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Asian woman scared of residential treatment

Residential Treatment Isn’t as Scary as You Think

If you’re considering starting residential treatment, it makes sense that you may be afraid. You are suddenly unsure about what the future holds for you. While many resources exist combatting common myths about what substance abuse treatment will be like, it’s easy to get the wrong idea. Even certain media portrayals rely on outdated and no longer accurate representations of addiction treatment. 

In this blog, the licensed mental health professionals at the Promises Behavioral Health treatment centers in Florida, Texas, Tennessee, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania turn their compassionate understanding toward clients new to the world of treatment. We understand that a new experience like treatment and recovery can trigger fears. For this reason, we’re experienced in supporting clients to overcome obstacles that prevent them from achieving lasting sobriety. Including the fear of failure. Or even the fear of a healthy life.

So What Can You Expect in Residential Addiction Treatment? 

While individualized treatment is key, clients entering into a residential program can expect some common themes or even phases in their treatment:

The Assessment Phase

This may occur prior to your acceptance into a residential addiction treatment program. It occurs at the very outset of treatment. Often from your first call to the treatment center, the care coordinators work to determine the appropriate placement for you. Admission to a residential facility (with or without a stay in the detox facility) is warranted when you require a higher level of care.

The Orientation Phase

Once you arrive at the treatment facility, you will become oriented to the program’s specifics. It often includes lodging, meals, scheduling and expectations. You will be introduced to your treatment team, and together with them, your treatment plan will be determined. 

The Treatment Phase

Clients who participate in an individualized treatment program at any of The Promises Behavioral Health Centers will work with professionals who help them address various triggers and possible causes of relapses. We empower our clients with coping mechanisms and skills that apply to their situation specifically. Our professionals understand that a one-size-fits-all approach is ineffective for successful treatment and recovery. With that in mind, your treatment plan may include a mixture of therapy programs according to your needs, and may include:

EMDR therapy programs

Equine-assisted therapy

DBT therapy

Couples therapy

Family therapy

Grief therapy

The Preparation Phase

The preparation phase we refer to here corresponds with nearing the end of treatment. It’s no secret that the time immediately following a residential program presents a considerable threat to your newly won sobriety. The preparation for the end of the treatment phase includes creating a relapse prevention plan, strengthening your recovery skills and reviewing your options after residential treatment. Your options may include stepping down into a lower (but still intensive) level of care like PHP or IOP, transitioning to a sober living environment or both.

The Aftercare Phase

After you successfully graduate from the residential program, you will join the ranks of our Promises Behavioral alumni community. You will be entitled to free aftercare services and connected with our program as long as it suits you. 

Don’t Let Fear Get in the Way of Residential Treatment

If you’re considering attending substance abuse treatment or know someone who may benefit from our services, it makes sense that you may be fearful of what the future holds. Out of a protective instinct, the human brain is hardwired to be uncomfortable or “on edge” when facing unknowns. Just anticipating potentially stressful or unpleasant circumstances can send the brain into fight-or-flight mode. However, armed with the knowledge in this blog, residential treatment does not need to be as scary as you think.

While fears about starting residential treatment may be understandable, ruminating on those fears can lead you away from your goals. Rather than ruminating, confront your feelings and fears. And pursue the substance-free life you deserve that will allow you to enjoy better physical, mental and emotional health. Having the courage to admit a problem exists and seek appropriate help is the first step on the personal journey of overcoming substance use. 

If you’re supporting someone else in need of residential treatment, always begin with understanding. Be sure to validate of the monumental shift being asked of them. However, you can feel secure knowing that a Promises Behavioral Health center has your best interests at heart. Each of our treatment and counseling centers provides individualized programs tailored to specific conditions. We help individuals achieve their goals of leaving unhealthy habits in the past. If you’re interested in learning more about the Promises Behavioral Health Center near you, connect with our support center at (888) 970-4303. 

You can also learn more about each residential program on their websites:

Promises Five Palms—Ormond Beach, Florida

The Ranch Tennessee—Nunnelly, Tennessee

The Ranch Pennsylvania—Wrightsville, Pennsylvania

Promises Brazos Valley—College Station, Texas

The Right Step Hill Country—Wimberly, Texas

The Right Step Houston—Houston, Texas

Washburn House—Worcester, Massachusetts

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