Research indicates that clients who stay in treatment longer than how many months have better outcomes?

Individuals who remain in treatment for six months or longer have been shown to achieve better outcomes in the context of substance use treatment. This duration is significant because it allows adequate time for the client to engage with the therapeutic process, develop skills for coping and recovery, and solidify changes in behavior and lifestyle. Staying in treatment for this amount of time fosters a deeper understanding of the issues related to substance use and creates opportunities for building supportive relationships with counselors and peers.

Research supports the idea that sustained engagement in treatment contributes to positive changes, such as reduced substance use, improved mental health, and enhanced overall well-being. This six-month benchmark is often cited in clinical practice guidelines and is supported by empirical evidence indicating that shorter time frames may not provide sufficient opportunity for instilling lasting change.