Realizing that you or someone you care about needs addiction treatment is just the start. Finding one is the next step. Type your state, city or town into a Google search along with “Addiction Treatment Center” and you may get hundreds of results.

So how do you know which one to pick? What should you look for? What kinds of treatment methods are best? What are the average costs? How will I pay for it? What do I need to know to make the best decision?

Selecting an addiction treatment center can be overwhelming, but it can be made easier with a little preparation. Let’s see how to start your search by focusing on a handful of key areas.

Treatment Options
How does the center approach treatment? The classic is the 12-step model. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) have used this method for years with success. But it doesn’t work for everyone.

Some folks require the different approach of holistic treatment—body, mind, and spirit. This method combines both traditional methods (cognitive behavioral therapy, counseling, etc.) with non-traditional therapies like yoga, massage, acupuncture and nutrition.

Does the facility offer on-site detox? This is an important first step in the healing process and should be supervised by qualified medical professionals.

Will the center personalize your care? As everyone’s body, mind, and personality are different, each person will require flexibility in approach and care from the staff.

Is dual-diagnosis treatment available? Many addicts arrive at treatment with psychological disorders that should be addressed and treated with the addiction. If they’re left untreated chances for sobriety success are diminished.

Finally, ask for success stories. A treatment center should be able to give you testimonials from past clients. You can also ask for a center’s success rate (e.g. 70%, 80%, etc.).

Treatment Costs
Cost of treatment varies dramatically from center to center. Some are as high as $50,000 a month and as low as $200 a day.

First, ask what’s included in the price; if there is a fee-for-service (insurance companies pay less than 100%); and how much your insurance will cover.

Will you have in-patient or out-patient treatment? Out-patient treatment can cost 10 times as much as in-patient.

If you have Medicare or Medicaid, does the center accept that insurance?

Ask if they have a sliding payment scale based on income.

A final consideration about cost: how much will your addiction cost you if you don’t get help right now? Treatment is an investment of your happiness, well-being, and ultimately, your life.

Staff
Ask what percentage of the staff is licensed and certified. Review their bios on the website.

Does the medical director have certification with the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM)?

What is the staff-to-resident ratio? How many one-on-one sessions will you have during the week. This is an important part of a faster recovery.

Are there psychologists, psychiatrists and social workers on staff?

Is there on-site medical staff who can oversee detox and prescribe any medication needed?

Are the counselors certified for chemical dependency treatment?

Facilities & Amenities
Visit the center. What are your impressions? Are you comfortable with the physical surroundings? Does it feel calming and therapeutic?

A treatment center should be able to provide you with professional references. Check them.

Does the center (chemical dependency) hold Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) accreditation? This is a rigorous national standard.

Are they accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)?

Are they licensed as a hospital by the state?

Is there enough privacy?

Is smoking allowed?

Family Involvement
How involved can family, friends and outside professional help be in your treatment process? These people often play an important role in the effectiveness and speed of recovery for patients. 

Are there support programs that family can engage in?

Relapse Prevention
Is there a transition program from treatment to living back in the community?

Is there a relapse prevention program? What is it and how much does it cost? Is there a time limit? Treatment programs should provide a mechanism for monitoring and supporting post-center recovery.

What is their continuing care schedule? What does it cost and who provides the care?

Treatment Quick Check List
Here are some the important highlights to consider when searching for an addiction treatment program:

  • Monthly Price
  • Staff psychiatrist
  • 3x weekly One-on-One
  • Dual Diagnosis
  • On-Site Detox
  • Holistic options (acupuncture, yoga, massage, etc.)
  • Relapse program
  • Intensive family involvement
  • Comfortable surroundings
  • Psych testing (EEG, Neurofeedback, etc.)
  • Spiritual counseling
  • Meditation classes

Summary
There should be a lot of thought when selecting an addiction treatment program. Make sure you or the one you love is serious about getting help. It’s not only a costly undertaking; it’s an emotional one for all involved.

With a little planning you can find a place that sets you up for success. So do the research, ask the questions and get the answers. This is your life. Make it count.