How Long is Drug Rehab?

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Last Updated on July 4, 2025

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How Long is Drug Rehab?

The decision to go to rehab is an important one and it requires a lot of thought and consideration. When choosing a rehab program, people think about the cost and location. Another important factor is the length of treatment. How long does drug rehab last??

At Nova Recovery Center, our drug rehab program lasts 90 days. We provide complete care with personalized treatment at every step of recovery. However, it’s also important to know that there are other options out there. Ultimately, the best type of program is the one that most effectively meets your needs.

The Stages of Addiction Treatment?

Drug rehab center programs provide several addiction treatment methods, each offering different levels of structure, support, and programming. Some treatment episodes last longer than others. However, designers make each one to meet the needs of different patients.

Medical Detox

Most treatment programs begin with medically-assisted detox, often called simply ‘detox.’ Recovery is important. Also, the best way to remove mind-altering substances from the body. This allows clients to start treatment in a sober and stable state.

During a medical detox program, patients stop using different substances. A team of doctors, nurses, and counselors monitors them. This team ensures their safety, comfort, and well-being during the process.

Drug and alcohol withdrawal can be extremely uncomfortable and even dangerous in some instances. So, having round-the-clock supervision and medical treatment is ideal. 

Depending on the person and the severity of his or her addiction, detox can last anywhere from a few days to about two weeks. Many people complete detox in just 5 to 7 days, marking the first step toward healing and recovery. However, once detox is complete, the person can move on to a therapeutic stage of addiction treatment.

People can choose whether to continue with rehab after detox, based on their needs and preventing relapse. This is especially true for those who have had substance abuse issues before.

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Residential Rehab

Residential rehab is great for people with serious substance use problems and medication management needs. It helps those who often relapse or need more therapy. This includes individuals with other mental health issues.

If you join a residential rehab, you will stay at the center during your treatment. You will have limited contact with outsiders. However, staff typically allow visitors during specific hours or on certain days.

Depending on the type of residential program you choose, your treatment could take anywhere from 30 to 90 day drug rehab programs. During this time, you will finish an addiction treatment program. This program will likely use proven methods for treating addiction, such as:

  • Individual therapy sessions
  • Group therapy sessions
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy cbt
  • Family therapy sessions and programs
  • Specialized therapies like music therapy, art therapy, or pet-assisted therapy
  • 12-Step meetings and activities
  • Educational lectures

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

You can start with residential rehab or go straight into it after medical detox. An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is usually the next step in not struggling with addiction.

IOP can last anywhere from a few weeks to six months or so. You will visit the behavioral health center several times a week. You will spend several hours each day in treatment at the facility.

If you begin your treatment with detox, then finish a 90-day rehab program, you will spend almost a year in treatment. This includes six months of IOP after rehab. However, this is exceedingly common, especially for people who require more intensive treatment.

Addiction is a long-lasting disease that can come back. It needs regular treatment and care, just like other chronic diseases.

Outpatient Rehab

Many people want or receive treatment after finishing higher levels of care, like residential rehab or IOP. In these instances, outpatient treatment is an ideal solution. Outpatient treatment programs can also vary greatly, in that they may last just a few weeks or more than a year.

You will go to the rehab facility every week, just like with IOP. However, you will spend less time in therapy each day and integrate 12-step programs. To keep a full-time job, continue your education, or handle home duties, you have more time to do so.

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Extended Care Programs for Addiction

After finishing the stages of addiction treatment, many people choose to keep getting support. This helps them as they return home and adjust to long-term sobriety. Extended care programs vary greatly and can provide different amounts of structure depending on what you need.

  • Sober living homes provide a safe, drug-free place to live. They offer shared or private rooms, basic amenities, and community activities. Residents must follow house rules, maintain sobriety, and pay monthly like rent.
  • Aftercare groups help people in recovery who are going through big life changes. These changes can include divorce, moving, or losing a family member. Led by treatment professionals, these weekly meetings provide guidance and stability during high-risk periods.
  • Peer recovery programs offer certified support. They offer weekly or bi-weekly sessions, along with 24/7 access to live recovery support. They also provide services for families.

Common Types of Drug Rehab Programs

The addiction treatment process usually happens in several steps. These steps include detox, rehab, sober living, and aftercare services. The most common types of drug rehab programs are:

Each option has its pros and cons. The National Institute on Drug Abuse recommends at least 90 days for addiction treatment. Longer treatment leads to better chances of lasting sobriety.

A 30-day or 60-day drug rehab program can work. However, research shows that better results depend on a longer treatment length. Most people need at least 90 days of continuous treatment to maintain positive outcomes.

Establishing Realistic Expectations for Drug Rehab

If you or a loved one is joining a drug rehab program, it’s important to have realistic expectations. Understand the drug rehab and treatment process.

  • Addiction recovery is personal, and outcomes depend on individual effort. Rehab duration varies, and some may need more time than expected to support long-term sobriety.
  • The treatment process is fluid. This means your addiction treatment program will change with your ongoing needs. Consequently, you and your loved ones must remain open to the process, keeping in mind that things won’t always be black and white.
  • Recognizing your limitations will help you make wise treatment decisions. If you are looking at different drug rehab options, consider your limitations. Think about your finances, health insurance, and time. Also, check the types of rehab programs near you if you cannot travel for treatment.

With these things in mind, here are some of the pros and cons of 30, 60, and 90-day drug rehab programs.

Pros and Cons of a 90-day Rehab Program

  • Has a higher success rate than 30 or 60-day programs
  • Is ideal for people with severe or long-term addictions
  • Provides a deeper and more comprehensive learning experience
  • Offers a longer getaway from the stressors of daily life
  • Provides more time to address psychological issues and co-occurring disorders
  • Gives clients more time to change unhealthy habits, practice relapse prevention skills, and identify triggers
  • Offers medical and clinical supervision for post-acute withdrawal syndrome
  • Can be a more difficult commitment with work or home responsibilities
  • Is typically more expensive than 30 or 60-day programs

Pros and Cons of 30-day and 60-Day Rehab Programs

  • Takes less time to complete (quicker return to work, school, family responsibilities, etc.)
  • Treatment is shorter so it is also less expensive
  • Insurance providers may be more likely to cover the full 30-day treatment
  • Many people still need more help and support to stay sober after 30 days of treatment
  • It may not provide enough time for clients to recover from post-acute withdrawal syndrome
  • The overall relapse rate is higher
  • Clients have less time to address psychological issues and co-occurring disorders

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Why Longer Addiction Treatment Programs Are Preferred

Longer addiction treatment programs are typically preferred by addiction experts and treatment professionals for several reasons:

  • Long-term rehab provides more time to make behavioral changes that produce lasting, positive change.
  • Long-term rehab offers continuous care and support for newly sober individuals.
  • Long-term rehab keeps clients away from negative influences for a longer period.
  • Research studies show that long-term rehab leads to fewer relapses. It also helps people stay sober from drugs and alcohol.

How Long Are Drug Rehab Programs

The duration of time you spend in inpatient rehab will vary depending on several factors:

  • The severity of your addiction
  • Your history of substance abuse and relapse
  • Your specific treatment needs
  • Your level of commitment to the recovery process

If you want to know how long you will be in rehab, talk to an admissions representative. These individuals can do an assessment with you. This will help them find the best treatment for you and how long it may take.

Addiction Treatment With Nova Recovery Center

Addiction is a complex disease and the treatment process may take several months or years. Investing your time and money in a 90-day program may help you more in the long run.

To learn more about Nova Recovery Center’s 90-day drug rehab program, please call (512) 605-2955. Our admissions team is ready to help you today.

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