Substance abuse treatment is offered in a wide variety of different treatment settings with a variety of different treatment methods. For example, some substance abuse treatment can be done on an outpatient basis, where the person will typically receive treatment during the day but is allowed to return home daily. Other substance abuse treatment requires the person to stay in a hospital or residential facility during the entire course of treatment, which is particularly beneficial in handling 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 concentrate on the root psychological and emotional issues.

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

There increasing numbers of Spanish speaking clients enrolling into substance abuse rehab facilities every day needing help. Because Spanish is such a common language in this country, many substance abuse rehab programs are capable of providing treatment to Spanish speaking clients. Additionally, many counselors and therapists make it a point to learn the language so as to be able to provide the support and care needed for Spanish speaking individuals.