Addictions can vary by type, intensity, duration, and especially the personality and innate characteristics of the addict. Because each person’s addiction experience is unique, that’s why many different addiction treatment options have developed over the years. There are practically as many variations in addiction treatment approaches as there are in actual addiction experiences. Some approaches are based on spiritual or psychological principles, and some treatments are longer or more intense than others. Some even accept patients on a voluntary basis, while others work directly with the legal system to help addicts fulfill court-ordered drug rehab. The following is a summary of just some of the approaches to addiction treatment:

Short-term Residential Drug Rehab

This popular option involves overnight stays of three to six months, generally. It usually involves group therapy sessions, individual counseling, a personalized drug treatment plan, and follow-up care after patients leave.

Long-term residential Drug Rehab

Much like short-term residential drug rehab centers, this is a fairly intense treatment option, though typically used for more severe addictions. It can last as long as two years in rare cases. Both short-term and long-term treatment plans have the goal of resocializing the addict through interactions with others, helping to build self confidence and independence.

Outpatient Drug Rehab

This option is less expensive, and ideal for addicts who have commitments in the outside world that they must maintain. These might include family or work obligations, around which an outpatient treatment schedule can be structured. It requires relatively brief visits, intermittently, during business hours. Outpatient treatment is not advisable for those with very intense, harmful addictions, or those residing in a stressful, unsupportive living environment.

Court-ordered treatment

Sometimes legal action is the only thing that can spur an addict to get help. In some cases, legally mandated treatment is not even enough to stop the addiction long-term. Court programs can be quite restrictive, holding addicts accountable for their behavior. These programs are often used as an alternative to incarceration for first-time, non-violent drug offenders, and have been shown to reduce the rate of re-arrest.