Substance abuse treatment takes place in a wide range of different treatment settings with a variety of different treatment approaches. For example, some substance abuse treatment can be performed on an outpatient basis, where the individual will typically attend 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 especially helpful 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 rehabilitation programs which are offered 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 drug and alcohol treatment facility 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 required to remain at the rehabilitation program until treatment has been fully completed. Outpatient drug or alcohol treatment is also offered for those who have already gone through residential or inpatient treatment but also need a thorough aftercare program which will provide 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 often requires programs that are both individualized and flexible in their treatment plan. While the program duration may vary depending on the woman's particular needs it is understood that the longer a person stays in treatment the better their chance of a successful recovery. Many rehab facilities for pregnant/postpartum women can run long-term for six months or more.

Recovery from drug addiction is a process that can be difficult and in a lot ofways intimidating. This is why some women seeking help with addiction feel more comfortable in treatment centers designed specifically for women. Women who are addicted to drugs or alcohol oftenhave personal issues that are very different than that of males. In a drug rehab facility where all the clients are women, the recovering addict will feel more relaxed and will be able to share her personal conflicts that led to her drug 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 sensitive issues are easier to work through in the company of other women without fear of judgment or ridicule.

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

Self payment substance abuse rehabilitation programs are a great 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 rehabilitation program. In order to learn more about self payment programs, contact a drug or alcohol rehab facility 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.