More than three decades of scientific research and two decades of working within the treatment community have given us the following principles which guide our approach to treatment. Avalon Ranch also adheres to the Matrix Model principles of addiction treatment.
1. No single treatment works for all everybody. Anybody who claims to have "the cure" is a fraud. Intake assessment and individualized treatment planning are necessary to identify an effective treatment approach.
2. Treatment must address multiple needs, not just substance abuse. Avalon Ranch works on associated medical, psychological, social, vocational, and legal problems, in addition to abstinence. This is especially true for individuals with coexisting mental disorders, who need integrated treatment.
3. Participants must commit to the treatment process. 30 days is a start, but research shows a 90 day stay is far more effective. Through intervention and admissions policies, we actively attempt to prevent individuals from leaving early. Treatment does not need to be entirely voluntary to be effective, because sanctions or enticements from family, career or the criminal justice system can significantly increase an individual's participation.
4. All participants must be regularly screened through urinalysis to ensure abstinence.
5. Both individual and group counseling are necessary. Avalon Ranch incorporates individual and group counseling sessions to deal with private issues while at the same time fostering a sense of community and shared support.
6. Medication is a viable option during treatment. We strongly believe in the use of medicine to treat addiction, particularly during the detox process. However, medical detox is only the first step of addiction treatment. By itself, it manages the physical symptoms of withdrawal, but does little to change long-term substance abuse.
7. Recovery from drug addiction is a life long process. As with other chronic illnesses, relapse can and often does occur after successful treatment. Through our continuing care efforts, we maintain an active role in graduate's lives.
Avalon Ranch Treatment Centers is a residential rehab facility in Malibu, California. For immediate help, please call our 24 hour Admissions Hotline at 888-777-9672.