Choosing treatment

15 questions to ask a rehab before admitting

Published November 1, 2024 · 7 min read · Updated April 2026

Reviewed for accuracy by licensed clinical professionals.

These questions help you evaluate treatment quality beyond marketing materials.

About clinical care

1. What evidence-based therapies do you use? (Should name specifics: CBT, DBT, MI, EMDR.) 2. What credentials does your clinical staff hold? (Licensed therapists, not just counselors.) 3. Do you offer MAT? (Answer should be yes without qualification.) 4. How do you treat co-occurring conditions? 5. What does a typical day look like?

About your care

6. Will I have an individualized treatment plan? 7. How often will I see my therapist individually? 8. What is your approach to family involvement? 9. What does aftercare planning look like? 10. What is your policy on phone and visitor access?

About the program

11. Are you CARF or Joint Commission accredited? 12. What are your completion and outcome rates? 13. What is your staff-to-patient ratio? 14. What happens if I need medical attention? 15. What are the total costs and what does insurance cover?

Authoritative sources

This article references guidelines from: SAMHSA · NIDA · ASAM

Frequently asked questions

What should I ask before going to rehab?

Ask about evidence-based therapies, staff credentials, MAT availability, accreditation, outcomes, and total costs.

What answers are red flags?

Cannot name specific therapies, no accreditation, no MAT, guaranteed outcomes, evasiveness about costs or credentials.

Should I visit before admitting?

If possible, yes. Tours reveal environment quality, staff demeanor, and patient engagement that calls cannot convey.

Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. SAMHSA: 1-800-662-4357.