If you’re ready for recovery, of course you want the best treatment available. Discover 10 key questions to ask when deciding on the right treatment center for you.
Along with the opioid crisis has come a surge in new treatment facilities. Although this has resulted in improved access to much-needed addiction treatment, not all treatment centers are created equal. That’s why it’s important to do your homework when searching for appropriate treatment. These questions can help:
- Does the treatment center emphasize a continuum of care (for progressing from detox to inpatient to outpatient services)? Staff should be able to provide information about what criteria a client must meet in order to move to the next step in the treatment process.
- Is the facility accredited and licensed by the State Department of Health? These distinctions help to ensure that the treatment center is being held accountable for upholding standards in providing quality services.
- Is medical detox offered? Detoxification under the supervision of licensed nurses and doctors provides the safest and most comfortable withdrawal experience.
- Are clinicians available who specialize in treating mental health disorders? Substance abuse and mental health disorders often go hand-in-hand. Quality treatment facilities should have providers on staff who are skilled in treating both issues.
- Does the clinical staff and medical team have professional credentials? Treatment providers should have formal education/training and licensure in substance abuse and/or mental health.
- Does the facility offer a tailored approach to treatment? Because each individual’s situation and life circumstances are unique, a one-size-fits-all recovery approach isn’t effective. The facility should provide each client with a tailored treatment plan specifically targeting his or her needs.
- Does the website provide authentic information? For example, a physical address and phone number should be easy to find and photos should provide real-life presentations of the facility and staff.
- Does the treatment center abide by evidence-based practices? Only proven treatment protocols should be used, such as medication management, cognitive behavioral therapy, drug and alcohol counseling and psychoeducation about the risks of drug and alcohol use.
- Does the treatment center have a structured day-to-day schedule? Staff should be able to detail a clear-cut schedule for various aspects of treatment (inpatient, outpatient, extended care, etc.).
- Does the facility include family in the treatment process? Addiction has been called “a family disease” because it affects those closest to the person abusing substances. Therefore, it’s critical that family be involved in the treatment process.
You deserve quality addiction treatment. Remember to choose wisely!
If you’re ready to begin your recovery journey, contact First Step Recovery today!
