Making the Call

You’re ready to get help and you have our toll-free number by the phone. Before you dial, though, you want to know just what to expect once you make that call. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we get along with answers that should put your mind at ease.

What should I expect when I call the 800 number?

When you call, you will speak with a counselor who will guide you through a brief and confidential telephone assessment. Once the assessment is completed, they will determine the most appropriate level of care.

Will my call to the 800 number be recorded?

No. Your phone call is confidential and not recorded.

Who am I talking to when I call?

Someone who’s “been there.” You will be talking to someone who has a vested interest in your recovery because they themselves have had their lives affected in one way or another by alcohol and drug abuse.

Why shouldn’t I choose a treatment center that is closer to home?

This is a common question from loved ones and the patients themselves, but we see being separated from your existing environment as an added benefit to your recovery. Starting fresh in a new environment helps patients rebuild themselves without distractions from the usual triggers.

Will my employer find out if I inquire about treatment?

No, your employer will not be informed of your inquiry. During the admissions process we may need to access employer information for insurance reasons. However, under HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act), your information is always confidential.

Will someone help me with the application and admissions process?

Yes, our staff is here to assist in a quick and easy application process so that you receive treatment as soon as possible. Again, your application process is strictly confidential.

Do you take insurance?

We do take insurance at some of our facilities, but we do not accept public insurance such as Medicaid, Medicare or state insurance. During the application process we will assist you with researching what your insurance can provide.

What is an Individual Recovery Plan?

Recovery means returning to a healthy state. Because treatment is not one size fits all, the process of recovery varies from person to person. Generally, people move through different stages of readiness to recover. These stages reflect changes in the person’s understanding and acceptance that a problem exists and a plan is needed to address it. Often, people are affected by more than one issue, such as an addiction and an emotional complication (e.g., depression, anxiety, etc.). A recovery program should be individualized, based upon these needs and symptoms, and might involve any combination of a self-help group, treatment services, medications, sponsorship or more.

Do I need to be abstinent before I begin treatment?

The term addiction implies that getting “sober” is, in itself, a challenge that generally feels impossible to tackle alone. Hence, a program that requires sobriety as a condition of treatment can be unrealistic and likely to fail. If a particular treatment setting requires sobriety, the provider should offer or help you or your loved one access a range of services, including a setting to help gain sobriety, followed by treatment to help stay sober.

What if my doctor wants me to take medications?

There are many classes of mental health medications that can be taken safely regardless of whether substance use continues. There are also many medications that help reduce cravings and symptoms of withdrawal if you or your loved one wants to stop using substances. It is very important that you communicate openly with your psychiatrist about any substances you are using so that a safe and appropriate regimen can be prescribed.