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Addiction

The Cost of Treatment

By Mark GladdenJune 8, 20224 min read
The Cost of Treatment

Addiction treatment will be one of the most important decisions you can make in a lifetime. If you or a...

Updated September 2026: The historical price examples below are no longer current. Treatment recommendations, private-pay rates, benefits, authorization, and financial responsibility vary. Contact Present Moments Recovery for current information.

Addiction treatment will be one of the most important decisions you can make in a lifetime. If you or a loved one are considering treatment for substance abuse, you have probably wondered how much it will cost.

One reason people may postpone drug or alcohol treatment is uncertainty about cost. Current rates and financial responsibility depend on the recommended services, individual plan, and provider; confirm them directly before making a decision.

Types and Costs of Addiction Treatment

The cost of substance abuse treatment is difficult to pin down. The type of treatment needed and how long you need to remain in the treatment program are factors that affect cost.

In addition, addiction programs may offer the same services, but prices can differ substantially from one treatment center to the next. The location of the facility and any amenities offered will help determine the final cost of treatment, along with the level of care needed.

Detoxification

Detox recommendations and current rates depend on the clinical situation and setting. Confirm current private-pay information directly with the provider.

The clinical recommendation, including whether outpatient detox is appropriate, depends on substance use, withdrawal risk, medical history, and available support. Current rates should be confirmed directly.

Residential Treatment

Residential treatment programs involve living full-time at the recovery treatment center; the facility will provide all meals and round-the-clock care. The price will vary depending on the type of facility you choose.

Residential recommendations, length of stay, and current rates are individualized. Coverage and authorization decisions vary by plan and clinical information and cannot be assumed.

Partial Hospitalization Program

In a partial hospitalization program (PHP), you will devote at least five days a week days to treatment. Each treatment day averages six hours. You will participate in group and individual therapy, develop coping skills, and receive "real life" education on addiction and the triggers that proceed it.

PHP may be recommended as part of an individualized care plan. Current rates, coverage, and authorization decisions should be confirmed directly.

Intensive Outpatient Program

An intensive outpatient program (IOP) may help people continue daily responsibilities while receiving structured care. Scheduling, length, current private-pay rates, and benefits are individualized and should be confirmed directly.

Sober Living

Sober living homes should be overseen by individuals who have been through recovery themselves. This community supports men and women in early recovery to build a solid life foundation, free from drugs and alcohol. Attendance at recovery support groups is required and referrals to a higher level of care are made if needed for mental health stability.

Sober living is housing rather than a clinical treatment level. House expectations, availability, current rates, and any applicable benefits should be confirmed directly with the provider.

Paying for Treatment

Insurance is a standard method of payment for addiction treatment. The amount that insurance covers will depend on the severity of the substance abuse, the insurance policy, and what type of insurance the treatment facility accepts.

Each provider determines which payment methods it accepts. Ask the provider about current private-pay options and any available financial arrangements; no financing, adjustment, or benefit can be assumed.

Is the Cost of Treatment Addiction Worth It?

The price you pay for addiction treatment is nowhere near the amount you will spend during active addiction. The cost of addiction treatment may initially seem overwhelming. The reason for the high cost is the amount of time and personal attention afforded the patient in a great treatment program.

Those afflicted with the disease of addiction are more likely to miss work and change jobs more often than sober individuals, negatively affecting their income. The amount of money needed to feed an addiction, legal issues, health problems, and lack of efficiency at work gradually adds to an overwhelming cost.

The cost of addiction treatment is nothing compared to the cost of relationships lost. You may pay the ultimate price in the loss of your life or those in your inner circle. A comprehensive treatment program will be the best investment in your life.

Seeking Treatment for Addiction

It can feel overwhelming when searching for help with substance use disorders. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers the behavioral health treatment services locator to help find mental health services in your area. In addition, you can find helpful information about treatment facilities that provide specialty care by using SAMHSA's substance use treatment locator.

Addiction treatment is one of the most significant decisions you will ever make throughout your life. Don't struggle with substance use alone; there is help available. Present Moments Recovery in San Diego, California, provides an individualized and comprehensive approach to addiction, with many levers of care designed to guide clients to long-term recovery. We like to deviate from traditional practices so that we can help you form a firm foundation for your ongoing recovery journey. Our treatment center is family-run and offers one-on-one therapy to ensure your unique needs are met. We focus on extensive treatment to promote long-term recovery. We provide a calm and home-like environment where you can finally allow yourself to heal from the effects of addiction. Present Moments Recovery believes recovery only happens in the present moment. Call us today and learn more about our services at (619) 363-4767 .

Written by

Mark Gladden

Co-Founder & CEO of Present Moments Recovery, and a person in long-term recovery. Sharing more than a decade of insight on addiction, recovery, and family healing in North County San Diego.

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