Frequently Asked Questions

What to Bring?

Clients are instructed to pack as if they are going on a two to three week vacation. The climate in Southern California is mild, with a year round temperature averaging approximately 65-75 degrees. Clients admitting to our program are encouraged to leave valuables behind and pack most essentials, such as:

A light jacket, sweaters or sweatshirts
Jeans or other pants
Shorts
Gym clothing and backpack
Socks and underwear
Bathroom items such as a blow dryer, soap, razors, shampoo, toothpaste, etc.
Sandals and tennis shoes
Socks (several pairs)
Pajamas and/or robes and slippers
IPod or walkman

Please do not bring large stereos, desktop computers, alcohol based products, medications not prescribed by a doctor, furniture or other large items. Also, laptops and other electronic devices must be approved by our director of admissions.

What is provided by NTS in the residences?

All the residences are fully equipped with working telephones, cable TV, internet, comfortable furniture, cooking appliances and utensils, washers and dryers, and spacious living accommodations. Each resident is given the following items:

Bed linens
Comforter
Pillows
Laundry baskets
Hangers
A key to the house (unless in primary)
A Big Book and other recovery related reading materials
A Client Handbook

What is Money on the Books (MOB)?

Personal Expenses not included in the treatment fees
Clients and their families typically place at least $3000 on the books to cover a 90 day residential program.
It is both suggested and expected that resident's put at least $1500 on the books upon admittance to the program

The following are examples of what the MOB funds cover:

Medications
Weekly allowance
Activity fees
Outside Doctor appointments
Clothing needed during the treatment episode
Extra therapy sessions
Haircuts
Detoxification fees

Are residents allowed to have visitors?

Visitors are allowed only when approved by the clinical team
Usually, visitation is restricted in the first 30 days of treatment
Visiting hours are on Sundays from 12-4PM

What is the computer policy?

Laptops are the only computers allowed at NTS
Usually, computers are not allowed until a client enters Phase II or NTSA
Laptops must be approved by the clinical team
NTS maintains working desktops for residents to use at our clinical offices

Are residents allowed to make phone calls?

Phone restrictions are in place during primary care
Each residence is equipped with a house phone
Only locals calls can be made on our house phones

What is the cell phone policy?

Cells phones are allowed after two weeks in residence
Cell phones can be taken away for non compliance of program rules and expectations
Cell phones are to be turned off during all treatment groups and meetings (no exceptions)

What are the weekly activities?

NTS believes individuals in recovery should be provided an opportunity to have fun and enjoy life while in treatment
NTS coordinates activities for its residents every Saturday
Activities include: museum visits, a day at the beach, sporting events, softball tournaments, amusement parks and other exciting events

What is a pass?

A pass is an overnight stay outside of NTS' facility
A pass is only allowed after successful completion of our 30 day program or another primary care program
A pass must be submitted to the clinical team for approval and is only allowed for a therapeutic reason
Residents are allowed 2 passes in Phase II and III
Residents must attend meetings while on pass and often will be required to check in with our staff if the pass is for more than one night

What is a deviation?

A deviation occurs when a resident attends a meeting not on our schedule or misses a scheduled meeting or group
Deviations are only allowed after successful completion of a 30 day program
Deviations are usually to an outside meeting with a sponsor in the local 12-step community in lieu of attending the regular NTS meeting

Where should my family send mail?

All correspondence with current NTS residents is mailed to: NTS / Care of: 2384 Newport Blvd Costa Mesa, California 92627

What is our policy in regards to insurance?

We do not accept insurance as payment
We are not responsible for billing your insurance company
We suggest, if you are hoping to get coverage, you contact your insurance carrier prior to admission and arrange for pre-certification
All residents should bring their insurance cards in order to submit to the pharmacy for coverage for medications