Substance abuse treatment takes place in a wide range of distinct treatment settings with a variety of different treatment approaches. For example, some substance abuse treatment can be performed on an outpatient basis, where the person will typically participate in treatment during the day but is allowed to return home daily. Other substance abuse treatment requires the person to reside in a hospital or residential facility during the entire course of treatment, which is especially beneficial 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 individual. Most substance abuse treatment will concentrate on getting the person physically rehabilitated, and then focus on underlying psychological and emotional issues.

Drug or alcohol treatment programs which are delivered on an outpatient basis are available to addicted individuals who have circumstances which prevent them from being able to take part in an inpatient rehabilitation center. An outpatient drug and alcohol rehabilitation center provides many of the same services as an inpatient program, but allows for flexibility as opposed to an inpatient drug or alcohol rehabilitation facility where the person is required to stay and reside at the treatment program until the treatment process is complete. Outpatient drug or alcohol treatment is also offered for those who have completed residential or inpatient treatment but require a comprehensive aftercare program which will provide additional support and therapy to help them avoid relapse.

Many substance abuse treatment centers in the United States provide payment assistance to individuals struggling with drug or alcohol addiction and want to get help. The individual in need of treatment can choose a treatment facility which is a good fit, meaning the treatment plan and design of the program will provide them the best results. The addicted individual can then seek advice from one of the treatment professionals at the drug treatment program to discuss what kind of payment assistance options are available or that they qualify for. The financial department in most drug and alcohol rehab facilities are more than willing to work with potential clients to get them started by offering payment assistance, and if this is unavailable, treatment professionals will often work with the individual to locate an equivalent or comparable rehab facility which is more affordable or that can provide workable financing options so that they can acquire the help they so desperately need.