One of the most important decisions an addict can make is to choose what rehab to go to. In addition to wanting to find the right fit, there is the cost to consider. For many of us, this is a very large expense, so you want to make sure you choose the best facility for your needs. Here we talk about the important characteristics of a good rehab.
How to Choose the Best Addiction Treatment Center
Discerning the best rehabs from the rest of the pack can be tricky because there are many factors to consider. Here are some things I learned to look for when I chose a facility to begin my recovery:
Accreditation and Licensing
A good facility is always licensed, which means it has been officially recognized and authorized by the state government to operate. In addition to the rehab itself being licensed, most staff members are also typically licensed by the state. Check with your state government to ascertain whether or not the facility you are looking at meets these requirements. There are also private accreditation organizations that objectively judge the quality of the treatment centers programs, staff, and facilities. Ask the center about what accreditations they have. The licensing and accreditation information is normally on the treatment centers website as well.
Methods and Treatment Protocols
Protocols vary from one facility to the next. Do they offer a Substance Detox Program? Counseling, various therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and a no contraband rule are standard. However, there are variances, such as: types of counseling, styles of therapy, and treatment methods. You need to decide what is the best fit for you. The facility I went to also offered yoga, which I found to be very helpful. Other possible amenities include: pilates, meditation, and an exercise program. Some facilities have affiliations with a particular religious group. Ask about the particulars of all these items.
Aftercare
Aftercare or Transitional Treatment has been proven to be critical in helping you stay sober after you leave the facility. Sometimes programs offer it at the same facility; other times it is provided via a different one. Aftercare is a very important part of any recovery program. All high-quality treatment centers have an aftercare program.
Short-term or Long-term Program
While programs are often just 28 days in length, many of us need more time than that to achieve and maintain our sobriety. Make sure the facility you look at offers a long-term program in case you need it.
Program Goals
Your results will vary depending upon the type of program you will enter. Some programs culminate with you taking methadone or suboxone as a replacement for your drug of choice. Others consider abstinence after returning home a success. Define your idea of success, and see if the facility has a program that will help you achieve those particular goals.
Support Systems
Is your goal sobriety or just a step-down from illegal substances? I was looking for complete sobriety, so a facility that was going to offer more than just new medications was crucial to me. Look for the inclusion of positive activities, such as group and individual therapies, exercise, hobbies, or crafts. For many people 12 Step Groups have been proven to be very effective – you will also want to ask about what 12 Step groups, if any, the program promotes.
Nutrition and Life Skills
Drug and alcohol addiction can cause many health problems. A good recovery program will emphasize proper nutrition and help you deal with loss of appetite, depression, and other barriers to recovery. A life skills program will help prepare you to become a productive member of society, assisting you with job placement, for example.
Taking the First Step
Research various facilities in your area to see whether or not they accept your insurance. If you are uninsured, determine how much you can afford, or if any of the rehabs in your area offer any sliding fee scales. Sometimes, family or friends are available to loan you the money or help you offset some of the costs. Always remember, it is important to find a facility whose goals align with yours. The Oceanfront Recovery Addiction Treatment Program can help you or your loved one through the difficult and dangerous process of withdrawal and subsequent recovery from addiction. Our clinicians focus on bringing the underlying causes of addiction to the surface with a modern and effective recovery program in a closed setting. Contact Oceanfront Recovery today for a confidential assessment, and begin the journey of recovery now. Call 877.279.1777 to learn more today.
