Choosing the right addiction treatment provider is one of the most important decisions you or your loved one will ever make. With countless treatment centers claiming to offer the best care, how do you know which provider is truly equipped to guide you toward lasting recovery? The truth is, not all treatment providers are created equal, and asking the right questions can mean the difference between successful recovery and continued struggle with substance use disorder.
At Restoration House Ministries, we understand that this decision can feel overwhelming. That’s why we believe in complete transparency – because you deserve to know exactly what you’re choosing when you entrust us with your recovery journey. This guide will walk you through 10 questions to ask when evaluating addiction treatment providers in Knoxville, TN and the surrounding areas.
Why Asking the Right Questions Matters in Addiction Treatment
When facing addiction, time is precious, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. According to recent statistics, Tennessee has one of the highest overdose death rates in the nation, making quality treatment access more critical than ever. The treatment provider you choose will literally hold your life – or your loved one’s life – in their hands.
Too many people choose a treatment center based on convenience, cost, or flashy marketing promises without digging deeper into what really matters: the quality of care, the qualifications of staff, and the center’s track record of success. This approach often leads to treatment failure, relapse, and in worst cases, tragic outcomes that could have been prevented.
The right questions help you:
- Identify providers with proper credentials and experience
- Understand what treatment approaches will be used
- Ensure the treatment program matches your specific needs
- Avoid facilities that make unrealistic promises
- Build confidence in your treatment choice
10 Questions to Ask Addiction Treatment Providers
1. “What accreditations and licenses do you hold?”
This should be your first question to ask any treatment provider. Legitimate addiction treatment centers should hold:
- State licensing from the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services
- CARF accreditation (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) – the gold standard for addiction treatment
- Joint Commission accreditation (for medical components)
- Individual staff licenses including Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC), Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW), and board-certified addiction physicians
How RHM Answers: Restoration House Ministries is fully licensed by the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services and proudly holds CARF accreditation – a rigorous standard that less than 20% of treatment facilities achieve. Our clinical staff maintain current state licenses and participate in ongoing education, including doctors with addiction specialties.
2. “What is your treatment philosophy and approach?”
Understanding a facility’s treatment philosophy helps you determine if their approach aligns with your values and needs. When you ask this question, look for providers who can clearly explain:
- Their core treatment methodology
- How they integrate different therapeutic approaches
- Whether they offer evidence-based practices
- How they personalize treatment plans
- Their approach to addressing underlying issues
How RHM Answers: Our unique approach integrates evidence-based clinical treatment with faith-based principles, creating what we call “discipleship driven, psychologically focused, clinically informed” care. This means we address the whole person – mind, body, and spirit – while respecting individual beliefs and backgrounds.
3. “How do you address co-occurring mental health disorders?”
Nearly 50% of people with substance use disorder also struggle with mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. Facilities that don’t address other mental health conditions simultaneously often see higher relapse rates.
Ask about:
- Dual diagnosis capabilities
- Mental health assessment processes
- Psychiatric services availability
- Integration of mental health and addiction treatment
How RHM Answers: We specialize in co-occurring disorders treatment, with dedicated programs designed for individuals facing both substance use disorder and mental health challenges. Our integrated approach ensures both conditions receive simultaneous, coordinated care from our clinical team.
4. “What levels of care do you offer?”
Quality treatment providers should offer a continuum of care that can adapt as your needs change. Look for facilities offering:
- Detoxification services (if medically necessary)
- Residential/Inpatient treatment
- Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)
- Standard outpatient services
- Sober living arrangements
- Aftercare planning
How RHM Answers: We offer a comprehensive continuum including Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), Faith-Based Discipleship Programs, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), individual and group therapy, family therapy, and residential sober living with 24-hour supportive care.
5. “What insurance plans do you accept and what are the costs?”
Treatment costs can be overwhelming, making insurance coverage crucial. Ask about:
- Specific insurance plans accepted
- In-network vs. out-of-network benefits
- Pre-authorization requirements
- Coverage verification process
- Appeal procedures if coverage is denied
- Costs and insurance for different treatment options
How RHM Answers: We accept most major insurance carriers in Tennessee, including Medicaid and Medicare. Our admissions team provides free insurance verification and helps navigate the benefits process to maximize your coverage. We also offer sliding fee scale options for those who need help with treatment costs.
6. “What are your staff qualifications and credentials?”
The quality of staff directly impacts treatment outcomes. Look for:
- Licensed clinical professionals
- Addiction-specific training and certifications
- Years of experience in addiction treatment
- Ongoing education requirements
- Staff recovery experience (when appropriate)
How RHM Answers: Our team includes licensed clinical professionals, certified addiction counselors, and staff members with personal recovery experience. We believe this combination of clinical expertise and lived experience creates the most effective treatment environment for addressing substance abuse and mental health services needs.
7. “How long do your treatment programs typically last?”
Beware of facilities promising quick fixes. Research shows that treatment lasting less than 90 days has significantly lower success rates. Quality programs should:
- Offer flexible program lengths based on individual needs
- Provide clear milestones and progress markers
- Allow for program adjustments as needed
- Include aftercare planning from day one
How RHM Answers: Our treatment plan duration varies based on individual needs. Our IOP typically involves 9-15 hours of programming per week for 8-12 weeks, while our Faith-Based Discipleship Program offers longer-term residential care. We also provide alcohol treatment and substance abuse treatment options tailored to each person’s recovery process.
8. “Do you offer medication-assisted treatment for substance use disorders?”
For individuals with alcohol use disorder or opioid addiction, medication-assisted treatment can be crucial. Ask about:
- Available medications (Suboxone, Vivitrol, etc.)
- Medical supervision and monitoring
- Integration with counseling and therapy
- Treatment for alcohol use disorder specifically
How RHM Answers: Yes, we offer comprehensive medication-assisted treatment (MAT) that combines medications to treat alcohol use disorder and other substance use disorders with counseling and behavioral therapies. Our doctor prescribes medications to treat alcohol and other substances under careful medical supervision.
9. “What happens if someone experiences relapse during treatment?”
Relapse doesn’t mean treatment failure, but how a facility responds matters. Ask about:
- Readmission policies
- Crisis intervention protocols
- Family support during relapse
- Modified treatment approaches for returning clients
- How they help prevent relapse
How RHM Answers: We understand that relapse can be part of the recovery journey. Our team provides immediate support, reassessment, and modified treatment plans as needed. We also focus heavily on relapse prevention strategies throughout all our programs to help maintain lifelong recovery.
10. “What aftercare and ongoing support do you provide?”
Recovery doesn’t end when formal treatment concludes. Quality programs should offer:
- Comprehensive discharge planning
- Relapse prevention strategies
- Continuing care recommendations
- Community resource connections
- Alumni support programs
How RHM Answers: We begin aftercare planning from your first day in treatment, developing personalized strategies for maintaining sobriety. Our vocational rehabilitation program helps address employment barriers, while our alumni network provides ongoing peer support. We also connect clients with support groups and recovery support services in the community.
Additional Questions to Ask About Specific Treatment Options
Questions About Inpatient vs. Outpatient Care
When comparing treatment facilities, also ask:
- “What’s the difference between your inpatient and outpatient programs?”
- “How do you determine if someone needs inpatient care versus intensive outpatient?”
- “Can I transition between levels of care within your system?”
Questions About Detox and Medical Care
If you’re dealing with alcohol addiction, drug addiction, or prescription drug abuse, ask:
- “Do you provide medical detox services on-site?”
- “What medical supervision is available during detox?”
- “How do you handle medical issues if needed during treatment?”
Questions About Family Involvement
Since addiction affects entire families, ask:
- “How do you involve family members in the treatment process?”
- “Do you offer family therapy or education programs?”
- “What resources do you provide for family members?”
Red Flags to Watch For When Choosing Treatment
While asking the right questions is important to ask, recognizing warning signs is equally crucial. Be cautious of facilities that:
Make Unrealistic Promises
- Guarantee cure or success rates
- Promise quick fixes or “30-day solutions”
- Claim 100% success rates
- Use high-pressure sales tactics
Lack Proper Credentials
- Cannot provide licensing information
- Avoid questions about accreditation
- Have unlicensed staff providing clinical services
- Refuse facility tours or transparency
Show Poor Communication
- Don’t return calls promptly
- Provide vague or evasive answers
- Pressure you to decide immediately
- Won’t discuss costs or insurance clearly
Have Concerning Policies
- Require large upfront payments
- Don’t involve families in treatment planning
- Lack medical oversight for detox
- Have no aftercare planning
How to Use These Questions Effectively
Prepare for Your Conversations
Before contacting treatment providers:
- Write down your questions – Don’t rely on memory during emotional conversations
- Research each facility online – Check reviews, complaints, and licensing status
- Prepare your insurance information – Have your policy details ready
- List your specific needs – Mental health concerns, medical conditions, family situation
Take Notes During Conversations
Document each facility’s responses to compare later:
- Staff credentials and experience
- Program specifics and duration
- Costs and insurance coverage
- Gut feelings about staff interactions
Trust Your Instincts
While credentials and programs matter, your comfort level is also important. Choose a facility where you feel:
- Heard and understood
- Respected and valued
- Confident in the staff’s abilities
- Aligned with the treatment philosophy
National Institute Resources and Additional Support
The National Institute on Drug Abuse provides additional guidance on what to ask treatment providers. They recommend also asking about:
- Evidence-based treatment approaches
- How the center addresses drug and alcohol use simultaneously
- Integration with community resources
- Long-term recovery support services
You can also ask for a referral from your primary care physician or contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration for additional resources.
Taking the Next Step in Your Recovery Journey
Choosing the right addiction treatment provider requires careful research, thoughtful questions, and honest self-assessment. These 10 questions to ask will help you identify providers with the credentials, experience, and approach needed for successful recovery.
Remember that quality treatment is an investment in your future – or your loved one’s future. Don’t let cost alone drive your decision, but also don’t assume expensive means better. The right fit combines clinical excellence, personal attention, and an approach that resonates with your values and needs.
At Restoration House Ministries, we encourage you to ask us every question on this list and any others you might have. We believe transparency builds trust, and trust is essential for effective treatment. Our team is here to provide honest answers about our programs, approach, and outcomes because we want you to make the best decision for your unique situation.
If you’re ready to start with a complete assessment and diagnosis, we invite you to contact us for a free consultation. We’ll answer your questions, verify your insurance benefits, and help you understand how our integrated faith-based and clinical approach might fit your recovery needs.
Your recovery journey is unique, and it deserves a treatment provider who understands that. By asking the right questions, you’re already taking an important step toward lasting recovery and the freedom you deserve. Whether you need help with substance abuse, alcohol problems, or co-occurring mental health concerns, finding the right provider is crucial for your treatment and recovery success.
Ready to start your recovery journey? Contact Restoration House Ministries today for a free consultation and insurance verification. Call (865) 352-1274 or visit our Google Business Profile to learn more about our comprehensive addiction treatment programs in Kodak and Newport, TN.