Good That You Reached Out--Great Start

Hi Jessi--Thanks for reaching out to ChooseHelp.com. This is a great way to start your recovery. I would be pleased to help in any way I can but before we can get started I need a bit more information from you. 

First of all there is a difference in the choices you have available to you. You can participate in a 'public' program which means that it is funded by the state on your behalf or you can attend a 'private' facility that likely provides more amenities but you are responsible for the cost of attending.

Once you decide which program you are attending you can get on to the next step.

You can research the information you need by typing: 'the state you live in+alcohol and drug assessment and referral agencies+public (or private) and see what information comes up. You should be able to find the information you are looking for with this search. Often times you can get the information you need from the local hospital. Go-ask to speak to the social worker or the crisis worker in the emergency department. They may be able to suggest an agency close by your town or in your town that could be of help. If you have a need for strict confidentiality then proceed with your search as I outlined it above.

Next step: You would contact a referral agency in your area. Make an appointment to see a counsellor and they would help you fill out all the assessments and paper work necessary for you to gain entry into the program that would best suit your needs. (Be sure to organize a ride to the appointment ahead of time if you are not driving.) Once at the appointment the counsellor will want to know things like which substances were you having difficulty with; would you like to attend a female specific program or would you like to be in a co-ed program (one that includes male clients as well); how long have you been using the substances that are problematic and at what level of use (frequency) were you involved--every day use or once or twice a week use for instance.

They might assess for how much support you have around you and certainly what your goals are for attending a program. There are other areas that they will inquire about but these are the type of questions that you would be asked.

Once they know more about your circumstances and a bit about your history they will be able to make a referral to a program that they feel will best serve you and would then secure an admission date for you. Don't be afraid to ask questions about the facility and the program. This is your life and you need to take charge of it again. Their responsibility is to answer any questions you may have before you enter the program and the facility. Your referral agent will become one of your primary supports pre-treatment and after your treatment experience has finished. Once you step into the office to do your assessment you are no longer all by yourself--you do not have to go through all of this alone.

If at any time you have other questions or you feel overwhelmed by the process you can contact me through ChooseHelp.com

I wish you Strength and Peace on your journey, all the best, James C.