Substance abuse treatment takes place in a wide range 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 individual will typically participate in 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 various circumstances which can be different for each person. Most substance abuse treatment will concentrate on getting the individual physically rehabilitated, and then concentrate on the root psychological and emotional issues which will help them avoid relapse in the future.

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

DUI/DWI offenders are typically required to enroll in a specific number of hours either in counseling, meetings or a substance abuse rehab program. Each state has its own requirements when it comes to sentencing for the DUI/DWI offender. Offenders who are deemed low to moderate DUI/DWI offenders will typically be required to participate in some form of group counseling or therapy. These are sometimes referred to as "Level I & Level II Alcohol Classes". These meetings are often held by a professional in the field of addiction recovery or a person with long-term sobriety involved in the Alcoholics or Narcotics Anonymous groups. DUI/DWI offenders considered to be serious offenders will likely have to serve jail time at a minimum before beginning their assigned counseling or alcohol rehab program.

Self payment substance abuse rehabilitation programs are a great alternative to other types of rehabilitation centers i.e. private medical insurance and state funded programs. Individuals who are capable of attending 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 substance abuse rehabilitation program. In order to learn more about self payment at a specific program, make contact with a drug rehabilitation center and inquire as to their payment options. It is a good idea to contact several programs so that you have an understanding of your choices regarding rehab options and payment methods.