If you’ve made the difficult decision to enter one of the many drug rehab centers in Los Angeles, you are no doubt feeling fearful and unsure. Knowing what to expect before you check in goes a long way toward making the transition and your recovery that much easier. Part of that is knowing what the rules and regulations are so that you can be sure that your recovery needs are being met in an appropriate manner. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know.
Regulations for Residential Drug Rehab Centers in Los Angeles
Drug rehab centers fall under the category of residential treatment in California, similar to a group home. Restrictions vary based on size, with those having six of fewer residents falling under different regulations than larger treatment centers. Residential centers that do not provide medical services are not required to be licensed. However, licensing is required if any of the following services are provided:
- Detox
- Individual or group therapy
- Addiction education
- Rehab for drug or alcohol use
- Addiction aftercare planning
If you are looking for a drug rehab center, chances are that the services you need fall under one of these categories, so it’s important to find one that is licensed. Another thing to keep in mind is that patients in drug rehab are considered disabled under the Fair Housing Act, so your rehab center cannot be within 300 feet of another such center.
Regulations for Partial Hospitalization and Outpatient Treatment Centers
For the most part, any outpatient or partial hospitalization programs fall under the same regulations as drug rehab centers, as outlined above. Licensing is required for the same services and are also subject to any county or city regulations as well.
Regulations for Sober Living Facilities
A sober living facility is a transitional housing option for someone who has completed rehab. They are not required to be licensed since they do not provide medical care on site. However, they cannot be placed just anywhere in Los Angeles. A sober living facility must still follow any business permitting and zoning guidelines and there are restrictions regarding how many sober living homes can be in close proximity to one another.
Choosing the Right Place
In addition to making sure the place you choose for rehab is appropriately licensed and following relevant regulations, you should also have a look at the staff. Addiction recovery specialists must complete education, training and licensing to be legally allowed to provide their services in the state of California. That includes Addiction Counselor Certification, the California Association of DUI Treatment Programs, and the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals. To ensure appropriate, safe, and quality care during your rehab program, it’s vital to ensure that those helping you are trained and experienced enough to do so.
Do you want to know more about the rules for drug rehab centers in Los Angeles? Canon Human Services Centers, Inc. is here for you. Contact us today with all of your questions and concerns and we’ll help guide you through the process.