Frequently Asked Questions
What is SAMHSA and where does PlainRecovery's data come from?
SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) is the federal agency that leads public health efforts for substance use and mental health. PlainRecovery uses SAMHSA's annual National Substance Use and Mental Health Services Survey (N-SUMHSS), which catalogs all known treatment facilities in the United States.
How do I know if a facility has beds available?
PlainRecovery shows the services a facility offers as reported in the SAMHSA survey — but bed availability changes daily. You must call the facility directly to ask about current availability. Do not assume a facility can admit you based on our listing.
What is medication-assisted treatment (MAT)?
MAT uses FDA-approved medications — methadone, buprenorphine (Suboxone), or naltrexone (Vivitrol) — combined with counseling to treat opioid use disorder. MAT is the evidence-based standard of care for opioid addiction and significantly reduces mortality risk. PlainRecovery shows whether each facility offers MAT and which medications are available.
I need help right now. What should I do?
For immediate assistance, call SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 (free, confidential, 24/7 in English and Spanish). For mental health or suicide crises, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Don't wait to search databases — call one of these lines and they will help connect you to local resources.
Does PlainRecovery include both substance use and mental health facilities?
Yes. SAMHSA's N-SUMHSS includes both substance use disorder treatment facilities and mental health treatment facilities. Many co-occurring disorder programs that treat both substance use and mental health conditions together are also included.
How current is the facility data?
PlainRecovery reflects the most recent annual SAMHSA N-SUMHSS dataset available. Because the survey is conducted annually and facilities change, some information may be outdated. Always call facilities to verify their current services, hours, and availability.
Does PlainRecovery endorse or recommend specific facilities?
No. PlainRecovery lists facilities as they appear in the SAMHSA survey and does not rate, rank, or recommend specific facilities. We do not conduct facility inspections and cannot verify the quality of care provided. Facility listing is not an endorsement.
Need immediate help?
Call SAMHSA's National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357 (free, confidential, 24/7) or text/call 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.