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Types of Alcohol Treatment Programs
Understanding the different levels and types of care available can help you find the right treatment approach for your needs.
Typical Duration
28-90 days (typically 30 days)
Best For
- Severe alcohol dependence
- History of unsuccessful outpatient treatment
- Co-occurring mental health conditions
- Unsafe home environment for recovery
- Serious medical complications from alcohol use
What to Expect
You'll live at the facility full-time, participating in daily individual therapy, group counseling, educational sessions, and holistic activities. Medical staff monitor your health and manage any medications. Most programs include family therapy and discharge planning.
Typical Cost Range: $5,000 - $30,000+ per month
Many insurance plans cover treatment. Financial assistance may be available.
Typical Duration
3-6 months or longer
Best For
- Mild to moderate alcohol dependence
- Strong support system at home
- Work or family responsibilities
- Step-down care after inpatient treatment
- Those who need flexible scheduling
What to Expect
You'll attend scheduled therapy sessions (typically 1-3 times per week) while maintaining your daily routine. Sessions include individual counseling, group therapy, and may include family therapy. You're responsible for staying sober between sessions.
Typical Cost Range: $1,500 - $10,000 for full program
Many insurance plans cover treatment. Financial assistance may be available.
Typical Duration
3-10 days
Best For
- Heavy, long-term alcohol use
- Previous severe withdrawal symptoms
- Risk of delirium tremens (DTs)
- Co-occurring medical conditions
- Need for safe, comfortable withdrawal
What to Expect
Medical staff monitor your vital signs 24/7 and provide medications to manage withdrawal symptoms. This is the first step in treatment - not a complete treatment program. Most people transition to inpatient or outpatient treatment after detox.
Typical Cost Range: $500 - $1,500 per day
Many insurance plans cover treatment. Financial assistance may be available.
Typical Duration
6-12 weeks (9-20 hours/week)
Best For
- Step-down from inpatient care
- Need more support than standard outpatient
- Work or family obligations prevent inpatient
- Moderate alcohol dependence
- Good support system at home
What to Expect
Attend treatment sessions 3-5 days per week for several hours each day, usually in the evening. Includes group therapy, individual counseling, education sessions, and skill-building activities. More intensive than regular outpatient but allows you to live at home.
Typical Cost Range: $3,000 - $10,000 for full program
Many insurance plans cover treatment. Financial assistance may be available.
Typical Duration
Varies; often long-term
Best For
- Moderate to severe alcohol use disorder
- Those who benefit from medication support
- History of relapse
- Preference for medication-assisted approach
- Combined with other treatment types
What to Expect
Prescribed medications (like naltrexone, acamprosate, or disulfiram) help reduce cravings and prevent relapse. Combined with regular counseling sessions. Medications are prescribed and monitored by a doctor. Can be part of inpatient or outpatient treatment.
Typical Cost Range: Varies by setting and medication
Many insurance plans cover treatment. Financial assistance may be available.
Typical Duration
Ongoing; often 6-12+ months
Best For
- Transition after inpatient treatment
- Need structured sober environment
- Building independent living skills
- Continued accountability and support
- Preventing relapse
What to Expect
Sober living homes provide a structured, alcohol-free living environment with house rules and accountability. Aftercare programs include ongoing therapy, support groups (AA, SMART Recovery), and regular check-ins. Focus on building life skills and maintaining sobriety.
Typical Cost Range: $500 - $3,000+ per month for sober living
Many insurance plans cover treatment. Financial assistance may be available.
Consider these factors when deciding which type of treatment is right for you:
- Severity of Dependence: More severe cases typically require inpatient care, while mild to moderate cases may do well with outpatient treatment.
- Medical Needs: If you need medical detox or have health complications, inpatient or medical detox programs are essential.
- Support System: A strong, sober support system at home makes outpatient treatment more viable.
- Work and Family: Outpatient or IOP programs allow you to maintain work and family responsibilities.
- Previous Treatment: If outpatient treatment hasn't worked before, a higher level of care may be needed.
- Insurance Coverage: Check what your insurance covers - this may influence which option is most affordable.