Long-Term Drug and Alcohol Rehab (60-90 Days)

Drug and alcohol addiction can affect every aspect of your life, from your physical and emotional health to your personal relationships and professional career. Overcoming substance use isn’t a quick process, which is why many individuals find that long-term rehab provides the time and structure needed for meaningful change. Shorter programs may offer a starting point, but options like 60-day rehab or 90-day rehab programs often give you a stronger foundation for lasting recovery.

A long-term approach plays a critical role in the addiction recovery timeline, allowing you to address both the physical and emotional aspects of addiction more thoroughly. Inpatient rehab programs that last 60 to 90 days provide a safe, supportive environment where you can work through underlying issues, develop coping strategies and build healthier habits without the distractions of everyday life.

Extended addiction treatment is especially beneficial for those with severe addictions, co-occurring mental health conditions or a history of relapse. Longer stays give you more time to learn new coping skills and strengthen your recovery goals to increase your chances of achieving and maintaining sobriety. For many, choosing a long-term rehab program is an essential step toward reclaiming their lives.

A 60-day or 90-day rehab program offers a deeper, more comprehensive approach to recovery than shorter options, such as 28-30-day rehab programs. These extended rehab programs provide individuals with enough time to detox, stabilize, address underlying issues, and develop healthier habits for long-term success. Long-term drug rehab is especially helpful for those with severe substance use disorders (SUDs) or co-occurring mental health conditions that require extra attention and care.

Compared to 30-day rehab, 60-day and 90-day programs allow for more thorough healing. While a month-long stay can help people start the process, it may not offer enough time to build lasting changes, particularly for those with a longer addiction history. An extended rehab program increases the opportunity to break old patterns and create a more sustainable recovery plan.

Understanding inpatient vs. outpatient rehab options is also important. Inpatient programs provide round-the-clock support in a structured environment, while outpatient rehab offers more flexibility but less intensive care. For many, inpatient extended rehab is critical to staying on track during early recovery.

Addiction recovery timelines vary from person to person. However, committing to structured addiction treatment over 60 to 90 days can often make a significant difference in maintaining lasting sobriety.

According to highlights from the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), about 28.9 million people had an alcohol use disorder and 27.2 million had a drug use disorder in the past year. About 7.5 million of these people had both an alcohol and a drug use disorder, for a total of 48.5 million people aged 12 or older with a substance use disorder.

SAMHSA’s report also indicated that 54.2 million people needed SUD treatment in the past year, yet only 12.8 million actually received it, including 3.5 million who obtained inpatient treatment. A 60-day or 90-day rehab program can address several types of addictions and related challenges, offering an extended approach. Common types of addictions in long-term rehab include the following.

Rehab for alcohol use disorder helps individuals stop drinking and recover from the physical dependence and psychological patterns linked to alcohol abuse. Withdrawal symptoms when stopping alcohol consumption can be dangerous, especially after long-term use, making supervised detox essential.

Extended rehab provides the time needed to work through the underlying causes of alcohol misuse and helps individuals identify triggers, develop coping skills and rebuild healthy relationships.

Opioid addiction treatment in a long-term setting often begins with medically supervised detox, sometimes using medications approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for opioid use disorder (OUD), such as methadone, buprenorphine or naltrexone. These medications can help reduce withdrawal symptoms and improve treatment retention.

Once stabilized, individuals participate in counseling to address personal, psychological or social factors contributing to their OUD. Extended rehab is especially important for addressing the significant physical and psychological grip opioids can create.

Treatment for stimulant addiction, including substances like cocaine and methamphetamine, often focuses on behavioral therapies rather than medication-assisted treatment, as no FDA-approved medications currently exist for stimulant use disorders. Extended rehab allows individuals time to complete drug detox, stabilize mood swings and begin addressing the intense psychological cravings that are common with stimulant use.

Therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and contingency management can help individuals replace harmful behaviors with healthier habits. A longer stay also provides additional support for managing the depression, anxiety and cognitive impairments that often linger after stimulant withdrawal.

Although marijuana and hallucinogens like LSD and psilocybin may not cause the same intense physical withdrawal symptoms as other substances, long-term use can lead to significant psychological dependence. Extended rehab provides structured support to break compulsive use patterns, manage emotional triggers and rebuild daily routines.

For marijuana users, treatment often focuses on helping individuals address memory, motivation and mood issues that can persist with chronic use. For hallucinogen users, therapy may also involve managing lingering changes in perception and underlying mental health challenges, such as anxiety or trauma that may have been worsened by substance use.

When someone has both a SUD and a mental health condition like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), it’s called a dual diagnosis. Long-term rehab programs are often essential for dual diagnosis treatment, because mental health needs and substance use disorder recovery must be addressed at the same time to support lasting rehabilitation.

Extended care allows for medication management, therapy focused on emotional regulation and skill-building to manage substance use and mental health symptoms. Without treating the underlying mental health disorder alongside addiction, the risk of relapse remains high. Dual diagnosis treatment plans are highly individualized to meet each person’s unique combination of needs.

Not everyone entering treatment needs an extended rehab program, but for many, it’s the best path toward lasting recovery. Rehab eligibility for a 60-day or 90-day program often depends on a few key factors, starting with the severity of addiction. People who have struggled with heavy, long-term substance use or who experience intense withdrawal symptoms may need more time to stabilize and build healthy habits.

An addiction severity assessment is typically part of the treatment admission requirements. During this process, professionals evaluate how deeply substance use has impacted different areas of a person’s life, including physical health, mental health and social relationships. Those with a history of relapse may be especially good candidates for chronic relapse treatment, which often requires a longer, more structured stay.

Extended rehab programs are also highly recommended for individuals dealing with co-occurring mental health disorders or significant trauma. When addiction is layered with other challenges, more time in a supportive environment gives people a better chance to heal both physically and emotionally. If shorter rehab stays haven’t been successful in the past, a longer stay may be the right choice. For many, it helps build a stronger foundation for sustained success.

Extended rehab stays offer a wide range of inpatient treatment services designed to support physical, emotional and mental recovery. A 60-day or 90-day timeline allows individuals to experience multiple therapeutic approaches, ensuring comprehensive and customized care. Here’s a closer look at common services and therapies offered in longer programs.

Medically supervised detox programs are often the first step in long-term rehab for individuals with significant substance use disorders. This process involves round-the-clock monitoring by medical professionals to safely manage withdrawal symptoms, which can be severe or even life-threatening depending on the substance involved. According to SAMHSA, medical detox is a critical phase of treatment that reduces the risk of complications and prepares individuals for ongoing recovery work.

MAT treatment is often used during detox and combines medications approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with counseling and behavioral therapies. FDA-approved medications for alcohol use disorders include naltrexone, acamprosate and disulfiram and for opioid use disorders include naltrexone, buprenorphine and methadone. These medications help relieve withdrawal symptoms during detox and manage cravings that can lead to relapse. MAT can also help improve treatment retention and may reduce the risk of overdose.

Therapy is a cornerstone of inpatient treatment services. Individual counseling allows people to privately explore personal issues linked to addiction, while group counseling builds peer support and teaches critical interpersonal skills. Both settings help individuals identify underlying causes of substance use, develop healthy coping strategies and strengthen communication skills. All these aspects are essential for long-term success.

CBT for addiction focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to substance use. DBT builds skills in emotional regulation and distress tolerance, while teaching individuals how to strengthen interpersonal relationships. Both therapies are evidence-based and widely recognized as effective treatments for SUDs, particularly when incorporated into a structured rehab program.

Holistic Therapies

Holistic rehab is a comprehensive treatment approach that combines alternative methods, such as yoga therapy, meditation, art therapy, music therapy and equine therapy, with traditional talk therapy to support healing. Holistic approaches help individuals reconnect with themselves, manage stress and develop healthy outlets for emotional expression. For example, Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement (MORE) integrates mindfulness practices with CBT to reduce addictive behaviors and emotional distress. Research indicates that incorporating holistic approaches into rehab improves emotional resilience and supports overall recovery.

Knowing what to expect can help ease some anxiety before entering rehab. A 60-day or 90-day stay offers a structured rehab program that focuses on steady, meaningful progress toward sobriety. Each phase of the drug treatment process is designed to build confidence and practical skills for long-term recovery. Here’s a closer look at what individuals typically experience during a long-term inpatient program.

A predictable rehab schedule is designed to create consistency and stability, two key elements for recovery. Most inpatient rehab routines follow a daily structure, starting with a set wake-up time, healthy meals and a rotation of therapeutic activities. Days often include individual therapy, group sessions, educational workshops on addiction and coping skills, recreational therapy and designated time for personal reflection. This structure minimizes downtime, reduces the opportunity for cravings and supports healthy routine-building that carries into life after rehab.

Therapy is a central focus throughout treatment. Individuals typically participate in a mix of individual counseling to work on personal issues and group therapy to build social support and accountability. Medical support teams are also available to monitor physical health, manage medication needs and respond to any concerns that arise during the inpatient stay. Daily check-ins and medication management further support a safe environment for healing. Group meetings, including 12-Step or non-12-Step recovery groups, offer additional peer support, reinforcing many of the addiction recovery steps taught throughout the program.

Long-term programs are often divided into phases that mark key milestones along the addiction recovery timeline. Early milestones may include completing detox, attending all scheduled therapy sessions and reaching stability without urgent cravings. As treatment progresses, individuals typically set personal recovery goals, develop detailed relapse prevention plans, strengthen coping skills and practice re-entry strategies for real-world situations. Each completed milestone helps build confidence and the individual’s commitment to recovery, providing tangible evidence of their progress.

Toward the final weeks of the 60-90-day program, attention turns to building a solid plan for life after rehab. Discharge planning often involves transitioning into outpatient therapy, enrolling in sober living programs if needed, connecting with support groups and establishing a network of ongoing recovery resources. Case managers and counselors work with each individual to create a realistic, personalized plan that supports continued growth after leaving the structured environment. A well-designed transition plan is crucial to maintaining the progress achieved during inpatient treatment and reducing the risk of relapse.

RELATED: How Can I Stay Sober After Rehab?

Choosing a 60- or 90-day program can be life-changing for many people struggling with substance use. While shorter programs have their place, long-term recovery often requires more time, additional therapy and stronger support systems. Extended rehab gives individuals the space to overcome addiction and the emotional, psychological and social factors that contribute to substance use. Here’s a closer look at why the benefits of extended rehab are so important.

Effective addiction treatment isn’t just about achieving initial sobriety. It’s about identifying and healing the root causes behind substance use. Many individuals enter treatment with underlying trauma, untreated mental health disorders or long-standing behavioral patterns that fuel addiction. Longer programs provide the necessary time to explore these complex issues in therapy, develop healthier emotional responses and begin the process of behavioral change. Without enough time, these ingrained problems often remain unresolved, increasing the risk of relapse.

Behavioral change takes practice, patience and repetition. Something that simply isn’t possible for some people in shorter rehab stays. Long-term drug and alcohol rehab programs allow individuals to engage in intensive therapy, develop new coping skills and actively practice applying those skills within a supportive environment. This consistent focus on therapy helps individuals build resilience, emotional regulation skills and healthier habits that support long-term recovery. Structured relapse prevention planning is included throughout treatment, helping individuals anticipate and manage real-world triggers once they leave rehab.

Research supports the idea that rehab success rates improve significantly with longer treatment durations. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), programs lasting at least 90 days show higher rates of sustained sobriety compared to shorter programs, with additional treatment reducing relapse risk. Extended time in rehab gives individuals the opportunity to stabilize physically and emotionally. It also allows them to develop a deeper personal commitment to maintaining sobriety when they return to everyday life.

Individuals with chronic addiction histories or co-occurring mental health disorders (dual diagnoses) face unique challenges that shorter programs may not adequately address. Chronic addiction treatment requires an extended focus on breaking long-standing behavioral patterns and managing physical health issues caused by prolonged substance use. For those with dual diagnoses, long-term rehab offers the time needed for integrated treatment of both substance use and mental health conditions, providing a better chance for recovery and stability.

According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics (NCDAS), on average, residential treatment programs range from $4,008 to $15,524, with therapeutic community treatments costing between $20,430 and $44,616. However, NCDAS notes that 60-to-90-day programs range from $12,000 to $60,000, averaging about $36,000 overall. These figures highlight the substantial inpatient rehab expenses associated with long-term care.

The actual cost of 60-to-90-day inpatient rehab programs can vary widely based on several factors, including location, amenities and the level of care provided. Facilities in areas with a higher cost of living, such as urban centers, tend to charge more. Additionally, centers offering luxury amenities like private rooms, gourmet meals or specialized holistic therapies often have higher fees. The intensity of care required also plays a role. For example, individuals needing medical detoxification or dual diagnosis therapy for co-occurring mental health disorders may face additional rehab costs.

For those concerned about the high cost of rehab, there are options for affordable addiction treatment. Many state-funded programs and nonprofit organizations offer low-cost rehab programs or sliding scale fees based on income. Financial aid for rehab may also be available through grants, scholarships or insurance coverage, including Medicare and Medicaid. Exploring these avenues can make long-term treatment more accessible to those in need.

Understanding your rehab insurance coverage can make the process feel less overwhelming. Many insurance plans, including private and public options, provide some level of coverage for long-term addiction treatment. However, the extent of this coverage varies based on the type of insurance and specific plan details.

Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), addiction treatment and insurance are closely linked. The ACA mandates that mental health and substance use disorder services are essential health benefits, meaning most insurance plans must cover them. This coverage includes services like inpatient rehab, outpatient therapy and medication-assisted treatment. However, coverage specifics, such as duration, provider networks and out-of-pocket costs, can differ between plans.

• Private Insurance: Employer-sponsored and individual plans often cover long-term rehab, but the extent varies. Always check if the facility is in-network to maximize benefits and reduce costs when using private insurance rehab coverage.
• Medicaid: As a joint federal and state program, Medicaid rehab coverage includes addiction treatment services, although coverage details differ by state. Check with your state’s Medicaid office for specific eligibility and service information.
• Medicare: Medicare covers certain aspects of addiction treatment, such as inpatient hospitalization for detox and outpatient counseling, under specific conditions. Beneficiaries should review their plan documents to understand coverage limits and costs.

To determine if your plan offers private insurance rehab coverage, follow these steps:

1. Contact Your Insurance Provider: Contact member services directly for details on what services are covered, any prerequisites and potential out-of-pocket costs.
2. Consult the Rehab Facility: Many treatment centers have insurance specialists who can assist in verifying benefits and navigating the approval process.
3. Review Plan Documents: Examine your insurance policy’s summary of benefits for details on addiction treatment coverage.

Understanding your insurance options can significantly ease the financial burden of long-term rehab, making recovery more accessible.

Finding the right rehab duration is essential to building a successful recovery plan. While many people are familiar with 30-day programs, longer options like 60-day and 90-day stays can offer more lasting results. Understanding the short-term vs. long-term rehab differences can help individuals choose the best fit for their needs based on addiction severity, recovery history and personal goals.

Thirty-day programs are often viewed as a quick start to recovery, offering basic detox services and introductory therapy. They’re usually ideal for individuals with mild SUDs or strong support systems at home. However, they may not provide enough time for significant behavioral changes, emotional healing or relapse prevention skill-building, especially for individuals with severe addiction.

In comparison, 60-day vs. 90-day rehab programs offer a more complete approach to effective treatment. A 60-day stay typically includes detox, intensive therapy, relapse prevention planning and initial social reintegration support. A 90-day stay provides even more time to work through underlying issues, stabilize co-occurring mental health disorders and build stronger coping skills, making it a wise choice for those needing longer support.

A 60-day program is often ideal for individuals needing more time than a month to develop coping strategies and life skills, but who may not require the intensity of a full three-month stay. It balances comprehensive care with a quicker reentry into daily life.

A 90-day program offers the benefit of more time to solidify new habits through therapy and recovery support to reduce the risk of early relapse. However, it also requires a bigger commitment financially, emotionally and logistically. Weighing the pros and cons of rehab programs carefully can help determine which duration aligns better with personal recovery goals.

The best rehab duration depends heavily on the individual’s unique situation. Those with a history of relapse, chronic addiction, trauma or dual diagnosis conditions often find that longer stays lead to more effective treatment outcomes. A longer stay also provides stronger relapse prevention by developing a more robust aftercare plan.

On the other hand, someone with a shorter history of substance use, strong external support, minimal major mental health concerns and motivation for recovery might benefit from a shorter or mid-length program.

Talking with addiction specialists can provide a personalized assessment, but individuals can also start by honestly evaluating their own addiction history, mental health status and support environment to guide their decision toward the best rehab duration.

Finding the right treatment center is a major step toward lasting recovery. With so many options available, knowing what to prioritize can make choosing a rehab center easier. The best programs combine clinical excellence with personalized support to help individuals achieve their recovery goals. Here’s what to focus on when evaluating top-rated rehab programs for long-term care.

Start by ensuring the facility is properly licensed and accredited. Accredited rehab facilities have passed rigorous inspections and met nationally recognized standards for patient safety, care quality and clinical best practices. Accreditation by organizations like The Joint Commission (formerly JCAHO) or CARF International indicates that a program meets strict criteria for treatment effectiveness, ethical practices and facility operations. Reputable centers are transparent about this accreditation status and licensing credentials and are willing to provide documentation if asked.

The best rehab program should offer a comprehensive mix of evidence-based therapies and holistic options supporting emotional and physical well-being. Look for centers that offer:

• Individual counseling
• Group therapy
• Family therapy
• Cognitive behavioral therapy
• Dialectical behavior therapy
• Dual diagnosis support for mental health conditions
• Relapse prevention planning
• Wellness programs

Holistic therapies, such as yoga, meditation, art therapy and fitness programs, can also enhance healing. Choosing a rehab center that provides a diverse range of treatment approaches ensures that care can be personalized to address all aspects of an individual’s needs.

While no center can guarantee sobriety, credible success rates and honest rehab success stories can offer valuable insight into program effectiveness. When researching a center, ask for verified outcome statistics, such as completion rates and follow-up data on relapse prevention. Authentic patient testimonials, ideally gathered independently or through verified third-party sources, can give a better view of what the experience is like. Consistent positive feedback, transparent reporting practices and willingness to share outcome data often signal a program that delivers quality care.

Choosing between inpatient vs. outpatient rehab often hinges on an individual’s SUD severity, personal responsibilities and level of structure needed for sustained recovery.

Inpatient care involves 24/7 supervision, structured daily schedules and an immersive therapeutic environment that removes distractions and supports intensive healing. It’s often recommended for individuals with moderate to severe substance use disorders or co-occurring mental health issues.

Outpatient long-term rehab offers more flexibility, allowing participants to live at home while attending treatment several times a week. This option works best for individuals with a stable living environment, solid external support systems and strong motivation to succeed.

Completing a 60- or 90-day rehab program is a major achievement, but recovery doesn’t end at discharge. Long-term recovery depends on strong post-rehab support and continuing care. Transitioning from structured treatment back into everyday life can be challenging. Aftercare programs, outpatient treatment options and relapse prevention strategies are essential for maintaining momentum. Here’s what typically happens after leaving a long-term program.

Before discharge, most treatment centers develop customized aftercare programs tailored to each individual’s recovery goals, home environment and clinical needs. Aftercare planning may include outpatient counseling, case management, support group referrals, medication management and routine follow-ups with addiction professionals. These services help provide structure, accountability and connection during the vulnerable transition period.

Many people benefit from stepping down into structured outpatient treatment options after inpatient care. This transition might involve attending therapy sessions several times a week while returning home each night. Outpatient treatment supports ongoing therapeutic progress while allowing more flexibility for work, school or family responsibilities.

For others, especially those without stable housing or who need continued support, sober living homes can provide a safe, substance-free environment after rehab. These group homes reinforce accountability, encourage peer support and offer a built-in structure to help reinforce recovery during early reintegration.

Whether transitioning into outpatient therapy or a sober living environment, both options offer vital support layers that help reduce relapse risk during a critical phase of recovery.

Continued therapy through individual and group sessions helps address lingering emotional or behavioral challenges and reinforces coping strategies. Relapse prevention strategies, including recognizing triggers and building healthy routines, are emphasized during this stage. These strategies may include learning to recognize high-risk situations, manage stress effectively, set boundaries and maintain a healthy daily routine. Staying connected to counselors, recovery communities and support networks provides ongoing encouragement and guidance, greatly reducing the risk of returning to substance use.

Building a sustainable recovery lifestyle often involves finding new hobbies, reconnecting with positive social networks, practicing self-care and setting achievable personal goals. For many, staying engaged in recovery communities such as 12-Step programs or peer support groups offers a sense of belonging and long-term motivation. Long-term success isn’t about perfection — it’s about learning, adapting, and staying committed to growth, even when challenges arise.

Finding the right treatment center can feel overwhelming, but RehabNet is here to make the process easier. Through our trusted rehab support network, we help individuals find a rehab center that matches their unique needs, whether it’s a 60-day program, 90-day stay or specialized care for dual diagnosis.

RehabNet services offer a reliable way to access the best rehab locator tools, expert resources and personalized addiction treatment help. Our platform connects you to accredited programs and provides guidance every step of the way. If you’re ready to take the next step toward recovery, reach out to RehabNet today and let us help you start your journey.