Northbound Treatment Services utilizes trained and highly experienced intake coordinators to facilitate entry into our treatment programs for alcoholism and addiction. Our empathetic intake counselors are available twenty four hours, seven days a week to assist in the assessment and intake process. We listen. We are also available to do an in-person evaluation and assessment anytime throughout the week at our clinical offices.

Evaluation and assessment ensure that every client is right for the particular program we are recommending. For example, some clients may be better suited in an outpatient setting, while most others require intensive inpatient treatment.

Whatever the client needs, our admissions staff discusses the following with each and every potential client:

• Admissions Criteria — Northbound treats men and women age 18 and up suffering from alcoholism and drug addiction. We also treat co-occurring or dual disorders which refers to the combination of chemical dependency and a psychiatric or emotional illness
• Intervention — Northbound has trained interventionists on staff to work with families and potential clients in breaking through the denial that typically impedes one from entering treatment. NTS also has a network of interventionists throughout the country to perform out-of-state interventions.
• Detoxification — Northbound has its own residential, sub-acute detoxification center in Orange County.
• Frequently Asked Questions — Often families and their loved ones entering treatment have questions regarding day to day activities and operations. Please reference the “FAQ” section of our website for answers to many of these questions.

Northbound Treatment Services is committed to providing the highest quality of care to our clients and their families. Please don’t hesitate to call us with any questions regarding the intake and admissions process. We are here to help. If our programs don’t meet the needs of an individual seeking treatment, we are pleased to assist in placement at another appropriate facility.

When speaking with another treatment center, you’ll want to address some of the following issues:

• What is the program’s commitment to the 12 step process? AA, NA, etc. have changed millions of lives, and it’s the bedrock of all treatment centers.
• Does the program believe that alcoholism/drug dependency is a primary, progressive, chronic and potentially fatal disease? Beware of anyone promising a quick cure. Studies have shown time and again the insidiously chronic nature of addiction/dependency.
• What services are available for family members? Do they consider the family to be a critical part of the treatment process? Understanding the family as central to the recovery of the individual is a must. Research has proven that the family of the afflicted individual must gain insight in order for the best chance at recovery.
• How is the program licensed? Various state and federal laws and guidelines are followed by all legitimate treatment centers. These laws protect the client and his or her family.
• What medical detoxification services are offered as part of the program? Detoxification is often the addict’s biggest fear. It must be done safely and properly to set the tone of the treatment to follow.
• Is the physician director certified through the American Society of Addiction Medicine?
• Is the program price all inclusive? Many treatment programs often an extensive array of activities that cost extra. Find out in advance who pays for what.
• Is treatment gender specific? A strong sense of fellowship is important to recovery. Gender specific treatment tracks often foster these vital relationships.
• Does the program work with insurance companies? A treatment center should be your advocate when dealing with your insurance company and help guide you through the maze of paperwork.
• What is the client/patient to counselor ratio? There is no substitute for the guidance and mentoring possible with the proper ratio.
• What is the program’s capability in addressing dual diagnosis issues? The program must be equipped to handle mental health issues simultaneously with substance-abuse treatment.
• What is the overall health of the organization? It’s difficult to get well in a diseased treatment center.
• Do you believe the people you are talking to? Beware of slick presentations and anything that sounds too good to be true.
• Do they seem to have your best interest in mind? Treatment is about saving lives, and you should get the sense that they truly care about the work they do. The well being of the client should always be at the forefront of treatment decisions.
• Do they listen to what is important to you? Finding the right fit is vital. If they aren’t hearing you prior to admission, they probably won’t understand your concerns during treatment.

We look forward to hearing from you and helping you begin the recovery process!