The Most Common Rehabilitation Programs Explained

When considering rehabilitation treatment for your teen, the process of research and choosing an option can feel overwhelming. After all, rehab isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation; there are many programs available for different needs. Here are some of the most common rehab programs and what they offer.

Inpatient Treatment (Hospitalization)

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In severe and possibly emergency situations, inpatient treatment within a hospital setting is an option. In these scenarios, medical treatment and supervision is necessary to help an individual gain stability and detox. This might be a stepping stone to a residential program or an outpatient program; it tends to be a shorter form of care and generally only lasts a few days.

Inpatient Treatment (Residential Program)

Another type of inpatient treatment is a residential program. Patients will stay in a treatment center, which typically lasts three to six weeks for short-term care or six to 12 months for a longer period. This type of program tends to focus on holistic care, examining past and present behaviors through different types of behavioral therapy for the patient to work toward sustainable recovery.

Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient or day treatment programs are non-residential options, where patients aren’t required to stay in a center overnight. Some programs can still be quite intensive and require daily attendance, while others can occur less frequently. Outpatient treatment can also be used as a transition from an inpatient facility in order to help an individual incorporate the skills they learned from a residential program into their regular life.

Family Therapy

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Family therapy or family programs rely on the entire family to support and participate in an individual’s recovery. This process usually involves education on mental health and addiction to provide a foundational understanding. It can also include counseling services for families who may be affected by their loved one’s addiction. Put simply, having the whole family participate is an excellent way to ensure that a patient receives long-term care in a safe and supportive environment.

Recovery School

A recovery high school is designed specifically for teens suffering from an addiction. While each school differs, they often share similar characteristics including a small class size, state requirements to facilitate graduation and mental health support. Upon completion, students will receive a high school diploma.

How to Choose

At the end of the day, there’s no right or wrong decision when it comes to treatment—just the best fit for your teen and your family. Doing research, speaking with a mental health professional and discussing options with your teen will help you make a decision that suits your unique situation.

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