Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about addiction treatment, recovery, and finding the right help
Getting Started
How do I know if I need addiction treatment?
If substance use is affecting your health, relationships, work, or daily life—or if you've tried to quit without success—professional treatment can help. Signs include increasing tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, neglecting responsibilities, and continuing use despite negative consequences. When in doubt, consult with a healthcare provider or addiction specialist.
How do I choose the right treatment center?
Consider factors like location, treatment approach, level of care needed (detox, inpatient, outpatient), specialized programs, cost and insurance acceptance, accreditation, and staff credentials. Our directory provides detailed information to help you compare options. We recommend contacting multiple centers to ask questions and find the best fit.
Can I tour a treatment center before committing?
Many treatment centers offer virtual or in-person tours. Contact facilities directly to schedule a visit or virtual walkthrough. This helps you get a feel for the environment, meet staff, and ask specific questions about their program.
Types of Treatment
What is medical detox?
Medical detox is a supervised withdrawal process where healthcare professionals monitor and manage withdrawal symptoms as substances leave your body. This is especially important for alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids, which can have dangerous withdrawal symptoms. Detox typically lasts 3-7 days and is often the first step in treatment.
What's the difference between inpatient and outpatient treatment?
Inpatient (residential) treatment provides 24/7 care in a structured environment where you live at the facility, typically for 30-90 days. Outpatient treatment allows you to live at home while attending scheduled therapy sessions several times per week. Inpatient is recommended for severe addiction or unstable living situations, while outpatient works for those with strong support systems and less severe cases.
How long does treatment last?
Treatment duration varies based on individual needs and the level of care. Detox typically lasts 3-7 days, inpatient programs range from 30-90 days, and outpatient treatment can continue for several months to a year or more. Research shows longer treatment (90+ days) leads to better outcomes.
Insurance & Cost
Does insurance cover addiction treatment?
Many Canadian provincial health plans (like OHIP in Ontario) cover publicly-funded treatment programs. Private insurance may cover private treatment centers—check your specific policy. Coverage varies widely, so contact your insurance provider and potential treatment centers to verify what's covered. See our Insurance Guide for more details.
What if I can't afford treatment?
Options include publicly-funded treatment programs through provincial health systems (often free or low-cost), sliding-scale fees based on income at some private centers, payment plans, and financial assistance programs. Don't let cost prevent you from seeking help—many affordable options exist.
Are there free treatment options in Canada?
Yes. Each province offers publicly-funded addiction treatment services, including detox, counseling, and support groups. Wait times can vary. Contact your provincial addiction services helpline for information about free programs in your area.
During Treatment
Can I bring my phone or personal items?
Policies vary by facility. Many inpatient programs limit phone use and personal items during the initial phase to minimize distractions and triggers. Contact the specific treatment center for their policies on electronics, clothing, medications, and other items.
Can family visit during treatment?
Most treatment centers encourage family involvement and offer scheduled visiting hours, family therapy sessions, and family education programs. Some programs have blackout periods at the beginning when visits are restricted. Ask about visitor policies and family programs when evaluating centers.
What happens in therapy?
Treatment typically includes individual counseling, group therapy, and educational sessions. Common approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, trauma therapy, and 12-step facilitation. You'll work on understanding addiction, developing coping skills, addressing underlying issues, and creating a relapse prevention plan.
After Treatment
What is aftercare?
Aftercare is ongoing support after completing primary treatment, including outpatient counseling, support groups (AA, NA, SMART Recovery), sober living homes, alumni programs, and continued therapy. Aftercare is crucial for maintaining long-term recovery and preventing relapse.
What if I relapse?
Relapse is common in recovery and doesn't mean treatment failed. It's a sign to reevaluate your recovery plan and seek additional support. Contact your treatment provider, therapist, or support group immediately. Many people require multiple treatment episodes before achieving long-term recovery.
How do I maintain sobriety after leaving treatment?
Success requires ongoing effort: attend support groups, continue therapy, build a sober support network, avoid triggers, practice self-care, develop healthy routines, and stay connected with your aftercare plan. Recovery is a lifelong journey requiring continued commitment.
For Loved Ones
How do I help someone who won't admit they have a problem?
You can't force someone into recovery, but you can encourage it. Express concern without judgment, share specific observations about how their use affects them and others, set boundaries, offer to help find treatment, and consider a professional intervention. Support groups for families (Al-Anon, Nar-Anon) can provide guidance.
Should I do an intervention?
Interventions can be effective when done properly, but they require careful planning. Consider hiring a professional interventionist who can guide the process. The goal is to help the person recognize the problem and accept help, not to attack or shame them.
How can I support a loved one in treatment?
Participate in family therapy if offered, educate yourself about addiction, attend family support groups, set healthy boundaries, avoid enabling behaviors, be patient with the recovery process, and celebrate milestones. Your support is valuable, but remember they must do the work themselves.
Still Have Questions?
Our addiction specialists are available 24/7 to answer your questions and help you find the right treatment.