Addiction Treatment in Texas
Getting help with addiction starts with one phone call.
Getting help with addiction starts with one phone call.
Making the decision to seek help for drug or alcohol addiction is one of the hardest, and bravest, steps you'll ever take. If you're reading this, you or someone you care about is likely struggling with substance use, and you're trying to figure out where to turn. The good news is that Texas offers some of the most comprehensive addiction treatment resources in the country, with hundreds of facilities ready to help you start your recovery journey.
But here's the thing: finding the right treatment center can feel overwhelming. Texas is huge, with options ranging from rural ranch-style facilities to urban medical centers, and the sheer number of choices can be paralyzing when you're already dealing with so much. You might be wondering about costs, whether your insurance will cover treatment, or what type of program would work best for your situation.
The reality is that addiction affects millions of Texans. According to recent data, approximately 1.8 million people in Texas struggle with substance use disorders, and the state saw more than 4,500 overdose deaths in 2020 alone. These aren't just statistics—they're people, families, and communities dealing with the same challenges you're facing right now. You're not alone in this.
This guide is designed to cut through the confusion and help you understand your options. We'll walk through the different types of drug rehab available in Texas, discuss what treatment typically costs and how to pay for it, explain what to look for in a quality treatment center, and help you take those crucial first steps toward recovery. Whether you're looking for help in Houston, Dallas, Austin, or anywhere across the Lone Star State, you'll find the information you need to make an informed decision about your care.
Texas has an extensive network of addiction treatment facilities—over 500 inpatient programs and more than 900 outpatient options across the state. But what do all these different types of treatment actually mean, and how do you know which one is right for you?
Medical detox is often the first step for people with significant physical dependence on drugs or alcohol. This is where you safely withdraw from substances under medical supervision. Detox typically lasts 3-7 days, depending on what you've been using and for how long. The medical team can provide medications to ease withdrawal symptoms and monitor you around the clock to keep you safe and as comfortable as possible during this difficult process.
Inpatient or residential treatment means you live at the facility full-time while receiving intensive therapy and support. Most inpatient programs in Texas run 30, 60, or 90 days, though some offer longer-term care. You'll participate in individual counseling, group therapy, educational sessions about addiction, and various other therapeutic activities. The big advantage here is that you're completely removed from the environment and triggers that contributed to your substance use, giving you space to focus entirely on recovery.
Outpatient programs allow you to live at home while attending treatment sessions several times per week. Standard outpatient might involve a few hours of therapy per week, while intensive outpatient programs (IOP) typically require 9-12 hours of treatment spread across three to five days. Partial hospitalization programs (PHP) are even more intensive, usually involving treatment five days a week for several hours each day. These options work well if you have a stable home environment and strong support system, or if you've already completed inpatient treatment and are stepping down to less intensive care.
There's no one-size-fits-all answer, but a few factors can help guide your decision. If you have a severe addiction, especially to alcohol, benzodiazepines, or opioids, you'll likely need to start with medical detox and inpatient treatment. The withdrawal from these substances can be medically dangerous, and trying to detox on your own isn't safe.
Your living situation matters too. If your home environment is chaotic, full of triggers, or includes people who are actively using substances, residential treatment gives you a better chance of success. On the other hand, if you have work or family responsibilities you can't step away from, or if you've already completed inpatient care and just need ongoing support, outpatient treatment might be the right fit.
Previous treatment attempts are also worth considering. If you've tried outpatient programs before without success, a more intensive inpatient approach might be what you need this time. And if you're dealing with co-occurring mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or PTSD alongside your addiction, which many people are, you'll want to find a program that can address both simultaneously.
The best way to determine your appropriate level of care is to talk with an addiction specialist who can conduct a thorough assessment. Most Texas rehab centers offer free assessments and can help you figure out what makes sense for your specific situation.
Let's talk about money, because it's often the first concern people have when considering treatment. The cost of drug rehab in Texas varies widely depending on the type of program, how long you stay, and what kind of facility you choose.
Outpatient treatment in Texas averages around $8,300 for a complete program, though this can range from a few thousand dollars to much more depending on the specific services you receive. Inpatient residential treatment is typically more expensive because you're receiving 24/7 care, room, and board. A 30-day residential program might cost anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 at a standard facility, while luxury treatment centers can run $30,000 or more per month.
Here's what's important to understand: these are the full costs without any insurance coverage factored in. Most people end up paying significantly less than these numbers because of insurance benefits, and there are plenty of options for those who don't have private insurance or can't afford treatment out of pocket.
There's a good chance it will. Thanks to the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, insurance companies are required to cover substance use disorder treatment similarly to how they cover other medical conditions. This means if your plan covers hospital stays for physical health issues, it should provide comparable coverage for addiction treatment.
Over 60% of drug and alcohol treatment facilities in Texas accept private insurance. Major insurers like BlueCross BlueShield of Texas, Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, Humana, and many others provide coverage for addiction treatment services. What your insurance covers specifically depends on your individual plan, some cover 50% of costs, others cover 80-100%, and most require you to meet a deductible first.
The coverage usually extends to various levels of care: detox, inpatient residential treatment, outpatient programs, medication-assisted treatment, and therapy sessions. Before you commit to a treatment center, you'll want to verify your benefits. Most rehab facilities in Texas have staff dedicated to helping you understand your insurance coverage, and they can usually verify your benefits over the phone in just a few minutes. When you call, have your insurance card handy.
Not having insurance or money doesn't mean you're out of options. More than half of Texas treatment facilities accept Medicaid, which provides coverage for eligible low-income individuals and families. If you're a veteran, the VA Substance Use Disorder program covers inpatient, outpatient, and medication-assisted treatment services.
Texas also has state-funded rehab programs specifically designed for people who can't afford private treatment. While these programs may have waiting lists, they provide quality care at little to no cost for qualified individuals. Around 194 programs in Texas offer payment assistance, and 201 facilities use sliding scale fees that adjust the cost of treatment based on your income.
Beyond that, many treatment centers offer their own payment plans, allowing you to pay for treatment over time rather than all at once. Some facilities provide scholarships for people in financial need, and there are charitable organizations that help fund addiction treatment for certain populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals, racial minorities, and others who may face barriers to care.
You might also consider low-interest healthcare loans, crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe, or asking family members for help. The point is this: if you need treatment, don't let money stop you from reaching out. When you call treatment centers and explain your financial situation, they'll work with you to find a solution.
With nearly 30 million residents spread across 268,000 square miles, Texas is massive. Fortunately, addiction treatment services are available throughout the state, from major metropolitan areas to smaller rural communities.
The highest concentration of drug rehab facilities is found in and around Texas's major cities. Houston, the state's largest city, has hundreds of treatment options ranging from medical detox centers to luxury residential facilities. Dallas and Fort Worth, together forming one of the largest metro areas in the country, offer similarly extensive resources. Austin, known for its innovative approaches to healthcare, has numerous addiction treatment centers that incorporate both traditional and alternative therapies. San Antonio provides a mix of urban and suburban facilities, many with specialized programs for specific populations. El Paso, serving West Texas, has its own network of treatment resources.
But you're not limited to big cities. Texas has treatment centers scattered throughout the state, including many ranch-style residential facilities located on large, secluded properties in the Hill Country, East Texas, and other rural areas. Places like Waelder, Chatfield, and other small towns host rehab centers that offer peaceful, private environments far from the distractions and stresses of city life.
This is a personal decision that depends on your circumstances. Staying close to home has definite advantages. Your family can visit more easily, you're in a familiar area, and when you complete treatment, you're already connected to local resources for aftercare and ongoing support. If you have a job or family responsibilities, a local facility makes logistics much simpler.
On the other hand, many people find that getting away from their usual environment is crucial for recovery. If your neighborhood is full of triggers, places where you used to buy drugs, people you used with, or situations that contributed to your addiction, putting some distance between yourself and those triggers can give you a better chance at success. Some people also appreciate the privacy that comes with going to treatment in a different city where they're less likely to run into anyone they know.
There's no right or wrong answer here. Think about what would set you up for the best possible chance at recovery, and don't be afraid to consider options outside your immediate area if that feels right.
Not all treatment centers are created equal. While Texas has many excellent facilities, you want to make sure you choose one that's going to provide quality, effective care. Here's what to look for.
First and foremost, verify that any facility you're considering is properly licensed by the state of Texas. The Texas Department of State Health Services licenses and regulates substance abuse treatment facilities, and you can check a facility's license status through their website.
Beyond basic licensing, look for third-party accreditations. The Joint Commission is an independent organization that evaluates healthcare facilities based on strict performance standards for quality and safety. When a treatment center has Joint Commission accreditation, it means they've undergone a rigorous review process and met high standards for patient care.
CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) is another respected accrediting body. CARF accreditation indicates that a program meets standards for quality, effectiveness, and person-centered care. While accreditation isn't mandatory, it's a good sign that a facility is committed to providing high-quality treatment.
The most effective addiction treatment programs use evidence-based approaches, meaning their methods are backed by scientific research showing they actually work. Look for facilities that offer cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps you identify and change thought patterns that lead to substance use. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and trauma-focused therapies are other evidence-based approaches that many quality programs incorporate.
Medication-assisted treatment is particularly important if you're struggling with opioid addiction. FDA-approved medications like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone can significantly reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it much easier to engage in therapy and maintain your recovery. Don't let stigma around medication stop you from considering this option, research consistently shows it's one of the most effective approaches for opioid use disorder.
Group therapy and individual counseling should both be part of your treatment plan. Group sessions let you connect with others who understand what you're going through, while individual therapy gives you space to work through personal issues that may have contributed to your addiction. Family therapy is also valuable, as addiction affects everyone in the family, and healing those relationships is an important part of recovery.
Many Texas treatment centers offer specialized programs for specific needs. Dual diagnosis programs treat both addiction and mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or, PTSD, which is crucial since about 70% of people with substance use disorders also struggle with mental health issues. Some facilities offer programs specifically designed for LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, professionals, or specific age groups. Faith-based programs incorporate Christian or other spiritual elements for those who find that meaningful.
Think about what kind of setting would help you focus on recovery. Texas has everything from clinical, hospital-like facilities to resort-style treatment centers to rustic ranch programs. Some people do better in a structured, clinical environment. Others thrive in more relaxed, homelike settings.
Many Texas facilities are located on beautiful properties with lots of acreage, offering horseback riding, hiking, recreational activities, and peaceful natural surroundings. These ranch-style programs often appeal to people who want to escape the chaos of daily life and reconnect with themselves in a tranquil environment. Urban facilities, meanwhile, might offer easier access to medical specialists and more diverse treatment options.
Some practical considerations: Does the facility offer gender-specific treatment if that's important to you? Are they pet-friendly if you have an emotional support animal? Do they provide amenities like fitness facilities, art therapy, music therapy, or other activities that interest you? While these extras aren't essential to recovery, they can make the experience more comfortable and engaging.
The size of the facility matters too. Smaller programs offer more individualized attention and a close-knit community feel. Larger facilities provide more diverse peer groups and sometimes more resources. Neither is inherently better, it's about what feels right for you.
If you've never been to rehab before, you might be wondering what actually happens when you decide to get help. Understanding the process can make it feel less intimidating.
When you first reach out to a treatment facility, you'll typically speak with an admissions counselor. This initial conversation is confidential and non-judgmental. They'll ask you some questions about your substance use, your health history, what you've tried before, and what you're looking for in treatment. Don't worry about being honest, they've heard it all before, and they need accurate information to help you.
If you have insurance, the admissions team will verify your benefits. They'll call your insurance company to find out what's covered, what your out-of-pocket costs will be, and whether you need any pre-authorization. This usually happens pretty quickly, often while you're still on that first phone call.
Next comes the assessment. This might happen over the phone initially, or you might visit the facility for an in-person evaluation. A qualified clinician will ask more detailed questions about your substance use patterns, physical and mental health, living situation, support system, and treatment goals. This assessment helps determine what level of care you need and whether the facility's programs are a good fit for you.
If you're in crisis or experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms, many facilities can admit you immediately or within 24 hours. For less urgent situations, admission might be scheduled a few days or weeks out. Some state-funded programs have longer waiting lists, though they'll often have crisis protocols for people in immediate danger.
When you're admitted to an inpatient program, you'll want to pack comfortable, casual clothing for your stay. Think workout clothes, jeans, t-shirts, nothing too fancy. Most facilities recommend bringing about a week's worth of clothes since you'll have access to laundry. Bring any prescription medications you're currently taking (in their original bottles), along with toiletries and personal hygiene items.
What you can't bring is equally important to know upfront. Almost all facilities prohibit drugs and alcohol (obviously), weapons, and anything that could be used for self-harm. Most don't allow cell phones, at least initially, or they restrict when you can use them. Laptops, tablets, and other electronics are often not permitted. The idea is to minimize distractions so you can focus fully on your recovery.
If you have specific questions about what to pack, the admissions team will give you a detailed list. The most important thing to bring is your willingness to engage in the process and do the work of recovery.
Completing a treatment program is a huge accomplishment, but it's not the finish line, it's really just the beginning of your recovery journey. What you do after leaving rehab is just as important as the treatment itself.
Before you complete your program, your treatment team will work with you to create an aftercare plan. This is your roadmap for maintaining your recovery once you leave the structured environment of the treatment center. A good aftercare plan includes ongoing therapy, support group participation, strategies for handling triggers and cravings, and connections to community resources.
Many people transition from inpatient treatment to outpatient care, gradually reducing the intensity of treatment while building the skills and support systems they need to maintain sobriety. You might step down from residential treatment to an intensive outpatient program, then to standard outpatient therapy, and eventually to occasional check-ins and support group attendance.
Sober living homes offer a middle ground between residential treatment and returning home. These are structured, substance-free living environments where you can stay for several months while you work, attend outpatient treatment, or look for employment. Texas has sober living homes throughout the state, and they can be especially helpful if your home environment isn't conducive to recovery or if you need more time to build a solid foundation before living independently.
Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, SMART Recovery, and others are available in communities across Texas. These free, peer-led groups provide ongoing support, accountability, and connection with others in recovery. Many people attend meetings several times per week, especially in early recovery.
Continued individual therapy helps you work through challenges as they come up and develop healthy coping strategies. Medication management may be necessary if you're taking medications for addiction or co-occurring mental health conditions. And don't underestimate the importance of building a healthy lifestyle; regular exercise, good nutrition, meaningful work or hobbies, and positive relationships all support long-term recovery.
Relapse is common in addiction recovery, and if it happens, it doesn't mean you've failed. It means you need to reassess your treatment plan and get back on track. Many people need multiple treatment episodes before achieving long-term sobriety, and that's okay. What matters is that you keep trying.
If you've made it to the end of this guide, you're already further along in your journey than you might realize. Seeking information about treatment is the first step toward getting help, and it takes courage to even consider making a change.
Here's what you need to remember: Texas has abundant resources for addiction treatment, from free state-funded programs to specialized facilities that can address your specific needs. Cost doesn't have to be a barrier since insurance covers treatment for most people, and there are options for those without insurance. Quality care is available whether you're in Houston, Dallas, a small town in West Texas, or anywhere in between.
The hardest part is often just reaching out. You might feel ashamed, scared, or overwhelmed. Those feelings are completely normal, but don't let them stop you from getting the help you deserve. Addiction is a medical condition, not a moral failing, and seeking treatment is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Start by calling a few treatment centers that seem like they might be a good fit. Ask questions, get a feel for their approach, and don't be afraid to reach out to multiple places before making a decision. Verify your insurance benefits or ask about payment options if you're concerned about cost. If you're in immediate crisis, many facilities have 24/7 helplines and can help you get into treatment quickly.
You don't have to have everything figured out before you reach out. You don't need to know exactly which program is right for you or how you're going to pay for it. Just make that first call. The people on the other end of the line do this every day, they know how hard it is to ask for help, and they're there to support you, not judge you.
Recovery is possible. Thousands of people in Texas and across the country have walked this path before you and built meaningful, fulfilling lives in recovery. Your story doesn't have to end with addiction. With the right support and treatment, you can create the life you want. Take that first step today.