide coverage for drug and alcohol treatment. 

Check with your employer to see if this option is available.

Grants and scholarships

Some treatment centers may offer grants or scholarships to help individuals afford treatment. 

Be sure to ask about any grant or scholarship options that may be available.

Updated: 3/11/2023