The Best Types of Addiction Treatment Modalities

Effective addiction treatment goes beyond managing symptoms—it addresses the root causes behind substance use. The most successful addiction treatment methods combine physical care with behavioral health support, helping you understand your triggers and make lasting lifestyle changes.

Recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all. Without a well-rounded treatment plan, the risk of relapse increases. But when your care targets both the body and mind, long-term sobriety becomes much more attainable.

To give yourself the best chance at recovery, explore rehab programs that fit your unique needs, and make sure they align with your insurance coverage to avoid unnecessary barriers.

The most common types of treatment options for substance abuse include:

• Medical detoxification: A treatment in which the drugs or alcohol are removed from your system. This can include IV fluids, medication, and vital sign monitoring by healthcare professionals.
• Inpatient rehab: During this time, you’re treated in a medical facility 24/7 for a few weeks to a few months. The severity and type of addiction you have determine the time you spend as an inpatient.
• Outpatient programs: From Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) to Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) to standard outpatient rehab, these allow you to live at home at least part of the time but still be treated for drug or alcohol addiction. When considering whether inpatient vs. outpatient treatment is right for you, your healthcare provider will examine factors such as what you’re addicted to, how severe the addiction is, and your home environment.
• Behavioral therapy: Made up of a combination of approaches that fit your needs, behavioral care helps you figure out the whys of your addiction and how to avoid relapse. This may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET), marriage and family therapy, or other types of therapy.
• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): Addiction to substances like opioids and alcohol is treated with medications to help wean you off the drug and reduce withdrawal symptoms. MAT may also be used to treat addiction to prescription opioids, anabolic steroids, tobacco, nicotine, and vaping. Some addictions require ongoing prescriptions in recovery.

It should be noted that MAT is not FDA-approved for all types of substance use disorders. Currently, the FDA has approved specific medications for the treatment of opioid use disorder, alcohol use disorder, and nicotine dependence. For other types of addiction, such as stimulant or cannabis use disorders, there are no FDA-approved MAT options at this time. For approved uses, it’s important to work with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate medication and treatment plan.

Some of the most prescribed medications for treating addiction include:

• Buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex): Used to treat opioid use disorder by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Often combined with naloxone to prevent misuse.
• Methadone: A long-acting opioid agonist used in highly regulated clinics to manage opioid dependence and reduce withdrawal.
• Naltrexone (Vivitrol, Revia): Blocks the effects of opioids and alcohol; available as a daily pill or monthly injection.
• Acamprosate (Campral): Helps restore brain chemistry disrupted by chronic alcohol use and reduces cravings in alcohol-dependent individuals.
• Disulfiram (Antabuse): Causes unpleasant reactions when alcohol is consumed, acting as a deterrent to drinking.
• Bupropion (Zyban): A non-nicotine medication that helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with nicotine dependence.
• Varenicline (Chantix): Reduces cravings and decreases the pleasurable effects of smoking, making it easier to quit tobacco.

These medications are most effective when used in combination with behavioral therapy, counseling, and ongoing support. Always consult your healthcare provider to determine which treatment is best for your specific needs.

Addiction treatment is an overarching descriptor for a large number of modalities. With the right team and approach, any type of addiction can be treated.

Common substance use disorders (SUD) subject to drug addiction treatment include:

• Opioids
• Cocaine
• Methamphetamines
• Benzodiazepines
• Alcohol
• Marijuana

Addiction isn’t limited to substances, however. Treatment services can also be applied to behavioral issues.

Common behavioral health issues that respond to addiction treatment include:

• Food addiction
• Sex addiction
• Internet addiction
• Gambling addiction

When seeking drug or alcohol rehab, it’s essential to choose a treatment facility that focuses on evidence-based interventions. Effective treatment combines MAT, individual counseling, and support groups to equip patients with the coping skills they need to continue their recovery journey. Behavioral addiction therapy can include similar treatment modalities to those used for alcohol or drug use, but tailored to the appropriate issues.

An accurate diagnosis is a critical part of achieving long-term recovery and overall wellness. Many individuals with an SUD also experience a co-occurring mental health condition, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. When both conditions are present, this is referred to as co-occurring disorders.

In these cases, dual diagnosis rehab is essential. This specialized approach treats both the addiction and the underlying mental health issue at the same time, ensuring that neither is overlooked. Without addressing both, treatment may be incomplete, increasing the risk of relapse or ongoing psychological distress.

Dual diagnosis rehab offers a more holistic path to recovery by providing integrated care tailored to your full set of needs.

The various types of treatment available can be categorized into several general categories. However, what’s available to you and covered under your insurance policy will depend on information specific to your needs. For help determining the drug addiction treatment plan for you, contact your insurance company, health professionals at your preferred rehab, or a service like RehabNet.

The key components of inpatient drug rehab are 24/7 medical and emotional support. For more severe addictions and situations where your environment heavily factors into your addiction, inpatient rehab is frequently the best option.

Outpatient addiction treatment offers greater flexibility for those who need it. Options like a PHP rehab or an IOP can provide alternatives to inpatient treatment with higher intensity, but help you maintain the ability to meet some outside responsibilities to your family and work.

Sober living programs offer a transitional option for recovery with peer support. Instead of returning to a dangerous or unsupportive environment, patients are part of a community dedicated to long-term recovery practices. It’s also helpful if you need help reintegrating into society and building a new-to-you lifestyle.

Twelve-step programs have long been a cornerstone of addiction recovery, with Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) being the most widely recognized. Built on a structured set of guiding principles, these programs emphasize personal accountability, peer support, and spiritual growth, often through a higher power.

In addition to AA, many other 12-step programs follow a similar model but address different forms of addiction or provide support for affected loved ones. These include:

• Narcotics Anonymous (NA) – for drug addiction
• Cocaine Anonymous (CA) – for cocaine and other stimulant addictions
• Gamblers Anonymous (GA) – for compulsive gambling
• Overeaters Anonymous (OA) – for eating disorders
• Emotions Anonymous (EA) – for emotional challenges such as anxiety or depression
• Al-Anon – for family members of individuals struggling with alcoholism
• Alateen – for teenagers affected by someone else’s drinking

While many find lasting support through 12-step groups, they may not be right for everyone. Non-12-step programs offer alternative approaches that are often evidence-based and secular. These may include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Motivational Interviewing (MI)
• SMART Recovery (Self-Management and Recovery Training)
• LifeRing Secular Recovery
• Women for Sobriety
• Secular Organizations for Sobriety (SOS)
• Refuge Recovery (Buddhist-inspired)

These alternatives focus on science-backed strategies, self-empowerment, and emotional resilience without the spiritual framework of traditional 12-step programs.

By offering both 12-step and non-12-step options, rehab centers can meet individuals where they are, providing tailored recovery paths that align with each person’s beliefs, values, and needs.

Just as each person is unique, so is their addiction. The approach to treating addiction works best when it matches the needs of the individual, and there are multiple therapeutic options for doing so.

Some of the best addiction therapy methods include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Designed to work over a few sessions of individual therapy, CBT for addiction encourages you to notice negative thoughts and adjust those thought patterns by pushing back and shifting them.
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT): Derived from CBT, DBT narrows the focus to regulating emotions. It has been shown to work well in both individual and group settings, and typically occurs over several months to a year.
• Motivational Interviewing (MI): This type of therapy guides patients in changing their behaviors by helping them examine past decisions and how those choices align with their goals.
• Trauma-Informed Therapy: The goal of trauma-informed therapy is to create a safe place for the patient that reduces the potential for triggers. This trauma therapy for substance abuse increases the patient’s opportunity to have more control in processing negative experiences.
• Group Therapy: In rehab, group therapy connects individuals with a community of people experiencing similar issues. It helps patients feel less alone in their addiction and gives them chances to share hardships and tools for coping.
• Family Therapy: Family relationships can easily become strained as individuals grow and change. Therapy sessions with family members provide an opportunity for everyone to work on improving their communication and relationships, fostering stronger bonds.
• Matrix Model Therapy: This structured, multi-faceted treatment approach (originally developed during the 1980s cocaine epidemic) combines behavioral therapies and support services, and is especially effective for treating stimulant addictions.
• Contingency Management: This behavioral therapy uses rewards or incentives, often monetary, to reinforce sobriety and encourage positive progress in recovery.
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR is a form of psychotherapy that can be beneficial in helping patients process traumatic events. Patients who can handle the discomfort of talking about trauma do so while following lateral movements made by their therapist, which is considered helpful to take some of the weight of the experiences away.

For those who wish to explore various therapy methods, alternative drug and alcohol treatment options are available. These may be a better fit because of your personal beliefs or lifestyle. They may also appeal to you if more traditional treatments haven’t worked. Keep in mind that alternative rehab programs may not be covered under your insurance policy.

Holistic addiction treatment includes healing practices such as yoga, meditation, and tai chi, which help patients focus on their breathing and control their bodies and minds. They can promote a gentle, calming approach to recovery. Acupuncture uses tiny needles placed strategically to promote healing and improved circulation. Nutrition therapy emphasizes being mindful of what patients consume daily, encouraging them to adopt a healthier diet. Animal-assisted therapy, or pet therapy, involves working with an animal, a handler, and a mental health professional to help build your confidence and social skills.

Many recovering addicts find meaning in a particular faith or spiritual practice, whether religion is familiar or new to them. Christian and other religious and spiritual programs utilize many traditional treatments for drug and alcohol use disorder, but mold them in such a way that they align more clearly with a specific belief system. Faith-based recovery can offer comfort and guidance for individuals seeking spiritual guidance to inform their life choices.

Adventure therapy for addiction works well for adrenaline junkies and those seeking a unique challenge. Sessions take place outdoors, including activities such as hiking, kayaking, and skiing. The point of them is to break out of an indoor cycle and prompt behavioral changes. The movement and excitement of adventuring in the wild sometimes make talking about problems easier.

Biofeedback enables therapists and patients to monitor specific physiological markers (heart rate, breathing, brain activity, muscle tension, and blood pressure) to assess their responses to traumatic recall. They use medical equipment attached to the patient to monitor these signs, which helps the patient become more aware of how they respond to stress and learn coping mechanisms to bring those responses down. Neurofeedback specifically tracks a patient’s brain activity using an electroencephalogram (EEG).

In addition to traditional treatment methods, many alternative therapies offer creative outlets and new ways to process emotions and experiences related to addiction. These approaches can complement clinical care and support personal growth during recovery.

Common types of alternative therapies include:

• Music therapy
• Art therapy
• Dance/movement therapy
• Drama therapy
• Play therapy
• Experiential therapy
• Expressive arts therapy
• Narrative therapy
• Wilderness therapy
• Hypnotherapy

Feeling nervous about entering addiction treatment is completely normal. While each rehab center may vary slightly, here’s a general overview of what you can expect. For details about a specific facility, contact them directly or reach out to a RehabNet representative.

The process begins with paperwork and interviews, often by phone and again upon arrival. This includes reviewing your medical history, substance use patterns, and mental health. The goal is to confirm accurate information and assess your current physical and emotional state. This helps the team personalize your treatment plan from day one.

If you’re physically dependent on a substance, supervised detox is typically the first step. Medical staff help you manage withdrawal symptoms safely and comfortably. Their support reduces the risk of complications and increases your chances of completing detox successfully.

Rehab programs follow a structured daily routine. This includes therapy sessions, wellness activities, meals, and downtime—all designed to provide stability. Structure helps replace chaos with consistency, a key part of building a healthy, sober lifestyle.

You’ll participate in both individual and group therapy sessions. These are led by licensed professionals who help you explore the root causes of your addiction, develop coping strategies, and build emotional resilience. Addressing co-occurring mental health conditions is also a focus during this stage.

Treatment doesn’t end when you leave rehab. Aftercare planning includes ongoing therapy, peer support groups, sober living options, and relapse prevention strategies. A strong aftercare plan helps you stay accountable, maintain progress, and build a support network that sustains long-term recovery.

Addiction treatment offers life-changing benefits—not just for the individual in recovery, but also for their loved ones. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the most effective treatment programs address the full range of factors that contribute to addiction, including trauma, mental health, relationships, and lifestyle.

Successful rehabilitation involves more than just stopping substance use; it focuses on rebuilding all aspects of life.

Key benefits of addiction treatment include:

• Improved Mental and Physical Health: With professional care, individuals experience better emotional balance, reduced stress, and healing from the physical effects of substance abuse.
• Stronger Relationships: Recovery creates opportunities to rebuild trust and deepen connections with family and friends.
• Greater Self-Awareness and Confidence: Therapy and support help individuals understand the root causes of addiction and develop healthier coping skills.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: From improved daily functioning to better sleep, nutrition, and self-care, recovery touches every aspect of your well-being.
• Career and Financial Stability: With sobriety comes the clarity and stability needed to rebuild a career path or educational goals.

Open communication with your treatment team is essential. When you’re honest about your progress and challenges, your care team can adapt your plan to meet your needs, making long-term sobriety more achievable.

The cost of addiction treatment can vary widely depending on several personal and program-specific factors. These may include the type of treatment (inpatient vs. outpatient), the length of the program, the level of care required, and the facility’s location and amenities.

Insurance coverage is also a key factor. While many insurance plans cover some or all of the cost of rehab, coverage can vary significantly based on your provider, your policy details, and whether the treatment center is in-network.

Understanding how these elements affect the total cost and what your out-of-pocket expenses might be can help you make informed decisions about your recovery options. Whether you’re paying privately, using insurance, or seeking financial assistance, there are a range of solutions to help make treatment more accessible.

Factors that affect the cost of rehab include:

• Facilities available in an area
• Insurance coverage and plan type
• Addiction type and severity
• Recommended treatment plan

If you’re employed at the time you enter rehab, you may qualify for job-protected leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). This federal law allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave within a 12-month period for serious health conditions, including substance use disorders, without the risk of losing their job.

However, eligibility depends on specific criteria, such as your length of employment, hours worked, and whether your employer meets size requirements. Some states may also have additional protections or requirements, so it’s important to review both federal and state guidelines to ensure you qualify.

Free drug rehab or more affordable addiction treatment programs may be possible through a Medicaid policy or a nonprofit center. RehabNet can help you locate options in your area and explain what you might qualify for in treatment options.

Let’s be clear: Addiction treatment can be a complex process. Challenges of rehab may include high out-of-pocket costs, especially if you’re in a private facility. When you begin with inpatient rehab, PHP, or IOP, the time commitment is steep. You’ll also be leaving your loved ones, your job, and your home to fully commit to your recovery.

Depending on where you live, finding quality rehab centers may be difficult. None of it guarantees success. Relapse after rehab is always possible, and it takes work on your part as well as that of your healthcare team to keep you in recovery.

You can offset the disadvantages by finding the best rehab program accessible to you and following your treatment plan as prescribed. Getting healthy and giving yourself the gift of stability can give you a much brighter future than continuing in addictive choices.

Receiving top-rated addiction treatment can ensure that you have the best possible team of providers focused on your well-being. The combination of a great support system and the effort that you put into treatment is what gives you addiction recovery success. A simple search for “find the best rehab near me” can help, but how do you know if the facility is accredited?

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) lists organizations on its website that are approved accrediting bodies. Using one of these options gives you valuable information on facilities in your area.

Accrediting organizations include:

• CARF International
• National Commission on Correctional Healthcare
• Social Current
• The Joint Commission
• Washington State Department of Health

Your state’s website may have additional resources on accredited rehab centers and scholarship options for treatment. You can also contact rehab centers directly to verify that they accept your insurance and are covered under your specific plan. RehabNet also has an online state rehab directory for your use.

Review sites may include helpful information and success stories of other patient experiences, but keep in mind that online reviews frequently skew more negative. Also, know that the Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating for a business includes their responsiveness to complaints, but not whether they resolve issues satisfactorily. Reading the full profile for a facility on the BBB or a site like Trustpilot is crucial.

If you’ve decided to seek help with addiction treatment, then you’ve already taken a massive step toward meaningful recovery. There’s no need to take the remaining steps on your own. Reach out to someone who can help you find the right rehab facility for you and determine the extent of your insurance coverage.

To get help for addiction, you can:

• Contact your insurance provider
• Reach out to a rehab facility near you
• Use SAMHSA’s National Helpline

RehabNet can connect you with the best addiction treatment options in your area, verify insurance coverage and facility acceptance, and pair you with a licensed professional counselor to guide you along the way.