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WhiteSands Treatment Centers - Alcohol & Drug Rehab Fort Myers

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WhiteSands Treatment - Florida's Premier Inpatient/Outpatient Drug & Alcohol Rehab Centers

Click here to see the levels of care provided at our 24 centers

Our Most Popular Features at Our Inpatient Facility

Medical/Clinical Features

Low Patient-to-Therapist Ratio

Our low patient-to-therapist ratio means that guests receive an unparalleled quality of personalized care and support. This also allows patients to build a trusting relationship with their therapist which will further aid in the recovery process. We have highly-accredited and certified clinicians on board that will help guide guests throughout each phase of treatment, from intake to discharge and beyond.

Most facilities only offer large group meetings with limited access to one-on-one counseling and therapy.

Individualized Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Tailored, integrated treatment is crucial for those who struggle with both an underlying mental health disorder as well as an addiction to drugs or alcohol. We offer several treatment therapies for dual diagnosis patients. These include:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Behavioral Modification
Alternative Therapies

The majority of facilities do not personalize and tailor their treatment modalities to each patient and resort to a 'one-size-fits-all' standardized treatment plan.

Variety of Groups

At WhiteSands, we offer an extensive variety of groups to patients as part of their treatment program. Some of the groups that we provide are:

SMART Recovery
Family Therapy
Read More

Other centers only offer single or limited types of therapy that does not conform to the unique needs of patients.

Aftercare/Continuum of Care

Our facility provides patients with care and support even after they have been discharged from their inpatient stay. We offer aftercare programming upon discharge and will set up a therapist and sponsor for them. We have 50 locations throughout Florida consisting of Inpatient, Outpatient, and Admissions Offices, giving patients peace of mind knowing that help is close to home.

Most facilities do not offer as many aftercare and relapse prevention options as we do.

Non Medical Features

Private Rooms

Each patient will reside in their own newly renovated private room which is offered throughout the entire facility. Each room features a queen-sized bed, which allows clients to be comfortable and relaxed before and after treatment hours.

Other facilities may not offer private room options to their guests.

Cellphones & Laptops Allowed

We offer a lenient cellphone and laptop policy. Patients are permitted to use their electronics in their private room between the hours of 6:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., allowing them to keep in touch with family and friends. To protect the privacy of fellow patients, cellphone and laptop use are prohibited in common areas.

Having this feature is very expensive to manage which is why most facilities do not offer this, but we go the extra mile to ensure that our guests have access to their personal electronic devices after treatment hours.

Campus Style Facility

Our facility provides spacious accommodations situated on a campus-style site. Having a generously sized facility means that patients will not feel cramped or giving them the space to refocus their minds for further clarity. We offer cobblestone walking paths, streams, and gazebos for patients to enjoy, which can help alleviate the stress that is often associated with this time of change.

The majority of facilities are often confined, hospital-style buildings converted into a facility with no room for amenities.

Amenities

Patients can enjoy a host of amenities directly on-site such as a full-size gym, pool and basketball hoop. Once your groups are complete for the day, these recreational activities can be enjoyed. We also offer visitation days where the family is invited to the facility to spend some quality time with their loved ones. Weekly outings are an important part of recovery which is why we coordinate fun off-site activities for patients to enjoy.

Most centers do not offer the extensive amenities and activities that WhiteSands does, or does not offer amenities at all.

Smoking and Vaping Areas

Smoking and vaping are allowed in designated locations throughout the facility grounds, ensuring that both smokers and non-smokers feel comfortable during their stay. Out of respect for all guests attending our facility, patients are asked to strictly abide by these rules.

Some facilities limit vaping, some limit smoking, and some limit both.

WhiteSands Treatment	Average Facility
Low Patient-to-Therapist Ratio	Most facilities only offer large group meetings with limited access to one-on-one counseling and therapy
Full-Time Medical Director and Psychologist On-Site	Other facilities will often have a part-time medical specialist and will not always have an office onsite
Individualized Dual Diagnosis Treatment	The majority of facilities do not personalize and tailor their treatment modalities to each patient and resort to a 'one-size-fits-all' standardized treatment plan
Medical Detox Onsite	Generally, facilities refer detox to a partner, then brings the client back for their stay
Biofeedback	Most facilities offer basic, non-progressive or personalized treatment modalities
Variety of Groups	Other centers only offer single or limited types of therapy that do not conform to the unique needs of patients
Aftercare / Continuum of Care	Most facilities do not offer as many aftercare and relapse prevention options as we do
Private Rooms	Other facilities may not offer private room options to their guests
Cellphones & Laptops Allowed	Having this feature is very expensive to manage which is why most facilities do not offer this, but we go the extra mile to ensure that our guests have access to their personal electronic devices after treatment hours
10-Acre Campus	The majority of facilities are often confined, hospital-style buildings converted into a facility that has a sterile feeling and no room for amenities
Amenities	Most centers do not offer the extensive amenities and activities that WhiteSands does, or does not offer amenities at all
Spa Services	An average facility may only offer one spa service. This unique feature is rarely or never offered in a treatment facility setting
Smoking and Vaping Areas	Some facilities limit vaping, some limit smoking, and some limit both

WhiteSands Stories of Recovery

Our Patient Success Stories

Over 300 Google Verified Reviews

Rebecca Kutsor

5 days ago

“This treatment center is absolutely amazing. I have never felt so safe and loved during such a scary time. The counselors are well versed and very engaged. The accommodations are immaculate and private. The staff are caring and courteous. All of your needs will be met.”

Robert Vannata

5 days ago

“Amazing staff, therapists, and doctors. Accommodations are great... Nice rooms, catered food, vollyball, massage, biofeedback, chiropractor, basketball, beach and more. Definitely saved my life!!!”

Anthony Moniz

a month ago

“I wanted to stop my habit for a very long time trying on my own never worked I needed help and would never accept it. I finally had enough and gave in to acceptance and looked for help. I found WhiteSands and watched one of the videos they had of a guy around my same age talking about his story and how he found help from WhiteSands. It gave me hope so I ended up calling them and I was there that night. White Sands was a life changer the therapist to the staff all of them played a part in helping me find myself. I’m forever grateful! I’d be dead or in prison if I didn’t get the help I needed. If you read this review your life is worth living. Give yourself a chance to change.”

Kenneth Kaser

a month ago

“White Sands is a phenomenal rehab for alcohol and substance abuse addiction. Staff is great! Food is great! They take you on outings, provide chiropractor's, and have a medical staff on clock 24/7. If you're tired and want to give up the fight, then White Sands is the only place I recommend anyone to start! Thank you White Sands!”

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WhiteSands Wiki

What is the WhiteSands Wiki and how to use it

Click the top right-hand arrow to expand the drop-down menu and select the title of any section to learn more.

Scroll through the different clickable sections on the left-hand side to learn more about our offerings.

The WhiteSands ‘Wiki’ defines, expands, and details the many different aspects of our facility. Each section will allow you the chance to learn more about our treatment center and everything that we offer, from amenities and property overview to treatment modalities, tools for recovery, and aftercare assistance. We understand that extensive research is required when deciding on a treatment center which is why we provide an in-depth and detailed overview of our facility and its features.

Types of Treatment Offered / Recommended

We offer a full continuum of treatment options ranging from medically assisted detox and inpatient treatment services to dual diagnosis and aftercare programs. By offering a continuity of care to patients, we are able to not only monitor their progress and wellbeing throughout the recovery process but also work to foster trusting relationships with our clients which aid in the overall journey toward sobriety.

The evidence-based drug and alcohol addiction programs that we offer have proven to help individuals not only reach sobriety but maintain it. We are pioneers in substance abuse and addiction recovery and take a leading approach that consistently evolves with the advent of advanced treatment modalities. We promise to provide each patient with the best chance to obtain long-lasting recovery from addiction and work with them even after treatment has been completed. We do this by ensuring that patients have support groups and sponsors available near them to maintain their abstinence from drug and alcohol abuse.

Rehabilitation programs focus on providing pharmacological tools, counseling and therapy, and educational resources that are designed for patients' success in recovery. Each patient that has completed their treatment program is invited to join our Alumni where they can continue to learn vital coping skills that aid in long-term sobriety.

Some of the comprehensive treatment programs we offer are:

Medically Assisted Detox
WhiteSands Treatment Clinical
Inpatient Treatment Made Comfortable
Inpatient Drug and Alcohol Rehab
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)
Intensive Outpatient Drug Treatment (IOP)
Alternative Drug Rehab Programs
Relapse Prevention and Aftercare Program
SMART Recovery
Alumni

Our specialists are available 24/7; call today to speak with a team member to determine what sort of treatment program is right for you at (239) 319-4658. If you are unsure of what type of treatment you require, we have specialists on board who will meet with you to conduct a thorough assessment in order to determine which treatment modality is right for you.

MEDICALLY-ASSISTED DRUG DETOX

The Detoxification and Inpatient treatment programs at WhiteSands Treatment Center provide services to individuals suffering from alcoholism and/or other forms of chemical dependency and/or abuse. The detoxification program provides patients with safe medical detoxification by monitoring and stabilizing withdrawal risks, bio-medical conditions and complications. The rehabilitation program follows the detoxification program and provides patients with therapeutic interventions, focused on developing and maintaining a healthy recovery from alcoholism and other chemical dependencies.

Whether you are suffering from alcoholism, struggling with a dependence on prescription medication or addicted to an illegal drug like crystal meth, WhiteSands Treatment can offer you a carefully-designed and highly effective program that will facilitate your recovery. Many of our patients need to go through a period of detoxification at the time of admission, and you may be wondering whether this is necessary in your case, and maybe confused about exactly what it will involve.

What is inpatient medical detox?

It is a common misconception that the best way of dealing with addiction is to go ‘cold turkey’; in fact, abruptly stopping a drug is likely to lead to relapse, and could even be dangerous. Inpatient medical detox is a process during which addiction is dealt with by gradually reducing drug dosage. Some of the most common addictions requiring inpatient detox include alcohol, drugs such as MDMA, cocaine, crystal meth, opiate painkillers, benzodiazepines, and barbiturates. Those who consent to undergo inpatient detox for dependence on any of these drugs will dramatically increase their chances of recovery, thanks to the close supervision of medical experts.

At WhiteSands, we have a team of board-certified doctors, nurses, psychiatrists and counselors at our disposal, and a number of these staff members will design and oversee the detox process while providing constant support that helps to preserve your comfort and dignity. Detox begins with a careful assessment of your dependence and an in-depth physical examination that accurately measures the extent of your addiction. We will discuss our findings with you after this, and recommend a precise treatment plan. You can rest assured that we will also let you know exactly what to expect from your treatment and that you will be safe in our hands; we are highly experienced in dealing with physical dependence on drugs and alcohol in a compassionate, gentle way.

Why choose inpatient medical detox?

There are several major advantages to choosing to tackle substance abuse in this way. For one thing, our staff members have received extensive, up-to-date training that allows them to know exactly how and when to reduce the dosage of a drug of abuse in order to minimize the discomfort experienced by patients. Studies show that those who try to stop taking a drug without the help of such medical professionals are much more likely to relapse, mainly because the withdrawal symptoms can be painful and very difficult to handle.

In addition, safety is one of the most significant reasons why we strongly recommend inpatient detox for anyone with a serious addiction problem. Abruptly stopping your intake of certain drugs can be fatal; for example, even alcohol dependence can lead to cardiac arrest if you suddenly stop drinking. You are less likely to experience dangerous complications if you are under supervision while being weaned off drugs or alcohol, and if there are any warning signs of complications during the detox process, then we will immediately notice the signs and compensate for them in order to make you more comfortable. We closely monitor everyone in our treatment center at all times, and we can quickly administer necessary medications to deal with unpleasant physical or mental aspects of detox.

Medication Management

Patients in the detoxification stage of recovery may require medications to assist them in the management of withdrawal symptoms. This includes opioid detoxification, which we are capable of providing, and in addition to that, some patients may need to take medications relating to medical problems on an ongoing basis, while they are participating in both Detoxification and/or the Inpatient Rehabilitation Programs. Medication management is achieved by ongoing assessment by the Medical Director and follow-up by the nursing staff to provide the proper medications to the patients as deemed appropriate to address their medical needs.

What comes after inpatient medical detox?

Although inpatient medical detox is a major step in the rehabilitation process, it is not the end of your recovery. Alcoholics and drug addicts who only submit to detoxification and then stop their treatment will typically show patterns of future abuse. We believe that a customized treatment program involving cognitive behavioral therapy is a vital next step towards recovery, and we offer both individual and group therapy. Our goal is to follow detox by equipping you with the self-awareness and the skills that will help you to understand why you became an addict in the first place and to reduce the chances that you will ever relapse. We also provide family programs that aim at strengthening the bonds that you have with your loved ones by helping them to understand the nature of addiction and helping you to resolve negative feelings that may have emerged during the height of your substance abuse.

Are you ready to end the painful and destructive cycle of substance abuse? At WhiteSands Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center, we offer highly customizable detox programs that are designed to suit the particular drug of abuse. For example, if you are addicted to crystal meth, then inpatient medical detox will be vital to your rehabilitation. However, if you are addicted to a prescription painkiller, then your treatment may be more focused on therapy to combat psychological dependence.

Detox can be conducted on an inpatient or outpatient basis, but we generally recommend inpatient treatment due to the fact that it is more likely to lead to long-term recovery. Regardless of the program to which you are admitted, our board-certified doctors, nurses, and psychiatrists will work to ensure your safety and facilitate your recovery by managing withdrawal symptoms and constantly monitoring your progress in a safe, comfortable environment. By undergoing both detox and therapy, you can expect to notice profound changes in your physical and mental health, and you will leave WhiteSands with the skills to resist relapsing in the future. We also offer family programs that create a deeper understanding of the nature of addiction and help to mend damaged relationships.

Medical Detoxification Program Goals Are:

Monitor, decrease and stabilize withdrawal symptoms
Educate patients on the health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and alcohol
Assess and treat emotional and behavioral complications exacerbated by the use of alcohol and illicit drugs
Assist patients in developing an aftercare treatment plan so that they can maintain abstinence in a less restrictive level of care

You deserve to be free from the devastating cycles of drug and alcohol addiction. Call (239) 319-4658 to talk to our team of alcohol and drug treatment specialists about why WhiteSands is the perfect place to recover.

WHITESANDS TREATMENT CLINICAL

Medically assisted detoxification using controlled medications to both ease your withdrawal symptoms and ensure you get a good night’s sleep
We treat the underlying issues that led you to addiction, not just the addiction
A higher ratio of therapists to patients, with group sizes averaging from 10-15, which allows for more individual attention
Multiple group options throughout the day. Not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach
You will also have individual sessions with your assigned primary therapist a minimum of twice per week

Inpatient Treatment Made Comfortable

At WhiteSands Treatment we take a different and less institutional approach to addiction recovery. We understand that it is hard enough to seek help which is why we make the utmost effort to ensure that you are comfortable throughout inpatient treatment. We realize that individuals focus better in therapy when it is not a game of survivor.

We pride ourselves in ensuring that patients are comfortable throughout their time in inpatient treatment. We do this by providing luxurious accommodations that feature a queen-sized bed, flat-screen TV in every room, a private bathroom, and a lenient policy on cellphone and electronics use after treatment hours. By providing a home-like environment, patients feel more relaxed and at ease during a time of change, challenge, and determination.

While we focus heavily on providing the highest quality treatment, care, and support to all patients, we put equal amounts of time and attention into making sure our amenities and accommodations exceed our personal standards as well as the standards of our clients. We are consistently working to raise the bar to provide the best treatment possible coupled with premier amenities and accommodations for our guests.

Knowing which treatment modality is right for you can be overwhelming which is why WhiteSands Treatment provides consistent support to all patients, from the initial evaluation and admittance process to discharge and aftercare. By determining your unique rehab goals, whether that is identifying and overcoming an underlying mental health issue or diagnosing any sort of medical maladies, our compassionate addiction specialists are here to help you through each phase of recovery.

INPATIENT DRUG AND ALCOHOL REHAB

Our inpatient rehab program is ideal for patients who have already been through an inpatient medical detox process. This program also suits patients for whom such a detox was deemed unnecessary.

What can be expected from inpatient rehab at WhiteSands?

Our extensive experience in treating drug addiction and alcoholism has demonstrated that certain medications can be vital in helping some patients attain mental and physical stability. Specifically, we may choose to administer drugs that reduce the cravings associated with abstaining from substance abuse, thereby making your recovery more comfortable and also reducing your chances of relapsing. For example, if you are addicted to prescription painkillers (such as codeine or oxycodone) then medications like buprenorphine and naltrexone can diminish typical withdrawal symptoms. After this type of treatment, you are likely to be more responsive to the programs of therapy that we provide.

When it comes to psychological treatments, we tailor our therapy programs to the individual needs of our patients. We equip you with the skills you will need to cope with life’s stresses, without turning to substance abuse in the future. Through cognitive behavioral therapy, you will also gain a better understanding of why you developed a problem with drugs or alcohol in the first place. We also offer family programs that have a therapy component. These programs are geared toward mending damaged relationships, healing bonds and teaching your loved ones about the highly complex nature of addiction.

Why is inpatient rehabilitation highly recommended?

While many patients are understandably wary of undertaking the intimidating commitment of entering an inpatient rehabilitation program, we believe it is the smartest and most successful way to recover from addiction. What you experience and learn during a short stay in our drug treatment center could prevent you from ever having to return to rehabilitation.

Studies on recovery from addiction show that patients who are admitted to an inpatient medical detox program but refuse to undergo any further treatment, are almost as likely to return to substance abuse. True rehabilitation requires careful, long-term treatment, and that is what our inpatient rehabilitation programs can provide. In a comfortable and relaxing setting, you will receive constant physical and emotional support from our medical team and from fellow members of the WhiteSands community.

Many patients continue to struggle with difficult medical and psychological issues after the detox process is complete, and our inpatient rehabilitation program allows us to monitor your condition and helps to reduce ongoing problems. For example, a member of our psychiatric or counseling team will always be on hand to talk to you if you are feeling distraught, and we may provide you with the aforementioned medications that can reduce cravings or withdrawal symptoms when physical discomfort becomes too difficult to tolerate.

What comes after inpatient rehabilitation?

As you are getting closer to completing the program, you will be assessed once again. At this point, we are happy to help you make a smooth transition back into society by finding a place for you in our sober living community or locating a support group in your area. The goal of such programs is to help you to make a smooth, gradual transition back to independent living. You will be monitored, but you will have more autonomy and freedom than is typically experienced in inpatient programs. You can begin to return to the work and engage in family and social commitments that used to be at the center of your life. Additionally, you will continue to form meaningful, long-lasting bonds with people who have been through similar experiences, and these types of mutually supportive bonds can help to ensure that your recovery is permanent.

Inpatient Rehabilitation Goals are:

Develop methods of coping to continue to maintain abstinence and psychiatric/behavioral stabilization
Teach patients relapse prevention strategies and skills to decrease and/or eliminate the cycle of detoxification and inpatient rehabilitation
Provide patients with methods of coping strategies and skills to deal with unresolved grief, depression and anger issues that may contribute to the patient’s psychiatric/behavioral compensation
Assist patients to develop aftercare treatment plans so that they can function effectively in a less restrictive level of care

If you or someone you love needs inpatient rehabilitation, contact us today at (239) 319-4658 to find out more about our programs. All conversations are entirely confidential, and our team of experts is more than happy to answer any questions you might have. You deserve to be free from the devastating cycles of drug and alcohol addiction. Call (239) 319-4658 to talk to our team of alcohol and drug treatment specialists about why WhiteSands Treatment is the perfect place to recover.

INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT DRUG TREATMENT

Drug or alcohol addiction can lead to physical, psychological, and emotional damage. While many people struggling with alcoholism or drug addiction will need to be admitted to an inpatient treatment program in order to recover, intensive outpatient rehabilitation can also be highly effective for recovery in certain cases. By moving from inpatient treatment to intensive outpatient substance abuse treatment, you will have the opportunity to gradually transition to being an active, healthy member of society once again. We offer such programs for those struggling with addiction to drugs or alcohol, and we can also help those with a dual diagnosis to overcome their addiction and manage an accompanying mental health issue. You might be wondering, “Where can I find an outpatient drug rehab near me?” But what you should be asking is, “Where can I find an outpatient rehab with high-quality, customized programs that will give me the best chances of success?” The answer to that question is WhiteSands Treatment Center.

What does intensive outpatient treatment involve?

We tailor our outpatient alcohol rehab and detox programs according to the specific needs of each patient based on age, health, history, and other considerations, so we offer treatment programs of varying intensity. However, all of these programs will involve regular visits to the treatment center (often three days a week) and include frequent and in-depth cognitive behavioral therapy. After spending full days in our private rehab facility, you will be able to return home in the evenings. Many of the people in our outpatient programs take part after their therapist has recommended stepping down from inpatient rehab or a partial hospitalization program.

During your time at the treatment center, our professional team of board-certified doctors, educators, nurses, psychiatrists, and counselors will closely monitor your physical and psychological progress, so your treatment program will be continually customized as necessary. In individualized therapy, you will explore the underlying reasons for your substance abuse and learn new coping mechanisms that will reduce the risk of future relapse. Meanwhile, the group therapy program will give you a chance to share stories with other peers who have been through similar experiences, and you will benefit from their wisdom and experience. The bonds formed with other patients in the treatment facility can provide motivation to succeed in rehab and will continue to encourage you to work toward recovery once you leave the treatment center as well.

Assessment and screenings?

Why do we fall prey to drug addiction? Many factors can come into play. At WhiteSands, we will carefully assess your individual situation before making a joint decision about whether you are likely to recover in the context of an outpatient program. Some people may struggle in this type of setting, even if they have been making good progress, and may need to receive inpatient treatment for a while longer. For example, if ongoing problems at home or at work represent a significant part of the reason why you were attracted to substance abuse in the first place, continuing to deal with these triggers while you are away from the drug treatment center may harm you and delay your rehabilitation. The same is true if you might find it hard to stay away from a social group of fellow addicts who do not share your desire to live a sober, healthy life. If you do seem like a good fit for our outpatient programs, you can expect random drug screenings during your treatment. This applies to all of our patients; we want to ensure that all members of the WhiteSands community are continuing to be honest and forthright about their progress.

What are some of the benefits of intensive outpatient treatment?

There are many reasons why particular patients might prefer the option of intensive outpatient treatment. Firstly, there is the matter of cost. Living in a drug treatment center in order to take part in an inpatient rehabilitation program is more expensive than visiting the same center on an outpatient basis. Secondly, outpatient alcohol treatment or drug abuse treatment gives you the opportunity to continue with many aspects of your regular life while working toward becoming sober. You may be able to uphold work responsibilities, you will be able to see your family, and if you are studying to obtain a degree, then this is still achievable while you are in an outpatient program. Thirdly, being able to see family members and close friends can go a long way toward providing you with valuable support during recovery that helps to prevent relapses. Indeed, you can continue to get this type of support while also benefiting from being a part of the close community at WhiteSands, allowing you to have the best of both worlds.

Once you are ready to leave the intensive outpatient program behind, we will help to find support groups in your community and aid you in finding a local therapist. People who leave our intensive outpatient program will be endowed with the types of decision-making skills required to continue to maintain sobriety, and they will receive continued contact from WhiteSands. We are interested in the happiness and well-being of our community members long after they leave the treatment center.

Where Can I Find Outpatient Rehab Near Me?

You deserve to be free from the devastating cycles of drug and alcohol addiction. Do you find yourself or a loved one asking, “How can I find outpatient drug rehab near me?” If so, make the right choice: Call (239) 319-4658 or fill out the form here to talk to our team of alcohol and drug treatment professionals about why WhiteSands is the perfect place to get help from a safe, cost-effective, high-quality outpatient rehab program.

ALTERNATIVE DRUG REHAB PROGRAMS

Alternative treatment programs for drug addiction describes an array of healing modalities other than traditional Western medicine and therapies. Advancements in technology have expanded research parameters that facilitate a greater understanding for different types of alternative addiction treatment.

In some cases, modern scientists have been able to validate the effectiveness of some of these alternative remedies that for centuries has been used to address the symptoms of addiction in different cultures. And, in the last few decades, the holistic approach to addiction treatment that integrates traditional and alternative remedies has been shown to significantly reduce criminal inclination.

The basis for the incorporation of various types of alternative addiction treatment into the rehabilitation process is to provide a wider spectrum of treatment tools to address the myriad of effects that are produced by chronic substance abuse. The holistic approach to addiction treatment achieves this objective through cohesive and comprehensive treatment regimens that can be personalized for a greater number of patients. Another benefit of the holistic approach to addiction treatment is that it veers from the one-size-fits-all drug rehabilitation procedures of the past.

Types of Alternative Addiction Treatment for Drug Addiction

There are many different alternative treatment programs for drug addiction that are available today. Nutritional therapy, exercise, yoga, meditation and biofeedback are some of the most popular with addiction treatment professionals and patients. In fact, for some patients, they are considered to be essential components of their recovery process. Other alternative addiction treatment models that are singularly recognized for their contribution to drug rehabilitation include:

Art Therapy

Art Therapy has been gaining inroads as an effective alternative addiction therapy for the treatment of addiction. Through a process of artistic self-expression, patients are encouraged to explore deep-seated emotional issues that drive addiction and produce symptoms of anxiety, depression and suicide ideation to name a few.

Art therapists employ a variety of techniques that are designed to reinforce self-nurturance and reduce emotional imbalances. Margaret Naumburg, renowned educator and psychologist was one of the first in her field to define art therapy as a distinct form of psychotherapy in the 1940s. In the Art Therapy Sourcebook, Research Psychologist Cathy Malchiodi describes it as a “modality for self-understanding, emotional change, and personal growth.”

Yoga

Yoga is a form of exercise that helps to promote spirituality and a sense of calm, relaxation, and tranquility within the body, mind, and spirit. WhiteSands Treatment employs yoga therapy as an alternative form of addiction recovery and healing. We believe that yoga is a fantastic form of exercise that helps to promote a healthy lifestyle in all aspects of life.

Our certified yoga instructors teach participants certain breathing exercises that can have a significant effect on helping them to concentrate on channeling negative thoughts, worries, or fears that they are susceptible to once they’ve begun to embark on their road to recovery. Yoga helps to address side effects associated with substance abuse and addiction, such as anger, irritability, aggression, depression, tiredness, anxiety, impulsivity, etc.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic Care is a treatment that involves the manual adjustment or stimulation of the spine, joints, and muscles. It helps with pain management, in which our chiropractors apply pressure to the individuals’ painful areas.

Addiction can often lead to painful withdrawal symptoms and as a result, the threat of relapse is always present. This treatment method helps to ease these symptoms, along with any of preexisting pain that may have contributed to the individual's past drug use.

Alternative treatment programs for drug addiction include various other healthcare practices and therapies that utilize components of Ayurveda medicine, chiropractic services, energy medicine, homeopathy, naturopathy, and traditional Chinese medicine, as well as faith-based recovery tools.

In addition to increased scientific evaluation, the effectiveness of alternative addiction treatments are supported by empirical research and testimonies from patients that have experienced firsthand, their effectiveness through attending our alternative treatment programs for drug addiction here at WhiteSands Treatment.

Relapse Prevention and Aftercare Program

We have several outpatient offices located throughout Florida where patients partake in relapse prevention and after programming. Once inpatient treatment has been successfully completed, patients are encouraged to attend these constructive programs that help teach imperative coping mechanisms and trigger management skills.

We also offer an Alumni program for those who have completed their inpatient treatment program. Our Tampa Alumni Program encourages members to carry on in their life of sobriety. Life after addiction is a major adjustment for many which are why our alumni services work to continually motivate and support recovering addicts to continue in the positive direction they are going.

All Alumni are welcome to partake in ongoing meetings, events, and outings as part of the ongoing recovery process of addiction. Our experienced counselors will provide you with valuable guidance as a way to promote wellness while connecting over stories of strength and hope.

Returning home after your time in addiction treatment can be a hard transition. Let us help you by guiding you on the right path in re-navigating your life.

Call WhiteSands Treatment today at (239) 319-4658 to learn more about the Alumni Program and how to join.

Smart Recovery

Recovering from an addiction is a life-long commitment; it takes long-term dedication and maintenance. It is easy for a patient to fall back into the same dangerous patterns after rehabilitation if they do not remain mindful of their recovery process. Anyone in recovery can fall victim to addiction again, even after years of sobriety. Therefore, it is necessary for each individual to find a way to properly manage their cravings. White Sands Treatment Center provides a variety of programs that give patients access to the knowledge and tools required for life-long success as long as one stays motivated. SMART recovery is a relatively new program that our center utilizes, as it has been proven to deliver positive results.

The Self-Management and Recovery Training program takes a logical, scientific, non-confrontational and motivational approach to maintaining sobriety. Patients who participate in SMART recovery will learn in a highly supportive environment and study methods of recovery that come from evidence-based research. Abstinence from substance abuse is sustained through this innovative and interactive program. Recovery is a constantly evolving process and SMART recovery programs grow with each patient, as they gain more confidence, knowledge, and headway.

SMART Recovery Tools

This 4-point program is a self-empowering support system; primary tools focus on facilitating each patient’s growth through self-management skills, which are tailored to help addicts maintain sobriety from many forms of addictive behavior. Some of these behaviors include alcoholism, prescription, and illicit drug abuse, sexual addictions, eating disorders, and gambling. WhiteSands Treatment Center employs the latest remedial procedures, based on current scientific research and interaction with the community outside of rehabilitation. Our 4-Point Program offers tools for each specific program point. These points include:

Building/Maintaining Motivation
Coping with Cravings and Urges
Management of Feelings, Thoughts, and Behaviors
Living a Balanced Life

Patients are encouraged to practice each tool, as well as learn how each one can help them progress towards point 4 of the program. The face-to-face SMART recovery meetings offered at White Sands consist of in-depth discussions regarding ways in which to apply the various SMART tools in a practical manner. These discussions may include tools such as:

Stages of Change
The Change Plan Worksheet
Cost/Benefit Analysis
The Hierarchy of Values
The ABCs of Rational Emotive Behavior (REBT)
REBT for Urge Coping
REBT for Emotional Upsets
Destructive Images and Self-Talk Awareness and Refusal Method
Brainstorming
Role-playing
Unconditional Self-Acceptance

SMART recovery methods help addicts find independence from addiction through programs centered around scientific knowledge, as opposed to more spiritually based programs. Although SMART recovery may differ from programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, 12-step programs or other self-empowering groups, it does not necessarily exclude them. In our SMART recovery programs, we believe that each individual finds their own path to recovery and here at White Sands, we can help them construct this path. Through self-management and recovery training, achieving lifestyle balance is possible.

Balance your life at WhiteSands Treatment Center. We can help you start fresh and find the support necessary to maintain sobriety through the SMART Recovery program. Take the first step and call us now (239) 319-4658.

Insurance We Accept / Rates / Costs

Insurances Accepted for addiction treatment

The cost of treatment will depend on several factors such as the level of care you receive, the length of time you will be spending at WhiteSands, and the type of medical insurance that you have.

Our specialists can assist you in determining your eligibility for our inpatient addiction treatment program. Simply provide us with some detailed information about your health coverage plan by giving one of our treatment specialists a call at (239) 319-4658.

We accept most major insurance plans at our drug rehab in Florida. Our professional staff work with you to ensure that all of your questions as they relate to admittance and treatment are answered. We are dedicated to providing the best care possible to all patients and are here to help you throughout each step of recovery.

A Typical Day at WhiteSands Treatment

Our inpatient treatment program is highly-structured and tailored to the unique needs of each patient. Guests will partake in daily treatment, therapy, and counseling sessions where they will have the chance to open up about their struggles while having the support and care to work through and overcome them. The inpatient program offered at WhiteSands works to stabilize the patient on a physical, emotional, and psychological level so that their recovery goals can be met.

Individuals will be allotted free time every day where they can enjoy many of the sought-after amenities offered directly on the facility grounds. Patients will also enjoy off-site activities as well such as BBQ cookouts and trips to the beach where they have the chance to meet and mingle with others while enjoying time outside of the treatment environment.

Addiction is a complex disease that can be effectively managed with specialized treatment. Each patient who attends WhiteSands will be provided with an individualized itinerary on a daily basis which outlines what their day includes.

Here are the various itineraries for a typical day in treatment depending on what sort of treatment program you are in:

Medically Assisted Detox (Days 1 - 7) - Tampa

Patients are seen by a Board Certified Psychiatrist for a full psychiatric evaluation within 24 hours of admission
For days 1 - 7, patients will wake up at 6 a.m. and have their vitals checked
Patients are seen by a medical provider daily during detox where they will be administered substitute drugs in order to safely and effectively wean them off of the substance of abuse
Nursing units are open and available 24 hours a day, with a minimum of 3-4 nurses on the property at a time. Guests will have full access to the spa and gym during detox
Patients will be seen a minimum of once per week for follow-up on psychiatric care and medication management after detox has been complete
Once patients complete medical detox on day 7, they will begin in their treatment program

Residential (Days 7 - 24) - Tampa

Patients will wake up at 7 a.m. and enjoy a catered breakfast beginning at 7 a.m. that includes multiple food options
Group therapy, treatment, and counseling take place from 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. daily with a break for lunch at 12 p.m.
Patients can enjoy recreation time from 3:45 p.m. until dinner at 5 p.m. and then again until 7 p.m.
Nightly 12-Step Meetings begin at 7 p.m. followed by wrap up at 8 p.m.
Once patients earn privileges (as long as they are going to a group), they will have access to their cell phone from 6:30 p.m. - 10: 30 p.m.
Curfew is at 10:30 p.m. and patients must be in their private room at this time unless permission is given by clinical staff
There are scheduled offsite outings (beach, bowling, movies) multiple times per week

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) - (Day 24 and beyond) - Fort Myers

During this level of care, wake up is at 7 a.m. at which time patients will prepare their own breakfast and get ready for the day. Lunch is provided by WhiteSands on program days
Programming/Group/Individual sessions are provided from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., 6 days per week. Patients get Sunday’s off which are reserved for grocery shopping so that food can be purchased for the week
5 types of groups are offered in PHP plus individual sessions, psychiatric visits, medical follow-ups, and meetings with the discharge coordinator
Patients have access to amenities such as the gym, pool, and other recreational activities from 3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. (prepare dinner during that time)
Patients are then taken to an offsite AA/NA/CA meeting nightly
Scheduled sober offsite outings and recreation take place multiple times per week (bowling, grocery shopping, beach)

Intensive Outpatient (IOP) - (Day 24 and beyond) - Fort Myers

Attend 3 hours of groups (process and psychoeducational), 3 times per week plus individual sessions
Morning Sessions are Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Evening Sessions are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Interview With CEO, Gary Jonas

Q: You were operating a successful marketing company, what made you decide to get into the rehab industry?

A: Mike Tyson and I were partners in Iron Mike Productions, which was a boxing promotion agency. Throughout the time spent with Mike, he would often speak about his battles with addiction and substance abuse and the struggles he faced both in and out of the ring. Hearing his struggles made me think, ‘what could we do to help others who are struggling with addiction and substance abuse?’ We then came together to form ‘KO Addiction’; an organization that raises awareness about the growing drug epidemic in the United States. During boxing events, KO Addiction would promote sobriety and provide resources and access to help for those who needed it.

An employee at the marketing company that I had at the time, Joe Ducey, would also speak about his history of addiction and his experiences at different rehab centers. Hearing Mike and Joe’s substance abuse stories resonated with me and I began to realize that substance abuse was extremely prevalent. Joe expressed a significant interest in helping people get into treatment and felt that facilities that truly cared about patients' recovery were lacking. He came up to me one day and asked, ‘why don’t we open up a treatment center’? He knew that the treatment facility sector could use us and with my marketing background and Joe’s history of addiction treatment at various facilities, we knew that we had a great opportunity to succeed.

I sent Joe on a 60-day mission to research what the best treatment centers across Florida offer. If we were going to get into the treatment industry, we were going into it by striving to be the best, offer the best, and raise the bar as it relates to providing the highest quality of treatment to patients without compromise.

Q: How did you turn that idea into the successful treatment center that WhiteSands is today?

A: What it boiled down to was execution: something needed to be done in the addiction treatment industry to make it better and we wanted to be the ones to make it happen. My previous internet marketing experience had its advantages and it gave us an upper hand once the ball got rolling on our idea to create a treatment center that was better than the rest. We were able to hire the best medical and clinical staff without ever sacrificing treatment and the quality of care our patients received. We are successful because we keep the business side of things separate from the medical and clinical side, making us a cut above the rest.

Q: What were some of the things that went into WhiteSands being a premier treatment center?

A: We consistently address our philosophy which is, ‘not cramming in guests like sardines’. We understand that it is hard enough to ask for help and to seek treatment; the last thing we wanted to do was send patients to an overcrowded, crammed facility that strips them of their privacy and space. We make treatment easier and less challenging by providing a campus-style facility for patients during their stay. The large tranquil grounds allow patients to recharge and feel relaxed at the end of the day so that they are mentally and physically rested and prepared to take on their next day in treatment. By providing recreational activities, gazebos, walking paths, and a host of amenities for guests to enjoy, they have a better chance of obtaining long-lasting recovery. We do not make treatment an episode of survivor where, over time, your mental and physical condition worsens. We make sure that guests get better over their course of time in treatment.

Q: What’s the future for WhiteSands?

A: We have opened several office locations throughout Florida such as assessment offices where patients can walk in and meet with an addiction specialist who can help guide them toward recovery. We have also opened several outpatient offices. Once patients have completed their inpatient treatment, they will be sent back to their hometowns where they can meet with a therapist at one of our outpatient office locations so that they can continue to get the help and support needed to sustain their sobriety.

Meet Our Staff

WhiteSands Treatment employs the highest qualified therapists, clinicians, and counselors who demonstrate a combination of credentials and experience in the addiction and recovery field. Our compassionate team works to provide clients with the resources, tools, and support necessary to reach sustained sobriety.

Dr. S. Mann, M.D., Chief Medical Officer

Dr. Mann currently serves as the Medical Director of WhiteSands Treatment and has held that position since July 2017. Dr. Mann is responsible for the medical needs and detoxification of patients who attend WhiteSands.

Before joining WhiteSands, Dr. Mann worked in addiction treatment facilities throughout Florida. He served as an Adjunct Clinical Post-Doctoral Associate in the Addiction Medicine Division at the University of Florida where he enjoyed teaching medical students and medical school graduates during their residency training. He has also practiced Addiction Medicine in the private sector and served as both the Medical Director and Associate Medical Director at other substance abuse treatment centers. He currently enjoys both clinical duties and oversight roles as Medical Director at WhiteSands.

Dr. Mann graduated with honors from Indiana University, where he earned both his Medical Degree and a degree in chemistry. He completed his internship at the University of Miami-Jackson Memorial Hospital before completing his residency in Internal Medicine at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach, FL. He later studied addiction counseling in Denver, Colorado and he completed an Addiction Medicine Fellowship in the Psychiatry Department at the University of Florida. Dr. Mann is Board Certified in his field.

Dr. Leslie Killie, Clinical Director

Dr. L Kille LCSW has twenty years of experience in leadership within residential, community-based, and day treatment programs, inclusive of working with populations from cradle to the baby boomer population who are facing challenging co-occurring issues. This includes the creation and implementation of federal, State and local grants, policy and procedure program start-ups and mergers, and twenty-plus years of teaching in both traditional classroom and online formats. Her expertise and commitment to excellence set the stage for WhiteSands patients to receive an evidence-based wraparound group, individual and family therapeutic interventions, and support.

Natalie Honza, R.N., Director of Nursing

Natalie is an ANCC board-certified ARNP with an extensive clinical background including addiction recovery. Natalie also has taught nursing at local community colleges as well as at the university level. Natalie has a passion for addiction recovery and believes that all people have the capacity to overcome any obstacle with the correct tools and support.

Our Latest DCF Score and Report

We uphold to the highest standards of care, treatment, and support, which are reflected by our DCF score. The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) is a state agency of Florida and works to ensure that all families have access to the highest quality of services available. WhiteSands Treatment possess the seal of authenticity that shows adherence to ethics and procedures required by an accredited provider.

Our Most Recent Scores:

Detox/Res Tampa: 98%
Tampa Outpatient Offices: 100%
PHP/IOP Fort Myers: 100%

WhiteSands Compared to Average Facility

Not all treatment centers are the same. Take a look at how WhiteSands Treatment fares to the typical, standard treatment center.

WhiteSands Treatment	Average Facility
Low Patient-to-Therapist Ratio	Most facilities only offer large group meetings with limited access to one-on-one counseling and therapy
Full-Time Medical Director and Psychologist On-Site	Other facilities will often have a part-time medical specialist and will not always have an office onsite
Individualized Dual Diagnosis Treatment	The majority of facilities do not personalize and tailor their treatment modalities to each patient and resort to a 'one-size-fits-all' standardized treatment plan
Medical Detox Onsite	Generally, facilities refer detox to a partner, then brings the client back for their stay
Biofeedback	Most facilities offer basic, non-progressive or personalized treatment modalities
Variety of Groups	Other centers only offer single or limited types of therapy that do not conform to the unique needs of patients
Aftercare / Continuum of Care	Most facilities do not offer as many aftercare and relapse prevention options as we do
Private Rooms	Other facilities may not offer private room options to their guests
Cellphones & Laptops Allowed	Having this feature is very expensive to manage which is why most facilities do not offer this, but we go the extra mile to ensure that our guests have access to their personal electronic devices after treatment hours
10-Acre Campus	The majority of facilities are often confined, hospital-style buildings converted into a facility that has a sterile feeling and no room for amenities
Amenities	Most centers do not offer the extensive amenities and activities that WhiteSands does, or does not offer amenities at all
Spa Services	An average facility may only offer one spa service. This unique feature is rarely or never offered in a treatment facility setting
Smoking and Vaping Areas	Some facilities limit vaping, some limit smoking, and some limit both

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WhiteSands Treatment Centers - Alcohol & Drug Rehab Fort Myers

WhiteSands Treatment - Florida's Premier Inpatient/Outpatient Drug & Alcohol Rehab Centers

Our Most Popular Features at Our Inpatient Facility

Medical/Clinical Features

Low Patient-to-Therapist Ratio

Individualized Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Variety of Groups

Detox/Res Tampa

PHP Fort Myers

Aftercare/Continuum of Care

Non Medical Features

Private Rooms

Cellphones & Laptops Allowed

Campus Style Facility

Amenities

Smoking and Vaping Areas

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