Substance abuse treatment is offered in a wide range of distinct treatment settings with a variety of different treatment approaches. For example, some substance abuse treatment can be performed on an outpatient basis, where the person will typically receive 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 especially helpful 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 different circumstances which can be different for each individual. Most substance abuse treatment will concentrate on getting the person physically rehabilitated, and then focus on the root psychological and emotional issues.

Drug treatment services which are offered on an outpatient basis are readily available to addicted people who have circumstances which prevent them from being able to participate in an inpatient rehab program. An outpatient substance abuse treatment center delivers many of the same services as an inpatient program, but allows for flexibility as opposed to an inpatient drug rehab center where the individual is required to stay and reside at the treatment facility until the treatment process is complete. Outpatient drug or alcohol rehab is also available for individuals who have already gone through residential or inpatient treatment but also need a thorough aftercare and relapse prevention program which will provide additional support and treatment to help them avoid relapse.

Persons with co-occurring mental and substance abuse disorders must address both issues in order to become fully rehabilitated. Some individuals take drugs or alcohol to alleviate symptoms of mental health problems, and some individuals take drugs which then, in turn, causes symptoms which are identical to mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression. Drug rehabilitation professionals know how to distinguish between the two, and can work with clients to properly treat real mental health problems in tandem with any other substance abuse treatment that is done with the individual. This has proven to be effective in keeping individuals with mental health issues off of drugs and alcohol and mentally stable and productive.

When pregnant/postpartum women need drug treatment there are a number of concerns unique to their situation that should 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 facilities that are both individualized and flexible in their recovery plan. Although the length of stay may vary depending on the woman's specific needs it is understood that the longer a person stays in treatment the better their chance of lasting sobriety. Many programs for pregnant/postpartum women can run long-term for six months or more.

Rehabilitation from drug or alcohol addiction is a process that can be challenging and in a lot ofways intimidating. This is why some women seeking recovery feel more comfortable in rehab programs created specifically for women. Women who are addicted to drugs or alcohol typicallyhave personal issues that are much different than that of males. In a drug or alcohol rehab center where all the clients are women, the recovering addict will feel more relaxed and will be able to share her personal issues 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 address in the company of other women without fear of judgment or ridicule.

Drug and alcohol treatment programs designed specifically for men are emerging across the country. Although rehab facilities that work with both men and women continue to be the standard for drug and alcohol rehabilitation, many rehab centers are developing programs designed to help a specific target group. These facilities are able to focus on what their client's individual needs are in a way that standard programs are not. Although these specialized types of rehabilitation programs are not necessary for all recovering addicts, many men are choosing men-only drug treatment centers. This treatment option is excellent for those who feel more comfortable among others of the same sex when sharing 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 drug rehabilitation programs are an outstanding alternative to other types of rehabilitation centers i.e. private medical insurance and state funded facilities. Individuals who are capable of attending self payment programs pay for their entire rehabilitation 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 rehab program. To learn more about self payment programs, make contact with a drug or alcohol rehabilitation facility and ask about their payment options. It is beneficial to contact several facilities so that you have a comparison of your choices with regards to rehab options and payment methods.