addiction blog

Seeking help when attempting to recover from a drug addiction can be a major challenge in and of itself. When looking for drug addiction treatment, most people don’t know what to look for. Here are some key points to consider when looking for help…

1. A program tailored to your specific needs

A credible treatment center will tailor your treatment plan to your individual needs. This depends on the substance(s) used, the length of time that the substance(s) were used, and the intensity of use. At the outset of treatment, the treatment center will collaborate with you to establish specific treatment objectives. Surely, these goals can expand and change as treatment progresses. As more is learned about addiction and what is required for the individual’s treatment, the goals may become more specific or additional ones may be added.

2. Licensed and accredited counselors

The counselors, clinicians, and director(s) must be licensed and accredited in the state where you are receiving treatment. Typically, these certifications and licenses are displayed on the treatment center’s website and in the offices of the counselors, clinicians, and directors. Additionally, the treatment methods used at the facility should be thoroughly researched to ensure that every patient who seeks quality care receives the best care possible.

3. Evidence-based methods

To ensure that all potential patients receive the highest quality of care, the facility’s methods must be thoroughly researched and supported by credible sources. Using evidence-based therapeutic approaches allows a treatment center to provide the most up-to-date care.

4. Individual and group counseling

Along with the detoxification process, treatment centers should always incorporate both individual and group therapy sessions. Going through this process can be very lonely for the individual, so allowing them to process these emotions and thoughts in both individual therapy sessions with a licensed therapist and in a group setting can help the individual feel less isolated. Individual sessions can assist in processing the detoxification process in a more private setting, allowing the individual to share information with the therapist that they may not wish to share in a group setting. The group therapy setting helps the individual feel less isolated during this potentially emotionally and mentally taxing process.

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5. Aftercare planning

Upon completion of the detoxification and therapeutic process, the clinicians and medical director(s) will discuss the individual lifestyle habits to adopt upon reintegrating into life after treatment. Returning to normal life is quite different from living in a treatment facility where there is constant supervision. After treatment, one becomes fully accountable for their actions outside of the treatment facility, and they must relearn how to function in the world without their former addiction and the protection or bubble that the treatment facility provided.

These lifestyle habits will include 12-step meetings, if necessary (this is particularly common for alcohol and drug addiction), as well as more holistic methods for managing and coping with any temptation(s) that may arise. The medical director(s) and clinicians may also schedule follow-up appointments to evaluate your progress with independent recovery.

PCI provides the highest level of addiction treatment. Our team consists of master’s and doctoral level clinicians, as well as a double board-certified MD and other highly qualified professionals who work together to provide the best treatment possible. We look forward to hearing from you and walking side by side with you on your road to recovery. Give us a call today at (818) 483-9890 to schedule a tour of our facilities and get started on your journey.