Frequently Asked Questions – Drug and Alcohol Program

My insurance doesn't cover your drug and alcohol program. If I pay for treatment myself, can I make payments?
Our staff will work with you on payment options. Please note that California Medi-Cal does not cover outpatient drug and alcohol addiction treatment.

How structured is your drug and alcohol program?
Our program includes daily lectures, small group therapy, educational videos, dedicated fitness times, meal times and breaks. Evenings offer free time for fellowship, homework assignments, and relaxation in addition to regular 12-step meetings.

Will I have roommates?
All of our rooms are shared by two people and include an in-room bathroom with a shower.

Are electronics such as televisions, cell phones and laptop computers allowed?
Personal electronic devices are not allowed to be used nor allowed on the premises during drug and alcohol treatment. Our treatment philosophy is that individuals with drug and alcohol dependency begin to address the physical, psychological, social and spiritual aspects of the disease of addiction when they are removed from everyday responsibilities and trigger points.

A computer with internet access is available for use during free time. And there are two pay phones for clients to use during non-treatment hours.

When can I receive phone calls?
Individuals who participate in hospital drug and alcohol detox have a bedside phone. Once you transfer to a room in the St. Helena Recovery Center, you may use the pay phones during non-treatment hours.

Can I have visitors?
After the first 10 days of treatment, family and friends may visit on Saturday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 12:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Also after the first 10 days, passes are available for clients to leave our campus for a few hours when accompanied by a family member or friend.

What will I be given for drug and alcohol detox?
After evaluation by a physician and nurse, an individualized care plan will be determined based on what quantity and classification of drugs and alcohol were used and the duration of use. Our doctors prescribe the latest and most up-to-date therapies for safe and comfortable withdrawal in a medically supervised setting.

How long will I be in drug and alcohol detox?
Lengths of stay vary by individual but average 3 to 4 days for the acute phase of your withdrawal period.

Can I smoke or chew tobacco while in treatment?
St. Helena Hospital is a non-smoking campus, and tobacco products are not allowed to be used while in drug and alcohol treatment or on the campus. Tobacco replacement products (nicotine patches, gum and lozenges) are provided free of charge to our clients. Statistics show that individuals who smoke are twice as likely to relapse as those who do not smoke.

My family just doesn't understand my addiction. What education is provided for them?
We offer a four-week series to the family members and significant others of our clients that provides education about the disease of chemical dependency and the many ways in which the family is affected. The sessions provide practical information about dealing with a chemically dependent person who is engaged in the recovery process and how family members can embark upon their own recovery process. Participants meet at St. Helena Hospital from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays and from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Sundays.