Finding the Right Recovery Program for You

Understanding Your Recovery Needs
Finding the right recovery program Southern Maine offers is a personal journey because recovery looks different for everyone. The path that works for one person may not be the right fit for another, which is why understanding individual needs is the crucial first step in finding effective treatment.
Several factors shape what type of support will be most beneficial. Taking time to honestly assess these factors helps create a clearer picture of what kind of support will be most effective. Key considerations include:
- Severity and Duration: How long substance use has occurred and the intensity of usage.
- Co-occurring Conditions: The presence of mental health challenges like anxiety or depression.
- Support Systems: The stability of your home environment and family network.
- Daily Obligations: Work, school, or family responsibilities that must be maintained.
Some individuals may benefit from intensive, structured environments that provide 24-hour supervision and remove them from triggering situations. Others might thrive in programs that allow them to maintain daily responsibilities while receiving treatment. Still others may find that outpatient services offer the right balance of professional guidance and personal autonomy.
The good news is that treatment options exist across a full spectrum of intensity levels, each designed to meet people where they are in their recovery journey and provide the appropriate degree of support.
Assessing Substance Use and Mental Health
What you’ll learn: This section helps you recognize the signs and patterns of substance use and mental health concerns so you can take the first step toward real, lasting change. You’ll know you’ve learned it when you can name at least one area of concern in your substance use and one in your emotional wellbeing.
A good recovery program in Southern Maine starts with understanding both your substance use and your mental health. Think of this process as checking your vital signs before starting a new workout routine—you need to know where you’re starting from. Many people find that substance use and mental health challenges—such as anxiety, depression, or trauma—often go hand-in-hand.
"Quality programs provide a full assessment, looking at all these areas, because research shows that integrated care leads to better outcomes than treating substance use or mental health alone."1
Practice This: Write down two things you’ve noticed about your substance use (like frequency or situations where it happens) and two things about your mood or stress levels. Bring these insights when you talk with a recovery specialist—they’ll use this to tailor your care.
Skill Checkpoint: You’re ready to move forward when you can describe one way your substance use and emotional health affect each other.
Business Application: Leaders can use this framework to support staff in identifying when co-occurring issues might be present, fostering early support and referrals.
Personal Use: Individuals and families can use these questions as conversation starters, breaking the stigma around seeking help together.
Identifying Your Daily Responsibilities
What you'll learn: In this section, you'll learn how understanding your daily responsibilities can shape your treatment plan. You'll know you've mastered this when you can list your main commitments and consider how they might impact your recovery journey.

Think of your daily life as a balancing act with many moving parts—family, work, school, or caregiving. A quality recovery program Southern Maine offers will help you look at these responsibilities so your treatment fits your real-world needs. For example, someone caring for children or holding a demanding job may benefit from flexible outpatient schedules, while others may need more structure. Research shows that matching treatment to your personal circumstances leads to greater engagement and better outcomes.1
Practice This: Write down your top three daily duties, such as work shifts, child care, or classes. Bring this list when you meet with a provider; it helps them recommend services that work with your schedule.
Skill Checkpoint: You're ready to move forward when you can describe a typical day and identify areas where you might need extra support.
Business Application: Employers and HR teams can use this approach to help team members discuss their needs and maintain work-life balance during recovery.
Personal Use: Individuals and families can use this reflection to find programs that respect their time and household responsibilities.
Exploring Treatment Levels in a Recovery Program Southern Maine Offers
Finding the right treatment setting can feel overwhelming, but understanding the different service levels makes the decision clearer. Recovery options exist on a spectrum, each designed to meet specific healing needs and life circumstances.
The right service level depends on factors like the severity of symptoms, previous treatment history, current living environment, and available support networks. Many people benefit from starting at a higher intensity and gradually transitioning to less intensive services as they build skills and confidence.
Treatment LevelDescriptionBest ForInpatient / Residential24-hour supervision in a structured facility.Individuals needing safety from triggers or intensive medical/emotional support.Partial Hospitalization (PHP)Full days of treatment (6-8 hours) but you sleep at home.Bridging the gap between residential care and outpatient services.Intensive Outpatient (IOP)Multiple sessions per week (9-20 hours total).Those who need substantial support but must maintain work/family duties.Standard OutpatientRegular counseling sessions (1-3 hours/week).Individuals with stable living situations and strong support systems.Comparison of common treatment levels available in Southern Maine.
Professional treatment centers can assess individual situations and recommend appropriate intervention levels, creating personalized plans that address both immediate needs and long-term wellness goals. The goal is matching therapeutic intensity with recovery requirements for the best possible outcomes.
Outpatient vs Residential Care Options
What you'll learn: This section will help you clearly understand the difference between outpatient and residential care options. You'll know you've grasped it when you can list at least one benefit and one challenge of each approach, and picture which would fit your current needs.
Imagine outpatient care as a supportive bridge that lets you keep your daily life moving—work, family, or school—while attending therapy sessions a few times a week. A quality recovery program Southern Maine provides often recommends outpatient care for people with a strong home support system and stable living situation. This option is flexible, helping you stay connected to your responsibilities, but still requires commitment and regular attendance.
Residential care, on the other hand, offers a safe, structured environment where you temporarily live on-site. This is ideal for those needing a higher level of support, away from daily triggers or stress. Research shows that people completing inpatient (residential) programs have lower relapse rates at six months (45.3%) compared to those in outpatient care (56%).2
Practice This: Draw two columns and jot down your current home supports and stressors. Ask yourself: Would I benefit more from stepping away to focus fully on recovery, or does staying home with flexible support fit my needs?
Skill Checkpoint: You're ready for the next step when you can identify which setting—outpatient or residential—best matches your current circumstances.
Business Application: Managers can support employees by understanding these options, making it easier for staff to access care that fits their work-life balance.
Personal Use: Individuals and families can use these insights to weigh which environment offers the right level of structure and support.
How ASAM Criteria Guide Care Matching
What you'll learn: In this section, you'll discover how professionals use the ASAM Criteria to match you with the most appropriate treatment level. You'll know you've learned it when you can explain what the ASAM Criteria is and how it guides your path in a recovery program Southern Maine offers.
The ASAM Criteria, developed by the American Society of Addiction Medicine, acts like a compass for your recovery journey. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, it uses a detailed assessment—considering factors such as your health, readiness to change, living situation, and past treatment experiences—to recommend the level of care that fits you best. This could mean outpatient therapy for those with strong support at home or residential care for individuals needing a more structured setting. By following the ASAM Criteria, providers in Southern Maine ensure that your treatment plan is truly personalized, supporting better outcomes and safer transitions between care levels.10
Practice This: Ask your provider to explain how your assessment results influenced the recommended care level. Write down any questions you have about the process and bring them to your next meeting.
Skill Checkpoint: You're ready to move forward when you can describe what the ASAM Criteria is and why it's important in choosing your treatment plan.
Business Application: Supervisors and HR teams can learn about ASAM Criteria to guide employees toward the right level of support without over- or under-treating.
Personal Use: Individuals and families can use this knowledge to ask informed questions and make confident decisions about care.
Recovery Starts With a Conversation
Whether you’re exploring recovery for yourself or seeking guidance for someone you care about, Coastal Recovery Partners is here to help. Our team offers trauma-informed, evidence-based support grounded in structure, compassion, and real connection—without pressure or judgment.
When you’re ready, we’ll meet you where you are and help you take the next step forward.
Evidence-Based Therapies That Work
Once you've identified the right treatment setting for your needs, the next crucial consideration is understanding which therapeutic approaches will guide the recovery journey. When evaluating recovery options, understanding which therapeutic approaches have proven effectiveness can help guide your decision. Research consistently shows that certain evidence-based therapies deliver measurable results in addiction recovery.
Quality rehabilitation centers clearly communicate which evidence-based therapies they offer and how these modalities work together in your personalized treatment plan. This transparency helps you understand exactly what to expect during your recovery journey. Common effective therapies include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals identify and change thought patterns that contribute to substance use. Studies demonstrate that CBT reduces relapse rates by 40-50% compared to standard treatment alone.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Builds on CBT principles while adding skills for emotional regulation and distress tolerance, particularly beneficial for those managing co-occurring mental health conditions.
- Motivational Interviewing: Creates a collaborative environment where individuals explore their own reasons for change, increasing commitment to recovery.
- Family Therapy: Addresses relationship dynamics and communication patterns, recognizing that healing often extends beyond the individual.
- Trauma-Informed Care: Recognizes the widespread impact of traumatic experiences and integrates this understanding throughout treatment.
Cognitive and Behavioral Approaches
What you'll learn: In this section, you'll discover how cognitive and behavioral therapies—like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)—help reshape thinking and habits around substance use. You’ll know you’ve learned it when you can describe how these approaches work and identify at least one strategy they use to support recovery.
Imagine your mind as a garden: unhealthy thoughts and behaviors are like stubborn weeds, but with the right tools, you can gently pull them out and nurture healthy growth. CBT teaches people to spot unhelpful thoughts and replace them with more realistic, supportive ones. For example, if you believe you "always fail," CBT helps you challenge that idea and build confidence in your ability to change.
DBT, another proven therapy, blends acceptance and change, offering skills for managing tough emotions and building healthy relationships. Research shows that DBT keeps more people engaged in treatment—64% of those receiving DBT remained compared to just 27% in standard approaches.7
Practice This: Write down a recent situation where you felt the urge to use substances. Next to it, jot down the thought or feeling that came up. Can you think of a different way to view or respond to that situation?
Business Application: Managers can encourage staff to explore cognitive and behavioral therapies through employee wellness programs, helping create a healthier work environment.
Personal Use: Individuals and families can ask their recovery program Southern Maine provider if these therapies are included in care, ensuring support is tailored to real-life challenges.
Skill Checkpoint: You’re ready for the next step when you can name a skill or coping tool used in CBT or DBT and explain how it might help in a tough moment.

Medication-Assisted Treatment Benefits
What you'll learn: In this section, you'll discover how medication-assisted treatment (MAT) helps people manage cravings, reduce relapse risk, and build a safer path to recovery. You'll know you've learned it when you can explain one key benefit of MAT and identify who might benefit from this approach.
Medication-assisted treatment combines FDA-approved medicines—such as buprenorphine, methadone, or naltrexone—with counseling and support. Think of MAT like using a safety harness while climbing: it doesn't do the work for you, but it makes your journey safer and more manageable. For individuals with opioid or alcohol dependence, MAT can cut the risk of fatal overdose in half and make it easier to stick with treatment.4
A quality recovery program Southern Maine offers will explain MAT in clear terms, helping you or your loved one understand how these medications work alongside therapy. MAT is not "replacing one drug with another"—instead, it supports your brain and body as you rebuild your life.
Practice This: Write down any questions you have about medications in recovery. Bring your list to a provider and ask how MAT might fit your specific needs or concerns.
Business Application: Supervisors and HR teams can encourage staff to explore MAT options, reducing stigma and supporting return-to-work plans.
Personal Use: Individuals and families can talk with their provider about MAT as part of a well-rounded recovery plan.
Skill Checkpoint: You're ready for the next section when you can describe one way MAT improves safety or success in recovery.
Quality Indicators in a Recovery Program Southern Maine Trusts
Once you understand which evidence-based therapies align with your needs, the next step is evaluating whether a facility delivers these approaches with quality and expertise. When assessing rehabilitation services, certain quality indicators can help determine whether a program offers the comprehensive support needed for lasting recovery.
Quality facilities offer individualized recovery plans rather than one-size-fits-all approaches. Each person's journey with addiction is unique, shaped by different circumstances, co-occurring mental health conditions, and personal histories. Therapeutic interventions should be tailored accordingly, with regular assessments to adjust the plan as recovery progresses.
Use this checklist to evaluate potential programs:
- Staff Qualifications: Look for licensed therapists, certified addiction counselors, and medical professionals. Low staff-to-client ratios are preferable for personalized attention.
- Accreditation: Credentials from bodies like The Joint Commission or CARF International demonstrate adherence to rigorous safety and ethical standards.
- Aftercare Planning: Facilities should prioritize long-term success through discharge planning, community resource connections, and alumni programs.
- Family Involvement: The presence of family therapy or workshops signals a commitment to comprehensive support.
Staff Credentials and Accreditation
What you'll learn: In this section, you'll see why staff credentials and program accreditation are key signs of quality in a recovery program Southern Maine residents can trust. You'll know you’ve learned it when you can explain what to look for in staff qualifications and why accreditation matters for your safety and success.
Think of staff credentials like checking a doctor’s license before surgery—you want to know your care is in skilled hands. High-quality recovery programs have licensed counselors, therapists, and medical professionals who are trained in evidence-based addiction treatment. Look for certifications such as Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or board-certified physicians.
Equally important, national accreditation from organizations like CARF or The Joint Commission means that the program meets strict standards for safety, ethics, and effectiveness—much like a stamp of approval from health inspectors. Research shows that these credentials and accreditations are linked to better treatment outcomes and help ensure programs stay up-to-date with best practices.1
Practice This: When researching a program, ask about staff licenses and certifications. Check if the program is accredited and by which organization.
Business Application: HR leaders can use accreditation as a benchmark when recommending programs to employees, ensuring referrals are safe and reliable.
Personal Use: Individuals and families can feel confident choosing a recovery program Southern Maine offers that proudly shares their staff credentials and accreditation status.
Trauma-Informed and Family-Centered Care
What you'll learn: This section shines a light on why trauma-informed and family-centered care are crucial parts of a high-quality recovery program Southern Maine residents rely on. You'll know you've learned it when you can describe how addressing trauma and involving loved ones support long-term healing.
Many people seeking recovery have experienced trauma, which can deeply influence substance use and the recovery process. Trauma-informed care means that staff are trained to recognize and respond to trauma with sensitivity—creating a safe, respectful environment where you won’t feel judged or retraumatized. This approach helps build trust and encourages open communication.
Family-centered care, on the other hand, brings loved ones into the recovery process. Research shows that programs involving families lead to better engagement, stronger support networks, and improved treatment outcomes for both youth and adults. A trusted recovery program Southern Maine offers will provide education, counseling, and support for families, helping everyone heal together. This might include family therapy sessions, workshops, or support groups for loved ones at every stage.5
Practice This: List people in your life who could be part of your support network. Ask the program how they involve families or address trauma in their services.
Business Application: Employers can look for providers offering family-inclusive care and trauma training, supporting staff well-being at work and at home.
Personal Use: Individuals and families can ask about trauma-informed and family services to make sure their recovery program truly supports the whole person.
Building Long-Term Recovery Success
Sustainable recovery extends far beyond the initial treatment period and requires ongoing commitment to personal growth and wellness. Research consistently shows that individuals who engage with aftercare services and maintain connections with their support networks experience significantly better long-term outcomes. This includes participating in alumni programs, attending regular therapy sessions, and staying connected with peers who understand the recovery journey.
Developing healthy daily routines forms the foundation of lasting sobriety. This means establishing consistent sleep patterns, maintaining proper nutrition, engaging in regular physical activity, and practicing stress management techniques learned during rehabilitation. These habits create stability and help prevent the emotional turbulence that can trigger relapse.
Building a strong support system in everyday life proves essential for navigating challenges that arise months or years after completing care. This network might include family members, sponsors, therapists, and fellow individuals in recovery who provide encouragement during difficult moments. Many people find that giving back through mentorship or volunteer work strengthens their own commitment to sobriety.
Professional rehabilitation services offer comprehensive aftercare planning and ongoing support designed to help individuals maintain their progress. These resources provide guidance through life transitions, relationship challenges, and other situations that test resilience, ensuring that help remains available whenever needed throughout the recovery journey.
The Critical Role of Treatment Duration
What you'll learn: This section explains why the length of time you spend in treatment can make a big difference in your recovery journey. You'll know you've learned it when you can describe how treatment duration affects your chances for lasting success and what research recommends for best results.

Think of recovery as building strength over time—like training for a long race rather than a sprint. Staying engaged with your recovery program Southern Maine provider for at least 90 days has been shown to significantly boost outcomes and reduce the risk of relapse. Shorter programs may help with initial stabilization, but ongoing commitment gives your brain and habits time to heal and adjust.
"Research shows that those who complete longer-term treatment are much more likely to maintain positive changes, and treatment retention is directly tied to better quality of life and long-term recovery."2
Practice This: Draw a simple calendar or timeline and mark three key milestones: your treatment start date, a 90-day goal, and a six-month check-in. Share this with your care team to plan regular reviews and celebrate progress.
Business Application: Employers can encourage staff to prioritize consistent attendance in treatment, allowing flexibility for appointments over an extended period.
Personal Use: Individuals and families should ask programs about typical treatment length and support for staying engaged beyond the first few weeks.
Skill Checkpoint: You’re ready to move forward when you can explain why sticking with treatment for at least 90 days increases your chance of long-term recovery.
Aftercare and Relapse Prevention Planning
What you'll learn: This section will show you how aftercare and relapse prevention planning are vital for maintaining your progress after completing a recovery program Southern Maine offers. You'll know you've learned it when you can list at least one aftercare resource and describe a basic relapse prevention strategy.
Finishing treatment is a major milestone, but the journey continues as you return to everyday life. Think of aftercare as a safety net—a set of supports that catch you if you stumble and help you stay on track. Research highlights that the first few months after treatment are when relapse risk is highest, making ongoing support and planning especially important. Quality recovery programs provide relapse prevention tools, help you create plans for handling triggers, and connect you with resources like peer support groups, alumni programs, or ongoing counseling.
Practice This: Draft a short list of situations that might challenge your recovery (such as stress at work or social events). Write down two strategies for coping, like reaching out to a peer mentor or attending a support meeting. Share this plan with your provider so they can help strengthen your aftercare support.
Business Application: Employers can support employees by sharing information about community aftercare resources and allowing time off for ongoing appointments.
Personal Use: Individuals and families should ask their provider about structured aftercare and relapse prevention planning—ensuring recovery remains a priority beyond graduation.
Skill Checkpoint: You’re ready for the next step when you can describe your own plan for staying connected and handling challenges after treatment.
Taking the First Step Toward Recovery
Recovery from addiction is a journey that begins with a single, courageous decision. While the path ahead may seem uncertain, reaching out for professional support can provide the guidance and structure needed to move forward with confidence.
Many people find that connecting with treatment professionals helps them understand their options and feel less overwhelmed. Whether exploring outpatient counseling, intensive therapeutic interventions, or residential care, trained specialists can assess individual needs and recommend appropriate levels of support. During that first conversation, a counselor will simply listen to the situation, answer questions without judgment, and help identify what type of care might be the best fit—there's no pressure or commitment required.
Taking that first step doesn't mean having all the answers or feeling completely ready. It simply means acknowledging that change is possible and that support is available.
Here are three concrete actions to begin the recovery journey today:
- Call a Helpline: Contact a national treatment helpline like SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357, available 24/7 for free, confidential support.
- Medical Assessment: Schedule an appointment with a primary care doctor who can provide a medical assessment and referrals to addiction specialists.
- Local Consultation: Reach out to a local treatment center to arrange a consultation and learn about available programs.
Each of these steps moves someone closer to the support they deserve and the healthier, more fulfilling life that recovery makes possible.
You don't have to have all the answers. You just need to recognize the need for change. Connect with us today for free benefits verification and a personalized path forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Those exploring treatment options often have similar questions about the recovery process. Here are answers to some of the most common concerns:
Can I work or go to school while attending an outpatient recovery program?
Yes, you can often continue working or going to school while attending an outpatient recovery program. Outpatient programs are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing you to participate in therapy and support sessions at scheduled times so you can maintain your daily commitments. Many people find this approach helpful because it lets them apply new recovery skills in real-world situations, like at their job or in class.
A trusted recovery program Southern Maine offers will work with you to create a schedule that fits your needs—this might include evening or weekend sessions. Providers understand the importance of balancing treatment with responsibilities, and research shows that staying connected to work or school can improve motivation and support long-term recovery. If you need extra support, ask about case management or academic and employment assistance services that may be available.1
If you have questions about how outpatient treatment could fit your routine, reach out to the program’s admissions team. They can explain what options are available and help you plan a path that keeps your goals on track.
What if I've tried treatment before and relapsed—will it work this time?
Relapse can feel discouraging, but it’s actually a common part of the recovery journey—most people experience at least one setback along the way. Studies show that between 40% and 60% of people in recovery from substance use disorders will relapse at some point, similar to the rates seen in managing other chronic conditions like diabetes or asthma. This does not mean treatment failed or that you can’t succeed; rather, it signals that your care plan may need some adjustments or added support.3
A quality recovery program Southern Maine offers will meet you with compassion if you’ve relapsed. Providers will work with you to review what’s changed in your life, address new or ongoing challenges, and tailor your plan with evidence-based therapies, relapse prevention strategies, or a different level of care. Many people find that each attempt at recovery builds new strengths and insights, helping them move closer to lasting change. If you’re feeling discouraged, know that reaching out again is a sign of resilience—not defeat. Support is always available, and each step forward truly counts toward your recovery.
How do I know if a program accepts my insurance or offers payment options?
Before starting treatment, it’s natural to wonder about insurance coverage and payment options. The best way to find out if a recovery program Southern Maine offers accepts your insurance is to contact the admissions or billing team directly. Most programs will review your insurance benefits, explain what is covered, and help you understand any out-of-pocket costs. If you don’t have insurance, ask about sliding scale fees, payment plans, or scholarships—many providers are committed to making care accessible regardless of financial situation.
Quality programs walk you through the process step by step, ensuring you have clear information before making decisions. According to national treatment guidelines, open communication about costs and payment options is essential for helping individuals and families access needed care without unnecessary barriers.3
If you’re unsure where to start, organizations like SAMHSA’s National Helpline can also provide free guidance on programs that fit your financial needs. Don’t hesitate to reach out—support is available to help you take the next step with confidence.
Can family members participate in my treatment and recovery process?
Yes, family members can absolutely participate in your treatment and recovery process. In fact, research shows that involving family leads to stronger support networks, increased engagement, and better outcomes for both youth and adults in recovery. Many recovery program Southern Maine providers offer family-inclusive services such as family therapy sessions, educational workshops, and support groups for loved ones. These services help families understand addiction, learn effective communication skills, and become active partners in the healing journey.5
A welcoming, high-quality program will tailor family involvement to your needs—some people want their loved ones deeply involved from the start, while others prefer more privacy. Providers work with you to find the right balance, ensuring everyone feels respected and supported. If you’re interested, ask your admissions team what family services are available and how your loved ones can participate.
Bringing family into the process can make recovery feel less isolating and provide encouragement during challenging moments. This supportive approach is a hallmark of trusted treatment programs and can help everyone move forward together.
What happens if I need a higher level of care after starting outpatient treatment?
If you start outpatient treatment but realize you need more support, you’re not alone—and there’s a clear path forward. Quality programs use ongoing assessments and open communication to monitor your progress. If it becomes clear that outpatient care isn’t meeting your needs, your provider will talk with you about stepping up to a higher level of care, such as an intensive outpatient program (IOP) or residential treatment. This decision is guided by clinical standards like the ASAM Criteria, ensuring your care matches your current situation and offers the right level of structure and support.10
A trusted recovery program Southern Maine offers will help coordinate this transition, so you don’t have to navigate the change on your own. The team will explain what to expect, answer your questions, and make sure your new care plan addresses your unique needs. This approach reduces stress and helps you stay focused on your recovery goals.
If you’re worried about needing a higher level of care, reach out to your provider—they’re there to support you every step of the way.
Is medication-assisted treatment right for everyone in recovery?
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a valuable option for many people in recovery, but it's not the right fit for everyone. MAT uses FDA-approved medications like buprenorphine, methadone, or naltrexone—combined with counseling—to help manage cravings and reduce the risk of relapse. Research shows that MAT can cut the risk of fatal overdose in half for individuals with opioid use disorder. However, whether MAT is recommended depends on your substance use history, health needs, and personal preferences.4
A quality recovery program Southern Maine offers will provide a thorough assessment to see if MAT is appropriate for you. The care team will talk you through the benefits and possible side effects, answer your questions, and help you decide if MAT fits your goals. Some people find that MAT is essential to their long-term recovery, while others do well with therapy alone. If you're considering MAT, ask your provider how it could support your specific journey. The best programs help you make informed choices and support you, whatever path you choose.
How long will I need to stay in treatment to see lasting results?
The length of time you'll need to stay in treatment to see lasting results varies for each person, but research consistently shows that longer engagement leads to better outcomes. Experts recommend committing to at least 90 days of care, as programs of this duration are linked to significantly higher rates of recovery and lower relapse risk compared to shorter stays. Substance use recovery is a process, not a quick fix—think of it like learning a new skill, where practice and support over time help changes stick. A quality recovery program Southern Maine offers will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan, regularly checking in and adjusting your care as needed. Some people may benefit from ongoing support or aftercare services even after their initial program ends. If you have questions about how long your treatment should last, your provider can help you set realistic goals and milestones based on your needs.2
No matter your starting point, staying engaged with support increases your chances of long-term success.
References
- Guide: 11 Indicators of Quality Addiction Treatment. https://www.recoveryanswers.org/resource/effective-addiction-treatment-what-makes-a-good-addiction-treatment-program/
- Evidence-based practices for substance use disorders. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3678283/
- SAMHSA's National Helpline for Mental Health, Drug, Alcohol Issues. https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/helplines/national-helpline
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Opioid Use Disorder. https://www.naco.org/resource/osc-mat
- Family Involvement in Treatment and Recovery for Substance Use Disorders. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8380649/
- ASAM Level of Care Certification Program. https://www.asam.org/asam-criteria/level-of-care-certification
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Substance Abusers. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2797106/
- Motivational interviewing for substance use reduction. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38084817/
- Treatment | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/treatment
- The ASAM Criteria, Fourth Edition. https://www.asam.org/asam-criteria




