Our Arizona Rehab Facility
“At SpringBoard Recovery, we know who we are. We know what we are extremely good at, and that is treating people with substance use disorders – comprehensively and successfully. In doing so, we never lose sight of the actual person we are helping, or the personal hopes and aspirations they have for a future completely free from substance use. It’s passion with purpose, and it’s the reason we exist.”
– Robert Castan, CEO, SpringBoard Recovery
Detox: The First Step in Addiction Treatment
Detox – the detoxification that ensures all toxins are naturally eliminated from the body – is the first step in any drug rehab or addiction treatment program for the majority of substance use disorders – here in Arizona, or anywhere else.
The reason for detox is simple. Halting substance use abruptly results in users experiencing a range of withdrawal symptoms, some of which can prove fatal, and the severity and duration of these symptoms depend on the following factors:
- What substance was being abused?
- How long did the abuse last?
- How much of the substance was consumed during daily use?
Many substances have mild withdrawal symptoms, with little risk to the individual who is detoxing. However, certain drugs, such as benzodiazepines and alcohol, can result in a severe, life-threatening withdrawal, unless the individual’s detox is being professionally and medically supervised, and where those attending can prescribe medications to lessen the impact of symptoms or to deal with a resulting medical emergency.
In this section, we’ll look at a couple of the most common detoxes in Arizona – opioid detox and alcohol detox, both of which have their own withdrawal symptoms and distinct risks.
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Detox in Arizona
In the state of Arizona, there are 107 addiction treatment facilities that offer medically supervised detoxification services, either as an inpatient (the most common detox) or as an outpatient. However, some of these facilities are only for the detox from opioid use.
For reasons of safety, it is highly recommended that individuals who have abused illicit drugs like opioids, benzodiazepines, and stimulants, such as methamphetamine and cocaine, alcohol, or who have a history of long-term substance abuse are medically detoxed in a professional, accredited addiction treatment facility.
Undergoing an inpatient treatment program, often termed as “drug rehab,” usually includes a medically-supervised detox as an intrinsic part of the program. Furthermore, treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) which includes opioid replacement therapy (where a substitute opioid such as methadone is prescribed) is considered the continuation of a long-term detox process, and will involve regular attendance at an outpatient facility.
Additionally, a medically-supervised detox should be one of the necessary elements of a holistic approach to detox, where nutrition and exercise are also used to facilitate the process, and to help the body eliminate dangerous toxins more quickly.
What to Look for in a Detox Program
When choosing a drug or alcohol detox, it is important to look for all of the following:
- A program that has experienced medical staff available at all times.
- A facility that offers the type of treatment that is needed. For example, inpatient, outpatient, intensive outpatient, etc.
- A treatment center that participates with the individual’s health insurance plan. This will help to keep out-of-pocket costs as low as possible.
- A program that is accredited through the Joint Commission. This will help to ensure that the quality of the treatment they offer is excellent.
- A higher than average success rate among clients or patients in the past.
The Detox Process
People recovering from drug or alcohol abuse have different detox needs. This process will help them get personalized treatment. It generally involves three steps.
Evaluation
Patients will undergo screening with medical specialists to check for mental and physical health problems. Through blood tests, doctors will measure the amount of alcohol or drugs in their system. This will help determine the type and level of medications the patients need.
During the evaluation, there will also be a thorough review of medical, psychiatric, and drug histories of the patient. This will establish the basis for the long-term program of the patient.
Medical specialists will also assess the social situation of the patient. Finally, patients will undergo risk evaluation to assess the possible severity of withdrawal and to determine if medical supervision is needed.
Stabilization
This step will help the patient through withdrawal with medical and psychosocial treatments. It aims to prevent any kind of harm to the patient. To lessen the symptoms of withdrawal and prevent complications, doctors may prescribe medications to treat their addictions.
The process of stabilization will also help determine the proper diet and nutrition for the patient. Specialists will educate them on what they can expect during their treatment and recovery. When appropriate and with confidentiality, this step may also include the family and friends of the patient.
Preparing for Entry into Treatment
This last step of detox will prepare the patients to enter treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Specialists will persuade them to continue with a treatment plan and aftercare. There are many programs that can help them prepare for their treatment plan. Here at SpringBoard Recovery, we provide treatment plans that suit the needs of every patient.
Alternative and Holistic Programs for Detox
Many alcohol or drug detox treatment plans involve the intake of medication. However, there are alternative and holistic approaches that combine more non-conventional therapies, including the following:
- Healthy nutrition
- Acupuncture
- Exercise
- Yoga and meditation
- Creative arts therapies
- Biofeedback
Arizona Detox for Pregnant Women
Detox may lead to stress on the unborn baby (through severe fetal distress and preterm labor). Medical supervision is essential for pregnant women during detox to manage the pain and prevent relapse. Often, doctors prescribe medications to pregnant women during detox to stabilize them.
Rapid and Ultra-rapid Detox
In clinical studies, rapid detox is also called anesthesia-assisted detox wherein the patient will be given anesthesia and medications to replace the drugs or alcohol in their body as they go through the symptoms of withdrawal. This process was initially intended for individuals who have addictions to opiate drugs, such as heroin and painkillers.
Compared to an ordinary detox, advocates claim that rapid detox is a faster way of eliminating the drugs or alcohol in a patient’s system while also preventing pains caused by withdrawal symptoms. As advertised, people going through rapid detox will just “sleep through withdrawal,” because it is a virtually painless process.
However, this method is widely criticized because its risks outweigh its benefits. The CDC or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that rapid detox processes have little to no evidence to justify its practice and have demonstrated substantial risks, which include death.
Rapid detox can take about two to three days, while ultra-rapid detox can take as quick as a few hours. While rapid detox carries fewer risks than ultra-rapid detox, both are quite expensive and insurance does not usually cover them
Additionally, drug abuse itself can result in the emergence of a mental health disorder, as the abuse of many illicit substances can result in both the development of behavioral issues and physical, structural changes in the individual’s brain.
Types Rehab
1. Inpatient Program (IP)
An inpatient program (IP), also known as residential rehab because you live 24/7 at the facility, is recommended for those with severe substance addictions, and for those who have a co-occurring disorder (or dual diagnosis), meaning they also suffer with a mental health disorder.
Being resident within a drug rehab offering continuous care helps enormously in avoiding drug-related influences and triggers from your previous, addicted life. IPs can either be short or long term, anywhere between 28 days to a whole year and beyond, and often lead to further treatment, such as an outpatient program OP). Please bear in mind that IPs are normally more costly than the OP alternatives.
Advantages of IPs
Inpatient rehab programs offer a number of benefits to people who have the flexibility (or lack of obligations) to deal with the stringent restrictions:
- Residential inpatient rehab treatment is highly structured, focusing on all aspects of a patient’s addiction, including one-to-one counseling / therapy
- IPs provide 24/7 care, usually in non-hospital settings, which can be important for those also dealing with mental health issues and past trauma
- Patients will live with other drug addicts and alcoholics, encouraging a sense of community and fraternity
2. Partial-Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Partial-hospitalization programs, intensive outpatient programs, and outpatient programs are, fundamentally, outpatient programs, differentiated by their level of intensity. Partial-hospitalization programs (PHP) provide a highly-structured environment for up to 6 hours a day, while you continue to reside either at home or in sober-living housing. PHPs allow clients transitioning from an inpatient or a detox program to move into a more flexible program that still offers a high level of structure and support.
3. Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) are treatment programs that do not require detoxification (although this may have happened prior) or round-the-clock supervision. IOPs enable patients to continue with their normal, day-to-day lives in a way that residential IPs do not.
IOPs are sometimes used in conjunction with inpatient programs as a way of helping clients to transition seamlessly back into their families and communities. They are designed to continue counseling, help establish support mechanisms, assist with relapse management, and provide further coping strategies, if needed.
4. Outpatient Program (OP)
Outpatient programs (OPs) involve a regular appointment schedule, spread throughout the week, and usually provide specific therapies, counseling, or group sessions. Traditional OPs typically cost significantly less than an IP, because the level of support is less intensive. Additionally, if it is required, a medically-assisted detox takes place prior to the start of the OP.
Advantages of OPs
- Patients can continue to live at home, and work or study
- Teenagers and adolescents continue to have family support
- Treatment costs are significantly less than an IP
- Appointments can be highly flexible – either during the day, in the evening, and at weekends
5. Recovery Housing / Sober Living
In the early stages of rehab and treatment from a substance addiction, it can be extremely difficult for many people to fully commit to their recovery while living in their regular home environment. However, there is an additional facility and service – known as Recovery Housing or Sober Living – available only at a limited number of drug and alcohol rehabs in Arizona, and SpringBoard Recovery is one of these.
Recovery Housing is an excellent resource that provides a structured, supportive, and stable environment, free from the usual stressors, triggers, and temptations, and enables individuals in early recovery to successfully achieve and maintain a substance-free life.
“Recovery Housing,” according to The National Council for Behavioral Health, is defined as “a range of housing models that create mutually-supportive communities where individuals improve their physical, mental, spiritual, and social well-being and gain skills and resources to sustain their recovery.”
At SpringBoard Recovery, we offer a unique model that combines our excellent outpatient treatment program with high quality Recovery Housing accommodation; our model provides:
- A supportive community environment for our clients
- More personal responsibility and obligations
- Scheduled Programming
- Mentorship & Coaching
- House Rules and personal accountability
- 12-Step Meetings
6. Alternative Types of Addiction Treatment in Arizona, inc. Free Rehabs
It is possible to go to rehab in Arizona without having to pay any costs whatsoever. People on Medicaid may be eligible for government rehabilitation programs that will be financially covered in full. There are also grants available through the SAMHSA that are designed to cover the cost of some types of treatment – again, in full.
Additionally, you may be able to access state-funded addiction treatment programs – free drug rehab. Here in Arizona, there are a number of these addiction treatment centers. The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) also provides the following resources:
- The OARLine: Opioid Assistance + Referral Line was launched in March 2018 in partnership with Arizona’s Poison and Drug Information Centers. The OARLine (1-888-688-4222) is available for health care clinicians to call for free consultation on patients with complex pain or opioid use disorder, provides information and referrals to the public, and conducts follow-up with people experiencing overdoses
- Substanceabuse.az.gov – houses Arizona prevention, treatment, and recovery resources
- Arizona Substance Abuse Prevention Resource Hub
- Information on AHCCCS 24/7 locations providing opioid treatment services
- Dump the Drugs AZ provides locations to safely dispose of unneeded medications
Frequently Asked Questions About Drug and Alcohol Rehab in Arizona
Can Drug Addiction be Cured?
Drug addiction is a chronic disease, which makes it similar to other types of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes. All of these diseases are very treatable, but the actual condition cannot be cured. Instead, the condition requires lifelong treatment.
Can I Detox Off Drugs at Home?
There are many types of mild drugs where use can be stopped at home without any serious consequences, eg. marijuana. However, there are several types of drugs that do require detox – a professional medically-assisted detox – simply because abruptly stopping their use can be dangerous, and possibly fatal. These drugs include:
- Benzodiazepines
- Illicit stimulants like methamphetamine and cocaine
- Alcohol
- Opioid drugs, such as heroin and prescription painkillers, eg. Oxycontin
Always consult your family physician or an addiction specialist first before attempting a home detox.
What Should I Expect When I Go to Drug Rehab in Arizona?
When you attend drug rehab, your experience will vary based on the type of program you are in. However, you should expect several things from your treatment program, including:
- To have access to medical treatment and medical professionals
- To be treated like an individual with your own needs
- To participate in many different types of therapy, including group and individual sessions
- To be treated for both the physical and psychological aspects of the addiction
How Do I Know If I Have a Co-Occurring Disorder?
A co-occurring disorder is a mental health condition, like anxiety or depression that simultaneously accompanies a drug addiction. Many people attending drug rehab have previously undiagnosed mental health disorders.
Co-occurring disorders should always be treated alongside the drug addictions, providing a much better chance of long-term recovery. Anyone with a diagnosed co-occurring disorder should strongly consider going to a professional drug rehab that offers the necessary dual diagnosis treatment.
What are the Best Treatments for Drug Addiction in Arizona?
There really is no one “best way” to treat a drug addiction. People respond differently to all types of treatment, depending on what their individual needs. The majority of drug addiction experts agree that several forms of behavioral therapy (and medications, if required) are the best way to treat a drug addiction.
How are Behavioral Therapies Used to Treat Drug Addiction?
Behavioral therapies are vital for the treatment of drug addiction. According to the NIDA, they:
- Help people to change their attitudes about their drug use
- Help them change their substance abuse behaviors
- Teach them how to establish and improve upon their healthy life skills
- Allow them to access other forms of treatment, such as medications
- Provide various treatment options to patients in a number of different settings
How are Medications Used in Drug Addiction Treatment?
Medications are often used during the detox phase to address any complications with withdrawal symptoms – in fact, around 80% of detoxes do require some form of medication. Additionally, they can also be used in opioid replacement therapy, to control drug cravings (and help prevent relapses), and to treat mental health disorders.
Why Should I Consider Traveling to Arizona to Attend Drug Rehab?
Many people prefer to attend their addiction treatment away from home, in another place, either a city in the same U.S. state, or in another state all together, like Arizona. There are a number of significant benefits to this approach, such as:
- Removing all potentially disruptive influences, relapse triggers, and negative situations from your treatment
- Fully immerse yourself in the rehab experience and be able to concentrate 24/7 on your addiction recovery
- Many people comment that drug rehab in another state is more like a vacation
- Living in a stress-free environment
What are the Benefits of 12-Step Programs?
12-Step programs are highly effective mutual aid support groups, and they provide many benefits to those who attend their meetings on a regular basis, including:
- Being able to continue your recovery with the help and support of peers
- Being able to process and progress through each step of the recovery journey
- Forming new, healthier habits that assist in avoiding relapse
- Better long-term mental health
“This has been an incredibly uncertain and stressful time for many people and we are seeing an increase in drug consumption, difficulty in accessing life-saving treatments for substance use disorders, and a tragic rise in overdose deaths. As we continue to address both the COVID-19 pandemic and the opioid crisis, we must prioritize making treatment options more widely available to people with substance use disorders.”
– Dr. Nora D. Volkow, MD, Director, National Institute on Drug Abuse
External Sources:
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC): Provisional Drug Overdose Death Counts” System. 2021. Available at CDC.gov.
- National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA): Director’s Page: Nora Volkow. 2021. Available at DrugAbuse.gov.
- STAT (Healthcare Media Company): “U.S. Overdose Deaths Hit Record 93,000 in 2020 during Pandemic.” July, 2021. Available at STATNews.com.
- Arizona Department of Health Services: Opioid Epidemic webpage. June, 2021. Available at AZDHS.gov.
- Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System: “Arizona 2018 Statewide Substance Use Prevention Needs Assessment.” September, 2018. Available at ACAHCCCS.gov.
- Arizona Department of Health Services: Dump The Drugs webpage. June, 2021. Available at AZDHS.gov.
- AZ Central: “CDC Study: Arizona 4th in U.S. for Alcohol Poisoning Deaths.” January, 2015. Available at AZCentral.com.
- U.S. National Library of Medicine: “A Cascade of Care for Alcohol Use Disorder: Using 2015-2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health Data to Identify Gaps in Past 12-Month Care.” June, 2021. Available at NLM.NIH.gov.
- U.S. National Library of Medicine: “Use of Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder in the US: Results From the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.” June, 2021. Available at NLM.NIH.gov.
- Millennium Health: “Signals Report – National Drug Use Trends.” December, 2020. Available at Millennium Health.com.
- Dual Diagnosis: A Step by Step Guide to Drug Detoxification webpage. March, 2021. Available at DualDiagnosis.org.
- U.S. National Center for Biotechnology Information: “Delirium Tremens.” August, 2020. Available at NLM.NIH.gov.
- U.S. National Library of Medicine: “Prescribing Opioid Replacement Therapy in U.S. Correctional Settings.” December, 2017. Available at NLM.NIH.gov.
- National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA): Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide (Third Edition) – “Evidence-Based Approaches to Drug Addiction Treatment.” January, 2018. Available at DrugAbuse.gov.
- U.S. National Library of Medicine: “Substance Abuse Intensive Outpatient Programs: Assessing the Evidence.” June, 2015. Available at NLM.NIH.gov.
- The National Council for Behavioral Health: Recovery Housing Issue Brief – Information for State Policymakers. May, 2017. Available at TheNationalCouncil.org.
- Arizona Department of Health Services: OARLine: Opioid Assistance & Referral Line webpage. 2020. Available at PhoenixMed.Arizona.edu.
- Arizona Governor Doug Ducey: Governor’s Office of Youth, Faith and Family – Substance Abuse Prevention webpage. June, 2021. Available at SubstanceAbuse.AZ.gov.
- Arizona Governor Doug Ducey: Governor’s Office of Youth, Faith and Family – Prevention & Early Intervention webpage. June, 2021. Available at AZPreventionResource.com
- Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System: Accessing & Locating Treatment webpage. 2021. Available at ACAHCCCS.gov.
- Arizona Department of Health Services: Dump the Drugs AZ webpage. 2021. Available at AZDHS.gov.
- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): Home webpage. 2021. Available at AA.org.
- Narcotics Anonymous (NA): Home webpage. 2021. Available at NA.org.
- Self Management And Recovery Training (SMART): Home webpage. 2021. Available at SmartRecovery.org/.
- Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Treatment Locator Tool. 2021. Available at FindTreatment.SAMHSA.gov.
- National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA): Trends & Statistics webpage. 2021. Available at DrugAbuse.gov.
- U.S. National Archives: “TRICARE: Mental Health & Substance Abuse Treatment.” September, 2016. Available at FederalRegister.gov.
- U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid: Affordable Care Act (ACA). 2021. Available at HealthCare.gov.
- U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid: Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA). 2021. Available at CMS.gov.
- American With Disabilities: Home webpage. 2021. Available at ADA.gov.
- U.S. Department of Labor: Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA). 2021. Available at DOL.gov.
- Maricopa County, Arizona: Civil Mental Health Court. Application for Involuntary Screening. 2021. Available at Maricopa.gov.
- National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA): Treatment Approaches for Drug Addiction. 2021. Available at DrugAbuse.gov.
