How to Choose the Right Rehab Facility

If you or a loved one is looking to begin treatment for a substance use disorder, you might be wondering where to start. The truth is, there are several factors to consider when making a decision like this. Knowing what to look for in a facility, for example, can make the the decision-making process much simpler.

On this page, we will discuss factors to consider when picking a rehab facility, what qualities to look for in programs and staff, the importance of accreditations, and more.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rehab Facility

Finding a rehab facility that best meets your needs can feel like a big undertaking, especially considering the sheer amount of treatment facilities within the U.S. By taking into consideration some key factors, you can quickly weed out facilities that do not match your needs and begin focusing on those that do.

Assess Your Specific Needs & Goals

Understanding what your personal needs and treatment goals are is an excellent starting point when looking for the right rehab facility. As you do this, keep in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to addiction treatment, and what you need from rehab might not be the same as what someone else might need.¹ The facility you choose and the treatment plan that is developed for you will likely depend on a number of elements, such as what type of substance you have been misusing and for how long.²

Additionally, take into consideration the level of care that you may need and how much time you are able to dedicate to your recovery. If the best fit for you is an inpatient program, for example, it makes no sense to look at facilities that only offer outpatient options.

If you’re starting this process for yourself or trying to assist a loved one, there are common signs someone needs rehab to consider that may help you begin to gauge the severity of your addiction and the type of care that may be best for you. Should you be looking for treatment on behalf of a friend or family member, or working on convincing someone to go to rehab, searching around for a rehab that can offer tailored, individualized programming is wise.

Levels of Treatment

When you start treatment, you will begin a specific level of care that meets you where you are at the time of admission. You may have already spoken to staff members or other healthcare professionals who have helped you determine which level of care may be the best for you, or you may work with staff on-site to make that decision upon your arrival. Beginning treatment at the right level of care can influence your rehab success.

The levels of addiction treatment include the following:

• Detox: Detox is often the first stage of treatment for many, and involves clearing the body of addictive substances in a controlled, medically-monitored setting to avoid some withdrawal symptoms and reduce the severity of others.² 
• Inpatient treatment: Inpatient treatment programs require patients to live at the facility for the duration of their care, which usually lasts anywhere from a few weeks to several months or even a year.¹ 
• Outpatient treatment: With outpatient treatment, you go to a facility to receive treatment, but you don’t live there. You may attend treatment several days a week for several hours per day. Outpatient treatment usually consists of two levels: partial hospitalization programs and intensive outpatient programs, with partial hospitalization programs requiring more frequent attendance.¹ 
• Aftercare or continuing care: Aftercare, or continuing care, is part of the care you receive after you have completed treatment. This may include involvement in peer-support groups or other community-focused recovery activities.²

Therapies and Treatments Available

It is advisable to attend a facility that offers a variety of different therapies, as most patients participate in more than one during their treatment. Most rehab facilities offer a number of the same therapies, with many incorporating others into their offerings.

Some common therapies you will likely find in rehab include:

• Individual therapy: Similar to traditional 1-0n-1 therapy sessions of any kind, individual therapy in treatment occurs between the patient and the therapist and focuses on addressing the underlying causes of substance misuse and developing positive behavioral changes.²
• Group therapy: In group therapy, members often help support each other through sharing tips, offering emotional support, and learning new skills to help promote a substance-free life.²
• Family therapy: Family therapy invites your family into the treatment process to help address problems with your environment, co-occurring issues, and learning how to deal with conflict effectively.¹
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy: CBT helps you understand the relationship between thoughts and behaviors associated with substance misuse, teaches relapse prevention skills, and establishes new coping skills.¹

Accreditations and Staff

When determining how to pick the best rehab, you will want to chose one that is accredited. ^{5 1st para}Accreditation helps ensure that treatment follows high standards so you can find quality treatment.³ 

Some accrediting bodies to look for when choosing a good rehab include:³

• CARF International.
• The Joint Commission.
• Social Current.
• National Commission on Correctional Healthcare.

The above accrediting bodies are SAMSHA-approved accrediting bodies that help ensure high treatment standards.³ You also want to ensure the staff at any facility you attend has the appropriate credentials for their position, including licensures and certifications.

Location and Program Length

Location and program length should also factor in to your decision-making process. You want a location that meets your needs and that will provide a comfortable living environment, as well as a length of rehab program that fits you best.

As previously mentioned, inpatient programs can be 30-day rehab programs, 60-day rehab programs, or longer. Some may last up to a year, while all forms of outpatient treatment can last for weeks to months. Understanding the length of treatment you may need can help you choose the most appropriate care for you.

Rehab Amenities and Treatment Environment

When you’re considering going to rehab, it’s essential to look for a treatment facility that offers amenities and a comfortable living environment, especially if you will be spending a large majority of your time there. During a typical day in rehab, it’s important to live or attend treatment in an environment that is conducive to your recovery and overall wellbeing.

Some common amenities in treatment facilities include:

• Community rooms.
• Outdoor areas/gardens.
• Private rooms.
• Meditation rooms.
• Therapy rooms.
• Recreation rooms.
• Gyms.

If you’re looking for a rehab that offers specific amenities, you can always reach out to the facility you are interested in to find out more.

Insurance Coverage and Cost of Rehab

If you’re starting your treatment journey at American Addiction Centers, you may be able to use insurance to cover the cost of all or part of your treatment. Getting the most out of your insurance coverage is essential, and the team at American Addiction Centers can help you verify your insurance coverage for rehab before starting treatment.

Start the Recovery Journey

If you’re ready to start treatment, or if you’re referring someone to rehab, you can call the our team of friendly, compassionate admissions navigators to learn more about our facilities. They can help you choose a facility that meets your needs, as well as answer any questions that you may have about treatment.

Do not wait any longer. Make the call today at and get started on your recovery journey once and for all.