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When substance use has taken over your life, sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is step away from everything and focus entirely on recovery. Residential treatment offers exactly that—a safe, structured environment where healing is your only job.
At Guardian Recovery, our residential program provides 24/7 support, intensive therapy, and complete immersion in recovery for approximately 28 days. This is where you break free from the patterns, places, and people connected to your substance use. This is where you discover who you are without addiction. This is where transformation happens.
You don’t have to keep fighting this battle alone. Our residential program gives you the time, space, and expert support you need to build a foundation for lasting recovery.
Residential treatment, also called inpatient treatment, is a live-in program where you reside at our treatment facility while receiving intensive, structured care for substance use disorder. You’ll live in a safe, comfortable environment designed specifically for healing, with access to clinical support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Think of residential treatment as hitting the reset button on your life. For approximately 28 days, recovery is your full-time commitment.
Guardian Recovery’s residential program serves individuals who need intensive, immersive care to break the cycle of addiction.
We make admission as easy as possible. Many clients arrive within 24-48 hours of their initial call.
Many clients feel anxious on day one—that’s completely normal. Our staff understands and will help you adjust.
Residential treatment is highly structured. Every part of your day is designed with intention—to break old patterns, build new skills, and support your healing.
Note: Your specific schedule may vary based on your individualized treatment plan, the facility, and your progress in treatment.
One-on-one sessions with your primary therapist are the cornerstone of residential treatment.
Typically 1-3 times per week, 45-60 minutes per session
Your therapist becomes your advocate, your guide, and the person who helps you understand yourself in new ways.
Group sessions are a powerful part of residential treatment. You’ll participate in multiple groups daily.
Process Groups: Share your experiences, receive feedback from peers, learn you’re not alone, practice interpersonal skills, and build authentic connections.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Identify negative thought patterns that drive substance use, learn to challenge and reframe distorted thinking, and develop healthier cognitive habits.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Master skills for emotional regulation, learn distress tolerance techniques, improve interpersonal effectiveness, and practice mindfulness.
Relapse Prevention: Identify personal triggers and high-risk situations, develop comprehensive relapse prevention plans, learn to recognize warning signs, and build resilience for long-term sobriety.
Trauma-Focused Therapy: Address adverse childhood experiences or adult trauma, understand the connection between trauma and substance use, and begin healing old wounds in a safe environment.
12-Step Integration: Explore the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and other recovery fellowships, work through early steps with guidance, and connect with recovery community resources.
Life Skills Groups: Develop practical skills for independent living, including financial management, job readiness, healthy relationships, communication, time management, and self-care.
Guardian Recovery provides comprehensive psychiatric care as part of residential treatment.
This is true dual diagnosis care. We don’t tell you to “deal with mental health later”—we treat the whole person from day one.
Addiction impacts everyone who loves you. Healing includes repairing and rebuilding those relationships.
We invite your family into your recovery process because their support significantly impacts your long-term success.
Beyond psychiatric services, our residential program includes comprehensive medical care.
Addiction takes a toll on your body. Residential treatment gives your body time to heal while we support your physical health.
Understanding addiction empowers your recovery.
Knowledge is power. The more you understand about addiction, the better equipped you are to maintain sobriety.
Healing isn’t just about talking. Guardian Recovery incorporates therapies that engage your whole self.
Recovery engages mind, body, and spirit. These holistic approaches support healing on all levels.
From day one, we’re preparing you for life after residential treatment.
We don’t just treat you and send you home. We ensure you have a solid plan and support system for continued recovery.
Guardian Recovery’s residential program typically runs for approximately 21-28 days, though the exact length may vary based on:
Research shows that 21-28 days of intensive residential treatment provides:
Some clients need more time; some are ready to step down slightly sooner. Your treatment team assesses your progress regularly and makes recommendations based on your individual journey—not an arbitrary timeline.
Residential treatment is a powerful beginning, but recovery is a lifelong journey. Research overwhelmingly shows that clients who transition through multiple levels of care have significantly better long-term outcomes.
When you complete residential treatment at Guardian Recovery, you’ll step down to the next level of our continuum of care:
This transition is seamless. You’ll often continue working with the same therapists and treatment team, maintaining the relationships and momentum you’ve built.
After PHP, you’ll step down to IOP, then eventually to outpatient therapy and alumni support.
Guardian Recovery walks with you through every phase of recovery—from your first day in residential through years of continued support in our alumni program.
You’ll have your own private room or share with one roommate, depending on facility capacity and your preferences.
Common areas include:
This is your home for 28 days. We create an environment that feels safe, comfortable, and conducive to healing.
Our admissions team will provide you with a complete packing list when you’re admitted.
Most people with substance use disorders also struggle with mental health conditions. In fact, research shows that over 50% of people with addiction have a co-occurring mental health disorder.
At Guardian Recovery, we’re a true dual diagnosis treatment provider, which means:
You don’t have to manage mental health and addiction separately. Integrated treatment heals the whole person.
The hardest part is making the decision. The rest, we’ll do together.
Call (888) 693-1585 right now to speak with an admissions specialist 24/7
Don’t wait for things to get worse. Don’t wait until you’ve lost more. Don’t wait until you’re ready—you’ll never feel completely ready.
The best time to get help is right now.
Your new life is waiting. Let’s start today.
Clear, straightforward answers to help you understand what to expect, how the process works, and how we support you every step of the way.
Residential treatment is voluntary. You can choose to leave, though we strongly encourage you to discuss concerns with your treatment team first. Leaving against clinical advice (AMA) can put your recovery and insurance coverage at risk. Most moments of wanting to leave are temporary—talking through them often resolves the urge.
Your treatment team can help you manage emergencies. Family can contact the facility anytime, and we’ll ensure you’re informed and supported. In true emergencies, temporary passes or early discharge may be arranged. However, addiction often makes everything feel like an emergency—your team will help you assess situations realistically.
Policies vary by facility. Some Guardian Recovery locations allow smoking during designated times in designated areas. Ask about the specific policy at your treatment location. Some clients use residential treatment as an opportunity to quit smoking as well.
Many employers are understanding about substance use treatment, and federal laws (FMLA) may protect your job during treatment. Our admissions team can provide documentation for your employer. Remember: you can find another job, but you only get one life. Recovery must be the priority.
Your privacy is protected by HIPAA laws. We cannot confirm or deny your presence to anyone without your written authorization. You control who knows you’re in treatment. Many clients tell employers they’re on “medical leave” or attending an “intensive health program.”
While we incorporate 12-Step principles and facilitate meeting attendance, we respect that different approaches work for different people. We also teach SMART Recovery, evidence-based therapies, and other recovery pathways. You’re encouraged to explore what resonates with you.
Absolutely. Guardian Recovery provides affirming, inclusive care for all individuals regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, race, religion, or background. Your identity is respected, and your whole self is welcomed in treatment.
Costs vary significantly based on insurance coverage, location, and specific program. Most insurance plans cover residential treatment, often with minimal out-of-pocket expenses. Our admissions team verifies your coverage and explains costs upfront—before you commit.
Previous treatment experiences, even if they ended in relapse, aren’t failures—they’re part of your journey. Many people require multiple treatment episodes to achieve lasting recovery. Each time teaches you something valuable. What matters is that you’re here now, willing to try again.
Licensed therapists, addiction counselors, psychiatric providers, medical staff, and case managers with deep expertise in substance use disorder treatment.
We include family in treatment when appropriate because healthy relationships support lasting recovery.
We use proven therapeutic approaches—CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, and more—backed by research.
Seamless transitions from detox through residential, PHP, IOP, and lifelong alumni support—all within Guardian Recovery.
Mental health and addiction treated simultaneously by specialists in co-occurring disorders. Not one or the other—both, together.
Clean, home-like facilities designed to feel safe and supportive, not institutional.
24/7 access to medical care, comprehensive psychiatric services, and medication management.
Mind, body, and spirit healing through traditional therapy, holistic practices, and experiential activities.
No two people are alike. Your treatment plan is designed specifically for your history, needs, strengths, and goals.
Our comprehensive, intensive approach gives you the best chance at long-term recovery.
More staff attention means more support, more safety, and better outcomes.
We work with most major insurance providers and help maximize your benefits.
Our team provides 24/7 care to help ease withdrawal symptoms and keep you safe and supported during early recovery.
Round-the-clock care in a structured, supportive setting helps you focus fully on building a foundation for lasting change.
Offering intensive outpatient support online for those needing ongoing care or unable to attend in-person treatment.
Guardian Recovery offers a full continuum of care between our facilities; including PHP, IOP, and Aftercare programs.
Boynton Beach, FL
Plymouth, NH
Monmouth Junction, NJ
Plano, TX
Portland, ME
Denver, CO
Towaco, NJ
Delray Beach, FL
Hoboken, NJ
New Brunswick, NJ
Saddle Brook, NJ
Bayonne, NJ
Paramus, NJ
Pine Brook, NJ
Medical Disclaimer:
The information provided on this website is intended solely for educational and informational purposes. Guardian Recovery aims to improve the quality of life for individuals struggling with substance use or mental health disorders by offering fact-based content about behavioral health conditions, treatment options, and related outcomes. However, this information should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Important Notes:
The content on this site is believed to be current and accurate at the time of posting, but medical information is constantly evolving.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions or concerns about your health or medical condition.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
Guardian Recovery does not provide free medical advice. For personalized treatment recommendations, please consult with a licensed healthcare professional.
By using this website, you acknowledge that you have read and understand this disclaimer. Guardian Recovery and its affiliates disclaim any liability for the use or interpretation of information contained herein. SEE TERMS AND CONDITIONS