Alcohol Rehab Program Evaluation
28677
Home & Family
Jun 19, 2007
DrEdder
Alcohol Rehab Program Evaluation
It is often difficult, given the acute turmoil individuals and families find themselves in when seeking help, to sort out what makes for an effective program. Nearly all will declare themselves to be uniquely suited for meeting the needs of whoever is calling. It isn't true. There are, however, reasonably objective questions you can ask that will help you to increase your chances of selecting a program that can help: 1. What are the qualifications of staff? While Ph.D. and Masters Degrees do not guarantee quality, they usually indicate higher standards. Conscientious counselors, and programs, seek to acquire and increase skills. A lack of degrees and other credentials is cause for concern; 2. How many of the staff members refer to themselves "recovering?" Despite assertions to the contrary, research has found no benefit to clients in having recovering individuals as counselors. Effectiveness come from empathy - the ability to listen, care and motivate; 3. Are any members of the staff themselves former clients? This is a very big red flag. Former clients who are unable to remain sober outside of their treatment setting are unlikely to be of much use in helping you to do so. The facility's hiring also indicates a possible aversion to new ideas and models. Again, expansion of skills points towards a quality program, while constriction indicates otherwise; 4. What are their programs based on? Most treatment providers rely on a 12 Step/AA base known as the Minnesota Model where it originated over thirty years ago. If that doesn't appeal to you, or hasn't helped in the past, ask what alternatives they offer. There are equally or more effective models; 5. What is their success rate? Reputable programs will tell you that they don't know for sure since all programs rely on self-reports that are notoriously inaccurate. Programs should also be willing to give you a straightforward statement of how they define success - which in many cases amounts to little more than "was not noticeably intoxicated while here". 6. If you are considering in-patient, what are the provisions for aftercare? Behavior change is a difficult process that can't be accomplished in thirty days. The duration and quality of the follow-up will probably be more important than the initial stay. 7. If you decide that outpatient is more apt to meet your needs, and budget, how flexible is the program? Rigidity isn't inspiring. 8. What types of clients does the program treat? Those who claim to treat a wide variety of conditions and "addictions" probably don't treat any of them very well, and neither problems, nor clients, are equally amenable to treatment. Look for specialists, settings, and methods you feel comfortable with. 9. Will they refer you to other possibilities if you ask? Good programs know that they are not appropriate for everyone and will want to help you find a good match either philosophically, geographically, or financially. While reassuring answers to these questions won't guarantee success, it will help to prevent you from wasting time, money, and effort.
Dr. Edward Wilson has been developing and providing alternative alcohol counseling, including moderation, sincve 1990. He is the co-founder and Clinical Director of Your Empowering Solutions, Inc, located in S. California. http://www.non12.step.com
send email to DrEdder
Write a Review
Add to My Favorite
Refer it to Friend
Report Article
Other links owned by this user
Alcohol's anti-anxiety properties, with nicotine's counteracting antidepressent properties, make for a seductive but deadly mix. But it can be, and often has been, beaten.
Category:
Ready to select a treatment option? Make sure you are getting your money's worth!
Category:
Tired of meetings and endless "recover"? Perhaps it's time to throw away the crutches - but is it possible?
Category:
Wondering if Treatment might work for you? Consider the possibilities of matching services to your needs and interests, not you to the service offered.
Category:
Tired of being labeled and referred to one-size-fits-all treatment? You can end, or moderate, your alcohol use without lifelong recovery.
Category:
Anti-craving medication is available as treatment support. It won't cure the problem but it can help when used with CBT in a well designed plan.
Category:
Ready to leave meetings and forever recovery behind? Is it possible or even desirable? Here's the answer.
Category:
There is a wide range of solutions to alcohol related problems if you look hard enough. Don't fall for the ads, myths, and depressing outcomes.
Category:
Can't decide on a treatment program? Confused by the hype? Here's what to ask!
Category:
Wondering how to match your needs with a treatment program? Some programs are offering new and more effective options.
Category:
Considering rehab and don't know what form will be most effective? Most practical? Here's an answer with what factors to consider.
Category:
It isn't necessary to sign up for permanent "recovery" and endless meetings in order to end, or moderate, alcohol abuse.
Category:
14. Alcohol Dependence Isn't an Equal Opportunity Condition, Nor is One-Size-Fits-All Treatment Effect
Feeling pressured to accept a label instead of services that fit? You're not alone, but there are alternatives.
Category:
Other links at Home & Family
Electrical appliances are so much part of the American household scene today that most people take them for granted.
Category:
How do you know if the moving company you want is right the one for you? Good question and one you will need to do some research on as well. There are a lot of things to check on, but if you do your homework, you'll know which moving company will do a goo
Category:
The weather is warmer and you have begun storing your winter clothing especially those nice wool sweaters.
Category:
This article discusses common and uncommon Holidays in America. Information about common practices and traditions are included.
Category:
If you want an easy sewing project, use polar fleece. Polar fleece is an excellent material for any beginner. You can use it to create blankets, hats, mittens, jackets, scarves, pants, pullovers, and more.
Category:
Site Sponsor
Directory Statistics
Articles: 68309
Categories: 501
Yahoo Entertainment
