Guides
Questions to ask a rehab before you choose
A good program welcomes questions. Keep this list by the phone, and write down the answers so you can compare.
License and staff
- What is your DHCS license or certification number?
- Who is your medical director? Are nurses on site at night?
- What licenses do your therapists hold (LMFT, LCSW, psychologist)?
- How many clients does each counselor work with?
Treatment
- Which therapies do you use, and why?
- Do you offer or allow medication-assisted treatment?
- How do you treat depression, anxiety or trauma?
- What does a typical day look like?
- How is family involved?
Cost and length of stay
- What will I owe, in writing?
- How long is a typical stay, and who decides?
- What happens if insurance stops paying?
- What is your refund policy?
After treatment
- Do you arrange the next level of care before discharge?
- Do you offer alumni support or aftercare groups?
- Can you recommend sober living, and do you have any financial relationship with it?
Why these questions matter
Treatment programs can look alike online. The differences show up in the answers: who is actually on staff, how much therapy you get each day, what it costs, and what happens when you leave. Asking the same questions of two or three programs lets you compare them on facts rather than on photos or promises.
Good answers vs warning signs
| You ask | A good sign | A warning sign |
|---|---|---|
| License number? | Given right away; matches DHCS | Vague, or “we are accredited” with no license |
| Cost? | A written estimate after insurance | “Do not worry about cost”, or “completely free” |
| Length of stay? | Based on your progress and needs | A fixed number of days for everyone |
| Medication for opioids or alcohol? | Offered or supported | Not allowed for anyone |
| Aftercare? | A named next step before discharge | “We will figure it out later” |
| Referral source? | They explain any relationships | Offers of travel, rent or gifts to enroll |
Questions for families
- How will you update me, with my loved one’s permission?
- Is there a family program or family therapy?
- What should I do if my loved one wants to leave early?
- How can I support them after discharge?
Write the answers down
Keep a simple note for each program: name, license number, cost estimate, levels of care, and how the call felt. A program that is patient and clear on the phone is often the same way in treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Is accreditation the same as a license?
No. A state license (from DHCS in California) is required to operate. Accreditation from groups like The Joint Commission or CARF is voluntary and shows a program met extra standards.
How many programs should I call?
Two or three is usually enough to compare. If safety is urgent, start with detox and keep comparing for the next step.