6 Questions to Ask When Looking for Addiction Treatment
Receiving quality addiction treatment is important to long-term sobriety and overall health. It would be nice if there were a guarantee of addiction recovery; however, statistics show 40-60 percent of people relapse. This is why Stepping Stone Center for Recovery offers two high-quality addiction programs focusing on specialized treatment to meet individual needs. Successful long-term sobriety is more likely when the person is willing and ready to change, they receive appropriate addiction treatment addressing their whole-self, and there is a solid support system with family and/or friends as well as peer-to-peer through fellowship and an alumni program. If you do your research and ask these questions, you’ll find a treatment center with the staff, programs, and services necessary to address your/your loved one’s addiction, mental health issues, and physical health issues. Addressing all three at the same time will help build a solid foundation that long-term, sustained sobriety can be built upon.
1. Is the program licensed by the State to treat substance use disorders?
Reputable drug and alcohol facilities will be licensed by the State they are located in. Additionally, they may hold specific certifications such as Opioid Treatment Program from the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (through SAMHSA). They may also be participating members of the field trade associations, National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP) and/or National Association for Behavioral Healthcare (NABH). These each demonstrate the program is adhering to treatment regulations put in place by governing bodies.
2. Are there full-time medical doctors on staff? How frequently can patients meet with doctors?
Addiction affects all parts of a person, and having a qualified medical professional provides individuals with expert care. It’s ideal to hear the program has medical staff on-site at the facility versus the individual needing to be transported to an off-site clinic for medical appointments. Individuals should be able to meet with a doctor as needed. When someone is in a detoxification or inpatient program, they should have consistent medical care, meetings with a doctor daily, and be under nursing supervision 24-hours per day.
3. Do therapists have a master’s level degree or license? Do they have specialized Substance Use Disorder (SUD) training?
Therapists should hold their master’s degree in social work, psychology, family therapy, or similar psychology-related field. Clinicians that also attained their license is a positive indicator they are well-trained in treating people with mental health and behavioral health issues. Those who are Certified Addiction Professionals (CAP) also have specialized training in addiction.
4. Are treatment plans individualized for my/my loved one’s specific needs?
Although many treatment centers say they offer individualized care, you may want to dig a little deeper into the specialized services they offer. Programs should be able to talk about what makes them unique, and what they offer in regard to specialty services such as a comprehensive evaluation and aftercare planning, in addition to continued support through an alumni network and Certified Recovery Coach.
5. Can I use insurance to cover the cost of treatment?
Many insurance plans do cover the cost of treatment, whether this is through the in-network or out-of-network benefits. Coverage largely depends on the plan itself, and every plan is different. If you are working with state-funded insurance like Medicare or Medicaid, there may be restrictions on where you/your loved one can receive treatment. If this is the case, you can contact SAMSHA and they will help guide you on options available in your state.
6. What type of support is offered after completing the program?
Ideally, you’ll hear the treatment center has a robust aftercare and alumni program/fellowship to connect with after leaving. Staying connected with those who completed the same program provides a good network of people sharing a bond through a common experience, and who also understand what someone in recovery encounters in the days and months following treatment. An aftercare coordinator can help you get connected with fellowship groups and/or a sober living home to help through the early stages of recovery. At Stepping Stone Center for Recovery, we know addiction recovery is possible. Our admissions specialists are available to answer questions 24-hours per day, 7-days per week, and 365 days per year. We welcome you to reach out if you or a loved one is struggling. Don’t wait to get help. Call today. All calls are confidential.
