With opioid use disorder (OUD), recovery can feel like a lonely journey — but you don’t have to go through it alone. Many treatment centers provide support, guidance, and medical care to help you take the next step toward healing.

Finding a treatment center that fits your needs can be an important part of recovery from opioid addiction. In this article, we'll explore different treatment options and what to expect when seeking care. Whether you’re looking for help for yourself or a loved one, understanding the process can make taking that first step feel less overwhelming. Recovery is possible, and support is available.

Finding a Treatment Center

There are several types of treatment centers that can help with recovery from opioid addiction. When choosing a center, certain factors can help you find the best fit for your needs.

Talking with a healthcare provider is a great first step. They can recommend rehab programs in your area and help you set personal recovery goals. Together, you can explore different treatment options and decide which approach is best for you.

Residential Treatment Centers

Residential (inpatient) treatment centers provide the highest level of care for opioid addiction recovery, offering 24-hour medical and emotional support. These programs tend to be more intensive and may have higher success rates for people with substance use disorders (SUDs).

Because you live at the facility full-time, inpatient treatment can be a bigger commitment and may temporarily disrupt your daily routine. These programs also tend to be more expensive than outpatient options. Below, we’ll outline what a typical day looks like in a residential treatment program.

Inpatient programs can be a great option for people who need more intensive support. This may be a good option if you:

• Have co-occurring mental health disorders (such as depression or anxiety)
• Have a severe opioid addiction or have multiple substance dependencies
• Have tried outpatient programs but need more intensive support

Residential treatment centers offer 24-hour care for people who need more intensive addiction support.

Outpatient Programs

Outpatient treatment allows you to continue living at home or in a sober living community while attending regular therapy and medical support sessions. This option may be recommended for mild OUD or as a secondary program after an inpatient stay.

There are two main types of outpatient programs.

Partial Hospitalization Program

A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is the most intensive type of outpatient treatment. People in PHPs attend treatment five to six days a week for five to six hours per day, receiving structured therapy and medical care while maintaining some independence.

Intensive Outpatient Program

An intensive outpatient program (IOP) provides structured support but requires less time commitment than a PHP. IOP participants typically attend treatment three to five days per week for about three hours per session. This option offers flexibility while still providing essential therapy and support.

Factors To Consider When Selecting a Treatment Center

When selecting a rehab program for opioid addiction, several factors can help you find the best fit for your needs.

Accreditation

In the U.S., opioid treatment programs must be accredited through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Before enrolling in a program, check that the provider is properly accredited and in good standing to ensure it meets the necessary qualifications to treat substance use disorders.

Insurance Coverage

If you have health insurance, check with your provider to see which treatment programs are covered. Some centers may be in-network, which can reduce costs

Medicare provides coverage under the Opioid Treatment Program (OTP) benefit, which provides bundled payments for treatment services.

If your insurance only partially covers a program — or doesn’t cover it at all, ask the facility about the cost of the program and whether they offer payment plans or financial assistance options.

Types and Specialty of Services

Different treatment centers may specialize in certain types of substance use disorders. Some focus specifically on opioid addiction, while others treat a broader range of addictions, such as alcohol or stimulants. Be sure to choose a program that aligns with your specific treatment needs.

Program Length and Location

Another factor to consider is the length of the program so you can properly prepare. You may need to consider factors like potential time off from work, family responsibilities, and upcoming social engagements. Treatment programs typically last between 30 and 90 days but can vary greatly depending on your needs.

The specific location of the treatment center is another factor to consider. You might need to commute to the facility daily. You may also consider a potential benefit of traveling outside your close environment to gain physical distance from your typical triggers.

Treatment programs typically last between 30 and 90 days but can vary depending on your needs.

All of these factors can be part of your decision about which treatment center may work best for you. Involving your healthcare provider can help guide you along the way, but ultimately you know yourself best and will have to choose a program that works best for you.

Life at a Treatment Center

Once you choose a treatment center for opioid addiction, you’ll go through an intake process before starting the program. Below, we’ll outline what to expect during admission and what a typical day in treatment may look like.

Facility Intake

When you arrive at your chosen treatment center, you’ll go through a pretty thorough admission process to get checked in. This may include:

• Medical history — Undergoing a review of your personal and family medical and mental health history
• Physical assessment — Checking vitals, blood work, urine drug screening, breathalyzer, and possibly a COVID-19 test
• Documentation — Signing required forms and reviewing facility policies
• Item check-in — Turning over any restricted items for safekeeping
• Communication — Informing family or loved ones of your status
• Orientation — Meeting staff, touring the facility, and reviewing your treatment schedule and available services

Daily Schedule

Every rehab center operates differently, but most follow a structured schedule to help you build healthy habits and focus on recovery. Knowing what to expect can make the transition into treatment smoother and less overwhelming.

A typical day may include:

• Breakfast
• Meditation, yoga, or light exercise
• Group therapy or educational sessions
• Lunch
• Afternoon therapy, which may include individual, group, specialized, family, or alternative therapies like art, music, or exercise
• Guest speakers or educational workshops
• Free time that can be used for activities like physical activity, meditation, reading, and journaling
• Dinner
• Evening group sessions, such as 12-step meetings of Narcotics Anonymous
• Study or reflection time (reading, journaling, or personal growth activities)
• Winding down and lights out

Types of Therapy at a Treatment Center

Rehabilitation programs use a variety of therapies to support recovery. The specific approaches used in your treatment will depend on your needs and the recommendations of healthcare professionals at the center.

Detoxification

The first step in each program will be a detoxification (detox), which helps your body adjust to the absence of opioids. Detox is often accompanied by withdrawal symptoms, so it’s important to have medical attention available from the facility to monitor and treat your symptoms.

It’s important to have medical attention from the facility to monitor and treat your symptoms when going through a drug detox.

Medication-Assisted Treatment

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can help in the detox and treatment process. MAT combines medication with other therapy treatments to maximize the effect of detox and rehab. For people with opioid use disorder, common medications used in MAT include:

• Buprenorphine — Helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms
• Lofexidine — Helps manage withdrawal symptoms
• Methadone — Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms by acting on opioid receptors
• Naltrexone — Blocks opioid effects to prevent relapse (return of OUD)

These medications can reduce cravings and make it easier to focus on therapy and behavioral changes.

Individual Therapy

One-on-one therapy plays a key role in understanding addiction triggers and developing healthier coping skills. Common approaches include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) — Helps you recognize negative thought patterns that contribute to drug addiction and teaches strategies to change behaviors
• Contingency management — Uses positive reinforcement (such as rewards) to encourage progress
• Motivational enhancement therapy — Strengthens motivation and commitment to the recovery process

Group Therapy

Group therapy is another component of rehabilitation. Group therapy sessions help create a sense of togetherness and may help people build a support system during recovery. A therapist will lead the sessions and guide conversations, providing a space where people can share their experiences in a supportive environment. Group therapy can also provide a sense of accountability and encouragement to support personal growth and recovery.

Family Therapy

Family therapy is an important part of treatment and is included in most rehab programs. This can help family members talk through challenges that have resulted from addiction. It can be a space to address past issues, increase awareness and understanding of addiction, and talk about future support strategies for after rehab.

A Personalized Approach to Recovery

Each person’s recovery journey is different, and a combination of therapies is often the most effective way to support long-term recovery. Centers tailor therapy treatment plans to meet individual needs, ensuring the best possible outcome.

Life After Rehab

Once you finish a treatment program, it’s important to have resources in place to help you continue with the progress you’ve made. This may look like transitioning from an inpatient treatment facility to an outpatient program. It can also look like finding local recovery meetings to attend regularly so you continue to have a support system and accountability.

You may also get a sponsor to check in with and consult for support. Continuing with counseling (individual, group, and/or family) can also be helpful. Talk to your treatment center and they can help you get set up for success based on your individual needs.

Taking the First Step

If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid use disorder, reaching out for help is the first step. A healthcare provider or mental health professional can connect you with the support and resources you need. You’re not alone, and recovery is possible.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyDepressionTeam is the social network for people with depression, related mental health conditions, and their loved ones. On MyDepressionTeam, members diagnosed with depression and related conditions like opioid use disorder come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with depression and opioid use disorder.

Have you struggled with opioid addiction? Have you tried any treatment centers, and how did they work for you? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.