Choosing an Alcohol Rehab

Choosing an alcohol rehab can be an anxiety-provoking experience. However, if you are one of the lucky few who have admitted to yourself you have a problem and want help, you have taken the first step.

Sometimes the best way to choose the right alcohol rehab for your needs is to work with a clinical professional (psychologist, therapist, or social worker) who has some experience with addiction treatment. Often these professionals have taken the time to research various alcohol rehabs and assess the quality of their clinical program.

You can also call an alcohol rehab directly and ask them specific questions about your treatment and about the rehab in general:

1. How long has the facility been treating alcoholism?

2. What are the qualifications of the staff?

3. What will a typical day be like – group therapy (generally the best type of recovery treatment), recreational activities?

4. What is their therapeutic philosophy?  Do they use cognitive behavioral therapy?

5. How much of a foundation of the alcohol rehab is built on 12-step philosophy (critical for long-term success)

6. Do they have a strong alumni network (this will be important in the months after treatment)

7. What sort of after care do they offer?

8. If you have any special needs, how will they help you (e.g., dietary restrictions; bipolar or other co-occurring disorder)