Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation is a nonprofit treatment network with inpatient and outpatient programs across multiple states

Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation operates residential treatment centers, outpatient clinics, and telehealth services for people with substance use and mental health conditions. The organization runs facilities in Minnesota, Florida, Oregon, New York, and other locations, and also offers online programs. Unlike a single clinic, it is a network of separate treatment centers, each with its own admission process and program structure.

The foundation was formed in 2014 when the Hazelden Foundation merged with the Betty Ford Center. Both organizations had long histories in addiction treatment — Hazelden since 1949 and Betty Ford since 1982. Today the combined organization is one of the largest nonprofit treatment providers in the United States, though it is not a government agency and does not receive direct federal funding for individual treatment.

Treatment at Hazelden Betty Ford centers typically lasts 28 days for inpatient programs, though some people stay longer and others use shorter outpatient tracks. The programs use a combination of group therapy, individual counseling, medical care, and peer support based on the 12-step model, though the organization also offers non-12-step approaches at some locations.

Key Takeaways

  • Hazelden Betty Ford operates multiple treatment centers in different states, so the program you enter depends on which location you contact and which has availability.
  • Inpatient programs typically run 28 days, but outpatient and telehealth options are shorter and allow you to live at home during treatment.
  • The organization accepts many insurance plans and offers financial information for uninsured patients, though costs and coverage vary by location and program type.
  • You do not need a referral from a doctor to contact Hazelden Betty Ford directly, though your doctor or insurance company can help you understand your coverage options.
  • The intake process usually involves a phone assessment to match you with the right program level and location based on your needs and medical history.

How to contact Hazelden Betty Ford and start the intake process

Call the main admission line at 1-800-257-7810 to speak with an intake specialist. This number connects you to a central team that can answer questions about all Hazelden Betty Ford locations and programs. The intake specialist will ask about your substance use history, any mental health conditions, medical needs, and what kind of program structure works for your situation — inpatient, outpatient, or virtual.

You can also visit the Hazelden Betty Ford website and use the online contact form to request a call back, though the phone line is usually faster if you need to start right away. During the initial call, be honest about your medical history, any medications you take, and whether you have insurance. The intake team uses this information to recommend which location and program level fits your needs.

After the initial assessment, Hazelden Betty Ford will tell you which programs have openings and what the next steps are. If you choose to move forward, the organization will help you arrange transportation to an inpatient facility if needed, and will work with your insurance company to verify coverage before you arrive.

Inpatient programs: what happens during a 28-day stay

Inpatient treatment means you live at the facility for the duration of the program. A typical day includes group therapy sessions, individual counseling with a therapist or counselor, medical appointments if needed, educational classes about addiction and recovery, meals, and structured free time. Most programs also include family therapy sessions where relatives can participate, either in person or by video call.

The first few days are usually focused on medical assessment and detoxification if needed. Hazelden Betty Ford has medical staff on site to manage withdrawal symptoms safely and prescribe medications if appropriate. After that, the focus shifts to therapy and learning coping skills. You will be assigned to a peer group that stays together throughout the program, which creates accountability and connection.

Visiting hours and phone access vary by location. Some facilities allow limited phone calls and visits after the first week, while others have stricter policies during the early phase. Ask about this during intake so you know what to expect and can plan accordingly with family members.

Outpatient and virtual programs for people who cannot stay overnight

If you cannot take time away from work or family responsibilities, Hazelden Betty Ford offers outpatient programs where you attend treatment sessions during the day or evening and return home. Intensive outpatient programs (IOP) typically meet three to five days per week for several hours each day, usually for 8 to 12 weeks. Standard outpatient programs meet one to three times per week and are often used for ongoing support after inpatient treatment or for people with less severe needs.

Virtual programs allow you to attend therapy and group sessions from home using video conferencing. These work best for people with stable housing and a private space to participate, and they remove barriers like transportation or childcare. Virtual programs are not suitable if you are in acute withdrawal or have severe medical needs, but they can be a good option for continuing care or for people in rural areas far from a treatment facility.

Outpatient and virtual programs are usually less expensive than inpatient treatment, and many insurance plans cover them more readily. However, they require more self-discipline because you are managing your own schedule and environment while in early recovery.

Insurance coverage and financial information options

Hazelden Betty Ford accepts most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid in states where the organization operates. During intake, the admission team will contact your insurance company to find out what your plan covers — usually the deductible amount, copay per day, and how many days of treatment are covered. Coverage varies widely depending on your specific plan and whether the facility is in-network.

If you do not have insurance or your insurance does not cover the full cost, Hazelden Betty Ford offers financial information and payment plans. The organization is a nonprofit, which means it reinvests revenue into treatment rather than paying shareholders, and it sets aside funding specifically to help uninsured and underinsured patients. You can ask about this during intake, and the admission team can discuss what payment options might work for your situation.

Some employers offer Employee information Programs (EAP) that cover part or all of addiction treatment costs. If your employer has an EAP, contact them directly to find out what they cover before you call Hazelden Betty Ford. This can sometimes reduce your out-of-pocket cost significantly.

What to bring and how to prepare for arrival at an inpatient facility

Hazelden Betty Ford will send you a list of what to pack when your admission date is confirmed. Generally, bring comfortable clothes, toiletries, any prescription medications in their original bottles, and a photo ID. Most facilities do not allow phones, computers, or outside alcohol and drugs, so plan accordingly. Some locations allow limited phone access after the first week, so ask about this during intake.

Notify your employer, school, or other commitments that you will be unavailable for the duration of treatment. If you have children or dependents, arrange care before you arrive. If you are taking prescription medications, bring them in their original labeled bottles so the medical team can review them and continue them safely during treatment.

Arrive on the day and time specified by the admission team. If you need help arranging transportation, tell the intake specialist — some facilities can help coordinate this, especially if you are traveling from out of state.

Aftercare and continuing support after treatment ends

Hazelden Betty Ford does not end when you leave the facility. The organization offers continuing care programs, alumni support groups, and connections to 12-step meetings and other peer support in your home area. Many people transition from inpatient to outpatient treatment at the same location, which provides continuity with the therapists and counselors they worked with during their stay.

The foundation also offers family programs and educational resources for people in recovery and their loved ones. Some locations have alumni events and reunions where people who completed treatment can stay connected to the recovery community.

Recovery is ongoing, and most people benefit from some form of continued support after formal treatment ends. Ask the treatment team before you leave what aftercare options are available in your area and how to stay connected to Hazelden Betty Ford's alumni network.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a doctor's referral to call Hazelden Betty Ford?

No. You can call the admission line directly at 1-800-257-7810 without a referral. However, if your doctor has referred you or if you want your doctor involved in your treatment planning, you can ask the intake team to coordinate with them.

What if I cannot afford the full cost of treatment?

Hazelden Betty Ford offers financial information and payment plans for uninsured and underinsured patients. Discuss this with the intake team during your initial call — they can explain what options may be available based on your situation and income.

Can family members visit during inpatient treatment?

Visiting policies vary by location and program phase. Most facilities allow limited visits after the first week and include family therapy sessions. Ask about the specific visiting policy for the location where you will be treated during intake.

How long does the intake process take before I can start treatment?

The initial phone assessment usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. If a bed is available and your insurance is verified, you may be able to start within days. If the location is full, you may be placed on a waiting list or offered a spot at another Hazelden Betty Ford facility.

What happens if I leave treatment early?

If you decide to leave before the program ends, staff will discuss your concerns and may adjust your treatment plan. Leaving early reduces the benefit of treatment, but the organization will help connect you to outpatient or other continuing care options to support your recovery.