Substance abuse treatment takes place in a wide variety of different treatment settings with a variety of different treatment approaches. For example, some substance abuse treatment can be carried out on an outpatient basis, where the individual will typically receive 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 helpful in resolving more severe cases of addiction. Inpatient and residential substance abuse treatment can be done on a short term or long term basis, depending on unique circumstances which can be different for each person. Most substance abuse treatment will focus on getting the person physically rehabilitated, and then focus on the root psychological and emotional issues which will help them avoid relapse in the future.

Drug or alcohol treatment programs which are provided on an outpatient basis are readily available to addicted people who have circumstances which prevent them from being able to participate in an inpatient rehab facility. An outpatient drug rehab center delivers many of the same services as an inpatient program, but allows for flexibility as opposed to an inpatient drug rehab facility where the individual is expected to remain at the rehabilitation center until the treatment process has been fully completed. Outpatient drug treatment is also available for individuals who have already gone through residential or inpatient treatment but also need a thorough aftercare program which will offer further support and therapy to help them avoid relapse.

When pregnant/postpartum women need drug treatment there are several factors unique to their situation that need to be addressed. This distinct group of addicted persons faces not only the personal shame of their addiction but also the reality of what their unhealthy choices may have caused their children. Substance abuse rehabilitation for pregnant/postpartum women typically requires programs that are both individualized and flexible in their treatment plan. While the program duration may vary depending on the woman's particular needs it is understood that the longer a person stays in treatment the better their chance of lasting sobriety. Many programs for pregnant/postpartum women can run long-term for six months or more.

Rehabilitation from drug addiction is a process that can be difficult and in a lot ofways intimidating. This is why some women seeking recovery feel more comfortable in rehab facilities designed specifically for women. Women who are addicted to drugs or alcohol oftenhave personal issues that are much different than that of males. In a drug rehab center where all the clients are women, the recovering addict will feel more relaxed and will be able to share her personal issues that led to her drug abuse and addiction problems. Statistics show that up to seventy percent of women with addiction problems 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.

Drug rehabilitation programs made specifically for men are emerging across the nation. Although rehab facilities that work with both men and women are still the standard for drug rehabilitation, many rehab facilities are developing programs intended to help a specific target group. These facilities are able to focus on what their client's particular needs are in a way that standard facilities cannot provide. While these specialized types of treatment programs are not necessary for all recovering addicts, many men are selecting men-only drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs. This rehabilitation option is best suited for those who feel more comfortable among others of the same sex when sharing private and often difficult issues from the past. Recovering from addiction is a challenging process for every addict and finding comfort among one's peer group is an excellent way of receiving the support needed to make the process that much more bearable and successful.

Self payment substance abuse rehabilitation centers are an excellent alternative to other types of rehab facilities i.e. private medical insurance and state funded programs. Individuals who are able to attend self payment programs pay for their entire rehab process out of pocket. Keep in mind though, this does not mean that they will not have access to financial assistance if needed. It just means that self payment is their primary method of covering the cost of their drug or alcohol rehab program. To learn more about self payment at a specific program, make contact with a substance abuse treatment facility and ask about their payment options. It is beneficial to contact several facilities so that you have a comparison of your choices regarding rehab options and payment methods.