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 done 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 person to stay in a hospital or residential facility during the entire course of treatment, which is particularly 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 various circumstances which can be different for each individual. Most substance abuse treatment will concentrate on getting the person physically rehabilitated, and then concentrate 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 available to addicted people who have circumstances which prevent them from being able to take part in an inpatient rehabilitation center. An outpatient substance abuse rehabilitation facility delivers 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 expected to remain at the rehabilitation program until treatment is complete. Outpatient drug rehab is also offered for individuals who have already gone through residential or inpatient treatment but also need a thorough aftercare and relapse prevention program which will offer additional support and therapy to help them remain clean and sober.

When pregnant/postpartum women need drug or alcohol treatment there are a number of concerns unique to their situation that must 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. Although the program duration may vary depending on the woman's specific needs it is understood that the longer a person participates in treatment the better their chance of a successful recovery. Many programs for pregnant/postpartum women run six to nine months on average.

Recovery from drug or alcohol addiction is a process that can be difficult and in manyways intimidating. This is why some women seeking recovery feel more comfortable in treatment facilities created specifically for women. Women who are addicted to drugs or alcohol typicallyhave personal issues that are very different than their male counter parts. In a drug or alcohol rehabilitation program where all the clients are women, the recovering addict will feel more relaxed and will be able to work through her personal conflicts that led to her substance 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 delicate issues are easier to work through in the company of other women without fear of judgment or ridicule.

Drug and alcohol rehab programs created solely for men are emerging across the nation. Although programs that treat both men and women continue to be the standard for drug and alcohol rehabilitation, many rehab facilities are creating programs intended to help a particular target group. These centers are able to focus on what their client's personal needs are in a way that standard programs are not. While these specialized types of treatment programs are not necessary for all recovering addicts, many men are selecting men-only drug and alcohol rehab programs. This recovery option is ideally suited for those who feel more comfortable with those of the same sex when sharing private and often difficult memories from the past. Addiction recovery is a challenging process for every addict and finding comfort among one's peer group is a great way of receiving the support needed to make the process that much more bearable and successful.

Self payment drug and alcohol rehab facilities are an outstanding alternative to other types of rehab facilities i.e. private medical insurance and state funded facilities. Individuals who are able to attend self payment programs pay for their entire treatment 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 rehabilitation program. To learn more about self payment programs, contact a substance abuse treatment facility and inquire as to their payment options. It is a good idea to contact several facilities so that you have an understanding of your choices regarding treatment options and payment methods.