Short-Term (7-14 days) Drug & Alcohol Rehab Treatment Centers Near Me

Table of Contents

Short-Term Alcohol and Drug Rehabilitation Treatment Centers

People with mild substance use may receive adequate treatment by going through the system of general health care, while individuals who may have more severe issues with substance abuse will likely need to receive specialized addiction treatment. The most efficient way to prevent substance abuse before it develops into a larger issue is early intervention.1

There is a wide array of options when it comes to treatment, depending on their extent, intensity, and duration. Short-term treatment is one of such options, typically involving a stay in a rehabilitation center and comprehensive addiction treatment program. The duration is relatively short, lasting approximately three to six weeks.2

The History of Short-term Programs

These types of programs became prevalent during the 1980s at the height of the cocaine epidemic. Originally these programs were created to treat alcohol addiction by using a redesigned 12-step method. The models were later modified to address other SUDs.2

The initial short-term residential rehab was designed as a brief inpatient program in a hospital. Once completed, it was followed by self-help group participation (such as AA) and outpatient therapy for an extended period. To minimize the possibility of a relapse upon leaving the facility, patients were motivated to participate and stay involved in programs for outpatient aftercare.2

According to scientific evidence, an SUD can be effectively and successfully treated through specialized programs. Stats show a similar success rate as those for diabetes, hypertension, asthma, and other illnesses.2,3 However, not every program will work for every individual and that inpatient or residential treatment may not have significant advantage over outpatient care in some cases.4

As of 2019, there were nearly 16.000 treatment facilities for substance abuse in the U.S., 15% of which provide short-term residential treatment lasting a month or less.5,6

The Scope of Short-Term Drug & Alcohol Rehab Programs

Addiction treatment may entail the use of medications, behavioral therapy, counseling, and other forms of supportive services. Its objective is to reduce SUD symptoms, boost the overall health of the patient, and help them stop their drug and/or alcohol use.1 If the patient is experiencing mental or physical health issues, the program should also address any co-occurring disorders.3

Detoxification

Detox is the initial phase of treatment that helps with managing withdrawal symptoms. This stage entails the alleviation of the emotional and physical effects that most individuals experience after stopping substance use. The duration and intensity of the withdrawal symptoms will depend on the substance, length of use, the amount used, as well as the patient’s overall age and health. While some substances may cause severe physical effects during withdrawal, others may cause cognitive and emotional struggles.1

However, this process doesn’t tackle the underlying behavioral and psychological issues typically associated with drug and alcohol addiction which are crucial for complete recovery. This is why detox goes hand in hand with an extensive assessment and referral to subsequent treatment tailored for the individual.1

Customized Treatment Plan

A treatment plan is designed according to each patient’s unique case. It typically takes into account the used substance and its amount, duration, severity of addiction, and the presence of possible co-occurring disorders, as well as individual preferences.1

Treatment experts assess a struggling individual, getting an accurate understanding of their SUD history. The assessment provides the starting point for recommendations on the treatment plan and the care intensity.4

Support Groups and Counseling

Short-term alcohol or drug rehab typically includes various forms of counseling based on the patient’s requirements and amount of social and family support.1 While individual counseling consists of one-on-one sessions with a trained therapist, group counseling consists of sessions where group members help one each other.7, 8

Support groups can also help develop a sense of fellowship by sharing similar feelings and experiences.9 NA, AA, and other similar groups with their 12-step programs provide essential ongoing support. This type of closeness can encourage individuals to change their behavioral patterns and lifestyle, avoid stressful developments and situations, providing support in time of need to maintain abstinence.9

Therapy

Short-term rehab programs may also involve therapy sessions, such as behavioral and cognitive therapy, that assist patients in acknowledging and changing maladjusted behaviors. Therapy can help improve their social skills, stimulate and maintain recovery, and help them recognize cravings without the danger of relapsing. Typically, treatment, including short-term residential programs, often includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).9

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy is a short-term method of treatment that typically consists of 12 to 24 therapy sessions on a weekly basis. In these meetings, discussions range from the negative and positive aspects of substance use, learning how to use self-regulating mechanisms to deal with cravings and avoid situations that may lead to relapsing. These sessions also encourage the individual to develop their own coping mechanisms.5

Aftercare

The optimum way to achieve a successful, lasting recovery is through an organized aftercare plan. A personalized and strategic aftercare plan may assist patients in maneuvering the challenges that may arise once they’re discharged from short-term rehab facilities. It may require attending support group meetings or counseling sessions. Staying committed to the plan can lower chances of relapsing and increase positive outcomes.10

What Is the Daily Routine in a Short-Term Rehab Program?

Apart from treatment procedures that are specific to an individual facility, short-term inpatient drug and alcohol treatment centers may have similar daily routined. This framework typically entails:9

Therapy sessions.
Support meetings or groups.
Breakfast.
Lunch.
Dinner.

What Happens After Completing a Short-Term Rehab Program?

Rehab programs typically prepare their patients for the possibility of relapse. They try to assist them in recognizing and learning how to avoid situations that can “trigger” them to resume drug or alcohol use. They strive to show patients how to prevent challenging situations, how to react to cravings, and what to do if they experience a “slip”.4

Therefore, an aftercare plan may be suggested in the form of:9

Sober living.
Outpatient care.
Additional counseling.

Short-Term Drug & Alcohol Treatment Programs: Common Benefits & Drawbacks

Short term rehabs can provide the necessary support and care to help patients recover from addiction. However, it’s important to consider both benefits and possible drawbacks before enrolling in this type of treatment.

The Advantages

One of the main advantages of a short-term rehab program is its lower cost than longer treatment options because it requires shorter stays at a facility. Therefore, insurance companies are more likely to cover the costs to a greater extent.10

People who are wary of more extended stays and treatment or, due to some other reasons, are unable to spend too much time in rehab (e.g., pregnant women) are more likely to accept short-term rehabs, which tend to offer a relatively quick and effective treatment.10

In addition, individuals with mild or less complex addiction looking for an option that doesn’t disrupt their lives too much may find a shorter-term rehab more suitable. Much like long-term solutions, it offers a similar level of care and support that enhances the chance of staying sober.10

The Disadvantages

Compared to longer hospitalization, short-term rehabs may have some disadvantages.

The first part of the short-term rehab is typically dedicated to inpatient drug detox (usually one week), which is then followed by group and individual therapy.11 Sometimes the time allocated to detoxification is insufficient and needs to be prolonged, which then doesn’t leave sufficient time for the required group or individual therapy. The patient may need significantly more time to deal with the causes of the addiction and start the slow process of rehabilitation.11
Patients with severe and long-term addiction may require more time to start successfully dealing with their dependence and ultimately overcome it. Those who have unsuccessfully undergone short-term rehab programs or had relapses are also likely candidates for longer-term rehab.1
The commitment to longer treatments and willingness to undergo the complete process significantly raises the chances of successful treatment and outcome.11
The best and lasting results are more likely through active patient participation followed by committed long-term abstinence after the treatment. In general, 90% of people who have managed to be abstinent for a period of two years are more likely to remain alcohol/drug-free ten years after beginning the treatment.12 An additional important element of success in the struggle against addiction is the continual participation in self-care groups.4

Can Short-term Rehab Facilities Provide Adequate Care?

Whether this type of program is sufficient for a patient depends on the seriousness of their addiction and needs. Moderate and less severe SUDs may react positively to short-term treatment.4

Contrastingly, serious and longer SUDs may require longer inpatient or residential treatment, followed by ongoing support once the patient finishes the program.2

Nonetheless, even if patients decide to go with a short-term rehab program, they will still get professional care and treatment, regardless of the program length. One of the main advantages of short-term treatment is that it assists individuals to reach sobriety without disrupting their everyday lives.13

What’s the Cost of a Short-Term Alcohol and Drug Rehab?

How much a short-term treatment program will cost depends on a number of factors which include: type of facility, location, amenities, treatment approaches, and additional services. Typically, a program that lasts up to a month can cost between $400-$900 per day. Fortunately, insurance coverage is obligated to cover at least some of the costs if not all of them.2

Whether inpatient, residential, or outpatient programs, SUD treatment is cost-efficient in the long run and when compared to overall costs to both individuals and society.2 A patient can save $4 in health care for every dollar spent on rehab, and up to $7 in criminal justice fees.14

Is Short-Term Rehab Program Covered by Insurance?

When it comes to health insurance, short-term rehab is likely to be covered. However, insurance companies offer different plans you can use to pay for treatment, so it’s best to contact them and check the specificities of each plan. Additionally, you can also call a treatment center’s helpline for more information that can help you find the most viable solution in terms of the covered program.15

Private insurance providers are likely to cover at least some costs of addiction treatment. However, whether you’re covered depends on the treatment center of your choice and the specific policy you have.15

Options funded by the state like Medicaid, Medicare and other state-funded programs can also help you cover your rehabilitation. If you’re looking for short-term rehab programs which are free, you can use SAMHSA’s directory as a great source of information.15

Additionally, some centers provide assistance with covering rehab costs. Facilities like American Addiction Centers (AAC) work with the largest insurance companies, including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, United Healthcare, and others, to help make treatment more accessible nationwide. AAC accepts commercial insurance to cover some or even most expenses and offers free benefit verification.

How Do I Find a Short-Term Alcohol and Drug Rehab Program Near Me?

The financial policy and payment options are the first factor most patients consider when looking for a treatment facility. However, other important factors to consider when deciding on the center include its location, reputation, accreditation, and success rates. You can also gather vital information by reading what past patients have said about the center in question.

American Addiction Centers is one of the leading treatment providers across the country. The provider employs experts from various relevant fields, follows all COVID-19 protocols, and may offer a wide array of customized programs, including:

Nonetheless, whether it’s the amenities they offer or getting verification for your insurance, the best way to understand if short-term rehab is the right option for you is to contact a facility’s helpline to discuss your needs and learn about your options.

Feel free to call one of AAC’s hotlines and talk with an admissions navigator who will be able to verify your insurance benefits and present you with different payment solutions. Additionally, you can fill out an online form if you find it more accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does a Short-term Treatment Consist of?

A short-term rehab program may include three to six weeks of inpatient treatment followed by an extended period of outpatient therapy and support group participation.11

For the short-term rehab to have the best possible outcome, actively participating in aftercare programs and outpatient treatment is essential, as it allows individuals to avoid relapse and maintain sobriety once they leave the safe space that is residential treatment facility.16

Do Short-Term Treatment Programs Provide Confidentiality and Privacy?

It’s a legal requirement to comply with federal regulations in terms of the privacy and confidentiality of a patient at a facility. There are strict laws and policies that encourage individuals to enter rehab without fear of exposure. This kind of information can only be disclosed with the consent of the patient.4

What Can You Expect in the Short-Term Treatment Environment?

Not every short-term rehab center is the same. While some may specialize in the detoxification process, others may focus more on addressing co-occurring disorders and other health issues in conjunction with substance abuse. Some facilities offer luxury amenities to make the patients’ stay more comfortable. Some may impose strict rules, while others opt for a more flexible approach. Before deciding on one, it’s vital to get as much information as possible on the admission criteria and what the treatment centers offer to their patients.11

When Is the Best Time for Short-Term Drug Rehab?

There is no definitive answer to when to enter a treatment facility. The decision to seek this type of care will depend on a variety of factors, including the severity of addiction, overall health, and personal relationships. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you make the decision about when to seek treatment.

If you are battling an addiction, it’s essential to seek help as soon as possible. Addiction is a progressive disease that will only worsen over time. Many people wait too long to seek treatment and find themselves in a situation where addiction has taken over, and the road to recovery becomes more difficult.17

Is There an Alternative to Short-Term Drug Rehab?

There’s a wide array of options that serve as alternatives to short-term treatment. These include outpatient, inpatient, intensive outpatient, and long-term residential rehab. Each program varies with regard to its duration, intensity, and services that reflect the patient’s requirements. Additionally, some facilities offer programs which are gender-specific such as treatment settings customized to cater to women.2

Is a Residential Short-Term Drug Rehab Enough for Any Form of SUD?

The severity and specific nature of each person’s addiction will play a role in determining what kind of treatment is most effective. For some people with less severe addiction or co-occurring issues, a short stay in rehab may be help get them on the path to recovery. For others, however, a more long-term treatment plan may be required.17

Usually, patients with serious SUDs, as well as individuals suffering from mental health struggles or without adequate support, find staying sober more challenging. Therefore, these individuals would benefit from treatment in a long-term facility.17

What Type of Rehab Offers the Highest Success Rate?

In general, rehab with the highest success rate is long-term treatment. Rehab lasting three months or more provides a better foundation for sustainable sobriety.18

What’s the Duration of a Short-Term Drug Rehabilitation Program?

While most short-term treatment programs last between one and two months, the duration depends on the seriousness of the patient’s SUD, potential psychological trauma during their teenage years, their support system, and co-occurring illnesses. In some cases, this timeframe may prove to be insufficient, and the patient may be offered to stay a longer period of time.17

What Is the Relapse Rate for Substance Abuse?

When dealing with addiction, relapse is a common occurrence. In fact, close to two-thirds of individuals relapse within the first few weeks or months of beginning treatment. Most susceptible are patients with depressive symptoms or ones experiencing higher levels of stress due to drug cravings.19

According to studies from the Journal of American Medical Association, relapse rates for drug addiction are between 40 and 60%.20

If I Opt for Detox, Do I Have to Go Through Short-Term Drug Rehab?

Without addressing behavioral and psychological issues, detox alone will not be enough to keep someone off of drugs permanently. In order to achieve long-term sobriety, it’s necessary to address the underlying causes of drug use and develop healthy coping mechanisms. This is why these types of programs are usually followed by customized substance abuse treatment plans.21