Will I Go Through a Detox?

You may go through a detox when you stop using substances, though the symptoms and severity will vary based on the degree and nature of your SUD. Withdrawal symptoms vary by drug. Whether or not your detox will take place under the care of a medical team—inpatient or outpatient—will be determined by a clinician. Detox is often the first phase of your recovery, and involves stopping the use of drugs so that rehabilitation can begin.

Does Insurance Cover Drug Addiction Treatment?

Since the Affordable Care Act became law in 2010, all insurance plans obtained through the health insurance marketplace must cover substance use treatment (and cannot consider SUD a pre-existing condition). If you are covered by insurance purchased elsewhere (such as through your job), there is no guarantee of full coverage. Coverage may depend on whether your chosen treatment facility is in- or out-of-network. However, many insurance companies do offer at least partial coverage.

Does Medicare Cover Drug Addiction Treatment?

Medicare does cover drug addiction treatment; however, there is a caveat. In order to receive coverage, you must: Be under the care of a doctor who deems treatment medically necessary Seek treatment from a Medicare-approved facility Submit a detailed treatment plan developed by your provider

Is There Ongoing Support Available After Treatment?

Treatment centers often offer support to alumni, or, if they don’t have additional programs, can provide a referral. Support groups and 12-step programs do exist—specifically Narcotics Anonymous (NA) —where individuals can find a sponsor and be a part of a community of others managing their recovery. If you're 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).

Can I Enter My Loved One Into a Treatment Center?

If your loved one is an adolescent or teen under the age of 18, you can enter them into a drug treatment center. However, if they are 18 years of age or older, unless they are under a court order, they must willingly seek help. These laws vary by state.

Best Drug Addiction 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.

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), over 23 million adults in the U.S. have struggled with problematic drug use. If that number isn’t staggering enough, only 25% of them reported receiving treatment. However, drug addiction—clinically diagnosed as substance use disorder (SUD)—is treatable and, after recovery, can be managed.

We researched the best drug addiction treatment centers for different types of addictions as well as subsets of individuals, so you or a loved one can take the first steps toward recovery.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation

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Key Specs

Inpatient or Outpatient: Both
Accepts Insurance: Yes
Program Length: Depends on individual circumstances

Why We Chose It

Two historic addiction treatment centers merged, and now provide more than 100 years of combined experience to people looking to recover from alcohol and drug addiction.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Largest nonprofit treatment center
In-network with more than 50 insurance companies

Cons

No Medicare or Medicaid coverage
Teen program only offered at specific locations

Overview

One of the first addiction treatment centers, Hazelden, was founded in 1949 and served as planning inspiration for former First Lady Betty Ford for the Betty Ford Center, which opened its doors in 1982.

A merger of the two treatment centers in 2014 led to the formation of the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, creating one of the foremost addiction treatment centers in the country. With more than a century of combined experience, the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation has led the way in research and training the next generation of addiction specialists at its graduate school in addiction studies. This focus on education strengthens its inpatient and outpatient treatment services.

With headquarters in Center City, Minnesota, the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation has locations in California (including in Rancho Mirage, where the Betty Ford Foundation originated), Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, Massachusetts, New York, Oregon, and Washington, with virtual treatment options also available. Treatment offerings vary by location—for example, the teens' program is located in Plymouth, Minnesota—and include inpatient, outpatient, telehealth, detox, and sober living. Additionally, children and family of those addicted to alcohol can also receive care, focusing on education and communication training.

Accredited by the Joint Commission and a member of the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP), the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation facilitates 12-step interventions and other therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), to address co-occurring mental health conditions. Upon completion of treatment, individuals have access to ongoing recovery monitoring, including recovery coaching and retreats.

Treatment—including cost, type, and length of program—is determined based on a clinical evaluation and varies by need. While the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation does not accept Medicare or Medicaid, it is in-network with upwards of 50 insurance providers, including Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Humana, and UnitedHealthcare. To inquire about admissions for any of its programs or locations, call (866) 482-0384.

Best Budget: Freedom House Recovery Center

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Key Specs

Inpatient or Outpatient: Both
Accepts Insurance: Yes
Program Length: Average of four to six months for inpatient treatment

Why We Chose It

Freedom House Recovery Center is a nonprofit treatment provider that will not turn individuals away. Fees are on a sliding scale based on need for those without insurance.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Payment on a sliding scale based on need
Accepts Medicare and Medicaid

Cons

Locations only in North Carolina
Residential treatment not available at every location

Overview

Based in North Carolina, Freedom House Recovery Center never turns away individuals seeking treatment to recover from substance use. With locations in Chapel Hill, Durham, Norlina, Roxboro, and Warrenton, Freedom House receives grants and donations to offer care to anyone who needs it; in fact, donations are often made in memory of a loved one so others can receive treatment.

Freedom House Recovery Center is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and is a partner of United Way of the Greater Triangle. It provides services to people of all genders, ages 3 and up. Services include detoxification, short-term and long-term residential care in the form of halfway houses, out-patient services, aftercare, and counseling (including for children whose parents have a substance use disorder diagnosis). It also treats co-occurring mental health concerns and behavioral issues.

Treatment varies based on factors such as age and severity of addiction. Freedom House Recovery Center is in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield, Medicare, and Medicaid; however, no one is denied care based on inability to pay. Should you not have insurance, fees will be assessed on a sliding scale. Contact Freedom House Recovery Center at administrator@fhrecovery.org to inquire about programs and available space.

Best Inpatient Center: The Ranch Tennessee

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Key Specs

Inpatient or Outpatient: Both
Accepts Insurance: Yes
Program Length: 28 days for short-term care; 90 days or more for long-term care

Why We Chose It

This supportive, communal setting uses its natural surroundings as part of therapy, with the outdoors serving as a space for healing during equine and adventure therapy.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Virtual intensive out-patient treatment available
Therapies used include equine and adventure therapy

Cons

No private inpatient accommodations
No teen or adolescent programs

Overview

The Ranch Tennessee is located in Nunnelly, roughly an hour outside of Nashville. Though it does have a second location in Pennsylvania, the Tennessee facility has treatment for a wider range of problematic substances, such as prescription drugs, cocaine, crack, and marijuana. Accredited by the Joint Commission, The Ranch Tennessee makes use of its natural surroundings, offering a unique 12-step outdoor program and additional therapies including equine and adventure therapy.

A community emphasis is a cornerstone of The Ranch. Once inpatient or outpatient treatment is completed—with short-term care of 28 days and long-term care of 90 days or more—individuals have access to daily virtual recovery meetings via its alumni program, known as "Rooted."

Length of treatment and cost will vary based on need after an initial assessment, as will the type of program, with detox, inpatient, outpatient, and therapy for a diagnosis of co-occurring disorders available. The Ranch Tennessee does work with insurance, though treatment is limited to adults only; admissions counselors will verify in- and out-of-network coverage during the initial assessment. Begin the screening process by calling (888) 967-8712.

Best Out-Patient Center: Oxford Treatment Center

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Key Specs

Inpatient or Outpatient: Both
Accepts Insurance: Yes
Program Length: 10 weeks for out-patient

Why We Chose It

With a 12,000-square-foot facility dedicated to outpatient care, Oxford Treatment Center has created separate spaces for medical, therapeutic, and community services.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Medical wing with dedicated nurse’s station
Holistic and recreational activities available for out-patient care

Cons

No Medicare or Medicaid coverage
Best for locals who can commute to the center (or reside nearby in supportive housing)

Overview

Though Oxford Treatment Center—part of the American Addiction Centers (AAC) treatment facilities—is located in Etta, Mississippi, it has a dedicated 12,000-square-foot facility at the Resolutions Oxford campus for adult outpatient care, including partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs. With a medical wing for monitored detox and prescription drug management, space for holistic wellness including yoga and art therapy, and community space, its outpatient offerings are designed as a follow-up to inpatient or residential treatment.

Oxford Treatment Center has a partnership with the Mississippi State Department of Health, and has accreditation from both the Joint Commission and Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). Its intensive outpatient program is 10 weeks long and emphasizes 12-step meetings and therapeutic treatment. It is for adults who have outside commitments and are unable to receive inpatient care.

Standard care emphasizes therapy—with group, individual, and family sessions available—as well as treatment for co-occurring disorders. Aftercare services are available, with outreach staff and on-campus support group meetings for alumni, as well as sober living facilities for individuals who want more transitional support.

Costs will vary for outpatient treatment depending on type and length of care, however, Oxford Treatment Center accepts some private insurance, including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mississippi. For admissions inquiries and screening, call (928) 900-2011.

Best for Teens: Turnbridge

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Key Specs

Inpatient or Outpatient: Both
Accepts Insurance: Yes
Program Length: Depends on individual circumstances

Why We Chose It

Turnbridge is a treatment facility created solely for teens and young adults, It has an integrated academic program, so patients can continue their education during treatment.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Sober living available for men who complete treatment
Academics integrated into treatment

Cons

Residential fees typically not covered by insurance

Overview

Turnbridge offers residential and outpatient care for teens and young adults ages 14 and up, with separate facilities and programs for young men, young women and adolescents. With locations in New Haven and Westport, Connecticut, this 12-step based facility folds education into treatment, offering to facilitate academics via a teen’s current school or via Turnbridge Academy, integrated into the facility.

Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and a member of the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP), Turnbridge has operated for over 15 years. The facility boasts impressive accommodations and facilities, offering residential care that transitions throughout different phases of treatment. Residential services provide guidance for the transition to life outside of Turnbridge, including guidance on support groups and connections to healthcare providers. Outpatient care options include sober living and therapy, including medication management.

Turnbridge does work with insurance. However, it notes residential fees are not covered by insurance and will be billed separately. Some outpatient care, such as therapy, may be covered by insurance and admissions staff can provide a breakdown of costs based on the level of care. To inquire about admission, call (877) 609-6254.

Best for Adults: Caron Pennsylvania

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Key Specs

Inpatient or Outpatient: Both
Accepts Insurance: Yes
Program Length: 28 days or more

Why We Chose It

Caron Pennsylvania has developed specific treatment programs divided by gender and age group, recognizing the biological and social differences in addiction.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Additional services for teens, first responders, and legal professionals
Separate men's and women’s program for personalized treatment

Cons

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

Overview

Caron Pennsylvania recognizes the differences between genders and age groups, offering treatment programs that take distinct biology and social expectations into account. Specialized treatment around peers focuses on body, mind and spirit, with programs for young adults, middle-aged adults, and older adults all operating separately for men and women. Both inpatient and outpatient treatment is available in the Men’s and Women’s Centers.

Caron Pennsylvania is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), with additional facilities located in Florida; however, these do not have gender-specific treatment options. Caron Pennsylvania has core inpatient and outpatient programs, with signature offerings in a secluded part of the campus also available. All individuals being treated can expect traditional 12-step programming and cognitive behavioral therapy, while the signature program includes additional amenities such as brain-mapping and nutritional counseling. Alumni have access to continuing support and an extensive referral network.

In-network insurance providers include Aetna, Highmark, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Independence Blue Cross, AmeriHealth, Quest Behavioral Health, and UPMC, all of which cover a minimum 28-day stay at Caron Pennsylvania. To find out whether signature, core, or outpatient programming is right for you, call (844) 260-1324.

Best for Insured: Rosecrance

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Key Specs

Inpatient or Outpatient: Both
Accepts Insurance: Yes
Program Length: Depends on individual circumstances

Why We Chose It

Rosecrance accepts more than 25 types of insurance, including the major providers, as well as Medicaid, making treatment affordable for a wide range of individuals.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Accepts Medicaid
Programs for all ages

Cons

Locations only in the Midwest
Two types of financial charges: "routine" and "non-routine"

Overview

Rosecrance is a treatment center with locations in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Iowa, offering care to individuals and families. It works with more than 25 insurance providers, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Humana, United Behavioral Health, and Medicaid, among others. Rosecrance has a variety of services, including inpatient and outpatient care, and can treat co-occurring disorders, as well.

Accredited by the Joint Commission, Rosecrance has residential facilities for both teens and adults, partial hospitalization programs, and intensive outpatient treatment for all ages that includes family counseling. After active treatment programs, alumni have access to sober living and recovery housing, all following a 12-step model of care.

Many of its facilities have partnerships with local counseling programs, both during active treatment and as an individual transitions out of Rosecrance. A nonprofit organization, the Rosecrance Foundation, raises funds and offers special services for vulnerable populations. To speak with an admissions counselor and inquire about services throughout their locations, call (866) 330-8729.

Best for Specific Drug Addictions: Recovery Village

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Key Specs

Inpatient or Outpatient: Both
Accepts Insurance: Yes
Program Length: Depends on individual circumstances

Why We Chose It

Recovery Village recognizes the need for specific care based on addiction type, with different treatment options based on type of substance, such as cocaine, meth, and prescription opioids.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Specific care plan for different substances
Locations across seven states and online

Cons

No Medicare or Medicaid coverage
Different treatment options based on location

Overview

Recovery Village specializes in different levels of care based on specific substance addiction, including cocaine, heroin, meth, and prescription opioids. Even further, it provides a wealth of free information about all types of substance use and treatment options on its website. With locations in Georgia, Florida, New Jersey, Ohio, Colorado, Washington, and Maryland, Recovery Village even offers telehealth services to reach the largest number of people possible.

Accredited by the Joint Commission, Recovery Village offers a number of services based on principles of 12-step recovery, including medical detox, inpatient services, and outpatient treatment, including partial hospitalization and day programs. It recognizes the importance of aftercare and begins planning the end phase of treatment as soon as you enter the facility.

Recovery Village does not accept Medicare or Medicaid, but it does work with insurance plans such as Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and Humana, among others. To inquire about care or get more education on drug addiction and treatment, call (833) 722-0230.

Final Verdict

There is a drug addiction treatment center that can help you, no matter your age, the severity of your SUD, or your socioeconomic status. If you're looking for care geared to your specific drug addiction, Recovery Village earned our top spot, while Turnbridge is our choice for best center for teens. However, we've picked the Hazelden Betty Ford Center as the best overall drug addiction treatment center.

Hazelden is the largest nonprofit treatment center, boasting locations across the U.S. and a variety of treatment options, from inpatient and outpatient care to telehealth sessions and sober living support. Individuals are treated through a variety of methods, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and 12-step interventions, and have access to ongoing recovery monitoring. Although Hazelden doesn't accept Medicare or Medicaid, it's in-network with more than 50 insurance companies.

Compare the Best Drug Addiction Treatment Centers

Drug Addiction Treatment Center	Inpatient or Outpatient	Accepts Insurance	Program Length
Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation Best Overall	Both	Yes	Depends on individual circumstances
The Ranch Tennessee Best Inpatient Center	Both	Yes	28 days for short-term care; 90 days or more for long-term care
Oxford Treatment Center Best Outpatient Center	Both	Yes	10 weeks for outpatient
Freedom House Recovery Center Best for Budget Conscious	Both	Yes	Average of four to six months for inpatient
Turnbridge Best for Teens	Both	Yes	Depends on individual circumstances
Caron Pennsylvania Best for Adults		Both	Yes	Minimum of 28 days
Rosecrance Best for Insured	Both	Yes	Depends on individual circumstances
Recovery Village Best for Specific Drug Addictions	Both	Yes	Depends on individual circumstances

Guide to Choosing the Best Drug Addiction Center

What Is Drug Addiction?

Drug addiction is clinically referred to as substance use disorder. It includes both the abuse of and dependence on drugs or alcohol and is considered to be a mental illness. Someone is considered to have an SUD when there is uncontrolled or compulsive drug use—either prescription or illicit—leading to significant impairment or distress often impacting home life or employment. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM 5), someone has a diagnosis of SUD if, over the past 12 months, they meet at least two of these criteria:

The substance is often taken in larger amounts or over a longer period than was intended.
There is a persistent desire or unsuccessful effort to cut down or control use of the substance.
A great deal of time is spent to obtain, consume and recover from a substance.
Craving, or a strong desire or urge to use the substance, occurs.
Continued use of the substance results in a failure to fulfill major role responsibilities at work, school, or home.
Use of the substance is contributing to relationship problems.
Important social, occupational, or recreational activities are given up or reduced because of the use of the substance.
Use of the substance is recurrent in situations in which it is physically hazardous (e.g., driving while intoxicated).
Use of the substance continues despite knowing that it has an impact on physical or psychological problems likely caused by the substance (i.e. drinking with a liver condition or using opioids when depressed or anxious).
The person needs more of a substance to get a desired effect, or the same amount of a substance doesn’t produce the desired effect any longer.
Withdrawal, such that when the substance is not taken, a person experiences substance-specific withdrawal symptoms.

A SUD diagnosis varies based on how many of these criteria are met. The presence of two to three symptoms constitutes a mild diagnosis, four or five is moderate, and six or more is labeled as severe.

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

The first step to drug addiction treatment—regardless of setting—is a clinical assessment. During this process, a clinical team can determine whether inpatient or outpatient care is the best step forward. This assessment includes discussion of medical history; type and length of substance use; previous treatment history; current medications, if any; and an evaluation of outside factors, including living situation and job performance.

A main consideration when planning treatment is how much access to medical professionals an individual needs, especially during a medically monitored detox process, and what outside medical professionals are currently administering treatment. An outpatient program may be recommended for those who, for example, cannot break away from the day-to-day responsibilities of a job or have a strong support group at home. Your current medical provider or a treatment center admissions counselor can help determine which treatment option is best for you.

Do I Need to Travel Out of State to Find a Treatment Center?

It is not a requirement to travel out of state to find a treatment center for SUD. If you are looking for an exclusive program or are hoping for specific accommodations and amenities, you may choose to go out of state for a particular facility. However, if it is determined that an outpatient program is the best way forward, choosing a treatment center close to home may eliminate a commute for visitation and make more frequent meetings and therapy sessions possible.

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

The two leading accreditations a substance abuse treatment center can have are from the Joint Commission (formerly the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations or JCAHO) and the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). In addition to one of these accreditations, treatment centers may also receive certification from their state health department.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I Go Through a Detox?

You may go through a detox when you stop using substances, though the symptoms and severity will vary based on the degree and nature of your SUD. Withdrawal symptoms vary by drug. Whether or not your detox will take place under the care of a medical team—inpatient or outpatient—will be determined by a clinician. Detox is often the first phase of your recovery, and involves stopping the use of drugs so that rehabilitation can begin.
Does Insurance Cover Drug Addiction Treatment?

Since the Affordable Care Act became law in 2010, all insurance plans obtained through the health insurance marketplace must cover substance use treatment (and cannot consider SUD a pre-existing condition). If you are covered by insurance purchased elsewhere (such as through your job), there is no guarantee of full coverage. Coverage may depend on whether your chosen treatment facility is in- or out-of-network. However, many insurance companies do offer at least partial coverage.
Does Medicare Cover Drug Addiction Treatment?
Medicare does cover drug addiction treatment; however, there is a caveat. In order to receive coverage, you must:
- Be under the care of a doctor who deems treatment medically necessary
- Seek treatment from a Medicare-approved facility
- Submit a detailed treatment plan developed by your provider
Is There Ongoing Support Available After Treatment?

Treatment centers often offer support to alumni, or, if they don’t have additional programs, can provide a referral. Support groups and 12-step programs do exist—specifically Narcotics Anonymous (NA)—where individuals can find a sponsor and be a part of a community of others managing their recovery. If you're 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).
Can I Enter My Loved One Into a Treatment Center?

If your loved one is an adolescent or teen under the age of 18, you can enter them into a drug treatment center. However, if they are 18 years of age or older, unless they are under a court order, they must willingly seek help. These laws vary by state.

Methodology

A variety of factors were used to choose the best drug addiction treatment centers, including accreditation from leading associations and state departments of health. When reviewing a treatment center, we considered its history, facilities, programming, and contributions to research and education. In addition, we looked for multiple locations and specialty programs that could serve a wider group of individuals.

Next, we narrowed down categories for leading treatment centers that would help serve specific groups of individuals and eliminate barriers for attending drug addiction treatment centers (including age and/or lack of insurance).

Finally, we looked at aftercare and post-treatment offerings for both alumni and the public. Because there is no cure for SUD, making sure support is offered after initial treatment is important to help individuals manage their recovery long after their time at a treatment center.

6 Sources

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