The 5 Best Ways To Find a Drug Rehab in California

It can be difficult to choose a drug rehab center for your loved one or yourself. The opioid epidemic has led to an increase in fraudulent and unethical practices among drug rehab providers. In many cases their only concern seems to be financial gain. And in turn, potential patients and consumers are confused and distrustful when it comes to finding effective treatment options. Consumers need to be able to identify the qualities that a rehab center should offer when choosing a rehab program that is right for them. 

Here are some questions you should ask when researching treatment centers and talking to rehab providers.

Accreditation, Licensing, and Certifications

Reputable drug rehabilitation centers are recognized by The Joint Commission and the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. The Joint Commission and CARF, both independent nonprofit organizations, are based on industry performance standards, demonstrated results, quality, and value. Accreditation is different from state licensing, due to the wide range of licensing requirements in each state.

To be able to promote their services and programs on Google and Facebook through a third-party provider, LegitScript, drug rehab centers must also be certified. Through this certification, you can be sure that only quality, legitimate treatment centers are allowed to advertise on these channels. This certification provides protection to the consumer.

You may not be able to tell if rehab centers are ethical or not at a first glance. If you see a lot of negative news about a facility, we’d recommend to use caution during your selection process.

Medical Staff Credentials & Licenses

The credentials and licenses of individuals providing drug rehab programming and services are evidence that they meet the national standards for professional practice. Clinical staff who aren’t licensed or accredited may not have the experience and training necessary to deliver the best care. LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor), LDC (Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor), CAC [Certified Addictions Counselor] or CCDP (“Certified Cooperative Disorders Counselor] are some of the credentials that addiction treatment professionals might have.

Multidisciplinary Treatment Team

Inpatient treatment for substance abuse requires a multidisciplinary team to treat the entire disease. Your rehab program should have a variety of professionals working together to develop a personalized treatment plan. Each member of the team should have a license to practice in that discipline. It is important to be aware of staff members who wear multiple hats. A multidisciplinary treatment team usually consists of:

•  Counselor for chemical dependency  
•  Doctor  
•  Nurse  
•  Psychiatrist  
•  Psychologist  
•  Nutritionist  
•  Wellness specialist  
•  Spiritual care counselor  

Evidence-based practices

Evidence-based treatments that are backed by science-based research are the best. Twelve-Step Facilitation and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy are just a couple examples of evidence-based treatments.

Mental Health Services

Many people with addiction to alcohol or drugs also suffer from a co-occurring mental condition like anxiety or depression. To provide the best treatment, a dual diagnosis must be made. Dual diagnosis patients will find the best treatment is one that addresses both the addiction and co-occurring mental disorder. Ask about the coordination of mental health services with other providers if an addiction treatment program does not offer them.

Treatment Success Rate/Outcomes

Too often, rehab providers don’t measure treatment outcomes or they do so inconsistently. The definition of “treatment success” can vary between providers. Do not believe rehab centers that claim to have the “cure” or 100% success rate. If success rates for rehab are quoted, data should be collected using research-based methodologies or published in peer-reviewed journals.

Insurance

Substance abuse treatment can be costly so make sure you look for facilities that are in-network. In-network means that the program meets the quality standards set by the insurance companies. While some treatment providers may claim they work with your insurance company, that does not necessarily mean they are in-network. Check with your insurance provider if you are unsure.

Medical Detoxification or Medication-assisted Therapy

Your hospital or clinic can provide medical detoxification services before you enroll in a treatment program. However, if you are undergoing medical detox on-site you can start the rehabilitation process simultaneously. A detox unit’s medical staff should include both doctors and nurses who are trained in the treatment of drug withdrawal symptoms and drug cravings. Your recovery process will not be complete without monitoring your health on a regular basis.

Specialized Programs

High-quality treatment providers don’t use a standardized approach to care. It is important to seek out rehab programs that offer individualized, tailored care, regardless of whether it’s gender-specific programs or targeted treatment for young adults, teens, or other special populations. Mixed groups can make it difficult to discuss many issues during rehab.

The length of a rehabilitation program

Your progress is more important than a specific number of days. This will determine how long you spend in treatment. Although some substance abuse programs provide an estimate of how long it will take, if you don’t make progress within that time, your treatment time could be extended. You should look for programs that offer multiple levels of rehabilitation so that you can move into a less intense level of care as your progress is made.

Support for Post-treatment Recovery

Addiction treatment usually involves high levels of support and clinical care. To prevent relapse after drug rehab is over, it’s crucial to have a support network. High-quality treatment centers offer many options for post-treatment, including coaching via phone, apps that build and strengthen recovery, ongoing care groups, and other support.

Family Support

Because addiction affects all members of the family, it is often called a family disease. Addiction is a condition that affects the entire family. Families must learn to deal with the trauma they have experienced, establish healthy boundaries, and trust one another. The whole family should be educated on addiction and involve in the recovery process. Patients who have been treated for addiction tend to recover faster.

The Test of Time

The Affordable Care Act has made it easier for Americans to have health insurance that will cover drug rehab costs. This is great news for those who are in need of treatment, but have not been able to access it previously. However, this has led to a surge of companies wanting to enter the addiction treatment industry. While most rehab programs offer quality care, it is important to do your research and remember that only long-standing treatment providers are trustworthy.

Other Important Factors

There are many additional questions you can ask your treatment providers depending on your particular needs and circumstances. You can read customer reviews on Facebook, Yelp, and Facebook.

To find out more about particular drug rehab centers, you can conduct your own internet search. This list contains questions that will help you in your research.

1.  Which type of licensing or accreditation does your facility hold?  
2.  What licenses or credentials does the clinical staff have?  
3.  Do you have a multidisciplinary team that treats your condition?  
4.  What is the ratio of patient-to-counselor?  
5.  Are you using evidence-based practices  
6.  Are you able to offer gender-specific programs?  
7.  How successful is your treatment plan?  
8.  Is your insurance in-network?  
9.  Are you able to provide services for mental health?  
10.  Are you able to offer medical detox and other medication-assisted treatments?  
11.  Are you able to offer treatment for teens, young adults, or other groups? (as it applies in your case)  
12.  What is the duration of the program?  
13.  What type of support do you offer for post-treatment?  
14.  Are you able to offer support for your family?  
15.  What time have you been offering addiction treatment?  

Addiction treatment is the opportunity to create a new life for yourself, free from substance abuse and dependency. Rehab will give you the tools and skills to help you overcome the many challenges you may face. This is something you should keep in mind when choosing a treatment center. This will allow you to determine the right fit and help you choose the best treatment method for building a foundation for your lifelong recovery.

Learn More

For more information about drug addiction treatment, visit: www.nida.nih.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition

For information about drug addiction treatment in the criminal justice system, visit: www.nida.nih.gov/publications/principles-drug-abuse-treatment-criminal-justice-populations

References

1. Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality (CBSHQ). 2014 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: Detailed Tables. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration; 2015.
2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). National Survey of Substance Abuse Treatment Services (N-SSATS): 2013. Data on Substance Abuse Treatment Facilities. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration; 2014. HHS Publication No. (SMA) 14-489. BHSIS Series S-73.