Kootenai Behavioral Health - Addiction Recovery Services

Part of a Hospital-Based Behavioral Health System

Kootenai Behavioral Health – Addiction Recovery Services operates within the Kootenai Health system, giving adults access to substance use treatment that can be coordinated with broader medical and behavioral health services. Being based on a hospital campus allows care teams to address substance use alongside mental health needs through shared assessments, clinical collaboration, and a clear focus on safety and stabilization.

Structured Outpatient and Intensive Outpatient Care

Treatment is delivered through group-based intensive outpatient (IOP) and step-down outpatient (OP) programs for adults age 18 and older. Care begins with comprehensive assessments that guide goal-focused planning, followed by scheduled group sessions that emphasize relapse prevention, substance use education, and skills drawn from cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. Telehealth options are available to help reduce access barriers.

Integrated Addiction Medicine Services

The program includes medication services for individuals who may benefit from medications for addiction treatment (MAT) for alcohol or opioid use disorders, such as buprenorphine or naltrexone. Services also include outpatient withdrawal management and consultation on appropriate levels of care, with the ability to coordinate treatment for people already receiving medications through outside prescribers.

Ongoing Support Beyond Core Treatment

Recovery support extends beyond therapy through case management, discharge and continuing care planning, and connections to community-based recovery groups, including both 12-step and non-12-step options. Practical support such as overdose education, naloxone distribution, and transportation assistance (when available) are designed to help people stay engaged in care and maintain continuity as treatment needs change.

Client Reviews

Many clients describe a calm, respectful place to stabilize and talk through a crisis, with staff who take time to listen and connect people to resources.

• Treatment Quality & Outcomes (55% positive): Many clients say they left feeling safer and more grounded after being heard, supported, and connected to next steps. Some others describe visits that felt like brief rather than hands-on help in the moment. "This place literally changed our family's life for the better."
• Access & Process (50% positive): Reviews often mention a structured intake and safety-first procedures, with some clients appreciating clear direction and others feeling turned away or unsure what to expect. "It’s totally voluntary, compassionate and knowledgeable."
• Staff & Care Experience (60% positive): Many reviewers describe staff as compassionate, nonjudgmental, and respectful during vulnerable moments. "Compassionate and caring team."
• Facility & Environment (65% positive): Clients frequently describe the space as clean, quiet, and comfortable, with basic comforts like food and a sense of safety. "Clean, safe, and comfy environment."
• Support & Community: Several reviews highlight practical help beyond the visit, including community resources and follow-up care planning. "They even offered food and water during the visit and also set us up with follow-up care."