How Do I Know If I Need Inpatient or Outpatient Treatment?

Inpatient treatment is often recommended for those with severe alcohol use disorder (AUD) or additional mental health disorders that require concurrent treatment, while outpatient treatment is for less severe diagnoses that can be managed at home with visits to a treatment facility. There are exceptions to this, however, and your doctor and counselors can help you choose the best option for you.

Will I Go Through Detox?

Detox is the first step to seeking treatment—but should not be mistaken for treatment. Whether or not this detox takes place under the supervision of a medical professional is up to your treatment team. In some cases, alcohol withdrawal can be accompanied by severe symptoms, which should be a consideration when choosing supervised or unsupervised detox.

Is There Ongoing Support/Post-Treatment Care Available?

Many treatment centers offer support groups for alumni, at times facilitated by a clinician. Perhaps the most well-known support fellowship is Alcoholics Anonymous, which follows a 12-step recovery program. Should you be looking for a local support group, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) helpline can refer you to support in your area. Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

What Accreditations Should I Look for When Selecting a Treatment Center?

The two leading accreditations an alcohol treatment center can have are from the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) and Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). Additionally, you can look for additional certification from your state health department.

Can I Enter My Loved One Into a Treatment Center?

Unless your loved one is an adolescent under the age of 18, usually they must willingly seek help to enter a treatment center. There are some exceptions that require a judge to order a person enter treatment involuntarily, though this varies by state.

Best Alcohol Treatment Centers of 2023

When choosing an online therapy provider, we recommend that you read the company’s privacy guidelines before you sign up to better understand whether it is HIPAA-compliant and whether it shares any private information with third parties. There have been some concerns raised by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and several government officials about what user health information online therapy providers collect and what they do with any information they collect.

More than 14 million adults have been diagnosed with alcohol use disorder (AUD)—the clinical term for addiction to alcohol—which is a mental disorder that occurs when an individual is unable to stop or control alcohol use, despite consequences to their lives (and their overall health). According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAA), recovery is possible even in the most severe cases, with treatment that includes behavioral therapy, support groups, and when appropriate, medication.

There are varying degrees of AUD—mild, moderate, and severe—meaning that the best course of treatment leading to recovery will vary from person to person. While alcohol treatment centers will often use the same principles, including the 12-step program that was first developed in Alcoholics Anonymous, not every treatment center is exactly the same. We researched and compiled the best alcohol treatment centers to make getting the help you need as easy as possible.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation

Learn More

Key Specs

Type of Program: Inpatient and outpatient
Locations: 15 facilities in 8 states
Accepts Insurance: Yes

Why We Chose It

We selected the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation because it combined two of the oldest addiction treatment facilities to become the largest nonprofit provider of alcohol use disorder treatment.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Largest nonprofit treatment center
In-network with over 35 insurance companies

Cons

No Medicare or Medicaid coverage
Must talk to admissions team for pricing information

Overview

In 2014, Hazelden merged with the Betty Ford Center to become the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation. With a combined century of experience, the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation does more than offer inpatient and outpatient addiction treatment; it also emphasizes education and research (and includes a graduate school in addiction studies) to bring visibility to the realities of addiction and recovery.

The Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation is accredited by The Joint Commission and is a member of the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP). Not only does it provide addiction treatment for all ages, but it also has programs for the caregivers and families of those addicted to alcohol, with a specific one for children.

Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation is headquartered in Center City, Minnesota, with additional locations in California (including in Rancho Mirage where the Betty Ford Foundation originated), Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, Massachusetts, New York, Oregon, and Washington. Virtual treatment options also available.

Treatment modalities include inpatient, outpatient, telehealth, detox, and sober living, with additional services available including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and 12-step facilitation. Once an individual completes treatment, programs such as ongoing recovery monitoring are available, including access to Alcoholics Anonymous meetings held at Hazelden Betty Ford locations.

Treatment lengths vary based on severity and admissions include an assessment to determine clinical need. Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation is in-network with more than 35 insurance providers, including Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Humana, and UnitedHealthcare, but it does not accept Medicare or Medicaid. To inquire about admissions for any of its programs, call (844) 842-4553.

Best Budget: The Salvation Army

Learn More

Key Specs

Type of Program: Inpatient and outpatient
Locations: Facilities in 7 states
Accepts Insurance: No cost

Why We Chose It

The Salvation Army offers rehabilitation services for free, with various options for men, women, and adolescents struggling with alcohol abuse.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Free
Programs for men, women, and adolescents

Cons

Treatment options dependent upon location
No centralized website for all locations

Overview

The Salvation Army was founded in 1865 and now uses its Harbor Light Centers to provide recovery treatment to their community. Thanks to these, men, women, and children have access to free rehabilitation services across the country.

Harbor Light Center is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). Treatment options vary based on facility, with inpatient, outpatient, and detox services available. The largest center is located in The Salvation Army Freedom Center in Chicago, and it offers intensive rehabilitation and outpatient services to adult men, adolescent treatment programs for teens, and a 12-step program available to everyone.

In addition to Harbor Light Centers, The Salvation Army also has various adult rehabilitation programs that involve work-therapy. As there is no centralized admissions process, potential clients must contact individual Harbor Light Centers to inquire about treatment options at various locations and space in the free rehabilitation programs.

Best Inpatient Center: The Ranch Tennessee

Learn More

Key Specs

Type of Program: Inpatient and outpatient
Locations: 2 facilities in 2 states
Accepts Insurance: Yes

Why We Chose It

Not only does its inpatient facility consist of cottages nestled in rolling hills, but The Ranch Tennessee's additional amenities include equine and adventure therapy, so clients can experience the healing power of nature.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Access virtual recovery meetings once treatment is over
Additional therapies including equine and adventure therapy

Cons

No private inpatient accommodations
Treatment for adults only

Overview

Located in the rolling hills about an hour north of Nashville, The Ranch Tennessee uses its natural surroundings as part of treatment. While The Ranch also has a Pennsylvania location, it is its Tennessee treatment facility that houses its alcohol addiction program. Outpatient addiction treatment and a unique 12-step outdoor program are available, but the inpatient services that really stand out, offering unique therapies such as equine and adventure therapy as part of the treatment.

Accredited by The Joint Commission, The Ranch Tennessee has treatment options for adults struggling with addiction to drugs and/or alcohol and other mental health disorders (such as eating disorders). Length of treatment varies—and thus, so does cost—but inpatient treatment involves living in a group community setting, taking turns preparing meals, and recovering with group support. Both short-term care (up to 28 days) and long-term care (90 days or more) are available. Once treatment ends, alumni have access to Rooted, a free service offering virtual recovery meetings every day of the week.

The Ranch Tennessee works directly with insurance companies, both in- and out-of-network, based on your treatment plan. Admission includes screening to determine the best course of care, and individuals can begin the process by calling (888) 969-5280.

Best Outpatient Center: Oxford Treatment Center

Learn More

Key Specs

Type of Program: Inpatient and outpatient
Locations: 1 facility in Mississippi
Accepts Insurance: Yes

Why We Chose It

Oxford Treatment Center's outpatient program is located in a 12,000-square foot facility that provides a central space for holistic healing while recovering at home.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Offers additional services
Holistic and recreational activities available with outpatient care

Cons

No Medicare or Medicaid coverage
One outpatient facility serving the entire country

Overview

Part of the American Addiction Centers (AAC) network, Oxford Treatment Center in Etta, Mississippi, offers inpatient and residential options for care. However, where it really shines is with its outpatient services, which are hosted in a 12,000-square foot facility with space for group therapy and other holistic wellness activities, including yoga, art therapy, and more.

Oxford Treatment Center is accredited by both The Joint Commission and Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), and has a partnership with the Mississippi State Department of Health. Standard outpatient care is available, including meetings with a therapist based on individual needs. Intensive outpatient therapy is a 10-week program for adults, including mandatory attendance at 12-step meetings and therapists available with flexible hours for those recovering at home and balancing work and/or school commitments.

Once treatment is over, alumni have access to aftercare services to continue recovery with outreach staff and weekly on-campus meetings. Costs vary based on the type of program; however, some private insurance is accepted, including Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi, with payment plans available to help cover additional costs.

Admissions include screening to determine which treatment plan will best meet your needs, and staff is available at (662) 237-5034 to answer any questions about treatment.

Best for Teens: Memorial Hermann Prevention and Recovery Center (PaRC)

Learn More

Key Specs

Type of Program: Inpatient and outpatient
Locations: 5 facilities in Texas
Accepts Insurance: Yes

Why We Chose It

Memorial Hermann Prevention and Recovery Center has both inpatient and outpatient options for teens ages 13 to 17. These include access to an academic program, making education a part of recovery.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Whole family involved in care program
Academic program available

Cons

Teen program located only at Houston, Texas, location
No Medicare or Medicaid coverage

Overview

While the Prevention and Recovery Center (PaRC), formerly Memorial Hermann, does have programs for young adults and adults, its program for teens ages 13 to 17 helps it stand out. Treatment options include medical detox, a 30-day inpatient program, a partial-day program, and an intensive outpatient program.

While there are outpatient PaRC programs in 5 Texas cities, the Houston location is the only one that offers services for teens. Accredited by The Joint Commission, PaRC takes a holistic approach to care. Inpatient treatment includes shared rooms, nutritional education, and recreational activities including equine therapy, art therapy, access to a music room, and field trips to local museums. Both inpatient and outpatient clients have access to an on-site high school.

Throughout the program, you can expect teens to learn to use the 12-step system while taking part in individual, group and family therapy. Once the program is completed, a year of aftercare is offered to keep teens on track with their recovery. PaRC accepts over 20 insurance plans, including Aetna, Blue Cross of Texas, and Cigna, but not Medicare or Medicaid. To inquire about immediate admission or find out which program may be best for your teen, call (832) 975-0499.

Best for Adults: Caron Pennsylvania

Learn More

Key Specs

Type of Program: Inpatient and outpatient
Locations: 1 facility in Pennsylvania
Accepts Insurance: Yes

Why We Chose It

With separate treatment programs for men, women, and older adults, Caron Pennsylvania provides personalized recovery addressing body, mind, and spirit among peers.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Stigma-free recovery program offered for healthcare workers
Separate men and women’s program for personalized treatment

Cons

No Medicare or Medicaid coverage
Gender-specific programming only in Pennsylvania

Overview

While many alcohol treatment centers serve adults, Caron Pennsylvania sets itself apart with its signature Grand View Women’s and Grand View Men’s programs. Separate programs allow for more specialized treatment, including time around peers, with a focus on different issues of body, mind, and spirit. Additional core programs include outpatient options, as well, in both the Men’s and Women’s Centers.

Other full-service Caron centers are located in Florida, but these don't have gender-specific programming. Caron Pennsylvania is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and has in-network insurance coverage with Aetna, Highmark, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Independence Blue Cross, AmeriHealth, Quest Behavioral Health, and UPMC for a minimum 28-day stay.

Individuals in the signature programs can expect more traditional treatment such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and 12-step programming, but also have access to brain-mapping, a nutritionist, certified fitness trainers, and holistic therapies such as yoga.

Once treatment has concluded, the team at Caron Pennsylvania has a network for referrals and an alumni program for additional support. To find out whether signature, core, or outpatient programming is right for you, call (866) 590-2044.

Best for Insured: Recovery Centers of America

Learn More

Key Specs

Type of Program: Inpatient and outpatient
Locations: 13 facilities in 6 states
Accepts Insurance: Yes

Why We Chose It

Recovery Centers of America (RCA) aims for accessibility, contracting with most major insurance carriers and working with out-of-network insurance to get individuals care.

Pros & Cons

Pros

In-network with most major insurance plans
Telehealth treatment available

Cons

Must talk to admissions team for pricing information
Treatment for adults only

Overview

Recovery Centers of America (RCA) has a mission to get individuals the treatment they need in Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Even if it doesn’t contract with your insurance provider, it works with out-of-network insurance and can recommend the best RCA location to keep any incurred costs as low as possible. Major insurance companies in-network include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Humana, Cigna, and even New Jersey Medicaid.

Accredited by The Joint Commission, RCA facilities offer detox, inpatient, outpatient, and telehealth treatment options for adults, so care—following a 12-step curriculum—can be tailored to the individual. Treatment times can vary from a few days if medically detoxing to months of intensive outpatient care. Though it varies by location, accommodations include wellness facilities, art therapy, and traditional modalities of care, such as group therapy and medical evaluations.

After treatment, individuals can join the RCA Alumni Association, for extra support during recovery. RCA staff make themselves available 24/7 to help provide individuals with care, and you can reach them any time by calling 1-800-RECOVERY.

Final Verdict

We chose the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation as the best overall alcohol treatment center because it is the largest and most comprehensive non-profit provider in the United States. It has 15 treatment facilities in eight states, and treatment is covered by over 35 insurance providers. In addition to inpatient and outpatient care (with specific programs for all age groups), the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation offers a breadth of educational and recovery programs, including 12-step facilitation, sober living, and a graduate school in addiction studies.

Compare the Best Alcohol Treatment Centers

Alcohol Treatment Center	Type of Program	Locations	Accepts Insurance
Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation Best Overall	Inpatient and outpatient	15 facilities in 8 states	Yes
The Salvation Army Best Budget	Inpatient and outpatient	Facilities in 7 states	No cost
The Ranch Tennessee Best Inpatient Center	Inpatient and outpatient	2 facilities in 2 states	Yes
Oxford Treatment Center Best Outpatient Center	Inpatient and outpatient	1 facility in Mississippi	Yes
Memorial Hermann Prevention and Recovery Center (PaRC) Best for Teens	Inpatient and outpatient	5 facilities in Texas	Yes
Caron Pennsylvania Best for Adults	Inpatient and outpatient	1 facility in Pennsylvania	Yes
Recovery Centers of America Best for Insured	Inpatient and outpatient	13 facilities in 6 states	Yes

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Know If I Need Inpatient or Outpatient Treatment?

Inpatient treatment is often recommended for those with severe alcohol use disorder (AUD) or additional mental health disorders that require concurrent treatment, while outpatient treatment is for less severe diagnoses that can be managed at home with visits to a treatment facility. There are exceptions to this, however, and your doctor and counselors can help you choose the best option for you.
Will I Go Through Detox?

Detox is the first step to seeking treatment—but should not be mistaken for treatment. Whether or not this detox takes place under the supervision of a medical professional is up to your treatment team. In some cases, alcohol withdrawal can be accompanied by severe symptoms, which should be a consideration when choosing supervised or unsupervised detox.
Is There Ongoing Support/Post-Treatment Care Available?

Many treatment centers offer support groups for alumni, at times facilitated by a clinician. Perhaps the most well-known support fellowship is Alcoholics Anonymous, which follows a 12-step recovery program. Should you be looking for a local support group, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) helpline can refer you to support in your area. Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
What Accreditations Should I Look for When Selecting a Treatment Center?

The two leading accreditations an alcohol treatment center can have are from the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) and Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). Additionally, you can look for additional certification from your state health department.
Can I Enter My Loved One Into a Treatment Center?

Unless your loved one is an adolescent under the age of 18, usually they must willingly seek help to enter a treatment center. There are some exceptions that require a judge to order a person enter treatment involuntarily, though this varies by state.

Methodology

Alcohol treatment centers were chosen based on a variety of factors, including accreditation from top associations, reputation, history, facilities, programming, and contributions to research and education. We wanted to list treatment centers that would be available to a wide group of individuals, so we considered the number of locations and types of treatment available.

Next, we chose categories that would help serve specific groups of individuals to make access to alcohol treatment centers less daunting. It can be incredibly hard to ask for help, so breaking down barriers that may be a factor such as cost or insurance acceptance was a goal.

Finally, we looked at how well-established each treatment facility was, as well as its aftercare and post-treatment options. Recovery is a lifelong process, and making sure support is offered long after initial treatment has ended was an important factor.

5 Sources

Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.