Long-term treatment centers for alcoholism provide a structured environment for recovering alcoholics. After detoxing from the effects of alcoholism, some people may require additional time to focus on behavioral changes and re-socialization skills. Evaluate centers by comparing their treatment methods and success rates. Ask about their follow-up care with former patients. While cost is a consideration, inpatient care results in higher long-term alcohol abstention rates than outpatient care. (See References 1)
The Betty Ford Center
Although well known for its treatment of Hollywood celebrities, the Betty Ford Center has treated over 90,000 patients in its 28-year history, not all of them wealthy. The center focuses on developing individualized, holistic treatment plans. Meditation, acupuncture, fitness and biofeedback are utilized. Counselors integrate a patient's circle of family and friends into the treatment process. The Betty Ford Center maintains contact with its alumni throughout their lives. Center alumni can meet at local chapters throughout the United States long after leaving the facility. As of 2010, treatment costs at the Betty Ford Center range from $26,000 to $63,000, depending on length of stay and program type. Private health insurance is accepted.
McLean Center at Fernside
Affiliated with Harvard University, psychiatric treatment and therapy at the McLean Center at Fernside is provided by university faculty. Located inside a 19th century mansion, the facility can house a maximum of 10 patients. Due to its small size, Fernside offers highly personalized treatment plans and targets patients who have experienced multiple relapses. Gender-specific treatment is available, and McLean also offers simultaneous treatment for couples. As of 2010, a stay at Fernside costs $1,700 per day.
The Watershed
The Watershed operates four long-term treatment facilities in Florida.The facilities provide medically-supervised detoxification, psychotherapy and psychiatric treatment. Specialized programs are available for men, women and young adults. The Watershed specializes in trauma and grief-related alcoholism treatment, as well as dual diagnosis, or alcoholism combined with another substance abuse. After leaving Watershed, program alumni are offered ongoing assistance with an alumni coordinator, who is available via email, instant messaging or telephone. The Watershed provides personalized quotes to patients admitted to the program.
Hazelden
Hazelden is a non-profit treatment center founded in 1949 in a Minnesota farmhouse. In the ensuing years, the facility has expanded to six locations across the country. Upon admission to the program, patients are assigned to a comprehensive team of medical and health professionals including a physician, addiction counselor, fitness coach, psychologist and spiritual adviser. Following the successful completion of treatment, Hazelden provides 18-months of ongoing support free of charge. Upon admission to the center, patients are assigned to a financial case manager who determines the total cost of care. Private insurance is accepted, and Hazelden provides financial support to patients who are unable to pay the full cost of care. In 2009, $5,652,000 in assistance was awarded.
