At The Ranch PA, we offer short- and long-term drug rehab. On occasion, family members express concern about short-term rehab. They worry their loved ones won’t receive adequate treatment during a short stay at the clinic. This is a valid concern, but sometimes shorter stays can be just as effective.
Throwing out the Cookie Cutter
Many rehab clinics operate on a “cookie cutter” mentality, in which each client receives the same treatment without concern for her unique needs. Instead, we offer your loved one a customized treatment plan, taking into account her needs and the root causes of her addiction. These needs affect the length of the treatment program.
Addiction Severity
The severity of an addiction plays a significant role in determining treatment lengths. If your loved one has a long-term drug problem resulting in mental or physical complications, long-term drug rehab may be the best choice. If, however, you and your loved one notice her drinking is beginning to get out of control, but hasn’t progressed to the point in which she can’t function, a shorter stay may be all she needs. Your loved one’s willingness to accept treatment also affects program length. Motivated clients tend to reach treatment goals faster than people who resist treatment.
Personal Responsibilities
Many of our clients are successful business executives balancing careers and family responsibilities. If this describes your loved one, he may balk at the idea of long-term rehab, fearing his treatment will adversely affect his responsibilities. In such cases, it’s often easier to talk your loved one into 30-day rehab programs.
But Do Shorter Programs Work?
Short-term rehab works well for the right person. Your loved one takes an active role in developing his or her customized treatment plan, which is reviewed regularly to take personal needs into account. Short-term rehab doesn’t end when your loved one leaves the clinic. We assign aftercare coordinators to each client, who sets up outpatient care in your area, arrange for follow-up therapy sessions, and make regular follow-up calls in the first year post-treatment. Shorter programs also work as “refresher courses” for those who entered rehab in the past, but who need additional help to remain sober during stressful times or after a relapse. The Ranch PA’s goal is to provide the best possible care for each client, whether this means a long-term stay or a shorter program. Program length isn’t as important as program outcome—successful treatment and continued sobriety. (Photo via)
