Substance abuse treatment takes place in a wide range of distinct treatment settings with a variety of different treatment methods. For example, some substance abuse treatment can be done on an outpatient basis, where the individual will typically participate in treatment during the day but is allowed to return home daily. Other substance abuse treatment requires the individual to reside in a hospital or residential facility during the entire course of treatment, which is particularly beneficial in handling more serious cases of addiction. Inpatient and residential substance abuse treatment can be done on a short term or long term basis, depending on various circumstances which can be different for each individual. Most substance abuse treatment will focus on getting the individual physically rehabilitated, and then focus on the root psychological and emotional issues which will help them avoid relapse in the future.

Residential short-term treatment for addiction is a variety oftreatment program where the person will reside at the facility on an inpatient basis, and which usually requires a stay of 30 days or less. While attending residential short-term treatment the client undergoes an intensive but brief course of treatment that commonly includes a supervised detoxification, counseling, and other forms of therapy which are aimed at helping the person become rehabilitated and able to function without drugs in everyday life once rehabilitation is complete. Residential short-term treatment is not always effective for all cases of addiction, and most will require an aftercare program or additional treatment in a more long-term residential facility.

Attending a residential long-term treatment facility (more than 30 days) is an effective way ofresolving a serious substance abuse problem. This type of drug and alcohol rehab facility is more intensive than others that only last a few weeks or those where the client is free to come and go as they please. Choosing a residential long-term treatment program (more than 30 days) means that you as the client will stay at the rehabilitation center around the clock while you are in recovery. While providing a more relaxed home-like atmosphere the individual has access to counselors and staff at all times. Long term drug or alcohol treatment facilities are a perfect choice for those who have a long history of addiction or who have had other unsuccessful attempts at recovery in the past.

Gays and Lesbians can sometimes have distinctive treatment needs when receiving substance abuse treatment. A specialized curriculum and treatment setting which is conducive to the needs of gays and lesbians is obtainable at certain drug rehabilitation facilities around the country which understand the unique needs and challenges which gays and lesbians will experience during recovery. Gay and lesbians can achieve full rehabilitation and recovery just like any other individual in treatment, although it can be helpful for gays and lesbians to be in a supportive environment which doesn't judge them or segregate them due to their sexual preference.

Rehabilitation from drug addiction is a process that can be challenging and in a lot ofways intimidating. This is why some women seeking recovery feel more comfortable in rehab centers designed specifically for women. Women who are addicted to drugs or alcohol typicallyhave personal issues that are considerably different than that of males. In a drug or alcohol treatment center where all the clients are women, the recovering addict will feel more at ease and will be able to work through her personal issues that led to her substance abuse and addiction problems. Statistics show that up to seventy percent of drug abusing women report having some type of sexual or physical abuse in their past. These sensitive issues are easier to work through in the company of other women without fear of judgment or retaliation.

There increasing numbers of Spanish speaking clients enrolling into substance abuse rehab facilities every day needing help. Because Spanish is such a widespread language in this country, many drug and alcohol treatment programs are prepared to deliver treatment to Spanish speaking people. Additionally, many treatment professionals make it a point to learn the language so as to be able to provide the support and care needed for Spanish speaking clients.

Medicaid is a type of health insurance which is offered to people in certain low-income tax brackets. Eligibility for Medicaid depends greatly on income and other factors including whether or not the person has dependents and if they receive any other assistance. Medicaid may possibly even cover the costs associated with drug or alcohol treatment, and there are many drug and alcohol rehab centers throughout the country which are covered through Medicaid. Many drug rehabilitation programs which are covered through Medicaid may only deliver a limited treatment curriculum and may only deliver such treatment on a short term basis, usually 30 days or less. People who have Medicaid should research which programs cover the greatest amount of treatment for the most amount of time to reap the full benefits of such a program.