Home / Levels of Care
Levels of care, in plain words
Rehab is not one thing. Here is what each step means, and how to tell which one a program is really offering.
Last checked November 2026
THREE THINGS TO ASK
- Which level are you recommending?
- Why that level for me?
- What would move me up or down?
Start with what the person needs
Addiction treatment comes in steps, from detox and live-in care down to a therapy visit a week. SAMHSA and the medical field talk about these as levels of care. The right one depends on how severe the use is, the person’s health, and how safe and steady home is.
One thing to watch for in Palm Beach County: some programs sell a day program plus housing as if it were residential care. Those are different things. Ask where the person sleeps, who runs that housing, and who is there at night.
By substance
- Alcohol rehab in West Palm Beach
- Opioid and fentanyl rehab in West Palm Beach
- Benzodiazepine detox in West Palm Beach
If someone you love won’t go
Read how to help someone who refuses treatment. If housing is part of the plan, read our guide to sober homes in Palm Beach County.
Detox and live-in care
Day and outpatient care
Sources
- SAMHSA, Substance Use Treatment Options
- SAMHSA, TIP 45: Detoxification and Substance Abuse Treatment
- Florida DCF, Substance Use Disorder Licensing and Regulation
This is general information, not medical advice. Talk to a doctor about your own situation.