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 performed on an outpatient basis, where the person will typically attend treatment during the day but is allowed to return home daily. Other substance abuse treatment requires the person to reside in a hospital or residential facility during the entire course of treatment, which is especially beneficial in resolving more serious 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 focus on getting the person physically rehabilitated, and then focus on the root psychological and emotional issues which will help them avoid relapse in the future.

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

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