Page:
Friend's First Name:
Friend's Email Address:
Your First Name:
Your Last Name:
Your Email Address:
A note for your friend regarding this page:
Clinical Services » Chemical Dependency
McMillen Program The First Step in The Right Direction
HealthBeat: The Story of Addiction Is it just having fun, or is it an addiction? We talk to the staff at the Thelma McMillen Center for answers.
HealthBeat: Cost of Substance Abuse Substance abuse doesn't just cost money, but relationships suffer too. Find out what happens to an addict when abuse hap ...
HealthBeat: Facing The Problem The hardest part about addiction is admitting you have a problem. Find out what you can do to help.
HealthBeat: Finding Answers Thelma McMillen offers comprehensive treatment programs for teens and adults facing substance abuse problems.
HealthBeat: Successful Transitions Moving forward and away from addiction is the ultimate goal for our patients. Successful transitions to living your life ...

Chemical Dependency

We offer a free and confidential assessment: Call 310-784-4879 - 24 hours/7days a week.

Common Questions about our Drug & Alcohol Treatment Programs

Please note: For any of these questions, you can replace "I" with spouse, partner, child.
  • How do I know if I have a problem or need treatment? I use drugs and/or alcohol, but I don't use them all the time and can stop at any time.
    The extent of the problem and the need for treatment have to do with compulsion to use, and continued use despite negative consequences. We offer a free comprehensive assessment where this can be evaluated, and proper recommendations made.
     
    Here are some are early warning signs: 
    - Behavioral changes
    - Mood swings
    - Decline in production
    - Loss of motivation

  • Someone I know (spouse, child) has a problem, but they do not want help. What can I do?
    You can come in for information, resources, referrals and direction. If needed, we can help to arrange an intervention.

  • What are the signs that my son/daughter may be having a problem?
    Signs may include, but are not limited to: behavioral changes, grades slipping, irritable and angry behavior, turning to lower companions, change in appearance.

  • How soon can I be seen?
    We make every effort to see you the same day you call, or the next day by the latest.

  • What about other issues like depression, anxiety, ADD?
    60% of people with alcohol and/or drug issues have co-existing emotional disorders. We utilize community psychiatrists and psychologists as needed.

  • Why should I do an outpatient program, rather than inpatient?
    When appropriate, outpatient treatment is more efficient and allows one to remain on their job, with their family, and develop a sober support network in the community. It is also much more cost effective.

  • How long will I have to go?
    Adult program : Three phases: Intensive, 5x week for 6 weeks; Transitional, 3x week for 6 weeks, and Continuing, 1x week for 6 months. Sessions are approximately 2-2.5 hours each time.

    Adolescent program : Intensive, 5x week for 8 weeks; Transitional, 3x week for 4 months, and Continuing, 1x week for 6 months.

  • What is the cost? Are program costs covered by insurance?
    Our adult program is $6,000 for 9 months of treatment, and our teen program is $8,000 for 1 year of treatment.  We have contracts with most insurance plans, and our program costs are mostly covered by insurance. If you do not have insurance, we can provide payment plans, and have some financial assistance available when criteria are met.

  • Does the family participate in treatment?
    Chemical dependency is a family "illness" and family involvement is essential, especially in our teen program.

  • Do I (the parents) have to stop drinking if my child is in treatment?
    Your behavior serves as a great model for your child.  If you have a problem, you will help your child by addressing it.  If you do not, you can help by setting proper behavioral role models.

  • Is the treatment confidential?
    Strictly confidential. No one may know you are here, unless you request it.

  • What is the success rate of the program?
    The longer one stays in intensive, the better.  Those who finish intensive are likely to remain sober through the program.  We have been here 19 years and have successfully helped and treated thousands of patients.