Have you ever wondered about HOW to pick the right treatment center for yourself or a loved one? There are literally thousands of options out there, from the most popular rehabs that run commercials on primetime T.V., to the overseas locations with unsubstantiated methods, to everything in between. For the customer it can be very overwhelming to try to figure out which option will best fit their needs. Here are few simple questions and “must-haves” to help you research treatment options, regardless if you choose AToN Center or not!
- Find out details of the program. Is there a curriculum? Is it 12-Step based? Does the resident have options if they don’t subscribe to 12-Step? Is it abstinence based? Is religion a part of the program? Is individual therapy included on-site? Is family therapy included on-site?
- Licensing/accreditation status. Is the program licensed in their state? Do they have any other accreditations, for example The Joint Commission (TJC, formerly JCAHO) or the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)? These accreditations show that the agency has demonstrated that they are meeting nationally defined standards of care.
- Is the clinical staff licensed? Who will you be working with the most and are they trained?
- Does the program take insurance?
- Do they offer appealing holistics and amenities?
These are a few of the basic questions you should be asking before admitting yourself or a loved one into a treatment facility. Please do your research and ask questions! I hear far too many stories of residents going to treatment and not getting the help that they need.
Leslie Sanders, Psy.D.
AToN Center Program Director
