Addiction Treatment: Your Questions Answered If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, it's normal to feel overwhelmed and have a lot of questions. You are not alone, and help is available. Addiction Treatment FAQs As a double board-certified addiction specialist in Orlando, Dr. Kent Hoffman is here to provide clear, compassionate, and confidential answers. Below, we’ve addressed some of the most common questions we hear at our private medical practice. Have a question not listed here? Your situation is unique. We invite you to call our office at 407-691-3975 for a 100% confidential consultation with our team. About Dr. Hoffman’s Outpatient Treatment Do I have to go to an inpatient “rehab” center? No. This is one of the biggest misconceptions about recovery. Dr. Hoffman specializes in a 100% outpatient treatment model. This is a highly effective, modern approach that allows you to recover without pausing your life. You live at home, keep your job, and maintain your family commitments—all while receiving expert, physician-led care. This private, “real-world” model is often more effective and sustainable than a 30-day inpatient program, especially for those who have not found success in the past. How much does treatment with Dr. Hoffman cost? Because we are a private medical practice, not a residential rehab center, our outpatient model is a more affordable and flexible option. Treatment is provided as a series of medical appointments with Dr. Hoffman. We accept most major health insurance plans, which can significantly cover the cost of your care. Please call our office, and our staff can discreetly assist you in verifying your insurance coverage. How long does treatment take? Addiction is a chronic medical condition, not something that can be “cured” in 30 days. Your recovery is a journey. The first stage, detox, can last several days. The next stage, stabilization with Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), is customized to you. Dr. Hoffman works with you as your primary addiction-focused physician, managing your care and supporting your long-term recovery for as long as you need. Understanding Addiction & Recovery What is addiction? Is it really a disease? Yes. Addiction is a chronic, treatable medical disease of the brain. It is not a moral failing or a lack of willpower. Substances like alcohol or opioids physically change your brain’s chemistry. This creates a powerful dependence and intense cravings that are out of your control. That is why it’s so hard to quit on your own. Dr. Hoffman treats addiction with the same medical expertise and confidentiality as any other chronic disease, like diabetes or heart disease. Is addiction treatable? Absolutely. Addiction is highly treatable. With the proper medical care, long-term recovery is not just possible—it’s expected. Dr. Hoffman’s treatment combines safe medical detox with evidence-based medications (MAT) and behavioral support. This “whole-person” approach treats the physical and psychological parts of addiction. How quickly can someone become addicted? This is different for everyone. It depends on genetics, the substance, your age, and your environment. Some opioids can cause physical dependence after just a few uses. It’s impossible to predict who will become addicted. You should never assume you “can’t” become addicted, especially if you have a family history of addiction. What does “sobriety” mean? Sobriety is more than just stopping the use of a substance. It’s about building a new, healthy, and fulfilling life. It’s about finding peace, healing relationships, and rediscovering your purpose, all free from the control of drugs or alcohol. Dr. Hoffman’s program is designed to provide you with the stability and support you need to lead a full life. About Medical Detox & Withdrawal What is medical detox? Medical detox is the first step: safely managing your body’s physical withdrawal from a substance. It is not the same as addiction treatment, but it’s where treatment begins. The goal is to get the substance out of your system as safely and comfortably as possible. This is done under Dr. Hoffman’s medical supervision, using medications to ease your symptoms. What is withdrawal? Withdrawal is your body’s physical and mental reaction when you stop using a substance it has become dependent on. Symptoms can range from uncomfortable to severe. They often include: Intense cravings Nausea, vomiting, or flu-like symptoms Anxiety, agitation, or depression Insomnia Shakes, tremors, or seizures (in severe alcohol withdrawal) You should never try to detox on your own. Medically-supervised withdrawal is safer, more comfortable, and far more likely to be successful. How long do withdrawal symptoms last? It depends on the substance, how long you used it, and your personal health. Physical symptoms can last from several days to a few weeks. Psychological symptoms, like anxiety or cravings, can last longer. Our Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is specifically designed to manage these long-term cravings so you can focus on your recovery. For Family & Loved Ones How do I know if my child is using drugs? It can be difficult, as teens often try to hide it. Look for sudden or drastic changes in: Friends: An entirely new group of friends. School: Dropping grades, skipping class, or loss of interest. Mood: Increased secrecy, irritability, mood swings, or isolation. Appearance: A sudden lack of care for personal hygiene. Money: Unexplained missing money or valuables. The most important thing is to create an open, non-judgmental dialogue. If you are concerned, a confidential consultation with a specialist can help. Will my child “outgrow” their substance use? This is a dangerous assumption. Substance use in adolescence is not a “phase” to be ignored. It can lead to accidents, risky behaviors, and long-term addiction into adulthood. If you suspect a problem, it is critical to seek professional help early. The longer the use continues, the greater the risk. How can I help my loved one in recovery? Your support is vital. The best things you can do are: Get Educated: Understand that addiction is a disease, not a choice. Be Supportive, Not an Enabler: Offer your love and support, but set firm, healthy boundaries. Encourage Treatment: Help them find professional care. An intervention, led by a professional, can be a loving and effective way to start the conversation. Get Support for Yourself: Family support groups (like Al-Anon) can be invaluable. Have More Questions? We’re Here to Help. Every person’s path is unique. The best way to get answers for your specific situation is to speak with a specialist. Dr. Kent Hoffman and his team are here to provide a confidential, compassionate, and expert medical opinion. Call 407-691-3975 today to schedule your first appointment.