What is rehab like?

Editor’s Note: 2025 Update

This article has been updated in 2025 to reflect current research, clinical best practices, and verified statistics from trusted sources such as the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

What Is Rehab Like?

If you or someone you love is preparing to enter rehab for substance use, it is normal to feel uncertain. Rehab is often misunderstood, shaped more by movies and myths than real experiences. In truth, modern rehab centers offer a structured, supportive, and compassionate environment designed to help people find freedom from addiction.

At Good Landing Recovery, we believe that recovery is not just possible, but transformative. Our Christ-centered rehab program focuses on more than just sobriety, we focus on hope, healing, and restoration through faith and community.

What Happens When You Arrive?

Rehab begins with an intake assessment, where staff gather medical history, substance use background, and mental health information. This evaluation helps tailor treatment to each person’s needs.

Many programs also begin with a drug screening and detox. Detox is typically required before beginning therapy, especially for individuals who have used alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines. Medical supervision is often necessary, particularly with substances that can cause serious withdrawal effects.

According to NIDA, detox alone is not treatment. It is only the first step and must be followed by structured behavioral therapies and recovery support.

What Daily Life in Rehab Looks Like

Each day in rehab is highly structured to help create stability and consistency, especially early in recovery. A typical schedule may include:

Morning devotionals or prayer
Group counseling sessions
One-on-one therapy
Fitness and recreation
Recovery education classes
Time for journaling or spiritual reflection

For faith-based centers like Good Landing, biblical truth is woven throughout the day. Clients are encouraged to reflect on Scripture, pray, and grow spiritually alongside their emotional and physical recovery.

Group and Individual Counseling

Most rehab centers include both group therapy and individual counseling as key parts of the recovery process. Group sessions promote connection, vulnerability, and accountability. One-on-one sessions allow clients to work through trauma, personal struggles, and unhealthy thought patterns with a licensed counselor.

Therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing are commonly used to help reframe thinking and build coping strategies.

Education and Life Skills Training

Rehab also includes life skills training to help clients prepare for life after treatment. These classes may include:

Relapse prevention techniques
Nutrition and wellness guidance
Career or education planning
Communication and relationship skills
Financial planning or budgeting

The goal is to help each person return to their daily life equipped to manage responsibilities and maintain long-term sobriety.

How Long Does Rehab Last?

The length of stay varies. Some programs last 30 days, while others offer 60- or 90-day programs based on individual progress and needs.

Research has shown that longer durations of treatment generally lead to better outcomes. According to SAMHSA, treatment of at least 90 days is often necessary for significant behavioral change and recovery stability.

Rehab Options: Inpatient, Outpatient, and More

There are different levels of care available, depending on a person’s needs:

Inpatient residential rehab: 24/7 care and structure
Partial hospitalization (PHP): Day treatment while living at home
Outpatient rehab: Therapy sessions multiple times a week while living independently

While inpatient rehab offers the highest level of support, outpatient care may be appropriate for those with strong family support or mild addiction history.

Faith-Based Rehab Makes a Difference

What makes faith-based rehab different is its emphasis on spiritual healing. At Good Landing, we believe that true freedom from addiction comes through Christ. Our recovery model integrates biblical counseling, prayer, worship, and faith-building practices to help clients rebuild their identity and purpose.

Many people who attend Christian rehab programs find that spiritual renewal helps them stay grounded in their sobriety and navigate future challenges with strength.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the average stay in rehab?

Most programs range from 30 to 90 days. Research shows longer programs improve long-term success.

Is detox required before entering rehab?

Yes. Detox is typically the first phase, particularly for substances like alcohol or opioids. Medical supervision is often recommended.

Is rehab covered by insurance?

Many rehab facilities accept insurance. Check with your provider to confirm what is covered.

Can family visit during rehab?

Yes. Most programs include family therapy or allow visitation on specific days to support family healing and reintegration.

What happens after rehab?

Aftercare may include outpatient therapy, sober living, support groups, and follow-up appointments. A personalized aftercare plan is essential to long-term recovery.

Start Your Recovery at Good Landing

Rehab is not a punishment, it is a fresh start. Through structure, support, therapy, and faith, people find their way back to themselves and to God. If you are ready to take the first step, Good Landing Recovery is here to walk with you every step of the way.