Which of the following is NOT one of the three stages of effective treatment?

The correct answer is ongoing support, as it is often considered as an essential component of treatment rather than a distinct stage. In the context of effective treatment for substance use disorders, the three main stages typically include detoxification and medical/physical interventions, psychosocial rehabilitation, and aftercare. Detoxification focuses on safely managing withdrawal symptoms from substances, while psychosocial rehabilitation involves addressing psychological and social factors that contribute to addiction and supporting the development of coping skills. Aftercare is critical as it helps individuals maintain recovery by providing continuing support and resources following the initial treatment phases.

Ongoing support, while vital for sustaining recovery, typically falls within the scope of aftercare and is not categorized as a separate stage. It encompasses various elements like counseling, support groups, and community resources that facilitate long-term recovery rather than representing a standalone phase in the treatment process. Understanding the structured stages of treatment is crucial for effective practice in chemical dependency counseling.