10 Questions To Ask a 30-Day Treatment Program

Before you decide on a 30-day treatment program for your loved one, you will want to ask some important questions to determine the quality of the program. There are a lot of 30-day treatment programs out there, and not all will be worth your time, money, effort and emotions.

It’s important to do the research. You don’t want to waste valuable time and resources on an ineffective program. Ineffective programs are not only a waste of time and money, when it comes to mental health, they can be hurtful. I’ve often worked with clients whom have come to me for help after spending a lot of time, money and emotions in the wrong program.

Whether you are researching a program for mental health, substance use, neurodiversity or a mixture of all, ask many questions before making a decision.

Here are 10 questions to ask when choosing a 30-day treatment program:

What treatment methods and experiences are offered?
- Different modalities work for different people, so make sure you understand what treatment methods are used, why they are used, and if it fits your situation.
How long has the clinical team been there and what are their licenses?
- The better programs will have very experienced therapists, directors and providers. Changes in staff are to be expected, however high turnover is often not a good sign and if this is the case, get explanations. Here’s a list of different licenses and what they mean.
If it’s a program for adolescents, what kind of supervision, structure and emergency protocols do they have?
- What is their staff to client ratio? What kind of day and night supervision do they practice? If a crisis arrises, does the whole team contribute and collaborate?
What is the daily schedule?
- What is the typical structure of the day including therapy sessions, group sessions, downtime, and recreational activities? What is the daily schedule, including school?
Are treatment plans creative and individualized?
- The mental health and sobriety journey is unique and personal. One treatment plan is not necessarily the correct plan for another. Personalized treatment plans are the foundation for success so ask what the specific treatment would be for your loved one.
How is family included?
- Are there family therapy sessions? Are their family support groups? When can you visit?
Do they have or help with continuing care?
- Part of the journey of mental health and sobriety is the post-treatment plans. Does the program help with after-care, or continuing care? Such as outpatient programs, sober living or ongoing counseling.
Will they give referrals of past clients or present families? It’s a red flag if they won’t give you names to call in order to get the perspective of a past client.
- Better than relying on Google or a website, is talking to a real person whom has experienced the program.
What is the financial investment and is insurance accepted?
- Understanding the financial obligations upfront can prevent unexpected expenses later.
Is the “vibe” a fit?
- Unless the client can feel safe, connected and at some level an interest is something the program provides, progress will not happen. The treatment program should be a “vibe” fit.

Making the final decision.

Choosing the right 30-day treatment program can be an overwhelming process. Finding the right fit is crucial to a person’s recovery and health. Asking the right questions can help. Even better, is if you can visit the program(s) before you or your loved one attends it. A therapeutic consultant has done the traveling and curated the good from bad 30-day treatment programs and more.

At Therapeutic Educational Consulting, we guide, support and recommend placement options for 30-day treatment options, and beyond. Schedule a no-cost discovery call with Rae Guyer, therapeutic consultant to discuss options.