Finding the Right Rehab for Your Teen or Young Adult

Anyone can struggle with substance use. Whatever your age, gender, job, or relationship status, you deserve to get the care you need. However, it can sometimes be hard to know what interventions would be most helpful. This is especially true for teens with substance use disorders.

Substance use during adolescence may have long-term effects on brain chemistry.1 For example, “cocaine exposure during adolescence may lead to miswiring in the developing brain and result in long-lasting behavioral problems, such as increased risk-taking, in adulthood.” Because of this, it’s especially important to get teens the help they need in order to begin recovery.

Young people may not always be able to recognize that they need help. And even when they do, they may not be legally or financially capable of seeking that help on their own. Whether you’re a teen or an adult caring for a teen with substance use disorder, the good news is that (specialized) treatment is widely available. Many luxury rehabs offer programs created specifically for younger clients.

If you’re considering rehab for your teen, it’s important to understand the different options available. Depending on the client’s age and geographical location, there may be certain types of treatment that are more appropriate. This decision will also be influenced by your teen’s unique history, diagnoses, and treatment goals.

Reasons for Teen Substance Use

Research suggests that “the human brain is still maturing during the adolescent years.2 The developing brain may help explain why adolescents sometimes make decisions that are risky and can lead to safety or health concerns, including unique vulnerabilities to drug abuse.”

Beyond the simple fact of their age, there are many elements that impact a young person’s likelihood to misuse substances. Among them are risk factors, which make substance use more likely, and protective factors, which guard against these behaviors.

These external influences change with a person’s age. While that’s true for all clients, these changes occur more drastically in children, adolescents, and young adults. For example, middle school students who are too harshly disciplined are at greater risk for substance use disorders. Receiving support from extended family, on the other hand, makes substance abuse less likely in this population. Slightly older adolescents are at greater risk for substance misuse3 when they lack adult supervision, and at lower risk when family members set clear expectations.

Also, teens are experiencing heightened stress4 in this turbulent era of history. According to one study, even teens who had not experienced early life stress—such as neglect or abuse—were prone to “increases in anxiety and depression symptoms” during 2020. In this context, young people may be at a greater risk of developing mental health conditions than they once were.

It’s impossible to guard against every single circumstance that increases the risk of teen substance misuse. However, it can be helpful to familiarize yourself with some of the most prevalent risk factors. Whether or not you’re able to protect yourself or your teen from these stressors, knowing what they are may empower you to get help when it’s needed.

Parental Substance Use

If an adolescent is close to an adult who has a substance use disorder,5 they may be at a higher risk for developing one themselves. For some young people, this is simply a way of enacting the same behavior they’ve seen modeled. Others may use substances in order to cope with the stress of an unstable home life.

Strained familial relationships, financial insecurity, and similar issues can be hugely impactful. However, instability refers to more than these external circumstances. These teens may also have genetic predispositions to substance use disorders, as well as other mental health diagnoses.

Co-Occurring Disorders

Certain mental health concerns, such as depression and ADHD,6 make teens and young adults more likely to misuse substances. In some cases, this is an attempt to self-medicate. However, it’s not always that simple.

For teens with multiple diagnoses, the root cause of substance use can easily become a question of the chicken or the egg. As their brain chemistry continues to change, due to either normal development or unhealthy habits, they may begin to develop co-occurring disorders that make substance use even more appealing.

Whatever the cause of this behavior, few teens have the resources to pull out of this cycle without external interventions. In some cases, inpatient treatment is the most effective way to begin recovery.

Choosing a Rehab for a Young Adult

Timberline Knolls
Several rehabs offer specialized adolescent programs. Set in Lemont, Illinois, Timberline Knolls has a program for young women with co-occuring disorders.

If you’re a parent or guardian supporting a struggling teenager, it can be difficult to know what’s best for them. And even if you’re confident that they should go to rehab, you may or may not be legally allowed to make that decision on their behalf.

In some U.S. states, a parent can unilaterally decide to send a teen to rehab. In other areas, minors’ consent is also required. This varies widely based on the client’s exact age and geographical location. It’s best to learn what your family’s options are before making any specific plans regarding residential treatment.

The client’s age will also help determine which treatment program is best for them. For example, while it may seem that children and younger teens are more likely to grow out of a difficult phase, they may actually be in greater need of interventions. According to one study, “people are most likely to begin abusing drugs during adolescence,7 and the longer adolescents defer experimentation, the less likely they are to develop long-term drug abuse problems.”

Luxury rehabs often treat a wide variety of mental health concerns, not limited to substance use disorders. Teens and young adults may also benefit from rehab if they’re struggling with eating disorders, personality disorders, or even PTSD. Each of these diagnoses requires a slightly different approach to treatment, possibly including different levels of family involvement.

Some teens are able to live at home during treatment, receiving in-person support from family and friends while they begin recovery. Others may benefit from traveling to rehab. This gives clients both physical and emotional space from the challenges of daily life. It can also teach young people to set boundaries with those who enable their substance use. While this change of scenery may seem drastic, it has the potential to be extremely helpful. Remember that there is no one right way to heal; just the right way for each individual person.

Types of Teen Rehab Programs

If and when you’re ready to choose a rehab center, it’s best to learn as much as possible about the available options. Various programs specialize in treating different conditions, and each takes a unique approach to the process of healing. Because of this, it’s best to choose a facility that is qualified to meet your teen’s unique needs.

Substance Use and Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are extremely common among adolescents. As of 2018, as many as 10% of young women suffered from an eating disorder.8 What’s more, a growing body of research links eating disorders with addiction.9 One theory even suggests that anorexia nervosa is in fact “an addiction to the body’s endogenous opioids.” A number of luxury rehabs focus on helping clients with one or both of these diagnoses.

Gender-Specific Treatment

For some clients, having space from people of different genders can feel like a much-needed break. This gender-specific approach to recovery may be especially helpful for adolescents. Studies show that young men and women exhibit “unique patterns of substance use,”10 and may therefore benefit from distinct approaches to treatment.

Some rehabs, like the adolescent program Timberline Knolls, focus on treating young women. The program at Foothills at Red Oak Recovery, on the other hand, is tailored to meet the needs of young men, as well as non-binary and gender non-conforming teens. Although it is an LGBTQ+-affirming rehab, it is probably not the right fit for cis women.

Foothills at Red Oak
Foothills at Red Oak in Ellenboro, North Carolina has specialized programs for young men, non-binary and gender non-conforming teens.

In this protected environment, clients are invited to explore their developing identities. According to staff, “​​Adolescence is a time of self-discovery and identity formation…If one successfully navigates the tasks during this stage of life, one emerges with a solid sense of identity. This is a sense of knowing oneself despite the chaos and pressures of the world around them and is paramount to making healthy, value-based decisions.”

Experiential Therapy

Experiential therapy can be hugely beneficial for people of all ages. In this group of modalities, you may go skiing, river rafting, or rock climbing. Some rehabs even take their clients on adventure outings, where they might hike the lip of a volcano or swim with the dolphins.

These experiences aren’t just fun excursions; they’re also ways to practice the skills learned in talk therapy in a different context. They can also encourage clients to develop new hobbies, and help to restore the connection between mind and body. The latter is especially important for teens in recovery.

By surfing, horseback riding, or just playing sports, young people can get back in touch with their bodies and learn how it feels to be physically healthy. Experts theorize that this has a lasting impact on their continued sobriety and health. According to one study, “continued physical health for rehabilitated adolescent drug addicts is crucial…since it could enhance the effectiveness of rehabilitation.”11

With this in mind, some adolescent rehab programs have a special focus on physical activity. Pacific Quest, for example, is a wilderness therapy program located on Hawaii’s Big Island. Here, clients participate in outdoor programming which may include hiking, paddle boarding, swimming, sailing, and more. Participants also perform community service during their time in residence. Through this process, they are encouraged to learn how to engage with nature, their communities, and themselves in a healthy way.

Personalized Treatment

There are numerous ways to approach recovery. Although many teens benefit from highly structured rehab programs, others may require a more nuanced approach. For these clients, personalized treatment may be the best option.

Pacific Teen Treatment, for example, treats only six clients at a time. Each teen is assigned a primary, secondary, and family therapist. Their team of providers works together to carry out a highly individualized plan of care. This approach may not be appropriate for all clients—especially those who want to focus on improving their interpersonal dynamics within a larger cohort. But it can be extremely effective for families who are committed to healing their relationships with one another.

Family Therapy

Adolescent substance misuse impacts family dynamics.12 According to one group of experts, “every chemically dependent person has a significant impact on the lives of several other people.” Because of this, it’s important for the parents, siblings, and other relatives of these clients to engage in their own healing processes.

In many cases, family therapy is a productive way to approach this. Most adolescent rehab programs offer some version of family therapy. This may include in-person sessions, video chats, or regularly scheduled phone calls.

Pacific Teen Treatment
A peek inside the calming environment at Pacific Teen Treatment in Malibu, California, where family therapy is a key area of focus.

Some facilities may limit clients’ communication with people outside of their cohort. Often, these programs restrict cell phone use during rehab. Others may prohibit calls or visits at the beginning of the program, but encourage this type of contact after some time has passed. Every rehab has its own unique guidelines, and those guidelines may vary from one client to another.

Therapy isn’t easy. This process may bring up traumatic memories and shine a light on difficult family dynamics. Even so, it is often an essential component of helping a teen recover from substance misuse.

Growing Beyond Substance Use

Substance use disorders are serious conditions. At any age, and especially for teenagers, this behavior should not be dismissed as “just a phase.” That being said, it can be temporary. It’s always possible to heal and grow beyond unhealthy habits.

A person’s adolescent years are powerfully creative. Over time, teens will inevitably learn more about themselves, defining their identities and discovering their own needs, goals, and values. It’s extremely important to connect these clients with the help they need and deserve. It’s also important to trust the process.

To see reviews, virtually tour facilities, and more, see our curated list of adolescent rehab programs.


Frequently Asked Questions About Rehab Programs for Teens

Why are teen rehabs important for addressing substance abuse and mental health in adolescents?

Teen rehabs play a crucial role in providing specialized treatment for adolescents who face substance abuse and mental health issues. Through therapy, education, and support, these programs help teens and young adults overcome challenges and develop skills for long-term recovery.

What treatment approaches are used in teen rehabs?

Teen rehabs use a variety of treatment approaches:

evidence-based treatment, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT); 
• individual and group counseling; 
• experiential therapies, like adventure outings;
• family therapy; 
• and more.

These approaches aim to address the unique needs of teenagers and support their physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.

How long do teens typically stay in rehab?

The duration of teen rehab programs vary depending on the severity of the issue, individual needs, and treatment plans. Most programs range from 30 to 90 days, while others extend for longer. The focus is to provide comprehensive support and equip teens with the tools for sustainable recovery.

Plugging Into Rehab: A Closer Look at Tech Usage Policies

During inpatient rehab, clients step away from the hustle and bustle of their daily lives. This can give you much-needed space from issues like complex relationships, work stress, and social pressure. Some facilities enforce this by limiting your access to the outside world. In many programs, clients are not allowed to use their phones or computers during the course of addiction treatment. However, that’s not universally true.

Everyone’s experience of recovery is unique. For some people, stepping away from friends and family is a vital component of healing. In other cases, that level of isolation can be a barrier to treatment. Many high-powered executives, for example, simply can’t take that much time away from their responsibilities.

Fortunately, there are a wide variety of treatment approaches to choose from. You can find a program that prohibits device use entirely, limits it, or allows you to stay connected throughout your stay. However you decide to engage with—or disengage from—technology during rehab, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of each option.

The Psychological Impact of Cell Phone and Computer Use

Whether or not you have a mental health condition, such as a substance use disorder, technology may have an impact on your emotional state. A significant body of research has linked screen use to the brain’s release of dopamine,1 a neurochemical that plays a role in motivation, pleasure, and rewards. This may be of particular interest to current and former substance users, especially those who have used cocaine, who often experience dopamine imbalances.2

Potential Pros of Tech Use

In certain situations, technology—and especially social media—may help people feel connected. When used in an intentional way, this collection of tools may help alleviate loneliness. “Research reveals social media is most effective in tackling loneliness3 when it is used to enhance existing relationships, or forge new meaningful connections.” However, it can be difficult to set clear boundaries around your phone use. And when overused, technology can have a negative impact on mental health.

Potential Cons of Tech Use

Research suggests that too much screen time can cause sleep disturbances,4 and may also be correlated with depression.5 Some believe that overuse of technology may cause cell phone addiction.6 While this is not yet classified as a mental health diagnosis, more experts are considering it a serious condition.

However, this is a relatively new field of study. Smartphones have only been on the market since 2007. Technology is changing quickly, as is its importance in the larger culture. It may be a long time before experts understand the long-term psychological effects of modern-day connectivity.

As we continue to learn about the impact of cell phones and computers, it’s best to proceed with caution. This is extremely important for people in recovery, and especially those in medical detox, whose brain chemistry may be rapidly changing. When you’re deciding between rehab programs, you can always talk to your admissions team to determine the best option for you.

Reasons to Limit Technology Use During Rehab

Many rehab centers completely prohibit clients’ use of personal devices, including cell phones and computers. Others restrict access to technology, setting clear boundaries to limit clients’ screen time. There are a number of benefits to this approach.

Minimizing Distractions

Using technology can direct your energy away from the healing process. Whether you’re reading the news, scrolling social media, or talking to loved ones, you’re still receiving uncurated information about the outside world. Your innate response to these narratives is an expenditure of your emotional energy, which may be limited in the first stages of recovery.

“One goal of rehab is to take a person out of their normal environment. These days, we have so many distractions at our fingertips: our cell phones, laptop, computers, television.”

– Dr. Thomas Gazda, Medical Doctor at Soberman’s Estate

For some clients, these distractions make recovery much more difficult. You might be exposed to triggers, confronted with peer pressure, or just overstimulated.

sobermans estate pool
Soberman’s Estate in Cave Creek, Arizona, is located in the breathtaking Sonoran Desert, free from technological distractions.

Rehab is hard work, even when all of your energy is focused on healing. For many clients, it’s better to eliminate these types of distractions, and instead stick to a clearly defined recovery program.

Time Management

In rehab, you’ll likely follow a very structured schedule. These programs are designed by experts to help you make the most of your time in rehab.

Having access to technology may not only prove distracting during sessions, especially if you have your phone with you; it may also interfere with your limited free time. Your carefully scheduled breaks are intended to help you process the hard work of therapy. Clients often find that time spent thinking about therapy sessions on their own terms can result in important breakthroughs. If you use that time to talk to distant friends, or to provide emotional support to other people in your life, you’re likely to miss out on many of the benefits of your program.

Reexamining Relationships

Substance misuse can have a serious impact on interpersonal relationships.7 For that reason, some clients may benefit from taking space from their families, friends, and colleagues, during rehab. This can give you time to process your recent interactions with loved ones, reevaluating your role in your personal community. If your goal is to heal those relationships, this can also give your loved ones time to step back and process their own emotions.

Many clients also have substance-based relationships. These might include dynamics with people who have enabled or even encouraged you to use substances, or people who have untreated substance use disorders themselves. When you decide to begin healing, it can be very difficult to engage in healthy interactions with these people. By stepping away, you can take time to objectively consider whether it’s healthy for you to continue being in touch with them.

Taking a break from your immediate community can also give you time to reconsider any role you may have played in toxic dynamics. During rehab, you can discuss your past behavior in therapy, and practice building healthier relationships with your cohort. Because these are likely to be new relationships, you’ll be under far less pressure. Accidentally offending a person you’ve known for a month will have a smaller impact on your life than getting into a fight with a sibling, for example.

spark to recovery dbt
Spark to Recovery in Los Angeles, California includes dialectical behavior therapy as part of their treatment program.

Some therapies, like dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), have a particular focus on healing interpersonal dynamics. If this is a high priority for you, you can talk to the admissions teams at a few facilities in order to find the right program. Remember, though, that healing your relationships may or may not mean staying in communication with loved ones while you’re at rehab.

Reasons to Use Technology During Rehab

Certain facilities allow or even encourage clients to use their cell phones and computers during rehab. This varies from one program to another, and it can also vary among clients. If you attend a rehab that offers personalized treatment, you can likely work with your team of providers to decide how much screen time is healthy for you.

Dr. Gazda says, “People are complicated individuals. We really want to tailor our program to each individual patient and we live by that…Some of our patients can use their cell phones or have free time at points because they need it.” In these cases, technology use is also intended to achieve a particular goal, or to serve the needs of specific demographics.

Executive Treatment

Many luxury rehabs offer executive treatment programs, which cater to the unique needs of high-achieving professionals. People in these roles may find it difficult to take time off to attend rehab. When faced with the choice between keeping work commitments and going to rehab, many people choose to delay recovery.

However, at some of these facilities, you don’t have to choose. At Gallus Detox Centers, for example, professionals may stay connected to work throughout treatment. Your providers will “allow patients full access to their electronics. So if you’re the CEO of a company, you can set up your office for however long you’re with us,” says Douglass Weiss, President and Chief Customer Officer.

gallus
Upscale detox center Gallus Detox allows clients to stay connected to work throughout treatment.

There are many ways to approach treatment. Many luxury rehabs strive to be as accessible as possible to their clients, including those with pressing responsibilities. If the use of electronics is what makes rehab an option for you, you can certainly find a program that supports your needs.

Cultivating a Support Network

Experts agree that social support is a very important part of recovery.8 “To reach or maintain abstinence, it is crucial to maintain positive relationships,” one study claims. By staying connected to their long-term community during treatment, some clients may be able to strengthen relationships and prepare for life after rehab.

With that in mind, some rehabs allow every client to use personal electronics. The team of providers at Monarch Shores, for example, firmly believes that having the ability to stay in close contact with loved ones is a valuable way to “help you make it through the recovery process, and eventually have an easier time reconnecting with society.”

monarch shores outdoor deck
Overlooking the beautiful Pacific Ocean, Monarch Shores serves executives and allows clients to use electronics during treatment.

Programs like this one may be a good fit for those who are interested in healing family dynamics. Certain programs have a special focus on this goal, and even provide in-person family therapy.

Family Therapy in Rehab

While many clients benefit from attending family therapy during rehab, this is certainly not true for everyone. You might not decide whether this modality is right for you until after you begin an inpatient program.

If you and your family do decide to go to therapy together, there are a number of options available. Various programs offer family visits, regular phone calls, and in-person and remote sessions. Bear in mind that, no matter which therapies feel right for you, your family members’ needs must also be taken into consideration.

Technology as a Tool for Recovery

It can be difficult to accept that, in order to live a healthy life, you may have let go of certain relationships. This can include relationships that are very important to you. But your health has to come first.

In order to assess which relationships are most supportive, which need time to heal, and which are no longer serving you, it can be extremely helpful to take space from everyone in your life. And for some clients, physical space with remote contact is sufficient. Others may need to set stricter boundaries, temporarily ceasing all communication with loved ones outside the program.

Ideally, your time in rehab will help you learn how to build and maintain positive relationships. That’s true for everyone, whether or not you use electronics during your time there. However, the primary purpose of treatment is for you to begin recovery. As you begin to define what a healthy lifestyle means for yourself, you’ll develop the tools to build a community that supports your growth.

To learn more about programs that offer various levels of access to personal electronics, browse our list of luxury rehabs.


Frequently Asked Questions About Technology Rules In Rehab

Can you use technology during rehab?

Whether or not you can use technology during rehab depends on the center and treatment program. Some rehabs allow limited technology use for clients to stay connected to work or loved ones. Executive programs may allow internet access, for example. Other rehabs may restrict tech use to create a focused and immersive environment.

What are the benefits of limiting technology use during rehab?

Limiting technology use during rehab has several benefits:

• It promotes a focused, distraction-free environment.
• Individuals may fully engage in therapy and reflection.
• It encourages social interaction within the rehab community. 
• It reduces potential triggers associated with excessive technology use.

What are the benefits of using technology during rehab?

Using technology during rehab has several benefits. Professionals may need to keep up with work during treatment. Executive programs often have flexible technology policies to cater to their client’s unique needs. Flexible technology policies also let clients connect with loved ones back home and may facilitate remote family therapy.

Involuntary Rehab: Frequently Asked Questions

Addiction is a serious problem that can have a devastating impact on individuals and families. If you have a loved one who is struggling, you may be wondering if there is anything you can do to get them help, or whether or not you can send them to treatment if they’re unwilling to go on their own.

Involuntary rehab is a process by which a person can be placed in treatment against their will. This is typically only done in cases where the person is a danger to themselves or others, or where they are unable to make rational decisions about their own care.

We answer some common questions about involuntary addiction treatment:

Can I Force My Loved One to Go to Rehab?

Yes, but only in certain locations.

Currently, the District of Columbia and 47 states allow involuntary addiction treatment.1 That number may change over time, so it’s important to stay up to date with your state’s local regulations.

It’s important to note that your state may or may not make a legal distinction between treating a person for alcohol addiction, drug addiction, and mental health. This distinction is usually intended to protect criminal court proceedings, and to prevent defendants from claiming insanity due to substance use.

Most states have two distinct processes by which a person is evaluated for involuntary care; one that applies to current patients, and another that applies to anyone in the midst of a mental health crisis. In many states, anyone can request that a person in crisis be evaluated by a court to see if they meet the criteria for involuntary mental health and/or addiction treatment.2 However, this is not always the case. Florida, for example, requires evaluation by an authority, such as a law enforcement officer, clinical social worker, or physician.

Can I Send My Spouse to Rehab?

Yes, but only in certain locations.

In many states, anyone can call for an emergency mental health evaluation of a person experiencing a mental health crisis. This includes crises that are caused by substance use. If your spouse is a habitual substance user, but is not in crisis, you may have fewer available options. Make sure to check the specific regulations in your state3 to find out which options are available to you.

If you are in physical danger due to your spouse, get yourself to safety before you help them find medical care. If you need help, you can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline1 at 1.800.799.SAFE (7233).

Can I Send My Teen to Rehab?

Possibly, depending on your location and your child’s exact age.

Every U.S. state has slightly different rules governing a minor’s autonomy when it comes to medical care.4 Some of these laws are vague, and subject to interpretation by local authorities. You may be able to make some decisions on your teen’s behalf, while they have more control over others. For example, in Delaware, parental consent is required for a minor to receive inpatient treatment for substance use, but either a parent or a minor aged 14 and up may legally consent to outpatient treatment.

How Does a Person Qualify for Mandatory Rehab?

A person must meet certain criteria before they are legally required to attend rehab.5 These criteria vary based on your location. They may or may not be the same as the criteria for mandated mental health treatment for other conditions.

It’s important to note that there may be different criteria for a person in crisis than for a person with ongoing but less severe symptoms. In a crisis situation, the person may be held briefly before either being released or sent to residential treatment. Often, this means that they will be held for 72 hours in a mental health center, during which time they will be evaluated to see if further treatment is needed.

Is Forced Rehab Effective?

Expert opinions vary. Most seem to believe that successful recovery due to forced rehab is rare, but possible.

A 2016 study found that “mandated treatment of drug dependence conflicts with drug users’ human rights6 and is not effective in treating addiction.” In many cases, mandatory rehab is offered as an alternative to jail. As a result, some rehab centers resemble correctional facilities.7 If a person decides to go to rehab, on the other hand, they may have more say in choosing their own program.

It’s important to note that a person’s motivation to heal greatly impacts their recovery from addiction.8 Certain models of healing, including 12-Step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous,9 emphasize the value in admitting that you have a problem and deciding to make a change. Forced rehab bypasses this step. If someone hasn’t committed to recovery, rehab can be more difficult and less effective.10

In some cases, however, people who are forced into rehab ultimately do recover,11 and even express gratitude for their loved one’s decisions. Reporters of these cases emphasize that these stories are the exception, not the rule.

Some experts disagree with this assessment, even stating that “patients who entered residential treatment with moderate to high legal pressure were significantly more likely to stay in treatment 90 days or more compared to those with low legal pressure.”12 However, there is little publicly available data to support this claim.

Do Interventions Work?

Yes, if you get help from a professional interventionist.

To stage an intervention, you’ll start by gathering a group of people who care about someone struggling with substance use. Ultimately, you’ll all sit down with that person face to face, explain how their substance use has affected your lives, and encourage them to get professional help.

Unfortunately, there is little research regarding the effectiveness of interventions. This is likely because many people plan these meetings on their own, without assistance from a professional. Because emotions will be running high at every stage of the process—from the moment you begin planning to the end of the intervention itself—it’s extremely important to have an experienced, impartial perspective to guide you and your loved one toward the goal.

Professional interventionists are often recovered substance users themselves. As a result, these experts are able to see the conversation from both sides, advocating for both your and your loved one’s best interests. They may also be trained in nonviolent communication, connected to local and national resources, and able to answer complex questions about rehab and recovery.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that there may be a high success rate for interventions conducted by professionals.13 The presence of a third party in the room can also defuse potentially volatile situations.

Will My Loved One Face Legal Consequences if They Go to Forced Rehab?

It’s possible. However, the answer to this question is rapidly changing.

In many states, court-ordered rehab can be offered as an alternative to jail time.14 This does not necessarily protect your loved one from accruing a criminal record. It also depends on a substance user’s exact circumstances. Possession of some substances, including dangerous substances, is perfectly legal and does not represent a risk of legal charges. Possession of other substances may result in criminal charges, but only in certain amounts. Some are highly illegal, and are grounds for felony charges in any amount.

These regulations vary widely from state to state. And as more and more municipalities begin decriminalizing substance use,15 you can expect the rules to change significantly in the near future. If you’re concerned about the legal consequences of forcing your loved one into rehab, it’s best to check with a lawyer or other expert to learn more about your options.

How Long Does Mandatory Rehab Last?

It depends on your area, and on the results of your loved one’s professional evaluation.

When a person in crisis goes to a mental health facility involuntarily,16 they’ll likely be held for 72 hours. However, this varies based on the laws in your area. During or after that emergency hold, they’ll usually be evaluated to see whether further treatment is required. If it is, they may be held for about two weeks. Following that initial period of treatment, they may be released to an outpatient program, or admitted to a residential facility.

Every person’s experience is different, and options vary based on each patient’s insurance, location, and physical and mental health. If possible, it’s best to stay in close communication with the person’s team of healthcare providers. This allows you to make decisions with or on behalf of your loved one as the situation develops.

What if My Loved One Won’t Go to Rehab?

If your loved one won’t go to rehab, you still have options. And you are not alone.

Substance misuse can have a huge impact not only on the person who participates in it, but also on their family and community. It’s important to recognize the effects of their behavior on your own mental health and well-being. Thankfully, there are many resources available for people who love someone struggling with addiction.

Al-Anon is a support group for people with a loved one who struggles with substance use.17 Alateen is a similar group, specifically for young people and teenagers. CoDA, or Codependents Anonymous, is a support group for people who struggle with codependency, which is often exacerbated by relationships with substance users.18 All of these are 12-Step groups, modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous, and designed to help you build a healthier, more sustainable life.

If you’re not interested in joining a group, you may consider seeing a therapist who specializes in treating partners of people with substance use disorders. Or you may just pick up a book about this relationship dynamic. Whatever you decide, remember that your mental health is important, too. Whether or not your loved one ultimately gets the help they need, you also deserve to heal.

Discover your addiction treatment options by visiting our searchable list of rehabs. Take virtual tours, read reviews, learn about insurance coverage, and more.

  1. National domestic violence hotline. (n.d.). The Hotline. Retrieved October 12, 2021, from https://www.thehotline.org/ []

Building Confidence With Strengths-Based Addiction Treatment

Strengths-based treatment empowers clients to direct their own recovery process. This is a departure from many therapeutic modalities, where the focus tends to be on the negative. You analyze unhealthy habits, come to terms with past mistakes, and talk about the problems you’d like to “fix.” This perspective can be very beneficial for some, but it’s not for everyone. The strengths model offers an alternative.

This type of therapy is used to tackle the same issues, but from a more positive perspective. Rather than focusing on their flaws, clients build confidence by growing the skills that serve them best. Strengths-based counseling places an emphasis on the coping mechanisms that got you through difficulties, rather than dwelling on the choices that caused them. 

The goal is for you to view yourself with compassion and respect, cultivating a more positive outlook toward your life and the world around you. This reminds you that no matter how hard things were before, you had the skills to get here. You are capable of great things. And you can use your current strengths to develop an even better toolkit for mental health, with skills that will empower you to build a meaningful life. 

Strengths-based therapy is both a philosophical perspective and a practical approach to the healing process. In order to understand what happens in this form of treatment, it’s important to know about its underlying ideology.

The Philosophy of Strengths-Based Treatment

This approach is fundamentally different from the more widely used model of medical care. In most medical treatments, for any condition from substance use to cancer, the focus is on treating the “bad” symptoms. If your neck hurts, you might take aspirin. If you twist your ankle, you might wear an ankle brace. This can also be applied to more complex issues: if you have depression, you might see a therapist, or start taking antidepressants. In any of these examples, the primary goal of treatment is to stop you from hurting. This model is a negative feedback loop,1 in which a change in a negative stimulus (such as spraining your ankle), is regulated by making a change in the opposite direction (such as wearing an ankle brace). These simple solutions often work well, but they are not always appropriate for healing complex mental illnesses, such as substance use disorders.

The strengths-based approach, on the other hand, is a positive feedback loop. This type of treatment has similar goals to traditional medical care, but it reaches them by using a very different strategy. Instead of treating negative symptoms, the therapist encourages the client to focus on the positive. You’ll catalogue your own strengths, and learn how your skills have helped you navigate past life experiences. By understanding your own best qualities, you’ll become better equipped to use healthy coping mechanisms in the future. This empowers clients to make choices more intentionally, and to build fulfilling, sustainable lives. 

The Medical Model of Care: Fixing Problems

In the case of mental health, negative feedback loops can influence the way clients view themselves and their prospects of recovery. “Traditionally, the mental health arena is highly influenced by the medical model where severe mental illnesses are considered chronic with irreversible neuropathological brain changes and information-processing deficits,” says Huiting Xie, Senior Staff Nurse at the Buangkok View Institute of Mental Health in Singapore in an article on strengths-based approaches for mental health recovery.2 As a result, “Mental health recovery seems like an impossible dream.” The very model we use to determine a course of treatment can sometimes make it difficult for clients to heal.

This common perspective can severely damage the self-esteem of people with mental health diagnoses, which may impede recovery. In fact, research has found that “24% of the people with schizophrenia scored low on self-esteem2 on the Rosenberg self-esteem scale.” This also applies to people with substance use disorders, whether or not they have additional diagnoses. Therapy is intended to cultivate mental health, and not to increase feelings of guilt. Although it’s important to take responsibility for your mistakes, low self-esteem can lead to shame spirals.

This pattern can also cause clients to perform badly in relationships with other people. This results in a lack of community support. Isolation is unhealthy for most people, but especially for those with substance use disorders, who benefit from having a level of public accountability. Strong relationships also help people in recovery build meaningful lives, making plans they can look forward to that don’t include unhealthy behaviors. A lack of community can also make relapse far more likely.

Although the traditional medical model is a very effective way to treat certain disorders, it’s not the only way. For some clients, especially those with mental illness and substance use disorders, it can even be counterproductive. It’s easy to separate one’s identity from physical conditions—you are not your carpal tunnel syndrome. It’s much harder to draw those distinctions when your illness affects your emotions or your behavior. This paradigm can give clients the impression that, just by being themselves, they are a problem that needs to be fixed or isolated from the world. That idea is extremely harmful. Strengths-based treatment can be a lifeline for clients who are engaged in this way of thinking.

Strengths-Based Treatment: Promoting Confidence

Strengths-based therapy has many of the same goals as other treatment modalities. However, those goals are achieved through a very different process. Instead of emphasizing “bad” behaviors, therapists encourage clients to lean into their more positive traits. No matter how hard someone’s life has been, all of us have strengths that have helped us get to this point. In most cases, clients who are starting therapy have made the decision to change. That fact alone is a reason to take pride in yourself.

In strengths-based talk therapy, the therapist guides the client through the process of assessing their own best qualities. Many forms of addiction treatment emphasize “pathology, focusing on problems and failures in people with mental illnesses; the strengths-based approach2 allows practitioners to acknowledge that every individual has a unique set of strengths and abilities that [they] can rely on to overcome problems.” By acknowledging these strengths, the therapist not only encourages the client to do the same; they also provide tangible, memorable evidence they are worthy of praise and respect.

Strengths-based treatment may be helpful for people with a wide variety of diagnoses, including substance use disorders. Research is being done on its efficacy in treating a number of demographics. Like any form of therapy, however, it may not be appropriate for all clients. In some cases, strengths-based therapy is a valuable component of healing, but should be used in combination with other therapeutic modalities. 

It’s important to be realistic about recovery of any kind. False hope can be harmful, especially to people who are emotionally triggered by severe disappointment. However, overt pessimism can be equally damaging. The strengths model deals in practical hope. By taking a clear-eyed look at your most positive qualities, you can ground yourself in reality and begin to build a more sustainable life. This therapy has many of the same goals as other treatment modalities; however, those goals are achieved through a very different process.

Strengths-Based Treatment in Practice

The actual process of strengths-based recovery may look and feel different from other types of talk therapy. Because the goal is to empower the client, and not to “fix” them or their problems, therapists use a distinct set of techniques and conversation styles. Clients are encouraged to assess and celebrate their own unique strengths, rather than conforming to a set of values that may or may not resonate with them.

Assessment

In the first stage of strengths-based treatment,3 “case managers engage clients in a process that is the antithesis of most assessments.” Some practitioners don’t even read the client’s complete medical record until after their first meeting. Instead, they meet you in the present moment, listening to your perspective before learning about other healthcare providers’ opinions. This allows them to approach you as a whole person, making space for you to have your own thoughts and feelings about the healing process. 

This approach is intended to empower the client. When you’re in the driver’s seat, you learn how it feels to make decisions about your own life. You can begin to build confidence not only by talking about your strengths, but by amassing evidence that you’re capable of making sustainable choices. If you begin this process during your time at an inpatient rehab program, the risks are somewhat mitigated. You can trust that your talk therapist and other healthcare providers will provide feedback if you begin to fall into unhealthy patterns. 

After meeting with you and hearing about your experience, the therapist will support you in deciding what your treatment will look like. Unlike many other modalities, clients in strengths-based therapy define their own treatment goals, and decide which services will be used to achieve those goals. You’ll begin by going through a questionnaire to assess your strengths. For some clients, this is their first time consciously considering their own best qualities. This strengths-based assessment3 focuses on your ability to “accomplish a task, use a skill, and have or fulfill a goal in nine life domains,” including life skills, finance, leisure, relationships, living arrangements, occupation/education, health, internal resources, and recovery.

According to experts, by inviting a client to take such an active role in their own recovery, the strengths-based approach can significantly decrease their denial.3 In the act of considering which services will be most effective for them, clients must take an honest look at their own goals, needs, and preferences. By doing this, they begin to come to terms with their current emotional state. They accept their own problems, and immediately link those problems to possible solutions. This process can be less jarring and painful than more traditional therapies, in which the client begins treatment by extensively describing the difficult issues at hand.

Identifying Your Strengths

After the initial intake process, clients go through various strengths-based assessment worksheets4 to help them identify their strengths and skills. This process invites you to take an objective look at your own life experiences and behavioral patterns. For example, one worksheet asks the client to reflect not only on strengths they see in themselves, but on strengths the therapist heard and reflected back to them. Then, the client goes on to list situations in which those strengths were apparent. Every therapeutic process is unique, so your therapist may or may not give you this exact assignment.

Most people in recovery have more strengths than they initially think. They may also have developed coping mechanisms that once felt like negative attributes, which can help them build more sustainable lives. It’s common for people with substance use disorders to find themselves in dangerous or even life-threatening situations, in which they must make split-second decisions. If you were once in a dangerous situation, and made a decision that minimized harm to yourself or someone else, you used a skill to do so. That’s something to be proud of. Going to rehab and engaging in therapy will hopefully help you avoid such difficult dynamics in the future, but you can find ways to use that same skill in situations with lower stakes.

Rehab is an opportunity to develop healthy coping mechanisms. In some forms of treatment, therapists assume that clients are starting from scratch, and unlearning all their current habits to make room for new ones. The strengths model takes the opposite approach. With this type of treatment, you begin by acknowledging and honoring the fact that you already have positive coping mechanisms. Your therapist guides you through the process of honing these skills, and learning to apply them in a healthy and sustainable way.

Self-Empowerment Through Strengths-Based Treatment

The positive philosophy of strengths-based treatment5 has an impact on every aspect of therapy, including interpersonal dynamics. This process is most effective when the therapist and client view themselves as collaborators. Instead of enacting the power dynamic seen in so many therapeutic relationships, the therapist and client interact as equals, honoring each other’s contributions to the conversation.

Over time, this dynamic teaches the client how to build relationships that are based on mutual respect. This practical experience also allows you to create memories of healthy interactions, amassing evidence of your own strengths and skills.

Working as a team, the therapist and client begin to explore skills that have “been historically successful in the client’s life.”5 Clients practice viewing themselves in a more positive light, developing confidence and self-compassion. Experts note that this process reveals clients’ inherent resilience. “In most cases, it is not necessary to teach clients new skills, thoughts or emotional reactions. Instead, therapists can help clients identify the strengths they already possess and build a model of resilience from these existing strengths,” according to Christine A. Padesky and Kathleen A. Mooney, creators of the four-step Strengths-Based cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT)6 model. “Rather than focus on areas in which the person is not resilient, we advocate in-depth exploration of areas in the person’s life in which they exhibit sustained activity and that are not linked to problem areas.”

It’s important to recognize that behavioral patterns do not exist in a vacuum. Strengths-based therapy also includes an assessment of the client’s external environment and family structure. In many types of therapy, this assessment would be focused on assigning responsibility or even blame to the people in your life, locating the root of your biggest problems. The strengths model, unsurprisingly, has a somewhat different goal. The therapist and client use this information to identify opportunities for the client to seek out external support.

Strengths-Based Treatment in Community

You are not alone in your experiences. Strengths-based recovery practice7 recognizes that community is “an oasis of potential resources,” and a very important component of healing. This applies to your existing community—family, friends, colleagues, etc.—and also to the new community you’ll build during therapy. This community may come from group therapy, support groups, 12-Step programs, family and friends, and other people in your rehab program.

Group Therapy

After arriving at inpatient rehab, clients may or may not get to choose which groups they attend. Of course, your choice of rehab facility may be partially based on which groups are offered. However, you may find that your preferences change after you begin inpatient treatment. Strengths-based treatment gives clients a great deal of control over which types of therapy they engage in. You’ll be empowered to make your own decisions, just as you are in every other aspect of this approach. 

Experts note that typically, “the treatment program determines the types of groups clients will attend, the information to be presented, and the perspectives to be used to evaluate the client’s success or failure in treatment. In opposition to that approach, case managers who implement a strengths-based approach will attempt to ensure that clients are in control of their own treatment.”3

By having so much say in what your treatment looks like, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about your own needs. This is an absolutely essential part of healing. The more you know about yourself, the better equipped you’ll be to adopt healthy patterns of behavior. If you can really meet your needs, and do so in a sustainable way, you can start to alleviate self-destructive desires. 

You’ll also gain valuable experience in meeting your needs on your own terms. When this process begins in a safe environment like inpatient rehab, you have the freedom to make mistakes and through trial and error. Your actions always have consequences, but any negative effects can be moderated by on-site therapists and medical professionals. 

Family Therapy

The principles of strengths-based therapy can also be applied to families. Whether you choose to attend family therapy, or simply discuss your family dynamics in a one-to-one session, this philosophy helps many clients identify ways to heal their relationships. The strengths model encourages clients to approach family members from a place of respect, honoring each person’s contributions.

As Elsie Jones-Smith, of the American Board of Professional Psychology, writes, “The SBT (strengths-based therapy) philosophy toward working with families8 deals with the unique knowledge, competencies, capabilities, and resources of individual family members as well as the family as a whole. Strengths may involve relationships and connection among immediate family members, extended family members, friends, and members of a given community. These strengths can also be found in the family’s unique beliefs, cultural and ethnic heritage, or socioeconomic background.”

This process of honoring each family member’s unique knowledge and history is not intended to ignore problems. It goes almost without saying that family dynamics can contribute to mental illness and substance use disorders. However, it’s not often productive to dwell on wrongdoing. This model avoids placing blame on any individual person or family unit. Instead, it refocuses on the individual and collective skills of the people involved.

By considering the strengths of your family members, and of your family unit as a whole, you may discover new ways to reconnect with the people closest to you. It’s okay to ask for help, and it can be very healthy to seek advice from those you trust. You may find that the people in your life have strengths that are very different from your own. Perhaps you’re great at listening, but your sibling is better at articulating difficult emotions. The two of you could learn a great deal from each other. Strengths-based family therapy might help you do this in a focused way, allowing each of you to feel like an expert while you both practice working as a team. 

Participating in a team of any kind can build individual confidence.9 This includes family systems. One study asserts that teamwork “has the ability to enable the members of the team to have a higher level of emotional security, self-confidence and the ability to plan and decide with others positively.” Strengths-based family therapy not only improves group dynamics; it can also empower individual family members in other areas of their lives. This is especially important for people in recovery from substance use. In order to heal your relationships, you must understand your own needs and goals and have a clear sense of what makes your life meaningful.

Holistic Strengths-Based Treatment

The strengths model is intended to treat the whole client, in the wider context of their life and community. Rather than just treating your symptoms, this approach is intended to improve every aspect of life, including self-image, patterns of behavior, and interpersonal dynamics. Although clients are asked to evaluate their personal histories, the focus is on the future.

In order to identify goals, you’ll begin by defining your personal values. For example, if you value adventure and travel, buying a house may not be an appropriate objective. On the other hand, if you value stability more highly, it may be time to let go of dreams of a traveling lifestyle. There’s no one right way to live, but it is possible to find the best possible path for yourself.

Assessing and exercising your strengths can help you understand what a meaningful life looks like for you. You’re also likely to find that even your most difficult past experiences are valuable lessons. No matter where you’ve been, what you’ve done, or whether you regret your past choices, you can be sure that you’ve learned and grown along the way. 

Elsie Jones-Smith writes, “Strengths-based therapy10 adheres to the belief that even the most challenging life stories that clients bring to therapy contain examples of their exercise of strengths in their struggle with adversity. For instance, the addict’s or substance abuser’s maladaptive responses may also contain within them the seeds of a struggle for health.” Those seeds contain valuable information about what you valued, even in the darkest times of your life. To extend the metaphor–by planting and watering them, you can develop even better coping mechanisms, nourishing the life you’ve always wanted.

Experts note that people with substance use disorders3 “frequently become adept at making decisions in crisis, with very short-range goals in mind. Although this type of decision-making ability is a strength, recovery and sobriety will also call for the ability to plan and carry out longer-range goals.” When you first begin therapy, it can be difficult to see how your own best qualities came through in the difficult situations you previously encountered. Once you start to recognize your own strengths, you can start to plan for a better future. It’s important for people in recovery to learn how to think about their lives in the long term. And in many cases, this is a new experience.

The Hero’s Journey

Strengths-based therapy positions the client as the hero of their own personal narrative.11 In their book on this approach, John J. Murphy and Jacqueline A. Sparks write “Clients are often portrayed as dysfunctional, passive, and acted upon by the expert counselor’s intervention. Drawing from decades of research that paint a very different picture, SBT acknowledges and honors heroic elements of clients’ lives throughout the course of counseling. These elements include clients’ creativity, wisdom, resilience, and other strengths that contribute to effective therapeutic outcomes.”

The hero’s journey,12 famously defined by Joseph Campbell, is well understood as a literary concept. This detailed framework can be divided into three steps: the departure, the initiation, and the return. In the departure, a person acknowledges a problem that needs their attention, and decides to make changes. During the initiation, they confront the difficult emotions that haunt them, and the decisions that led them this far. Finally, in the return phase, they begin to rebuild their life based on recent revelations.

It’s easy to see how this process relates to that of addiction and recovery. In the case of addiction, the departure occurs when you decide to change your life. This initiation might occur in detox, rehab, or other forms of therapy. The return is the ongoing process of recovery.

Academic researchers are now applying this framework directly to mental health, especially in the context of trauma. In the article “Trauma Recovery: A Heroic Journey,”13 scholars describe how the process of healing from a traumatic experience, such as substance abuse, fits into this paradigm. They conclude that in many cases, “trauma survivors are the living narrative of such heroic tales,” and that “recognizing survivors in this way empowers them to continue to fight bravely for the ability to change their own story.” 

In strengths-based therapy, as in the hero’s journey, clients take an active role in their own lives. This process encourages you to develop compassion for your own struggles, and to look forward to a brighter future of your own design. For example, at the New England Recovery Center, clients engage in a “client-centered, strengths-based approach” intended to “motivate them for active participation. Cognitive-behavioral treatment provides clients the necessary tools for achieving and sustaining recovery. Concepts and skills learned during the initial stages of addiction treatment are continuously emphasized and practiced on a daily basis.”

Developing the Strength to Change

In strengths-based therapy, the client is positioned as an expert. The therapist trusts you to make your own decisions and to implement your skills. By learning how it feels to be trusted, you’ll begin to trust yourself, either again or for the first time. 

When you trust yourself to make good decisions, you’re far better equipped to navigate difficult situations. Strength-based therapy offers you the emotional space you need to build healthier coping mechanisms, and to use them even when you encounter triggers.  This strategy is a powerful way to build confidence and start working toward a better life. 

If this type of therapy feels right for you, you can learn more about the luxury rehabs that offer strengths-based treatment here.

Tips for Staging an Intervention

When most people think of an intervention, they picture the classic scene that’s often shown in TV shows and movies: a group of family and friends gathering for a meeting in the living room. And while this is one way to do it, there are actually many ways to stage an intervention. Everything from the setting to the addiction treatment professionals who help you can be quite different from what the media portrays.

To begin with, staging an intervention requires more behind-the-scenes planning than you may realize. The more prepared you are, the more you’ll increase your chances of convincing your loved one to get the help they need. What you do to prepare will depend on how you want to stage your intervention and what kind of intervention you want to do.  

So whether you’re ready but simply need encouragement, or you know you want to stage an intervention but don’t know where to begin, keep reading for more facts and professional tips on this challenging but important step.

How Interventions Work

Interventions often become necessary because many people aren’t aware how harmful their behavior actually is to themselves or others. This happens frequently with people who struggle with substance or alcohol use disorders, as denial is an inherent part of addiction.1

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), an intervention is a “short-term counseling strategy2 based on motivational enhancement therapy.” In other words, an intervention happens when concerned family and friends gather to try to motivate or convince a loved one to get professional help for their substance use or mental health disorder. 

When successful, an intervention can help your loved one do the following:

  • Stop immediately harmful behaviors (like drug consumption) 
  • Gain a clearer understanding of the benefits of treatment
  • Equip them with the necessary information to get help
  • Take steps to get the help they need

The ultimate goal of an intervention is to get someone to change their behavior, preferably by willingly seeking professional help.

How to Know When Someone Needs an Intervention

An intervention can be done for any loved one who has a problem with using substances or alcohol, or has mental health problems preventing them from living their fullest life. Your partner, friend, or family member doesn’t have to “hit rock bottom” for you to feel like you want to help them. 

If someone you know is showing signs of addiction, like engaging in risky behaviors or neglecting normal daily activities, it’s appropriate to host an intervention. This can be for both substance and behavioral addictions:

If you suspect someone could benefit from an intervention, but aren’t confident moving forward, it’s a good idea to talk to their close friends and family (if you’re comfortable doing so) to have a better understanding of their condition and life situation. Another option is to consult with an intervention professional, which we discuss further below. 

Why Interventions Work

When a group of people, like family members and significant others, gather to show and voice their genuine concern for the welfare of a mutual loved one, this alone can be a powerful tool to show someone the severity of their addiction and to motivate them to change their behavior. Results from several studies also support this idea. 

An intervention is considered a success when a person commits to treatment, according to the US National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD). Based on this criteria, the NCADD claims that when performed correctly, intervention success rates are above 90%.3

Another U.S. organization, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAA) reviewed results from numerous studies on the effects of interventions and reported that these studies “suggested that brief intervention can reduce alcohol consumption4 in a substantial number of at-risk or problem drinkers and can facilitate the referral of dependent drinkers into specialized alcoholism treatment.”

What Happens During an Intervention

In general, an intervention involves family and friends meeting with a loved one to motivate that person to seek treatment. Ideally this is done in a nonthreatening manner and environment. The exact details may be somewhat different depending on which approach you decide to use (see the intervention options discussed below). 

The main difference is that interventions can be done with or without the help of professionals. Below we’ll discuss the 2 main ways to stage an intervention: 

  1. Making a plan to do it on your own.
  2. Involving a professional interventionist. 

DIY Interventions

When you do an intervention yourself it simply means you’re planning, preparing and executing the event without a professional interventionist’s help. This is a realistic option for many people if they feel confident and are committed to thoroughly organizing the intervention. 

The key to staging an intervention on your own is choosing someone, whether yourself or another person, to lead the intervention. The best person to lead an intervention is someone who can stay strong throughout the conversations and can quickly and calmly handle any conflicts that arise. It’s important that the leader of the intervention educates themselves on common arguments that people struggling with addictions use so they know how to address these comments if they come up. Lastly, the intervention leader will be in charge of giving the loved one the choice of going to rehab or not. 

Even if you don’t hire a professional interventionist, you can still invite a doctor, a therapist, a spiritual or faith leader, or even a licensed alcohol and drug counselor to the intervention. Just be aware that some of these professionals still require fees for their services. 

Professional Intervention Services

Some mental health specialists are experts at diagnosing disorders and building strategies to solve them. These professionals are interventionists, and if you hire them they can help you through every step of your intervention. 

Working with a professional interventionist is a good idea if the family and friends involved in the intervention (a.k.a. your “intervention group”) have strained relationships, don’t have adequate time to invest in prepping for the intervention, or may be holding on to grudges that prevent them from contributing constructively. In these situations, a professional can act as a “referee,” helping the group process their emotions before the intervention to avoid it becoming a hostile and counterproductive situation. 

As the Mayo Clinic, a U.S. nonprofit medical center, explains, it may also be critical to get help from a professional interventionist5 if your loved one meets the following criteria: 

  • A history of serious mental illness 
  • A history of violence 
  • Suicidal behaviors, tendencies or thoughts 
  • Current use of mood-altering substances
  • Has been to treatment and relapsed 

A professional will know how to safely de-escalate any potentially violent situations and  address self-destructive behaviors during the intervention. 

If you choose a DIY intervention, conflicting emotions and family tensions may come up as you’re preparing. It’s okay to pivot and seek professional help if doing an intervention yourself becomes too difficult. 

To find an interventionist in the U.S., you can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) national 24/7 helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). The Association of Intervention Specialists (AIS) also provides a network of professional interventionists across North America and Britain.6

Different Types of Interventions

As previously mentioned, interventions don’t always just look like a group gathering in the living room. There are several different types of interventions. These may be based on how many and what kinds of people are present, on how the intervention is organized and handled, or on the approach used.

Interventions Based on People Present

The number of people involved in an intervention can range from one person to a mixed group of loved ones and professionals. 

  • Simple Intervention: This type of intervention happens when one person, such as a close friend or family member, confronts a loved one in a neutral environment to discuss their concerns and develop a treatment plan. 
  • Classic Intervention: A group of people gathering to talk to a loved one in a non-confrontational manner about their need for treatment is considered a classic intervention. Usually the group meets beforehand to set goals, decide each person’s role in the meeting, and plan the event. A professional may or may not be involved, depending on what the group decides.
  • Family Systems Intervention: In some cases family members are collectively involved in enabling a person’s addiction or struggle with substance use disorders themselves. Family systems interventions are intended to address all members of a family and encourage them to get treatment either individually or as a group. Families often have complex dynamics, so this is best done with the help of a professional who specializes in organizing this type of intervention. 
  • Crisis Intervention: This is usually unplanned and happens after a person experiences a potentially threatening or dangerous situation. Family or friends present then confront the loved one and try to persuade them to get treatment. Because of the situations that crisis interventions happen in, emergency workers like paramedics or police officers may be present. 

Interventions Based on Approach

Another way to think about interventions is based on what type of format you’d like it to follow. In general, the following approaches can be used in classic or family systems interventions:

  • Johnson Model: This approach is non-confrontational and focuses on family and friends communicating the facts, evidence and personal effects of a loved one’s substance use with the help of a professional. The interventionist plans the session with the intervention group, who also decide on at least three different treatment options to propose to the person they’ll speak to.
  • ARISE Model: Developed by the AIS as an alternative to the Johnson model, the ARISE approach has three levels that the intervention team works through.
  • Confrontational Approach: This is the type of intervention you usually see in TV shows, and is an aggressive approach that happens when people demand that someone gets treatment. This approach is rarely effective and therefore not recommended by professionals. 
  • Tough Love Intervention: Less aggressive than the confrontational approach, the tough love intervention happens when a group of people surprise a loved one with an intervention in order to persuade them to get help.
  • Love First Approach: The love first approach is less aggressive than the confrontational and tough love interventions. The intervention group typically meets first with an interventionist to develop their plan. Each person also writes a letter to read at the event.

How to Decide Which Approach Is Best for You

Deciding which type of intervention will work best for you, your group and your loved one can be difficult. One of the benefits of working with an interventionist is that they can help you decide the best intervention approach.  

Things to Consider Before Staging an Intervention

If you’ve decided that an intervention is the right next step to getting help for your loved one, you’ll need to know how much money you should plan on spending and what your ultimate goals are before you begin. 

How Much Interventions Cost

Unfortunately, in the U.S., interventions alone are not covered by insurance (though the costs of rehab treatment may be). Which means you will be responsible for any professional fees and costs. 

Interventions can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $18,000. This varies greatly depending on what kind of professional you hire and what’s included in their fees. Some professionals charge up front for all associated costs, while others charge per service offered. In general, you can fund a professional intervention for less than $6,000. 

Besides any costs involved with hiring an interventionist and hosting the intervention, your group may also want to plan for the costs of addiction treatment, such as transportation and facility check-in fees. This way, if the intervention is successful, your loved one can immediately get the help they need. 

According to Laura Herrman, the Marketing and Outreach Director at Gallus Detox Centers:

“Generally the people who thrive here are those who are willing to start their recovery journey. However, we do work with a lot of interventionists that have people come in who aren’t necessarily completely willing yet. And what we do when they’re with us is find that motivation for change.”

If you decide to pay for some or all of your loved one’s treatment, be sure to give yourself enough time to research and choose the best treatment center for your loved one’s circumstances. 

Setting a Goal for the Intervention

It’s important that both you and anyone joining you go into the intervention with a clearly defined intervention goal so you can plan your intervention around achieving that goal. A U.S. Surgeon General’s Report published by SAMHSA, explains:

“The goals of early intervention7 are to reduce the harms associated with substance misuse, to reduce risk behaviors before they lead to injury, to improve health and social function, and to prevent progression to a disorder and subsequent need for specialty substances use disorder services.” 

Examples of intervention goals might include your loved one completing certain actions:  

  • Acknowledging the harm in their behavior and the effects it’s had on others
  • Taking actions to change their behaviors
  • Agreeing to speak to a professional for more information on treatment
  • Checking in to a rehab facility
  • Scheduling another meeting to discuss the situation further 

Your Intervention Preparation Checklist

No matter how you decide to stage an intervention, use the list below to help you prepare.  

  • Decide which kind of intervention you’ll do. If you choose to hire professionals, get them involved right from the beginning so they can help you with the rest of your planning.
  • Plan who will be present. If you want a group of people present, stick to a small number who represent the “core” of close family and friends. This group will be your intervention group, or intervention team, and should be involved in the planning and preparation stages. 
  • Pick your location. The location will differ depending on what kind of intervention you choose, where your team and your loved one are physically located, and where you believe you’ll be most likely to achieve the goals you set. Above all, the setting for your intervention should be a neutral, safe space for all intervention members to express themselves. The U.S. Surgeon General explains in a report on SAMHSA that “early intervention services8 can be provided in a variety of settings (e.g., school clinics, primary care offices, mental health clinics)”
  • Prepare and rehearse what to say. Interventions can be uncomfortable for a lot of people, not just the loved one you’re talking to. Preparing speaking notes or even a script will help everyone keep their emotions in check and stay on topic throughout the process. It’s also a good idea to research and review terms and statements that everyone should avoid saying, like “alcoholic” and “junkie.” 
  • Manage expectations. TV show interventions often skew our perspectives of what we think will happen. People aren’t necessarily happy to accept help or even open to discussing their problems. Which is why it’s important for your intervention group to establish boundaries and predetermine actions each person will take in case your loved one refuses help.
  • Conduct the intervention. All of your preparation leads up to the actual intervention. Many people don’t follow through with their plans and aren’t successful at staging the intervention. It takes as much work to follow through as it does to get to this stage. 
  • Follow up. No matter what the outcome of the intervention is, it’s important that all members uphold statements made during the intervention. For example, if parents say they won’t finance their child’s lifestyle unless they get treatment, they must follow through with that statement.

It’s important to keep in mind that, often, one intervention alone is not enough to motivate someone to take action. And even when someone does take steps to get help, follow-up interventions may be needed to encourage continuing care. 

Start Planning Your Intervention

Staging an intervention requires courage and preparation. Many people see an intervention as their one chance to convince a loved one to get the help they need, which is frequently the truth. That’s why it’s key to make sure you navigate this important moment correctly and with the right intentions.

We hope the knowledge and information above will help you to confidently move forward with planning your intervention. 

For more on available addiction treatment options, explore our collection of luxury rehabs here.


Frequently Asked Questions About Performing an Intervention

How do interventions work?

Interventions are short-term counseling strategies based on motivational enhancement therapy. They involve concerned family and friends gathering to motivate or convince a loved one to seek professional help for their substance use or mental health disorder. The ultimate goal is to get someone to change their behavior and willingly seek treatment.

When is an intervention necessary?

An intervention can be done for any loved one who has a problem with drugs or alcohol, or has mental health problems preventing them from living a functional and fulfilling life. It’s appropriate to host an intervention if someone is showing signs of addiction, such as engaging in risky behaviors or neglecting normal daily activities.

Why do interventions work?

Interventions work because they gather a group of people, like family members and significant others, to show and voice their genuine concern for the well-being of a loved one. This alone can be a powerful tool to demonstrate the severity of their addiction and motivate them to change their behavior. Studies have shown that when performed correctly, intervention success rates are above 90%.

Everything You Need to Know About Calling a Residential Treatment Center

If you’re hesitant about calling an addiction treatment center for the first time, you’re not alone. We understand how it can feel like another hurdle to clear on your way to getting reliable residential care.

But whether you’re seeking treatment for yourself or for a loved one, and whether you’ve researched inpatient rehab centers for weeks or not at all, that initial phone call is the first step to actively getting help. Plus, talking to an admissions specialist will help you determine if a particular treatment facility is the right fit for you.

Knowing what to expect when you get on the phone with a rehab center can give you the confidence you need to make that first call. Keep reading to learn more about inquiring at a residential treatment center.

Who Answers the Phone?

When you call a rehab center, you’ll talk to an intake or admissions specialist. Sometimes a receptionist will answer first and redirect your call. 

It’s important to know that, in general, a rehab’s admissions staff performs the same functions as a sales team. Their job is to sell their rehab center’s treatment to potential clients. Yes, they want you to get the help you need, but typically they want you to get that help through their program. This is especially true if you call a hotline that’s trying to refer you to a rehab center for a fee

Residential rehab admissions staff are usually trained to help people going through various mental, emotional, and physical struggles when they call. And all rehab staff should have ethical standards for interacting with potential clients and helping them get the treatment they need. 

Still, there’s no guarantee you’ll receive unbiased information when calling a treatment center. Knowing which questions to ask, and what questions to be prepared to answer, will empower you to get the facts you need and to determine for yourself if the rehab you’re calling is really the right one for you.

What Happens When You Call?

Usually, the admissions specialist will begin the call with a series of questions to learn more about you, your medical and substance use history, and your current condition. This series of questions is often referred to as an “initial assessment,” and is quite standard between different facilities. Initial assessments usually occur via telephone. But you can also do it in-person if you visit a rehab center to see their facilities.

Note: This initial admissions assessment is different from your check-in assessment, which is a much more in-depth evaluation performed by licensed mental health professionals and medical staff when you arrive at an inpatient facility for your stay.

The purpose of the rehab intake assessment1 is for the center to determine what level of care you need and any logistics that need to be arranged for your treatment. As the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) describes, this assessment helps “pinpoint places where there areor may beconcerns.” 

Having an in-depth conversation about your background and concerns also allows the rehab to determine which standard length of stay is appropriate for you and if their core program needs to be adjusted to meet any of your specific needs. For example, if you’re struggling with sex addiction and not a substance use disorder, you might be scheduled to join Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous meetings instead of Narcotics Anonymous meetings during your stay. 

During your intake assessment you’ll also have the chance to ask any additional questions you have, like details about the center’s facilities or specific therapies offered. And remembereverything discussed during this phone call is to help you decide if the rehab center is the best match for you. 

Basic Questions Inpatient Rehab Centers May Ask

When you call a rehab, the questions you’re asked may vary slightly from center to center. This is because each addiction treatment center’s intake questions1 “depend on the types of clients treated and the kinds of services offered,” as explained in a SAMHSA report on Treatment Improvement Protocol. 

No matter who you call, you’ll probably be asked to share most of the same general information. This includes your basic demographics and background, your medical and family history, and your substance use history. 

According to another SAMHSA report on Substance Abuse Treatment for Persons with Co-Occurring Disorders, you should also be prepared to discuss any “medical issues (including physical disability and sexually transmitted diseases), cultural issues, gender-specific and sexual orientation issues, and legal issues,” which will further aid the treatment matching and planning process.2 Rehabs may ask you questions about the following topics: 

Basic demographics and background 

  • How old are you? 
  • Where are you from? 
  • What is your racial and ethnic identity? 
  • What is your gender and sexual identity?
  • What, if any, is your religious background?
  • Do you actively follow any religious practices? 

Medical history 

  • Do you have any current or past physical health conditions (like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, etc.)? 
  • When were you diagnosed and how old were you?
  • What treatments did you receive?
  • What were your treatment results?
  • Did you, or do you currently, experience any complications during treatment? 
  • Do you have any current or past mental health conditions (like depression, anxiety, PTSD, etc.)? 
  • When were you diagnosed and how old were you?
  • What treatments did you receive?
  • What were your treatment results?
  • Did you, or do you currently, experience any complications during treatment? 
  • Have you had any major or minor surgeries?
  • Did you, or do you currently, experience any complications due to these surgeries? 
  • What are your current and past prescription medications?
  • Have you ever had any negative reactions to medications?   

Family history

  • Do/did any of your parents have problems with alcohol or other drug use? 
  • Does your partner have a problem with alcohol or drug use? 
  • Do any of your second- or third-degree family members have a history of substance or alcohol use disorders? 
  • Do your relatives have any other notable physical or psychological conditions? 

Substance use history 

  • What substances do you currently use? 
  • What substances have you used in the past, but are no longer using?
  • How long have you been using substances and/or alcohol?
  • Do you have any co-occurring conditions or dual diagnoses?
  • Are you, or have you ever taken any prescription medications to treat substance or alcohol use disorder? 
  • Have you ever had any negative reactions to medications? 

Even if you don’t have the answers to all these questions, or some of them are difficult to discuss, understanding your complete personal and family history is the starting point of addiction treatment.1 “The assessment examines a client’s life in far more detail so that accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment placement, problem lists, and treatment goals can be made,” explains the U.S. Center for Substance Abuse Treatment in a SAMHSA report. “Usually, a clinical assessment delves into a client’s current experiences and her physical, psychological, and sociocultural history to determine specific treatment needs.”

After discussing your general background and history, you’ll have the chance to ask any of your questions about rehab in general and about that facility’s staff, policies, and programs in particular. 

What to Ask a Residential Rehab Center

Before your first phone call with any rehab center, it’s a good idea to write up a list of questions you want to ask. In addition to helping you feel even more prepared, this ensures you’ll get all of the information you need to make an educated decision about your treatment. 

You may have more questions than those listed below, but these are a good starting point to help you make the most out of your call.

Learning More About Residential RehabThe Basics

How much does treatment cost? 

“How much is this going to cost me?” is the first question on most people’s minds when they call a rehab center. Knowing the costs of treatment upfront will allow you to financially prepare for inpatient rehab, which in turn can give you the mental clarity to fully focus on your recovery while you’re in treatment. 

In the United States, the Affordable Care Act requires most insurance policies to cover up to a certain level of treatment. Heather Charlet, Director of Admissions at Gallus Detox Center in Colorado, explains that coverage “depends on each individual’s policy and what their out-of-network benefits are. We run a verification of benefits for every patient that has insurance to see what we’re able to cover.”

“We also have self-pay rates that are guaranteed, regardless of what they may need during their stay. They don’t get back bills when they’re with us: the cost is the cost.” 

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Gallus Detox Center in Littleton, Colorado.

There are a few additional cost-related questions you should be sure to ask: 

  • Does this treatment center accept my insurance? 
  • If not, what are my payment options or how can I pay for treatment?
  • Is full payment required upfront or can I pay a deposit to hold my spot? 

Read more about how much rehab costs  

Is there a waitlist? If so, how long is it? 

Many people seeking treatment want to get the help they need as soon as possible. Because of the extensive number of treatment centers available, waitlists are generally not common in the U.S. But in Europe and Australia, where relatively fewer luxury rehabs are sought after by those wanting top-quality treatment, having to wait to check into treatment can be a real concern. 

Because addiction is by nature an urgent issue, whether a center has a waitlist or not may determine if you can, or want to, attend treatment at that facility. Knowing this information right away can save some time in making your decision. 

Tell me more about your center’s treatment philosophies and modalities. 

The path to recovery is an incredibly personal journey: What works for one person may or may not work for another. That’s why so many different methods are used to treat substance use disorders and mental health conditions. 

Faith-based, 12-Step, non-12-Step, and holistic rehabs are examples of rehab treatment approaches that underpin entire programs and may appeal to different types of people. Meanwhile, treatment modalities, or therapies, can range from conventional, such as talk therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy, to complementary therapies like art therapy and adventure therapy, to name a few. 

The best treatment options for you will depend on your past treatment experiences, your substance use history, and even your personal interests. Maybe you already know what kinds of treatment methods you’re interested in trying or continuing. Or perhaps having a variety of modalities is important so you can try something new or discover your preferences. 

Learn this information so you can reflect on whether the center’s overall approach resonates with you, whether you’re interested in doing any of the particular therapies, and to decide if the treatment philosophies align with your personal beliefs. 

How qualified is your staff? 

Knowing who will be helping you throughout your time in treatment is just as important as knowing what modalities are used. These staff-related questions will help you get a clearer picture of the people overseeing your treatment: 

  • What kind of professionals will I be interacting with on a day-to-day basis? 
  • Who will be on my treatment team? 
  • What are their qualifications? 

Learning More About Residential Rehab—The Details of Your Stay

What types of clientele does your program serve? Do you offer the specific specialized services I need? 

These two questions are important for several reasons:

  • Some rehab centers are tailored to the particular needs of specific clientele. There are luxury rehabs that cater to executives and wouldn’t be appropriate for teens, for example.
  • If you identify with ethnic or sexual minority groups you may require specific resources to address your minority experiences. For example, a transgender person may have trauma around their lived experiences and would likely need an LGBTQ+ affirming environment to safely process this during treatment. 
  • There may be other specialized services that you know you need for a successful treatment experience, such as co-occurring disorder treatment or trauma-informed care.

Whether or not these apply to you, asking this question helps you make sure the rehab center can adequately serve you. In addition to having resources to address certain experiences, the main value of being in a program with similar clientele is that this can create an atmosphere of collective safety and comfort that allows you to do vulnerable therapy and group work. 

Do you offer on-site detox? 

Some people require detox before they begin inpatient treatment. And some residential rehab centers, like Cypress Lakes Lodge and Camino Recovery, are equipped with the facilities and medical staff necessary to offer detox services on-site. Alternatively, other centers may offer detox off-site through partnerships with local medical facilities. 

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Camino Recovery in Vélez-Málaga, Spain.

There are different settings for detox treatment and varying levels of care,3 which is why you should discuss if the rehab center can provide you with the appropriate detox program. If needed, detox is an essential step in beginning treatment. In a report on detoxification, SAMHSA describes that “this phase of treatment frequently requires a greater intensity of services initially to establish participation in treatment activities and […] increase the patient’s readiness for and commitment to substance abuse treatment.” 

Please remember that when done incorrectly or on your own, detox can be potentially harmful to both your physical and mental health. Because of this, it’s important to consult with your physician or a qualified medical professional when making any decisions about detox. 

What does the initial check-in assessment include? 

Most addiction treatment centers will carry out additional in-person physical and psychological assessments when you first arrive. The more extensive these check-in assessments are, the better, because this information is used to determine your treatment program. 

“What we find a lot of times is people come to us with multiple comorbidities, very complex situations, so we use an intensive assessment center to fill out our continuum of care,” says Jerry Vaccaro, President of All Points North Lodge. “We firmly believe there has to be multiple options for people who require treatment, so they can plug in where their needs are.”

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All Points North Lodge in Vail Valley, Colorado.

How many clinical hours does your program include? 

A key indicator of a rehab center’s value is how many individual therapy sessions you’ll actually receive per week. The more time you get to spend with your counselors and therapists, the more help you’re directly receiving. Some treatment programs consist mainly of group therapy sessions, while others include more one-on-one time with practitioners. Asking about program details like this upfront can help you avoid unpleasant surprises when you arrive.  

What are the center’s policies and expectations with regards to contacting loved ones? To what extent am I allowed to use my laptop or cell phone? 

Relationships with your partner, family, and friends are an essential part of your life and recovery. Don’t let fear of not knowing whether you’ll be able to maintain your relationships with your partner and/or family be the roadblock that stops you from getting help. 

If relationships are an important factor for you, ask the center what their outside device or communications policies are: 

  • To what extent is my family going to be brought into treatment?
    • Do you have a family program? If so, what does this look like? 
    • Will my partner/family be able to visit?  
  • Am I going to be able to maintain my relationships while I’m in treatment? 
    • Will I be able to video call or chat with my loved ones? 
    • Will I be allowed to use my personal device for these calls?  

Learning More About Residential Rehab—Important Facts About Aftercare

Is it possible for me to extend my stay if necessary? 

Most inpatient rehab programs have set lengths of stay that typically range from 30 to 90 days. Your admissions specialist can help you determine what length of stay is appropriate for you. Still, you never know what’s going to happen and if you’ll feel fully prepared to check out once you’ve reached the benchmark time spent in treatment. And while most centers are happy to allow clients to extend their stay, if yours is waitlisted, this may present an issue. It’s helpful to know whether your center allows their clients to continue receiving residential treatment if required.

What kind of continuing care, if any, is provided? 

Most people require ongoing support and care after their stay at a residential rehab. “What happens after treatment is probably the most important question about treatment, because that’s what people go back to after they leave from treatment,” says Jan Gerber, CEO of Paracelsus in Zurich, Switzerland. “The whole concept of aftercare is maybe even more important than the treatment itself.” 

paracelsus
Paracelsus in Zurich, Switzerland.

Certain components of continuing care, such as ongoing therapy and a strong support network, are essential to relapse prevention. But aftercare options vary greatly between rehab centers. Some centers may not offer continuing care, or may offer these services at an additional cost. So make sure you find out as much information as possible about your rehab’s aftercare program.

Ask the Questions That Matter to You

Asking all of the questions above is a great way to suss out whether a residential rehab center feels like a good fit. These questions may lead to more questions that are specific to your personal needs. For example, if you know you’re going away for a month to receive treatment, maybe you already know you’re going to need specific accommodations or allowances. Or if you have certain issues to address while you’re in treatment, you need to make sure the center can adequately help you.

Don’t be afraid to ask all the questions you have! Only you can decide if a center is going to be able to meet your needs and offer everything you’re looking for during your stay. 

What Happens Next?

Once your initial assessment is over and all of your questions have been answered, you’ll likely receive treatment and length of stay recommendations from your admissions specialist. At this point, you can also schedule a visit to tour the facility, if it’s feasible for you, before you make any final decisions. 

Your admissions specialist will then review the results of your intake assessment with you. This may happen later, over the phone, or even once you’ve checked in to the facility. It’s extremely beneficial to know your results, because “personalized feedback on the risks associated with [your] own use of a particular substance and how [your] consumption pattern compares to norms—especially for [your] own cultural and gender groups—is a powerful way to develop a sense of discrepancy that can motivate change,” according to a SAMHSA report on Enhancing Motivation for Change in Substance Abuse Treatment.

Lastly, if the facility isn’t the best fit for you, or if you decide it’s not possible at this time for you to physically attend residential rehab, you can ask for additional recommendations. The admissions team might connect you with other resources depending on their level of expertise. Ideally, they would be able to point you in the right direction. 

“In my role as admissions coordinator, I help families find treatment for their loved ones,” clarifies Quinn Tremblay, Admissions Coordinator at McLean Fernside. “I guide them through the process, since a lot of families are new to addiction treatment. Sometimes this includes getting them to insurance-based programs, or even helping them get services through their community or state.”

mclean fernside
McLean Fernside in Princeton, Massachusetts.

Figuring Out the Details

Once you’ve chosen the  rehab center that’s the best fit for you and doesn’t have a wait period (or if it does, has a wait period of less than 4 weeks), the admissions team will also help you organize the logistics. This may look like your intake specialist giving you practical, specific advice or taking action on your behalf, like helping you request time off of work for treatment and arranging your travel to the center. 

A rehab admissions specialist should be able to assist you with anything on your to-do list prior to check-in:

  • Scheduling an arrival date 
  • Contacting your insurance provider 
  • Paying for treatment 
  • Requesting time off work 
  • Informing your family and friends  
  • Planning what to pack 
  • Arranging transportation to and from the facility  

Learn more from our ultimate guide to choosing a treatment provider

Choosing the Right Rehab Center for You

No matter where you’re at in the process of seeking help, it’s okay to not have all of the answers. The first phone call to a residential rehab is a key first step towards getting the help you need. Before you pick up the phone, be the most prepared you can be with up-to-date, accurate information about residential rehab so you can confidently make an educated choice about which center is the best one for your unique wants and needs.

Browse our collection of luxury rehabs to learn more about available program options.


Frequently Asked Questions About Calling a Rehab Center

What happens when you call a drug rehab?

An intake specialist will ask a series of questions to learn more about you. This helps them determine the level of care you need and other treatment details. It’s also a chance for you to find out more about the center.

What questions should I ask when choosing a drug rehab?

These questions can help you make the most out of your call:

How much does treatment cost
Is there a waitlist? If so, how long is it? 
Tell me about your center’s philosophy and treatment methods.
What kind of specialists do you have on staff?
Do you offer on-site detox?
How many clinical hours does your program include?

Who answers the phone when you call a rehab?

An intake or admissions specialist picks up. Sometimes a receptionist will answer and redirect your call. All rehab staff should follow ethical standards when interacting with potential clients.

More Than a Business: The Unique Benefits of a Family-Owned Rehab

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Written by Ben Camp, CEO of RehabPath

Over the past few years, I’ve had the chance to visit a number (the current count is 19, I believe) of the luxury rehabs listed on our site.

I’ve enjoyed meeting the teams behind each one, but have come to particularly appreciate and recognize the unique benefit of family-owned and operated centers. Here are a few of the reasons that dynamic can be so special.

Financial Independence

There’s certainly nothing inherently wrong with institutional investors, but a key benefit communicated to me when visiting these centers is that without an institutional investor to answer to, family-owned rehabs find they are freer to make decisions that put client needs over profit when necessary.

Don Lavender (Programme Director) and his wife Meena (Family Therapist & EMDR Practitioner) run Camino Recovery in Malaga, Spain. Don and Meena spent many years working for institutional treatment centers in the US and UK, and Don was happy to share the benefits of operating a family-owned center.

team camino
Don (right) and Meena (front, 2nd from left) and their team at Camino Recovery.

“Meena and I wanted to do this on our own. Even though we’ve been approached a number of times, we haven’t gone with or worked with investors. Because when you have to pay more attention to the bottom line than paying attention to the welfare of the client, sometimes a good business decision can turn out to be a poor clinical decision.”

Jan Gerber, Managing Director of Paracelsus Recovery in Switzerland, who runs the company with his mom, the Clinical Coordinator, and dad, the Medical Director puts it this way, “I have a very strong belief that institutional money, institutional investments, and mental health don’t work together. Because when it comes to mental health treatment, be it addiction treatment, eating disorders, depression, or anything else, there is no objective decision. Does a person need more psychotherapy or less psychotherapy? More of that treatment or less of that treatment? It needs to be a clinical decision where the budget and financial side is completely cut off.”

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Jan (center) and his mother Dr. Christine Merzeder (center right) meeting with their team.

Intimate Atmosphere

For the most part, family-run treatment centers tend to be smaller, more intimate environments. Of the four I mention in this post, Camino is the largest with a maximum of 8 clients, which is well below the norm for residential treatment centers.

Dr. David Nesenoff, of Tikvah Lake Recovery in Florida, provides an extremely personalized treatment experience with treatment taking place entirely in his home.

“Even though Tikvah Lake Recovery is a 15,000 square foot mansion on a 200-acre private lake, this is our home. My wife Nancy and I live here. There are no signs outside and if one were to poke their head in they would see a peaceful home with a few guests visiting. Our clients are considered guests in our home and they are treated as such. Discussions around our table can be anything from talking about the unbelievable food in front of us or about our day or just some fun stuff hosts and guests usually talk about around the family table. Our clinical director becomes part of the family as well as he often joins us around the lunch table and he and his staff are on-site working with our guests one-on-one every day.”


Dr. Nesenoff welcomes potential clients into his home in the short clip above.

David and his son Adam, who operate the center together, believe that the size of the facility (the program is limited to a maximum of 6 people) and the home-like atmosphere are key factors to their guests’ success.

Ameet Braich, Clinical Director of Camino Recovery (and the son of Meena Lavender) also sees great benefit in a more intimate setting. “We’ve all come from years in the field, working in larger institutions and have found that working in a clinical environment is detrimental to the therapeutic process. Having a small, intimate space where people can really get honest and open up about their issues, really works well in this setting.”

Addiction Is a Family Problem

My first exposure to a family-owned and operated treatment center was Duffy’s Napa Valley. From its founding in 1967 until it was acquired in 2015, Duffy’s operated as a family-run business, and frequently described themselves as “A family business for a family problem.” That slogan resonated with me, and I think its a key component to why family-owned centers are so special.

Addiction is a problem that affects the entire family and can also be a byproduct of problems within the family. So “it is natural for the solutions to these struggles and barriers to be learned within a family environment,” says Nesenoff.

Clients at a family-operated program get the chance to see family dynamics in action, which in itself can be helpful. Don says, “We’re imperfect just like every family. But when we mess up or make mistakes, we acknowledge it. And, in a way, it gives the clients the permission to learn.”

As a key part of their program, Camino invites the families of their clients to join them on site for a 5-day workshop, where according to Don, they teach them about the “disease concept and codependency” as well as a focus on enablement.

He doesn’t doubt that there is a connection between Camino’s family ownership and the effectiveness of their family program. “Camino is a family-owned and family-run business. … We pay attention to families seriously, not only our own family but the family systems of others. … Family is important. It is of value. And when people leave us, they return to family.”

A Dream Come True

“It’s a dream come true.” This is how Debby Berry, co-founder of Kembali Recovery described starting and running a treatment center with her son Clayton.

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Clayton and Debby show us a nearby waterfall for our Bali Destinations episode.

As anyone who runs a family business knows, it has its challenges. But more often than not, the benefits are worth the effort, and felt not only throughout the organization but by the clients and their families in desperate need of help.

When considering treatment options, you should always investigate the quality of the program. Search our collection of rehabs and find key information such as licensing, accreditations, and pricing at a glance. Whenever possible, consult a trusted medical or mental health professional before a final decision is made.


Frequently Asked Questions About Family-Run Rehabs

What are the benefits of a family-run rehab?

Family-run rehabs may have more flexibility and tend to prioritize clinical care over profits. Most treat a few patients at a time in an intimate, home-like setting. This comfortable atmosphere helps patients open up in therapy.

What is the difference between a family-owned rehab and state-funded rehab?

The cost of treatment without insurance is a key difference between family-owned and state-funded rehabs. State-funded rehabs offer low- to no-cost treatment for uninsured people. However, it often takes longer to enter state programs compared to family-owned rehabs.

Do family-run rehabs have better family programs?

Family-run rehabs tend to pay special attention to their family program. Patients also get to see healthy family dynamics in action and can apply these to their own lives.