Question 1

Where are you located?

Accepted Answer

University Hospital/Stony Brook ELIH is located in Riverhead, NY at 905 East Main Street, 11901. Our facility serves individuals throughout New York State and the surrounding areas. We're committed to providing accessible, high-quality treatment in a supportive environment. For detailed directions, parking information, or if you need help with transportation arrangements, please contact us and our admissions team will assist you.

Question 2

How do I start treatment or get admitted?

Accepted Answer

Starting treatment at University Hospital/Stony Brook ELIH is simple and confidential. First, call our 24/7 helpline at +1 (855) 643-5408 to speak with an admissions specialist. We'll conduct a brief, confidential assessment to understand your needs, verify your insurance coverage, answer all your questions, and schedule your admission date. The entire process typically takes 24-48 hours from first contact to admission, though we can expedite for urgent situations. Don't wait - reaching out is the hardest and most important step. Our compassionate team is here to help you begin your recovery journey. Call +1 (855) 643-5408 now for immediate, confidential assistance.

Question 3

Why is fentanyl so dangerous?

Accepted Answer

Fentanyl is 50-100 times more potent than morphine, meaning a tiny amount can cause overdose. Illicit fentanyl is now found in many street drugs—often without the user's knowledge—making any drug use extremely risky. Even experienced users can overdose because they can't gauge the dose. At University Hospital/Stony Brook ELIH, we understand the unique challenges of the current opioid crisis. Our treatment programs address fentanyl addiction with medical detox, MAT options, and comprehensive therapy. If you're using any street drugs, please seek help immediately—call +1 (855) 643-5408.

Question 4

What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?

Accepted Answer

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based therapy that helps you identify and change negative thought patterns driving addictive behavior. At University Hospital/Stony Brook ELIH, our trained therapists teach you to: recognize triggers and high-risk situations, challenge distorted thinking (like "I need drugs to cope"), develop healthy coping strategies, and build skills for managing cravings. CBT is typically provided in both individual and group settings. Research shows CBT is highly effective for addiction treatment, with benefits that last long after treatment ends because you learn skills you can use forever.

Question 5

What is Vivitrol and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

Vivitrol (extended-release naltrexone) is a monthly injection that blocks opioid receptors, preventing opioids from producing a high. Unlike Suboxone or Methadone, Vivitrol contains no opioids and has no abuse potential. It's effective for both opioid and alcohol addiction. However, you must be fully detoxed (7-14 days opioid-free) before starting Vivitrol to avoid precipitated withdrawal. At University Hospital/Stony Brook ELIH, we help patients through detox and transition to Vivitrol when appropriate. The monthly injection eliminates daily medication decisions, which some people find helpful.

Question 6

Does Medicare cover rehab?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Medicare covers addiction treatment. Part A covers inpatient/hospital-based treatment. Part B covers outpatient services, doctor visits, and some medications. Coverage specifics depend on your plan. University Hospital/Stony Brook ELIH accepts Medicare and can verify your specific benefits. Call +1 (855) 643-5408 for a free verification. We'll explain exactly what's covered under your plan and any out-of-pocket costs to expect.

Question 7

Should I stage an intervention?

Accepted Answer

Professional interventions can be effective but should be done carefully. Consider working with a certified interventionist who can: help family members prepare non-judgmental statements, manage emotions during the meeting, have treatment arrangements ready, and guide the process professionally. At University Hospital/Stony Brook ELIH, we can connect you with intervention resources and have a bed ready if your loved one agrees to treatment. Before staging an intervention, call +1 (855) 643-5408 to discuss whether it's the right approach for your situation and what to have in place beforehand.

Question 8

When should I call for help?

Accepted Answer

Call now. If you're questioning your substance use, something has brought you to this point. There's no "right" amount of suffering before you deserve help. Signs it's time include: unsuccessful attempts to cut down, substances affecting work, health, or relationships, spending significant time obtaining or using, experiencing withdrawal symptoms, and friends or family expressing concern. At University Hospital/Stony Brook ELIH, we're available 24/7 at +1 (855) 643-5408. You don't need to have all the answers—just the willingness to explore your options. The call is confidential and no-obligation. The best time to get help is before things get worse.

Question 9

What is sober living and do I need it?

Accepted Answer

Sober living homes provide structured, substance-free housing for people transitioning from treatment. They offer: drug-free environment with accountability, peer support from others in recovery, gradual return to independence, and often house meetings and curfews. Sober living is especially helpful if: your home environment has triggers, you lack stable housing, you've relapsed after previous treatment, or you need more time before returning to regular life. University Hospital/Stony Brook ELIH can recommend reputable sober living options. It's not for everyone—some people do fine transitioning directly home with strong outpatient support. We'll help you decide what's right for you.

Question 10

What is evidence-based treatment?

Accepted Answer

Evidence-based treatment refers to approaches proven effective through scientific research. At University Hospital/Stony Brook ELIH, we use methods like: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), and 12-step facilitation. These have been studied extensively and shown to help people achieve lasting recovery. Beware of programs promoting unproven or experimental approaches. While some holistic methods complement evidence-based care, they shouldn't replace it. We combine proven treatments with individualized care, recognizing that while methods are standardized, your treatment plan is uniquely yours.

Type of Care	Substance use treatment, Transitional housing, halfway house, or sober home, Treatment for co-occurring substance use plus either serious mental health illness in adults/serious emotional disturbance in children
Service Settings	Outpatient, Outpatient methadone/buprenorphine or naltrexone treatment, Regular outpatient treatment
Medications Offered	Buprenorphine used in Treatment, Naltrexone used in Treatment

University Hospital/Stony Brook ELIH

Accepted Payment Methods

Suffolk Cnty Dept of Hlth Servs