How to Find an Alcohol Treatment Center

While there are many websites dedicated to helping you find an alcohol treatment center, the most credible is the online home of the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration. It is run by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and can help you locate a reputable treatment center near you. The website categorizes information by state and makes it easy for anyone to find a location in his or her area.

Most alcohol treatment centers employ a similar approach to helping you cope with and overcome your dependence on alcohol. The basic treatment outline comprises several components. The fundamental elements are as follows:

Counseling—The patient undergoes a thorough mental evaluation, as well as therapy, all under the supervision and guidance of a trained, certified staff.
Detox—This treatment deals with the withdrawal symptoms of quitting, and includes administering medication as needed.
Life Skills—Patients are provided with the social and mental tools they need to deal with social situations in which alcohol may appear (i.e. what to do when someone offers you a drink). They also provide with the mental tools they need to abstain from alcohol when alone.
Employment Assistance—Each treatment center will have some kind of resource that will assist you with employment, if needed, upon completion of your treatment program.
Aftercare—Relapse is a real possibility, as getting clean is no easy task. Each facility has its own methods of dealing with this, but you can rest assured that you will be provided with aftercare treatment to help ensure you stay clean.

Be aware that each alcohol treatment center has its own curriculum, so be sure to research a facility that caters to your particular needs. There are a variety of different types of treatment centers:

Residential and Outpatient Centers
Women’s Treatment Center
Teen Treatment Center
Intensive Outpatient Program
Counseling
Sober Living
Holistic Program

Undergoing treatment is a significant step in the process to becoming sober. Give yourself the best chance of success and choose a treatment program that aligns with your goals and needs. It is important to note that if you voluntarily attend a treatment center, you are at liberty to leave. However, be sure to take into consideration the impact that leaving early could have on your health before making such a decision. If you’d like more information on a particular center, make sure to speak to a representative from the treatment center that you are considering, or call the SAMHSA Treatment Referral Helpline:

1-800-662-HELP
1-800-487-4889