Drug rehab programs serve an important role in helping people to beat addiction and move on to a healthier lifestyle. If you're seeking a drug rehab program for yourself or someone else, it's imperative that you do thorough research before committing to a particular drug rehab provider. You may start your search by identifying several providers from a drug rehab directory. From there, the task is to find a suitable match between the patient and the type of program.

Remember that drug rehab programs vary considerably. As you look at the drug rehab list, consider some of the factors that differentiate one program from another, such as:

1. Some drug rehab programs are doneoccur on an outpatient basis, while others require an inpatient stay.

2. Gender specific drug rehabs may limit treatment to one gender, or separate patients by gender.

3. Drug rehab programs vary according to the methods used to treat addiction.

4. Certain programs incorporate families into the treatment process.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Contact a drug rehab referral service to obtain drug rehab information

Drug rehab referral services offer clients assistance with identification and placement in the appropriate drug rehab center.

I recommend: DRUG-REHAB.org is a non-profit referral service that has helped people find suitable drug rehab programs since 2002. You can email them through their website, or talk to a placement counselor over the telephone. At the Free My Addiction Referral Services, you'll receive free referral services funded by private donations. Complete their hotline or complete their online forms and wait for a counselor to call you.

Identify specific drug rehab programs, based on the age of the patient

Most drug rehab programs serve middle aged adults; however, substance abuse can strike at any age. Unique populations, such as adolescents and senior citizens, require specific interventions that address their developing or aging minds and bodies.

I recommend: Visions Adolescent Treatment Centers is a residential drug rehab that serves male and female adolescents ranging in age from 13 to 18. The program focuses on the 12-Step recovery principles and offers dual diagnosis treatment as well as family therapy. There are increasing numbers of drug rehab programs for seniors. Odyssey House Eldercare Program is a residential program tailored to the needs of senior citizens. It includes medical care, age-appropriate activities, aftercare planning and assistance finding a job.

Find drug rehab programs that address issues beyond the scope of substance abuse

For many people, substance abuse disorder doesn't occur in isolation. Frequently, there is a co-occurring mental health disorder requiring treatment too. Dual diagnosis treatment programs offer integrated treatments that address both disorders.

I recommend: The Canyon is a dual diagnosis treatment center, staffed with a variety of professionals capable of treating substance abuse and mental health disorders. The program integrates 12-Step meetings with equine assisted psychotherapy, psychodrama, adventure/ropes therapy and much more. Foundations Associates is another dual diagnosis treatment program, which offers integrated treatment that focuses on keeping clients motivated. The program emphasizes the partnership between the client and staff, such that the client has a voice when determining how treatment will progress.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Contact your insurance company before committing to a particular drug rehab provider. Ask if the provider is participating with your insurance. If they aren't a participating provider, you'll be responsible for a larger portion of the bill.