Forms of Therapy Found in Drug Abuse Rehab Centers

When substance abuse begins to negatively impact your life, finding a drug rehab center is the next step. Addiction can be treated and getting treatment at a center will increase your chances of staying sober. While searching for these rehabilitation centers, you will notice there are several program options to choose from.  



Fortunately, you can customize your treatment to suit your needs. For instance, if your addiction is severe, you can register for a program that offers prescription medication. If you want your treatment to involve animals, there are centers that provide this service. To find out more about the types of therapy used to treat addiction, continue reading below.



Animal-Assisted Therapy

When finding a drug rehab center, there are some programs that offer animal-assisted therapy. This is a form of therapy that entails exposure to and caring for animals within a program. There are studies that show animals can play a role in bettering mental health.

The studies have also shown that having a pet can improve the recovery process for addiction by promoting empathy. Having a pet can also allow a person to connect with others and create a sense of empowerment.

Furthermore, this kind of therapy can also reduce isolation and depression, two factors that are required in order to achieve long-term sobriety. Animals that are typically used in drug rehab programs include:
  • Dogs
  • Cats
  • Rabbits
  • Birds
  • Horses
  • And more
You can learn more about the benefits of this treatment online through the American Addiction Centers site here. 

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)

CAM includes a variety of alternative medicines within a program. These facilities often provide treatments such as acupuncture, yoga, biofeedback, massage, and exercise. These are often benefits of inpatient drug rehab centers as patients will have all-day access to these services. These services are used in order to reduce withdrawal symptoms and manage stress. 

It is important to note that these treatments are used as complements to traditional treatment formats. For example, the facilities will provide organic nutrition that works with the prescription medications of the patient. While searching for CAM, you will find that rehabilitation facilities use the words “integrative” or “complementary” to refer to these treatments. 

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)

Certain drug abuse rehab centers provide intensive outpatient programs as an option. This type of program is a more rigorous form of outpatient therapy. Patients will attend longer group sessions than in traditional outpatient treatment. This kind of program is best for individuals trying to recover from:
  • Eating disorders.
  • Bipolar disorder.
  • Self-harm.
  • A chemical dependency that does not need detoxification.
These programs are also often used as a transitional treatment for patients recently released from a psychiatric ward. These intensive group therapy sessions may have a requirement of six to 30 hours a week to treat addiction.

An IOP provides treatment while allowing patients to participate in their daily activities. IOPs require active participation and are sometimes scheduled throughout the day. 

Inpatient Addiction Treatment

Inpatient drug rehab centers also provide intense substance abuse therapy and offer different programs. Inpatient rehabilitation is useful to those who are recovering from severe addiction and have a high risk of withdrawal. The benefit of inpatient treatment is that patients are cared for around the clock.

Hospital facilities offer around-the-clock medical attention as well. Furthermore, most facilities accept health insurance coverage for inpatient and outpatient substance abuse therapy. Additionally, since inpatient services typically require patients to remain in the facility, they can focus on improving their health. 

Programs will vary in types of treatments and in the length of time to complete the program. For instance, some inpatient programs are as short as 30 days. Other programs can last a year. 

Medication-Assisted Treatment

Also known as MAT, this treatment involves incorporating medication into addiction recovery. Most facilities will have this type of treatment in their programs. Medication is commonly used to ease withdrawal symptoms and prevent relapse. If there are any psychiatric problems the patient needs to manage, the medication makes these issues manageable. 

Patients who typically undergo MAT may be addicted to opioids, benzodiazepines, and alcohol. Patients who need medication but cannot afford it should visit free rehabs. Although they do not offer prescriptions, they may provide financial assistance to qualify.

12-Step Program

The following is a treatment model offered at many drug abuse rehab centers. This model has been incorporated into programs for individuals who are recovering from alcoholism or narcotics. The 12-step program relies on spiritual principles to provide support to patients as they recover. A few of the principles taught to patients are:
  • Acceptance.
  • Surrender.
  • Active Participation.
This program often involves attending meetings and being part of a sober support network. As patients go through the 12 steps, they receive incentives to maintain sobriety. These incentives can include rewards like key tags to celebrate their milestone.

If you or someone you know is dealing with substance abuse or mental health problems, the government's Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides a free hotline that provides free information and can provide treatment referrals.