Types of Alcohol Rehab Centers

There are many types of alcohol rehab centers.  The different types are designed to reach, support and treat alcoholics at different stages of their addiction. Philosophy or treatment methodology will also account for some variances as well.  Rehab centers may take different approaches for different situations.  Some of the most common types of alcohol rehab centers include residential, outpatient, detox, inpatient and 12-step programs.

Inpatient alcohol rehab centers are often for individuals who have struggled with alcoholism for a long time and have had trouble getting sober.  These people may have tried outpatient and 12-step programs but they were not successful in helping them quit drinking. Therefore, an inpatient program may be a last-ditch effort at finally getting clean.  This type of treatment may be in stand-alone building or even a hospital.

Outpatient alcohol rehab centers may be frequented by people who are in the early stages of alcoholism and want to be able to head off the addiction before it gets very serious. There may also be individuals who use outpatient therapies after already completing an inpatient or residential stay and want some follow up support and help so that they don’t start drinking again. Individuals who perhaps cannot afford more intensive treatment may also choose this route. Some times an individual’s jobs insurance may not cover inpatient treatment and therefore they have to make due with what options they do have. Other persons are simply not able to commit more then a few hours a week to rehab and so chose an outpatient program.

Residential programs are similar to inpatient centers though in the former, the atmosphere is a little more lax and provide more of an atmosphere of healing as opposed to intensive treatment. There will likely be counseling and classes but there may not be as much structure as there would be in an inpatient facility.

Detox centers are available for a person who needs to get all traces of alcohol out of their systems.  This is often necessary before true rehab can begin. There are a number of facilities that offer these services around the country. However, it is best to go with a licensed medical facility. This is to ensure that nothing goes awry and that you are not putting yourself in danger. It is important to have either a doctor or nurse around who can provide treatment if something goes wrong.

12-step alcohol rehab centers or programs are what many people think of when they think of alcohol rehabilitation. Most people have heard of Alcoholics Anonymous which would be considered the gold standard of treatment for 12-step programs.   This form of treatment is very popular and is available in many rehab centers.

As alcohol rehab facilities and the public learn more about alcoholism and who it affects, another group of persons that treatment is currently being targeted towards are teenagers and adolescents.  This age group has been identified as one that needs specialized help. As a result, there are more alcohol rehab centers that are opening up specifically for young persons. This can be a really great option for teenagers struggling with alcohol addiction.