New patients: What to expect Starting substance use or mental health treatment at Kolmac
Evidence-based care at Kolmac
Once you complete our intake and evaluation process, you can start treatment as soon as you’re ready. We support everything we do with real clinical evidence and align it to your personal challenges.
What you can expect during treatment
We treat you with dignity and respect
From the beginning, a behavioral health clinician guides your care. Our clinicians act as case managers, coordinating the pieces of your treatment so nothing falls through the cracks.
We accommodate your schedule
With telehealth, day hours, evening hours and multiple group options, we can make treatment work for almost any schedule or logistical conflict.
You receive care from expert clinicians
Kolmac pioneered outpatient addiction treatment over 50 years ago, and our clinicians still lead the field in both substance use and mental health care.
You receive care in a supportive atmosphere
We value open, honest, respectful communication. Forget what you’ve seen on TV about rehab and interventions.
At Kolmac, we help everyone feel safe, secure and seen, and we avoid confrontational or adversarial approaches.
We are transparent about cost
Our programs are affordable, and you’ll never be surprised by hidden costs. We work with you and your insurance to maximize your benefits and confirm every service your policy covers. We have decades of experience navigating insurance for behavioral health care.
We want your family to participate
Our weekly family and friends support groups help the people in your life understand what you’re going through, so they can manage their side of the process while you manage yours.
That involvement isn’t just comforting; the American Psychiatric Association describes family work as a critical part of behavioral health care, with family engagement linked to better treatment outcomes.
You build skills for lasting change
We design our programs so that you can practice new skills every day at home. By the end of treatment, you’ll have coping skills you know work, because you’ve already tested them in the real world, whether that’s managing day-to-day mental health or preventing a return to substance use.
Access to alumni and support groups
When you receive treatment at Kolmac, you join a community of over 50,000 alumni. You can stay connected, share and receive support, and hear about activities and events year-round.
Who this page is for
This page is for you if you’re starting substance use or mental health treatment and want to know what the process looks like. Perhaps you’re considering if an intensive outpatient program is suitable for your lifestyle, or curious about the experience of group therapy.
Either way, we tailor our process to suit your individual needs. You don’t need to be absolutely sure before making contact.
Frequently asked questions
How fast can I start treatment?
You can start the same day if you like. There are no waiting lists, so once you reach out and complete a brief evaluation, you can begin care right away. A quick start like that isn’t just convenient; HHS/ASPE research on treatment access finds that getting in without long delays is associated with better retention in care.
What Can I expect on my first day of outpatient rehab?
On your initial visit, a clinician will have a conversation with you about what brought you in, your medical background and your goals. You can relax — there’s no need to prepare anything in advance.
From there, you and your clinician will shape a plan that fits you.
Will I need to take time off work?
Usually not. Kolmac’s outpatient model, which includes telehealth and flexible daily schedules, allows most people to maintain their work, studies and daily routines during treatment.
What if I’m not sure whether I need mental health or substance use treatment?
This is a common question, and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. NIDA research supports Kolmac’s approach of treating substance use and mental health concurrently, as co-occurring conditions show improved results when addressed together.
We’ll use your evaluation to figure out the best support options.
Can my family be involved?
Yes, if you want them to be. Weekly support groups for family and friends encourage your loved ones to understand your journey and maintain their own well-being, allowing you to prioritize your own care.
