Frequently Asked Questions

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  • Why do people go through as a group? What about my individual situation and condition?
    • In a typical treatment program, the 28 days are interrupted by people entering and leaving the program sporadically. Our unique group approach eliminates these distractions. Don’t worry, you’ll receive individual treatment for your specific situation. Each Participant will engage in over 120 hours of counseling, much of it individual.
  • What’s the matter with typical 12-step programs?
    • 12 step programs are successful for some but they don’t work for everybody. The Clearing is a 12-Steps alternative. Unlike the 12 steps, we treat the core issues underlying addiction rather than addiction itself; healing follows naturally.  Check out more ways we’re different from typical 12-step programs.
  • Why does the Program last 28 days?
    • Our Program is progressive, one day builds upon the next.  28 days may seem like a long time but the days will fly by.  Extended, focused time is necessary to fully integrate what you learn.
  • What is the composition of the group?
    • Groups will be a mixture of men and women. All Participants are screened for their willingness and motivation to heal.
  •  Will I have to give up my cell phone and computer?
    • Our emphasis is on creating a safe, loving and healing environment for all Participants and to create a space for them to focus on themselves. We also know how important it is to have access to personal devices such as cell phones and computers, so we have developed an electronics policy that balances these two objectives. We have designated periods when personal electronics are available. All electronics are logged in during intake, and Participants may continue to use them until around 7:00 p.m. on the date of check-in. The next time electronics will be made available to Participants is the following Thursday, four days after admission. From that point on, electronics are permitted every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday for a one hour period between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. and additionally on Sunday for a three hour period between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Headphones are required for listening to music.
  • Will I have a roommate?
    • We have nine private rooms and one semi-private room for a total of 11 beds.  We assign private and semi-private rooms based on the details of the population of each group.
  • What if I want to leave early?
    • If our Program is not working for you we will assist you in transitioning to another program or home.
  • Can I smoke?
    • Smoking is permitted in designated smoking areas.
  • What if I don’t like the people in my group?
    • Let’s face it, over 28 days you will likely encounter some challenge with someone in the group. At The Clearing, we use these occurrences as opportunities to look deeper into the source of the upset to bring forward both resolution and learning. Of course if any individuals behavior falls outside acceptable norms, our staff will promptly to address the issue appropriately.
  • What happens after I finish?
    • Over the last three days at The Clearing, you and your family will participate in our Family Care Program which allows you and your family to spend time with counselors in order to transition back into your life.  After you return home, you can access our counselors by phone, email and Skype.
  • Is this covered by insurance?
    • Insurance plans and coverage vary widely, and many insurance plans cover residential treatment. Some of The Clearing’s Program fees may be covered by your insurance plan. At this time, we will be an “out-of-network” provider under your insurance plan. We will look to you for full payment upfront, then you can get reimbursed by your insurance company, based on your plan coverage. For planning purposes and budgeting, we are currently developing a standard estimated “bill” with all the insurance codes on it so that you can work with your insurance provider to see roughly what they will reimburse. We will help in any way we can. See more on the Insurance and Financing sections of the Admissions page. 
  • Is there 24/7 supervision?
    • Yes. Staff is onsite 24 hours a day.
  • Why do you need to apply? Can’t I just sign up?
    • The Clearing is not for everybody. We work hard to assist you in determining whether The Clearing is the right place for you.  The successful applicant has carefully considered their options, is ready to actively engage and is seriously ready to improve their life.
  • What’s the food like?
    • Glad you asked! We know food is an important consideration and our food is unlike anything you’ll find at most residential treatment facilities. Our menus have been prepared by an island-based chef and rely heavily on his knowledge of the best locally-sourced, fresh ingredients. Read more about our accommodations and food philosophy on the Tour page. 
  • Do I get any free time?
    • Yes.  Monday – Saturday, you have free time 7:00-10:00pm for homework, reading, relaxation, etc.  Sundays are also an off day where you are free for afternoon family visits and island activities.
  • Can I leave the island during the program?
    • No. Once the program has started, unless for an emergency, we require all participants to remain on San Juan Island.
  • Can I have visitors?
    • Yes, visitors are allowed on Sundays. Phone and email will also be available.
  • Can I detox here?
    • No, our Program is post-detox. If you need to complete this step first, we’ll be happy to assist you in locating an appropriate program for you.
  • Do you provide medication?
    • We will inventory your prescribed medications upon check-in and support your personal protocol. If additional medications are necessary during your stay here, our consulting physician will prescribe them and they will be distributed by our dispensary.