A drug rehab center is a beacon of hope for persons suffering from the curable disease of drug addiction. There are over 11,000 such locations and programs in the United States and a quick internet search will reveal one in the local area.

The variety and spectrum of rehab programs matches the physical diversity of drug addiction. There are simple group counseling programs that are free of cost. There are the celebrity driven residential treatment programs which are often quoted in the media. The vast majority of programs focus on treatment of physical and psychological aspects of addiction. The typical rehab center is in an urban area with outpatient facilities. Patients can get advice, medical referral and treatment as well as replacement opiates such as methadone in programs like methadone maintenance programs.

Insurance often covers many of these services but many are charitable organizations and depend on donations and sliding scale payment options. The rehab center is sometimes a focal point for the social reintegration of the individual and has counseling, vocational training and above all a means for further rehabilitation after the acute medical detoxification process is completed.

Many programs have a dual diagnosis focus where depression, other mental health issues and medical issues such as HIV/AIDS are also addressed. Special populations such as the adolescent addict and prison populations need special approaches. Other programs inculcate particular religious philosophy such as Christian drug rehab programs. Many treatment centers run outreach programs that are unique. For example there is one program that has a special van that goes around the city picking up homeless alcohol addicted persons who are intoxicated.

Other programs also involve continuity with 12 step approaches as an extension of an inpatient treatment for 3-6 weeks. Therapeutic communities are useful for persons with a long history of drug dependence and those with serious criminal histories.