08/07/2025
Often people are overwhelmed with the idea of addressing their substance abuse issues because they do not know what to expect. We wanted to share a basic outline of what is considered the best practices for treatment.
1) If physical dependence exists, inpatient medical treatment is usually the first step. Alcohol detoxification is usually 5 to 7 days, benzodiazepines detoxification is usually 7-10 days, opioids detoxification is usually 7-10 days.
2) After medical detoxification people can step down to a partial day program which is usually 3-4 times a week for a few hours or be referred to another residential program for more stability and work on recovery skills in a group setting. These programs usually combine group and individual counselors and help make referrals for other services that may be needed. There is usually a medical professional at this location to help with prescriptions. Also, people can be referred to another residential program for more stability and work on recovery skills in a group setting,
3)After 2-3 months people may step down again and attend community meetings such as AA/NA/SMART Recovery programs. They also might find an outpatient provider to continue individual treatment with a counselor and/or medication professional.
