Medical Detoxification

Detoxification (Detox) refers to the process of ridding the body of a toxic substance. It is not treatment, but a first step in preparing an individual to receive treatment. Medically monitored detox is offered at the Phoenix Center for any person who is likely to experience withdrawal symptoms.

According to the Center of Substance Abuse Treatment, there are three immediate goals for a detox program: (1) to provide a safe withdrawal from alcohol or other drug(s) of dependence and enable the patient to become free of non-prescribed medications; (2) to provide a withdrawal that is humane and that protects the patient's dignity; and (3) to prepare the patient for ongoing treatment of his or her dependence. At the Phoenix Center, our Detox Unit meets these goals through our caring staff, a comfortable environment, sensitivity to cultural issues, supportive services, confidentiality, and the selection of appropriate detoxification medication (if needed).

The Phoenix Center has a 16 bed Medical Detox Unit on-site which is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with counselors, nurses, and on-call physicians. For safety, comfort and wellbeing, our clients are closely monitored. To be admitted, patients must be 18 years old or older, complete an onsite screening process, and meet the medical criteria for needing acute medical detoxification as determined by staff.

During their detoxification process, clients begin to regain mental and emotional stabilization. They are expected to attend groups focused on engagement and introduction to the treatment process. Once detox is completed, usually within 5 - 7 days depending on the drug and severity of use, discharge planning is provided to transition clients into treatment services.

In this early stage of recovery, patients may be inspired by treatment staff and peers. It is through these relationships that clients are often introduced to positive alternatives to an alcohol- or drug-using lifestyle. Detoxification is our opportunity to offer patients information and to motivate them for longer-term treatment and ultimate recovery.

The Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU)

CSU was designed to meet the needs of those patients with a dual diagnosis which includes chronic mental health problems plus substance addiction. Each CSU patient is assessed by a psychiatrist from the Greenville Mental Health Center. Any necessary psychotropic medications are ordered along with the usual medically monitored detoxification protocol. The CSU patient meets with the Mental Health Counselor to discuss and make discharge plans that will promote continued stable mental health and support recovery efforts.

Clients recieve 24/7 monitoring my Licnensed Medical RN's and LPN's during the course of their Medical Detoxification and Crisis Stabilization.

For more information, please contact our Detox Program at 864-467-3770 or 467-3942.