There are many types of recovery, but when it comes to health, recovery means healing from addiction or mental health struggles. People recover in different ways depending on what they need. The main types of recovery include inpatient care, outpatient programs, holistic recovery, peersupport, and dual diagnosis treatment.
This article is only about behavioral health recovery. We do not cover recovery in sports, fitness, data systems, or disaster planning. We aim to help you understand real-world recovery options supporting lasting change.
Each recovery type helps differently; some offer full-time care, while others provide support through therapy or group help. At Nirvana Recovery, we know that every person’s path is different. This guide will help you learn what kind of recovery may be right for you or your loved one.
Recovery is not just about quitting drugs or alcohol. It’s about building a better life. Experts often talk about four key areas that support long-term recovery. These are known as the four pillars of behavioral health recovery:
1. Health
Health as a pillar means learning how to manage your symptoms and avoid harmful substances. Treatment, therapy, and medical care all help support your health during recovery.
2. Home
A safe and stable place to live makes recovery possible. Many people benefit from sober living homes or supportive housing programs during this time.
3. Purpose
Having a reason to get up each day helps people stay strong. The reason could be work, school, or caring for family. A sense of purpose builds confidence and hope.
4. Community
Strong support systems like peer groups, friends, or family play a big part in staying sober. They help with emotional healing and relapse prevention.
Together, these pillars make up a person’s recovery capital, the tools and support they have to build a healthy, stable life.
Clinical Recovery Programs: Types of Structured Treatment
Clinical recovery programs offer structured care for people dealing with addiction or mental health issues. These programs are led by doctors, therapists, and trained staff. Each type fits different needs, based on how much support someone needs daily.
Inpatient Recovery
In inpatient programs, people live at the treatment center. They get 24/7 care, including medical help, therapy, and group sessions. Inpatient is often the best choice for those with intense cravings, past relapses, or dual diagnosis (addiction plus a mental health issue).
Outpatient programs let people live at home while undergoing treatment during the day or evening. Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) offer more hours of therapy each week. These are good for people who have a safe home and daily stability.
PHPs are in the middle between inpatient and outpatient. People attend full-day therapy but go home at night. Partial Hospitalization helps those who need firm support without staying overnight.
Detox centers help people safely clear drugs or alcohol from their bodies. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) uses approved medications to ease withdrawal and reduce the risk of relapse, especially for opioids or alcohol.
In every clinical program, a personal treatment plan is created. Think of it as a roadmap that guides your care step by step. It includes different therapies, such as:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps you change harmful thoughts and habits
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Teaches emotional control and how to handle stress.
Trauma therapy helps people heal from past emotional pain.
These programs build a strong foundation for recovery by combining medical care, therapy, and daily support.
Holistic Recovery Approaches: Healing the Whole Person
Recovery is not only about quitting drugs or alcohol. Recovery is also about feeling better in your body, mind, and spirit, and it is called holistic recovery. It looks at the whole person, not just the addiction.
Many people in recovery have gone through trauma or emotional pain. That’s why trauma-informed care is essential. It creates a safe space where people feel supported and not judged.
Art or music therapy – Lets you express feelings in creative ways.
Breathwork – Uses deep breathing to ease stress and anxiety.
Healthy eating and exercise – Helps rebuild your strength.
Spiritual practices – Help you feel more peaceful and connected.
Holistic care at centers like Nirvana Recovery is often added to regular therapy, giving people more tools to stay calm, balanced, and in control. This type of care is known as integrative therapy.
Holistic recovery strengthens healing. It helps you feel balanced, safe, and ready for a better future.
Peer-Based and Community Recovery Models
Recovery doesn’t happen alone. Being around others who understand their journey makes all the difference for many people. Peer-based recovery focuses on support from people who have “been there.” They share their experiences and help others stay on track.
12-Step Recovery Programs
Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) are well-known 12-step programs. These include regular meetings, group sharing, and a sponsor system. The steps help people grow, forgive themselves, and stay sober.
Non-12-Step Alternatives
Not everyone connects with the 12-step style. Some prefer SMART Recovery, Refuge Recovery, or other options focusing on self-management, mindfulness, or science-based tools. These groups are open to all and support many paths to recovery.
Sober Living and Transitional Housing
Sober living homes are shared spaces where people in recovery live together. These homes are drug- and alcohol-free and give residents structure, accountability, and peer support. It’s a good step between treatment and complete independence.
Community Support and Group Therapy
Support groups and group therapy create a sense of belonging. Talking with others reduces shame and reminds people they’re not alone. Many recovery communities, including Nirvana Recovery, offer peer-based programs as part of long-term care.
Being part of a recovery community builds connection, hope, and strength. It helps people feel supported and seen as they move forward.
Dual Diagnosis Recovery: Treating Addiction and Mental Health Together
Some people don’t just struggle with addiction. They also live with a mental health condition like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or PTSD. When both issues happen simultaneously, it’s called a dual diagnosis.
Dual diagnosis recovery is different. It means treating both problems together, not one before the other. If mental health is left untreated, it can make addiction worse. And if addiction is ignored, it can block real emotional healing.
Treatment for dual diagnosis often includes:
Therapy for mental health, such as CBT or trauma therapy.
Support for addiction, like detox, peer support, or group care.
Medication, when needed, to help balance mood or reduce symptoms.
Emotional tools – for handling stress, sadness, or panic healthily.
The goal is functional recovery, learning how to live, work, and connect with others while managing both addiction and mental health.
Centers like Nirvana Recovery specialize in dual diagnosis. Our care plans are made to help people heal fully, not just in one area of life.
Recovery doesn’t end when treatment does. The weeks and months after a program are just as important. That’s where aftercare comes in.
Aftercare is a plan to help people stay on track after leaving rehab. It gives continued support and tools to prevent relapse. It’s easy to fall back into old habits without a plan, especially when life gets stressful.
Recovery looks different for everyone. Some people need full-time care. Others do better with flexible programs, group support, or both. Some people also need help with mental health, along with addiction. That’s called dual diagnosis, and it’s more common than you might think.
What matters most is finding the type of care that fits you. The right program can support your goals and help you feel stronger daily.
At Nirvana Recovery, we create individualized care plans. That means we listen to your needs and build a plan for you. We aim to help you feel safe, supported, and ready for a better life.
If you or someone you love is starting their recovery journey, we’re here to help. Let us walk with you on your path to healing and long-term sobriety.
1. What are the stages of recovery from addiction?
Recovery has five main steps: notice the problem, prepare for change, take action, stay on track, and grow. These steps help people move toward a better life.
2. How do I know if I’m ready for recovery?
You are ready if you want to stop using, feel unhappy with your current life, and are open to help. Being prepared means you are willing to try.
3. What kind of place helps with recovery work?
A quiet, safe place with support is best. Quiet spaces can be sober homes or places with caring people. A good place helps lower stress and build habits.
4. How long does recovery take?
Recovery takes time. Treatment may last weeks or months. But staying healthy often means long-term care like therapy or support groups.
5. Why are goals in recovery important?
Goals give you something to work toward. They help you stay focused, feel proud, and build a new life step by step.
12 Types of Recovery
Published On June 14, 2025
Table of Contents
There are many types of recovery, but when it comes to health, recovery means healing from addiction or mental health struggles. People recover in different ways depending on what they need. The main types of recovery include inpatient care, outpatient programs, holistic recovery, peer support, and dual diagnosis treatment.
This article is only about behavioral health recovery. We do not cover recovery in sports, fitness, data systems, or disaster planning. We aim to help you understand real-world recovery options supporting lasting change.
Each recovery type helps differently; some offer full-time care, while others provide support through therapy or group help. At Nirvana Recovery, we know that every person’s path is different. This guide will help you learn what kind of recovery may be right for you or your loved one.
Schedule a consultation at Nirvana Recovery today
The Four Pillars of Behavioral Health Recovery
Recovery is not just about quitting drugs or alcohol. It’s about building a better life. Experts often talk about four key areas that support long-term recovery. These are known as the four pillars of behavioral health recovery:
1. Health
Health as a pillar means learning how to manage your symptoms and avoid harmful substances. Treatment, therapy, and medical care all help support your health during recovery.
2. Home
A safe and stable place to live makes recovery possible. Many people benefit from sober living homes or supportive housing programs during this time.
3. Purpose
Having a reason to get up each day helps people stay strong. The reason could be work, school, or caring for family. A sense of purpose builds confidence and hope.
4. Community
Strong support systems like peer groups, friends, or family play a big part in staying sober. They help with emotional healing and relapse prevention.
Together, these pillars make up a person’s recovery capital, the tools and support they have to build a healthy, stable life.
Clinical Recovery Programs: Types of Structured Treatment
Clinical recovery programs offer structured care for people dealing with addiction or mental health issues. These programs are led by doctors, therapists, and trained staff. Each type fits different needs, based on how much support someone needs daily.
Inpatient Recovery
In inpatient programs, people live at the treatment center. They get 24/7 care, including medical help, therapy, and group sessions. Inpatient is often the best choice for those with intense cravings, past relapses, or dual diagnosis (addiction plus a mental health issue).
Read – When is Inpatient Rehab Necessary?
Visit Nirvana Recovery’s Residential Program in Arizona
Outpatient and IOP
Outpatient programs let people live at home while undergoing treatment during the day or evening. Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) offer more hours of therapy each week. These are good for people who have a safe home and daily stability.
Read here to know more about Outpatient Rehab Facilities.
Nirvana Recovery’s Intensive Outpatient Program IOP Phoenix, Arizona
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
PHPs are in the middle between inpatient and outpatient. People attend full-day therapy but go home at night. Partial Hospitalization helps those who need firm support without staying overnight.
PHP Partial Hospitalization Program for Substance Abuse, Phoenix, AZ
Detox and Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Detox centers help people safely clear drugs or alcohol from their bodies. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) uses approved medications to ease withdrawal and reduce the risk of relapse, especially for opioids or alcohol.
Take a Look at Nirvana Recovery’s Arizona Drug Detox Center
Customized Treatment Plans
In every clinical program, a personal treatment plan is created. Think of it as a roadmap that guides your care step by step. It includes different therapies, such as:
These programs build a strong foundation for recovery by combining medical care, therapy, and daily support.
Holistic Recovery Approaches: Healing the Whole Person
Recovery is not only about quitting drugs or alcohol. Recovery is also about feeling better in your body, mind, and spirit, and it is called holistic recovery. It looks at the whole person, not just the addiction.
Many people in recovery have gone through trauma or emotional pain. That’s why trauma-informed care is essential. It creates a safe space where people feel supported and not judged.
Holistic recovery can include:
Holistic care at centers like Nirvana Recovery is often added to regular therapy, giving people more tools to stay calm, balanced, and in control. This type of care is known as integrative therapy.
Holistic recovery strengthens healing. It helps you feel balanced, safe, and ready for a better future.
Peer-Based and Community Recovery Models
Recovery doesn’t happen alone. Being around others who understand their journey makes all the difference for many people. Peer-based recovery focuses on support from people who have “been there.” They share their experiences and help others stay on track.
12-Step Recovery Programs
Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) are well-known 12-step programs. These include regular meetings, group sharing, and a sponsor system. The steps help people grow, forgive themselves, and stay sober.
Non-12-Step Alternatives
Not everyone connects with the 12-step style. Some prefer SMART Recovery, Refuge Recovery, or other options focusing on self-management, mindfulness, or science-based tools. These groups are open to all and support many paths to recovery.
Sober Living and Transitional Housing
Sober living homes are shared spaces where people in recovery live together. These homes are drug- and alcohol-free and give residents structure, accountability, and peer support. It’s a good step between treatment and complete independence.
Community Support and Group Therapy
Support groups and group therapy create a sense of belonging. Talking with others reduces shame and reminds people they’re not alone. Many recovery communities, including Nirvana Recovery, offer peer-based programs as part of long-term care.
Read more about Arizona’s Support Groups for Alcohol Recovery: AA and Alternatives.
Being part of a recovery community builds connection, hope, and strength. It helps people feel supported and seen as they move forward.
Dual Diagnosis Recovery: Treating Addiction and Mental Health Together
Some people don’t just struggle with addiction. They also live with a mental health condition like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or PTSD. When both issues happen simultaneously, it’s called a dual diagnosis.
Dual diagnosis recovery is different. It means treating both problems together, not one before the other. If mental health is left untreated, it can make addiction worse. And if addiction is ignored, it can block real emotional healing.
Treatment for dual diagnosis often includes:
The goal is functional recovery, learning how to live, work, and connect with others while managing both addiction and mental health.
Centers like Nirvana Recovery specialize in dual diagnosis. Our care plans are made to help people heal fully, not just in one area of life.
Click Here for Mental Health Addiction Treatment in Phoenix, Arizona
Aftercare and Long-Term Recovery Support
Recovery doesn’t end when treatment does. The weeks and months after a program are just as important. That’s where aftercare comes in.
Aftercare is a plan to help people stay on track after leaving rehab. It gives continued support and tools to prevent relapse. It’s easy to fall back into old habits without a plan, especially when life gets stressful.
Read why people with an addiction relapse when things are going well.
A good aftercare plan may include:
The goal is long-term recovery maintenance. That means staying sober, living well, and feeling strong, clear, and in control.
At Nirvana Recovery, aftercare is part of every treatment plan. We help clients build resilience and make positive lifestyle changes that last.
Nirvana Recovery’s Aftercare Support
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Path to Recovery
Recovery looks different for everyone. Some people need full-time care. Others do better with flexible programs, group support, or both. Some people also need help with mental health, along with addiction. That’s called dual diagnosis, and it’s more common than you might think.
What matters most is finding the type of care that fits you. The right program can support your goals and help you feel stronger daily.
At Nirvana Recovery, we create individualized care plans. That means we listen to your needs and build a plan for you. We aim to help you feel safe, supported, and ready for a better life.
If you or someone you love is starting their recovery journey, we’re here to help. Let us walk with you on your path to healing and long-term sobriety.
Call Nirvana Recovery today.
FAQs
Recovery has five main steps: notice the problem, prepare for change, take action, stay on track, and grow. These steps help people move toward a better life.
You are ready if you want to stop using, feel unhappy with your current life, and are open to help. Being prepared means you are willing to try.
A quiet, safe place with support is best. Quiet spaces can be sober homes or places with caring people. A good place helps lower stress and build habits.
Recovery takes time. Treatment may last weeks or months. But staying healthy often means long-term care like therapy or support groups.
Goals give you something to work toward. They help you stay focused, feel proud, and build a new life step by step.
Still have questions? Contact our customer support team.