For those struggling with substance use disorder (SUD), recovery can feel like an overwhelming challenge. While many attempt to overcome addiction alone, sustainable recovery often requires professional support that addresses all aspects of a person’s life – from medication and therapy to physical health and daily stressors. Understanding the various treatment options available and finding the right combination of care is crucial for long-term success.
There are a multitude of types of addiction treatment specialists who specialize in each specific treatment point. Keep reading to find out which kind of specialist may be right for you:
Each of these specialists plays a vital role in recovery, and they often work together as part of comprehensive treatment programs, which we’ll explore in detail below.
While many people think addiction treatment means living in a rehab facility, there are actually many different treatment programs available. From medical detox to evidence-based treatment programs focused on relapse prevention, you can choose the approach that best fits your life and recovery needs.
Drug and alcohol addiction treatment centers always cater to each person’s unique needs. When seeking help, it’s important to understand the different types of programs available. From partial hospitalization programs to online treatment options, you can make the best choice for your holistic recovery journey.
For emergency situations or those with more urgent or severe medical needs, hospital treatment centers may be the best initial option. In general, addiction treatment in hospitals is short-term, with some people staying just a few days and others for a couple of months, depending on their health severity.
Hospital treatment mainly focuses on immediate medical needs rather than mental health care. While hospitals excel at providing medical detox and managing emergency situations (like overdoses), they typically aren’t designed for long-term recovery support or treating co-occurring disorders.
In rare cases, though, some hospitals do offer more extensive addiction treatment options. To learn more about your local hospital’s options, call or check out their website.
This is generally what comes to mind when someone pictures a “rehab facility.” These live-in treatment centers may provide care for a few days up to a year or more, depending on an individual’s needs.
Unlike hospital programs, inpatient centers often offer more comprehensive support, combining a medical team, therapy, and support groups to address both mental health and medical needs.
Inpatient care is especially helpful for individuals who need additional supervision, are navigating trauma, lack a supportive environment, or face medical challenges. It provides a structured space to step away from usual routines and focus on recovery safely.
If inpatient treatment seems like the right option, you can use SAMHSA’s online treatment locator to find a program near you.
For those who prefer staying at home and maintaining much of their daily routine, outpatient programs can be a great fit. These programs help individuals develop strong support networks while integrating care into their regular schedules. Treatment typically includes prescription medications when needed, along with a personalized relapse prevention plan. Some outpatient options are more intensive for those who require or prefer additional guidance.
Many outpatient programs now use a comprehensive, whole-person approach, addressing mental, physical, social, and other needs, which has proven to improve long-term recovery outcomes. Eleanor Health is an example of an outpatient program that uses this evidence-backed approach to support people with substance use disorders in achieving sustainable recovery.
The landscape of addiction treatment has evolved significantly with the advancement of telehealth services. Virtual treatment options now allow you to receive many of the same services as traditional outpatient care, including medication-assisted treatment, therapy sessions, and peer support services, all from the privacy of your home. These programs are particularly beneficial if you:
While not every aspect of treatment can be delivered virtually, telehealth has proven to be an effective option for many people seeking recovery support. Eleanor Health offers comprehensive virtual care options that maintain the same high standard of treatment as our in-person services.
The specific costs of inpatient or outpatient programs depend on the individual facility and your health insurance coverage. Typically, outpatient care is less expensive than inpatient options, which include the cost of your stay, your food, and medical-specific expenses. Most treatment centers will work with you to make care affordable by suggesting financial assistance or other options. It’s always best to discuss coverage with both your insurance provider and the treatment facility beforehand.
Call the “Member Services” number on your insurance card and ask these key questions about coverage:
Remember, while cost is an important factor, many facilities offer flexible payment options and financial assistance. Don’t let concerns about payment prevent you from reaching out and exploring your treatment options.
So, you’ve made an appointment with an addiction treatment specialist. Congratulations! You have officially taken the first step towards a healthier lifestyle, which can often be the hardest part of recovery. You may already have a bunch of questions about what your addiction treatment plan will look like, or you may be confused about where to start when speaking to your specialist. Here are some important questions to ask your provider when starting your journey:
What are your expectations in terms of frequency of appointments, urine drug screens, engagement in therapy, and/or engagement in recovery groups?
After receiving information about the specific schedule your specialist informs you about, ask yourself if you can meet their requirements. Take into consideration your ability to travel to appointments (or the lab) and take time off from work/home obligations, such as child care or elder care. If you find that their schedule does not fit well with yours, there are always other options out there! Here at Eleanor Health, we meet you where you are so recovery fits your specific needs. We’ll make sure appointments match your schedule and welcome you to bring children to your appointments when needed!
What happens if I miss an appointment?
Because the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) oversees addiction treatment appointments, specialists need to see you regularly to account for your safety and routinely prescribe your medications. Depending on your specific provider, you may not be able to get your prescriptions on time if you miss an appointment, which may be unsafe for you. Therefore, if you are aware that you may have to miss an appointment, it is essential that you let your specialist know ahead of time and reschedule accordingly. To let your Eleanor Health specialist know you need to miss an appointment, call us or send us a message in the Eleanor Member Portal.
What happens if my urine drug screen is positive for opiates other than buprenorphine? What if it is positive for other substances?
Some specialists are stricter than others in regards to urine drug screen monitoring. If you use substances regularly that show up on drug screens, you need to know what action your provider will take. Some providers refuse care after a positive drug screen. However, providers like Eleanor Health, who prioritize harm-reduction through evidence-based care, will work with you and build a care plan that fits your current needs and goals. In both instances, though, it’s best to be honest about what substances you’re using upfront so your provider can ensure they’re prescribing the safest, most effective medication for you.
What other types of addiction treatments are out there? Can you refer me to them?
If you find that you are struggling with the specific treatment plan your specialist puts forth, it is important to know what other treatment plans may work better for you. Some examples of common treatment plans are:
What if I have other mental health needs? How will you address them?
Your addiction treatment specialist may refer you to an in-house psychiatric provider, or they may coordinate with your existing provider. Psychiatrists and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) can also provide direct psychiatric care, or they can work with your existing providers. Additionally, they may refer you to a therapist who can directly help you with your specific needs. It all depends on what is best for your particular mental health requirements!
How long are your appointments?
Asking this question is necessary for determining your ability to comply with appointment expectations. Typical intake appointments with most specialists are 30-60 minutes long, and follow-up appointments are often 15-30 minutes long. However, appointment lengths can vary greatly between providers and don’t include time spent waiting in the lobby. If you are also struggling with other mental health needs, such as depression and/or anxiety, you may need a provider who can spend more time with you (typically a psychiatrist or a PMHNP) to ensure you receive all of the care you need.
Do you think that buprenorphine is a medication that is required forever once someone starts taking it? Or should it be tapered off after a certain period of time?
The American Society of Addiction Medicine guidelines state that some patients may need to be on opioid agonist therapy for the rest of their lives because opiate use disorders are chronic biologic diseases. However, you should feel encouraged to find a provider who can listen to your specific preferences and provide guidance about how long buprenorphine is necessary.
To get started with your recovery journey today, reach out and learn more about how Eleanor Health can help.
We provide online outpatient treatment programs for adults with alcohol, opioid, and other substance use disorders. We are currently located in Florida, Louisiana, Massachusetts, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, and Washington.
Note: At Eleanor Health, we believe the language used in addiction care should always be positive, inclusive, and respectful. While this piece may use common terms like “addiction,” “addiction treatment,” or “substance abuse” to connect with individuals seeking help, we encourage the use of “substance use disorder (SUD)” instead, as it is a less stigmatizing and more accurate term. Our goal is to provide support without vilifying those affected.
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