If you are seeking treatment for yourself or a loved one for the first time, searching the Internet can be extremely overwhelming. There are numerous treatment centers in Chicago, and even more throughout Illinois. Whether you are searching for yourself or a loved one, it is important to know the right questions to ask a drug and alcohol treatment center. It is also important to look at the needs of the individual and make sure you are preparing for long term care.
First take a look at your financial situation
Do you have insurance? Is it private insurance or is it state funded? Does your insurance cover drug/alcohol treatment? Do you have money to pay the co-pay/deductible? If you do not have insurance, do you have money to pay for a private treatment center? There are many state funded programs in the area, unfortunately since they are free, they occasionally have waiting lists. Evidenced based practices have proven the longer a client is in treatment, the higher to the chances at long term sobriety. Make sure not to waste all your money on the first level of care such as detox or inpatient. For more information check out Insurance Coverage & Rehab.
Second look for a program within your financial budget
Do they provide the type of care you need? Do they take your insurance? Many treatment centers will list on their website what type of insurance (if any) that they will take. Keep in mind whether a program is $40,000 or free, if you have the will to get sober, you will be able to find recovery no matter what the program costs. Do not get discouraged if you do not have unlimited funds to use for the most expensive treatment. The important part is to find a place that is a good match for you, to give you the best chance at long term sobriety. You will want to get an assessment to see if you need detox, inpatient programming, intensive outpatient programming, counseling, etc. Some treatment centers provide free assessments while others charge a fee ranging from $50-$400.
Third Do they have a long continuum of care?
Many treatment centers have alumni events, volunteer opportunities, and aftercare programming for clients that have finished a higher level of care. This helps the clients stay connected to the treatment program and their peers which provides the clients the support of a sober network. Do they help you get connected with other sober networks like Alcoholics Anonymous (12-Step Based) or Smart Recovery?
Fourth Do they work with other professionals?
If you have a psychiatrist, therapist, and/or a primary care physician, will they work in tandem with them? It is important that your treatment is created by a multidisciplinary staff, so that all your needs (physical, emotion, & behavioral) are being addressed at the same time.
Fifth Do they address all your needs?
If you speak Spanish, make sure to ask if they have Spanish speaking staff and ask what language is spoken during group sessions. If you are a member of the LGBT community, see if there is specific programming that addresses your needs. If you are pregnant, see if they provide medical services in tandem with your treatment. If you have HIV/AIDs, find out if they will provide you education and support throughout treatment. If you are dual diagnosis, ask if they are licensed to provide the type of care needed. If you have a gambling, shopping, or sex addiction, see if they address process addictions during treatment.
Sixth Do you feel comfortable with the staff and the facility?
Before you are admitted, see if you can take a tour or meet the staff beforehand. This will help you feel more at ease, the unknown is scary for some, and if you are able to see what a normal day in treatment looks like, you will most likely have an easier transition into the program. This will also allow you to come up with any other questions you may have before starting treatment. Some good questions to ask:
How many clients does each counselor have at one time?
How often are you able to meet 1:1 with a counselor?
How many people are in the program at one time?
Many treatment centers advertise that they provide personalized treatment, by asking the above questions you will have a better idea of how personalized the treatment will be while in their program.
Following these simple steps will help you find the best treatment center in Chicago for you. The great thing is Chicago has so many options that no matter what your particular needs are there will be a treatment center right for you! If you are looking for more information about New Hope Recovery Center feel free to call us at 773-883-3916.
Written by: New Hope Recovery Center