Substance abuse treatment takes place in a wide variety of different treatment settings with a variety of different treatment approaches. For example, some substance abuse treatment can be carried out on an outpatient basis, where the individual will typically receive treatment during the day but is allowed to return home daily. Other substance abuse treatment requires the individual to reside in a hospital or residential facility during the entire course of treatment, which is particularly helpful 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 unique circumstances which can be different for each person. 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.

Residential short-term treatment for substance abuse is a type ofrehabilitation program where the individual will remain at the facility on an inpatient basis, and which usually demands a stay of 30 days or less. While attending residential short-term treatment the recovering addict undergoes an intensive but short duration of treatment that typically includes a supervised detox, counseling, and other forms of therapy which are aimed at helping the individual become rehabilitated and able to function without drugs in everyday life once rehabilitation is complete. Residential short-term treatment is not always effective for all scenarios of addiction, and most will require an aftercare program or additional treatment in a more long-term residential setting.

Persons with co-occurring mental and substance abuse disorders must handle both issues in order to become fully rehabilitated. Some people take drugs to alleviate symptoms of mental health complications, and some people take drugs which then, in turn, creates symptoms which mimic mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression. Addiction treatment professionals know how to distinguish between the two, and can work with clients to properly treat real mental health disorders in tandem with any other substance abuse treatment that is done with the individual. This has proven to be effective in keeping people with mental health issues off of drugs and alcohol and mentally stable and happy.

Gays and Lesbians can sometimes have unique treatment needs when receiving substance abuse treatment. A specialized curriculum and treatment environment which is conducive to the needs of gays and lesbians is obtainable at certain drug and alcohol rehab programs around the country which understand the unique needs and challenges which gays and lesbians will encounter during treatment. Gay and lesbians can achieve full rehabilitation and recovery just like any other individual in treatment, however it can be helpful for gays and lesbians to be in a supportive atmosphere which doesn't judge them or segregate them due to their sexual preference.

Whether it is evident or not, seniors and older adults comprise a considerable percentage of individuals in the United States who struggle with drug and/or alcohol abuse and addiction. As the baby boomer generation ages, this will become an even bigger problem with an even bigger need for drug and alcohol treatment programs which are prepared to treat seniors and older adults who are in need of treatment for addiction problems. Seniors and older adults are faced with many physical challenges as a result of their age, which can affect treatment outcome if not addressed concurrently. It is beneficial for seniors and older adults to locate rehabilitation before any long term consequences arise.

When pregnant/postpartum women need drug or alcohol rehabilitation there are a number of factors unique to their situation that need to be addressed. This specific 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 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 a successful recovery. Many rehab facilities for pregnant/postpartum women can run long-term for six months or more.

Recovery from drug or alcohol addiction is a process that can be difficult and in a lot ofways intimidating. This is why some women seeking recovery feel more comfortable in treatment programs designed specifically for women. Women who are addicted to drugs or alcohol oftenhave personal issues that are considerably different than that of males. In a drug rehabilitation program where all the clients are women, the recovering addict will feel more at ease 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 work through in the company of other women without fear of judgment or ridicule.

Drug and alcohol treatment centers designed specifically for men are rising up across the nation. Although programs that work with both men and women are still the standard for drug and alcohol rehabilitation, many rehab centers are creating programs designed to help a specific target group. These centers are able to focus on what their client's individual needs are in a way that standard facilities cannot provide. Although these specialized types of treatment programs may not be needed for all recovering addicts, many men are selecting men-only addiction rehabilitation facilities. This treatment option is excellent for those who feel more comfortable with those of the same sex when sharing private and often difficult memories from the past. Addiction recovery is a difficult process for every addict and finding comfort among one's peer group is a good way of getting the support needed to make the process that much more endurable.

Criminal justice clients typically need drug or alcohol rehabilitation due to problems with drug or alcohol addiction. Due to the nature of the criminal justice system, there are distinct steps and guidelines that must be performed in order to be accepted into a criminal justice drug or alcohol treatment facility or recovery program. The first step is to figure out the criminal justice clients eligibility. This step is accomplished by a panel of officials who determine how much and what type of drug is necessary. Often, the criminal justice clients receive their drug rehabilitation while they are incarcerated. For optimum results, they are encouraged, if not strictly directed, to continue their recovery once they leave jail and enroll in a sober living home or a long-term residential transitional living program.