When someone is struggling with substance use, getting help is not always the hardest part. The hardest part is often knowing what kind of help to get. There are several addiction treatment programs available. However, each program works differently, offers different levels of care, and fits different lifestyles. It is thus important to understand your main options before reaching a point of crisis. This can make the entire recovery process more manageable.
In the U.S., millions of people face substance use disorders every year. Addiction treatment success improves significantly when a person receives care that matches their specific medical and psychological needs.
At American Treatment Network, this is at the core of what we do. We offer a full range of addiction treatment programs built around evidence-based care, personal support, and real-world flexibility.
Here are four widely used and highly effective types of addiction treatment programs worth knowing about.
1. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Medication-assisted treatment is not a shortcut to recovery but a medically supported process that helps individuals manage withdrawal, reduce cravings, and create space for behavioral change. This method is especially helpful for opioid and alcohol use disorders, where withdrawal symptoms can be intense or dangerous.
MAT is commonly used to treat both opioid and alcohol addiction. For opioid use, medications such as buprenorphine or methadone help stabilize brain chemistry while reducing the high-risk behaviors often triggered by withdrawal.
For alcohol, Vivitrol, a form of naltrexone, is often prescribed to block the pleasurable effects of drinking. These treatments are typically paired with counseling or group therapy to ensure a more comprehensive and personalized recovery process.
Clinical research backs the use of MAT. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, patients who engage in MAT for opioids are more likely to stay in treatment and avoid relapse. That said, it is not just about the medicine.
At our clinics, we take time to personalize each MAT plan so that the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of recovery are all addressed together.
2. Outpatient Rehab Programs
Some people need structure, while others need flexibility. Outpatient rehab comes in to offer professional support while allowing people to live at home, go to work, and stay connected to daily life.
Outpatient rehab comes in several formats:
- Standard Outpatient: Around 9 hours or less of weekly treatment. Best for mild to moderate cases.
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): Roughly 10–20 hours per week. A solid option for those with medical needs, co-occurring disorders, or unstable routines.
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): More than 20 hours per week. Typically runs four to eight hours daily. Often recommended when a deeper structure is needed but full residential care is not possible.
The American Treatment Network offers all three options, and we also integrate telehealth. This allows our patients to receive therapy, peer support, and medical check-ins virtually. For people who live in rural areas or lack consistent transportation, this can be the difference between getting help and giving up.
These programs are ideal for individuals who are committed to recovery but need flexibility to fulfill their other roles, whether that means parenting, working, or studying. Outpatient care often serves as the first step for those who want help but are unsure about committing to full-time treatment.
3. Inpatient Addiction Treatment
Not every situation can be handled from home. Some people need space to stabilize, rest, and start recovery in a controlled environment. That is what inpatient addiction treatment offers.
Inpatient programs vary in length, from a few weeks to a full year. However, all provide 24/7 supervision. Treatment includes:
- Medical monitoring
- Detox if necessary
- Therapy
- Peer support
- Skill-building sessions
People who need this level of care often struggle with severe substance use, co-occurring disorders, or unsafe living situations.
Residential and inpatient addiction treatment programs work best when combined with later outpatient or continuing care. We have seen this progression work well.
While we specialize in outpatient and MAT care, we often refer individuals to inpatient settings when it is clear that daily supervision is the safest route. Then, when they are ready to transition, we support them with ongoing outpatient services and group programming.
When you choose inpatient care, you are not giving up independence; rather, you are regaining it through focused healing.
4. Behavioral Therapy for Addiction
Without behavior change, recovery rarely lasts. That is why nearly all addiction treatment programs include some form of therapy. Behavioral therapy for addiction helps people uncover what is driving their substance use and then build healthier habits, thought patterns, and responses.
At American Treatment Network, we use a blend of therapies, including the following:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps identify negative thought loops and replace them with realistic, helpful ones.
- Motivational Interviewing (MI): This approach builds confidence and strengthens personal motivation for change.
- Contingency Management (CM): CM rewards individuals for meeting recovery goals, such as attending therapy or passing drug tests.
- 12-Step Facilitation: Prepares individuals to participate in support groups, such as AA or NA.
These approaches are effective because they meet people where they are. For example, a person may not feel “ready” to quit but may be willing to talk. That is where MI makes a difference.
Another person might need structure and reinforcement, and CM provides that. We tailor therapy plans to each individual, whether they are engaging in therapy for substance abuse for the first time or returning after relapse.
Behavioral therapy improves treatment retention, reduces relapse, and supports emotional regulation, especially when combined with medication and community support.
Start Exploring Your Recovery Options
Recovery does not happen overnight. It takes time, planning, and support. However, it begins with one step: choosing the right program. Whether you need medical support, flexibility, or a full-time recovery setting, knowing your options makes all the difference.
At American Treatment Network, we offer a range of addiction treatment programs that meet you where you are—emotionally, physically, and logistically. From medication-assisted treatment to outpatient rehab and therapy-based support, our team is here to walk with you through each stage of your recovery.
If you are ready to explore what recovery could look like for you or someone you love, reach out. No pressure, no judgment. Just the next step forward.
