Alcohol & Drug Addiction Treatment FAQ

Answers to Your Frequently Asked Questions

Getting help for a substance use disorder can feel overwhelming. Whether you are struggling with alcohol or drug use, or you are concerned about someone you love, we at Miracles in Action know that you’re probably looking for answers. 

To help you get the information you need, we’ve put together answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about substance rehab, addiction treatment, and what individuals and families can expect from the process. We’ve also answered some of the most common questions we get about our services, who we help, and the types of substance use disorders and mental/behavioral health concerns we treat. 

Browse our substance addiction treatment FAQ to find the answers you need, or contact us directly to learn about our substance addiction treatments in Northridge. Our friendly and professional support staff can help you get started with the intake process or simply provide more information regarding our services, payment plans, and insurance options. 

  • Drug Addiction

    • How long does drug addiction treatment take?

      The amount of time you will need to attend drug addiction treatment will depend on numerous factors, including the severity of your substance use disorder, whether or not you have a co-occurring mental or behavioral health condition, the amount of support you receive at home, your risk of relapse, and much more. Generally speaking, recovery is a lifelong process. At Miracles in Action, we provide ongoing support and comprehensive aftercare services to our patients. No matter where you are in your recovery, you can count on our team to be there for you every step of the way.

    • What is outpatient treatment?

      Outpatient treatment simply means that you do not live full-time at the rehab facility where you receive addiction treatment services. Instead, you visit the facility several times a week for several hours at a time to attend therapy, take part in support group meetings, and receive other treatments specifically tailored to you and your recovery. You then return home to sleep and manage outside responsibilities, such as going to school, working, or taking care of your child. Our outpatient treatment programs include Drug & Alcohol Addiction recovery along with Mental Health Disorders. 

    • If I go to rehab, will I have to live at the rehab facility?

      Whether or not you will need to live full-time at a rehab facility will depend on the specific details of your situation. For those struggling with very severe substance use disorders, inpatient (or residential) treatment may be recommended. Others, however, may benefit from an outpatient (or non-residential) rehab program.

    • How does drug addiction treatment work?

      Addiction affects everyone differently. As such, there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to drug addiction treatment. Instead, the process begins with a personal assessment and evaluation. During this initial meeting, our drug addiction treatment specialists ask a series of questions designed to assess an individual’s level of addiction and recovery needs. Once the assessment is complete, our specialists recommend a personalized treatment program. This program may involve a combination of proven addiction treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, group therapy, family therapy, stress management, and more. Most often, our patients begin by attending treatment several days a week at one of our facilities. As they progress through recovery, the number of times they need to visit the facility for treatment may gradually decrease.

  • General FAQs

    • What is partial hospitalization (PHP)?
      Partial Hospitalization, otherwise known as PHP, is a form of treatment that allows individuals struggling with mental health and substance abuse to continue living at home while traveling to treatment (usually 3 to 5 times a week). This outpatient program offers all of the benefits of residential treatment but allows individuals to still reside in the comfort of their homes.
    • How expensive is alcohol/drug rehab?

      The cost of alcohol and/or drug rehab depends on the services and treatments a person receives, as well as many other factors. At Miracles in Action, we help our patients (and their families) review their options when it comes to insurance coverage and payment plans. Our goal is to provide people from all walks of life with the dedicated care and support they need.

    • What is dual-diagnosis treatment?

      Dual-diagnosis treatment involves treating substance use disorders and co-occurring mental/behavioral health disorders at the same time. Many people who struggle with alcohol or drug abuse also struggle with mental and/or behavioral health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Dual-diagnosis treatment recognizes the many ways in which mental health affects addiction and vice versa. By treating both concerns at the same time, dual-diagnosis treatment helps individuals develop the skills they need to improve their mental health and break the cycle of addiction.

    • Can alcohol or drug addiction ever be cured?

      While alcohol and drug addiction can be successfully treated, this disease can never be fully “cured.” People with substance use disorders who stop using substances are in recovery and recognize that they will always be susceptible to substance abuse and addiction.

    • How effective is alcohol/drug addiction treatment?

      Professional treatment for alcohol and drug addiction has been proven to be effective. While it is impossible to predict how effective treatment might be for a specific individual, several factors increase the likelihood of someone successfully overcoming addiction and avoiding relapse.

      These factors include (but are not limited to):

      • The individual’s level of active participation in treatment
      • The level of outside support an individual has in their recovery
      • Whether the individual receives appropriate treatment
      • The quality of interactions between the individual receiving treatment and treatment providers

      Additionally, “success” is not merely measured by a person’s abstinence from alcohol and/or drugs. Rather, success can be measured in numerous ways, including an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, their re-entry into society, and how well they function in day-to-day life.

    • Is addiction a disease?

      Addiction is considered a disease of the brain. Like many diseases, addiction is typically progressive, meaning it gets worse over time. If left untreated, addiction can also be fatal. Anyone struggling with alcohol or drug addiction should seek the proper professional treatment. Like many other diseases, addiction is most effectively treated by professional specialists who can use clinically proven methods to help those struggling with substance use disorders.

    • What are the signs that someone is addicted to alcohol or drugs?

      If you are concerned that someone you love may be abusing alcohol or drugs, there are several signs you can look out for. Due to the wide variety of different substances and their effects, the physical signs that someone is addicted to alcohol or a certain type of drug range significantly.

      However, you may be able to tell someone is misusing or abusing alcohol or drugs if they exhibit any of the common signs:

      • Unusual changes in mood or behavior
      • Increased irritability, anxiety, hyperactivity, depression, or agitation
      • Secretiveness and lying, especially lying about alcohol or drug use
      • Stealing money and other valuables
      • Withdrawal from friends and family
      • Loss of interest in hobbies and other once-enjoyable activities
      • Unexplained weight gain or loss
      • Changes in sleeping patterns, including insomnia and excessive sleeping
      • Engaging in risky behavior or activities
      • Alcohol or drug paraphernalia, such as empty alcohol bottles, needles, baggies, etc.

      If you suspect someone may be struggling with a substance use disorder, the best way to approach them about it is calmly and as non-confrontationally as possible. Remember, your loved one may deny that they have a problem, or they may claim that their alcohol or drug use is under control. If you are upset (or begin to get upset), we recommend taking a step back and waiting until you can calm down. Always avoid name-calling, blaming, or shaming. If possible, seek the help of a qualified addiction treatment specialist for help in how to approach a loved one about their substance use.

    • How can I tell if I’m addicted to alcohol or drugs?

      Because increased tolerance to alcohol and drugs can develop gradually, it can be hard to tell when you have become addicted to a substance. Often, people believe they can control their alcohol or drug use even after they have become dependent on a substance. In fact, it may be clear to others that someone is abusing or addicted to alcohol or drugs before the person realizes it him/herself.

      While there is no single factor that definitively proves someone is addicted to alcohol or drugs, there are certain signs that indicate alcohol and/or drug dependency. These include:

      • Feeling a compulsive need to drink alcohol or use drugs
      • Continuing to consume alcohol or take drugs despite negative consequences in your life
      • Trying and failing to stop drinking or taking drugs
      • Frequently drinking more or taking more drugs than you planned on
      • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms, including intense cravings, when not drinking or using drugs
  • About Miracles in Action

    • How does Miracles in Action protect patient privacy and confidentiality?

      As a fully licensed and accredited facility, we take all the necessary steps to protect your information and confidentiality. Please review our HIPPA Privacy Policy to learn more about how we protect you.

    • Are the staff at Miracles in Action knowledgeable and friendly?

      Absolutely! Our staff comprises top professionals in the field of addiction treatment and recovery. We are highly trained and skilled in treating you as an individual, as well as in working directly with you to uncover what your path to recovery may look like. We are always happy to answer your questions, whether you are in recovery yourself or have a loved one receiving treatment for a substance use disorder. We know that recovery can seem overwhelming, but our team of experienced and compassionate professionals is here to provide the information, answers, and guidance you need.

    • What are the socio-economic demographics of patients at Miracles in Action?

      We believe that everyone deserves access to addiction treatment and recovery services. Thus, our socio-economic demographics cover a wide range of individuals. We work one-on-one with our patients to identify the best track to optimize their recoveries given their unique backgrounds and day-to-day lives.

    • What is the age range of the patients that attend Miracles in Action?

      Our team helps a wide range of age groups. Our main demographic is individuals 18 and above; however, we also have a separate young adult track for adolescents suffering from substance use disorders and addiction.

    • Does Miracles in Action provide psychiatric services?

      Led by our on-staff psychiatrist and team of mental health professionals, Miracles in Action is able to diagnose and treat an array of mental and behavioral health disorders. We work directly with our patients to identify the best medication and treatment plan for their success in recovery.

    • Which insurance companies are Miracles in Action contracted with?

      Miracles in Action works with many insurance companies in order to make your recovery process as easy as possible. We are in-network with MultiPlan and offer several payment plans. Contact our team today to learn more about our insurance and payment options.

    • Does Miracles in Action provide dual-diagnosis services?

      Yes! At Miracles in Action, we believe in treating the individual, not just the addiction. Our licensed staff works to diagnose and treat the underlying disorders that cause both mental and emotional struggles through comprehensive dual-diagnosis treatment.

  • Alcohol Addiction

    • Can a Person Recover from Alcohol Dependence?

      Yes. It is possible to recover from alcohol addiction, and many people do. Recovery is a journey that will require constant effort, but with the right treatment, it is very possible to learn how to manage your issues with alcohol.

    • What Is the Most Effective Treatment for Alcohol Dependence?

      Since everyone’s addiction story is different, the most effective treatment plan will be different for everyone too. Potential elements of your treatment plan may include individual and group therapy, sober living programs, medical support, detox, and more. We will create a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs.

    • What Qualifies You as an Alcoholic?

      Because drinking — even in excessive quantities — is so normalized, it can be difficult for alcoholics to realize that they have a problem. Every person has their own limits, and the time when professional treatment is necessary will be different for everyone. However, it is generally time to seek help if drinking is significantly interfering with your life and/or contributing to severe health issues.