Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for Clients

How do I know which level of treatment is right for me?
Completing a pre-assessment over the phone with an intake coordinator will give you a good idea of which program to enroll in. Once you arrive at the facility, you will undergo a thorough medical examination to determine exactly which program fits your needs. It is in your best interest to be assessed sooner rather than later to prevent the potentially harmful effects of trying to manage addiction on your own, or in a program that doesn’t meet your needs.

What is the difference between residential care and a partial hospitalization program (PHP)?
Residential treatment means that you are living on-site with round-the-clock care. This type of treatment usually follows medical detox and is more intensive than partial hospitalization. In a partial hospitalization program, you have fewer hours of programming and one-on-one services. Typically the PHP level of care is designed for individuals who need structured programming, but do not need 24-hour medical supervision.

What is the average length of stay?
Generalized lengths of time cannot be determined until you are assessed by a medical professional on-site, and clinical progress is determined as treatment continues. An average stay is typically between 30 and 90 days, but varies based on each individual’s clinical needs. Usually, the longer someone is engaged in treatment, the better the outcomes. Going through the full continuum of care (detox through aftercare) will boost your recovery exponentially.

What can I bring to treatment? Am I allowed to bring my cell phone and laptop?
Before you arrive at the facility, you will receive a thorough list of items to pack and what to leave at home. You will not be able to have a cell phone or any device with a camera or internet while in treatment. If you have special requests, please discuss them in advance with our intake coordinators to see if we will be able to accommodate them.

Do you prescribe medication?
We do utilize medication at the facilities for detoxification as well as to treat any underlying co-occurring disorders. We focus on equipping you with the tools necessary to abstain from substances in recovery. We do prescribe Vivitrol, a once-monthly injection that serves to reduce drug cravings, until you can locate a physician at home that is a prescriber and set the next appointment. If your medical and clinical team recommends long-term medication management, we will work with you individually to ensure your needs are met. We understand that your unique needs are important in aftercare as well, and long-term recovery and aftercare may be different for some of our patients than the general patient population.

I haven’t hit rock bottom yet. Do I really need treatment?
Waiting to hit rock bottom before pursuing treatment is a dangerous decision. You should not wait to seek treatment, even if your addiction is mild. In fact, many of our clients have found it to be a better decision to admit as soon as possible, rather than risk the potential consequences that could arise from delaying treatment.

What if I am not totally committed to getting treatment at this time?
We understand and respect your decision, but highly encourage you to give rehab a chance. Many of our clients who are now in recovery can empathize with how you’re feeling, but say that committing to treatment (even before they were totally ready) was the best decision they could have ever made. Once you begin to see progress in treatment, no matter how small, you will be encouraged and empowered to continue. To get started, call one of our intake coordinators. They can discuss the treatment process with you, answer your questions and talk through your apprehension about rehab. Your recovery is possible — let’s make it a reality. 

I am deciding between you and another center. They are offering to waive my flight and deductible. How does your facility match that?
While monetary incentives can be quite an attractive offer, especially considering the financial strain you have already incurred through addiction, please be wary of companies who offer incentives like these. Be cautious when considering a facility that seems more interested in patient enticement than your recovery. Many of these facilities “waive” small payments but end up billing you later. ARS facilities do not offer monetary incentives. Instead, we work with you to set up a straightforward payment plan ahead of time. You will have the chance to work with our financial counselors while at the facility to make sure you are able to manage everything once treatment is complete.

I can’t leave my partner, kids or my family. How could I possibly commit to treatment?
Your recovery matters. For your own well-being, and for that of the people you love. Whether you realize it or not, your actions, inhibited by drugs or alcohol, could put the people you love in danger. If you let your addiction get worse and don’t seek help, you could risk losing them forever. By pursuing sobriety, you are giving yourself a chance to be the best person you can be — for your sake and for your loved ones’. 

Will I lose my job if I go to treatment?
We understand that keeping your job is a primary concern for you, and your recovery shouldn’t cost your career. Our case managers will help with any necessary FMLA paperwork while you are in treatment so you can commit fully to recovery. Don’t forgo treatment because you’re worried about your job status. In the long term, getting help now will improve your productivity and performance at work rather than putting your job in jeopardy. 

How often can I smoke while in treatment?
Depending on which program you’re in, you may receive ample smoke breaks throughout the day that are built into your schedule. You might not permitted to bring opened cartons of cigarettes to the facility however. 

Why can’t I stay on my benzo during treament?
Whether you are taking a benzodiazepine medication for therapeutic reasons or for recreational purposes, long-term use can lead to a form of physical dependence. If this habit continues, you may feel the need to use the drugs in order to feel healthy and in control. You can participate in one-on-one therapy sessions to explore the roots of your addiction and your perceived need for benzos. While in treatment, your medical team will see to your needs and make sure you receive appropriate taper medications. You will be in a safe and medically monitored environment where it is our goal to help get you quit all substances and start living a sober lifestyle.

I’ve been to treatment before but it didn’t really work. How is it going to be different this time?
There are multiple factors that influence your success in rehab. Your willingness to commit to a life in recovery is critical, and following recommended aftercare and relapse prevention plans make a huge difference. Once your time at the facility is over, we highly encourage you to stay in touch with us and participate in alumni services. Recovery is a journey and we want to be here for you throughout the entire process.

 
I am transgender and don’t want to feel uncomfortable or isolated. How will you accommodate my treatment?
Your recovery, and sense of comfort and belonging, is our top priority. At each of our centers, we work hard to make sure no one feels excluded in any way. If you are going through gender dysphoria, we will do our best to accommodate your specific needs in treatment. This includes your choice to room with members of the sex that you identify with. We ask permission to discuss your preference with your potential roommates to ensure that everyone is comfortable. If you don’t want to disclose this, we will keep it private. We just ask that you disclose this information to your primary physician and therapist prior to beginning treatment.