Substance abuse treatment takes place in a wide variety of distinct 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 individual 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 different circumstances which can be different for each individual. Most substance abuse treatment will focus on getting the person physically rehabilitated, and then concentrate on underlying psychological and emotional issues.

Drug treatment services 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 program. An outpatient substance abuse treatment program offers 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 rehab program until treatment is complete. Outpatient drug rehabilitation is also offered for individuals who have completed residential or inpatient treatment but also need a comprehensive aftercare program which will offer additional support and treatment to help them remain clean and sober.

DUI/DWI offenders are typically required to attend a certain number of hours either in counseling, meetings or a drug or alcohol rehab program. Each state has its own requirements when it comes to retribution for the DUI/DWI offender. Offenders who are regarded as 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 typically 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 mandatory counseling or alcohol rehab program.

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

Paying for drug or alcohol rehabilitation can be a problem, because typically all resources have been exhausted because of the persons addiction. Many drug rehab programs recognize this fact which is why many drug and alcohol treatment facilities across the nation offer payment arrangements known as a sliding scale fee. There are various variables put into the equation of determining what the fee will be from person to person, and these factors are based on individual circumstances such as income, cash on hand, living circumstances, the size of one's family etc. Sliding scale fees have been in use for some time as most drug rehabilitation facilities would prefer to find a way to make it work financially so that those that need addiction help can receive the help they need.

Many substance abuse rehab centers in the United States offer payment assistance to people suffering with drug or alcohol addiction and want to get help. The individual in need of rehabilitation can select a rehabilitation program which ideally fits their situation, meaning the treatment plan and design of the program would offer them the best results. The addicted person can then consult with one of the treatment professionals at the drug or alcohol rehabilitation facility to discuss what kind of payment assistance options are available or that they qualify for. The financial department in most drug and alcohol treatment centers 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 usually work with the individual to locate an equivalent or similar rehabilitation facility which is more affordable or that can offer workable financing options so that they can get the rehabilitation they so desperately need.