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Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center

2002 Holcombe Blvd
Houston, TX 77030
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Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center TX 77030

About Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center

Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center is a Veteran focused addiction treatment and behavioral health provider in Houston, Texas, serving as the main campus of the VA Houston Health Care system. 

Located in the Texas Medical Center area, the facility offers substance use treatment alongside psychiatry, PTSD care and a wide range of medical and specialty services. 

Its mission is to deliver coordinated, Veteran centered care that addresses addiction, mental health and the broader challenges of reintegration.

Care often begins with an assessment through the Substance Disorders Treatment Program (SDTP), where Veterans receive evaluation, counseling and medication matched to their needs. 

For those requiring more structure, the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides 3 hours of group treatment per day, 3 days per week, plus weekly individual sessions.

Veterans needing a higher level of support can access residential rehabilitation through the Houston Domiciliary, a 48 bed program offering recovery support and wraparound services. 

Treatment incorporates group therapy, contingency management and coordination with PTSD care, vocational rehabilitation, housing services and Whole Health.

Quick Facts About the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center

Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center is located in Houston, Texas, within the Texas Medical Center area. The facility offers several levels of care, including outpatient SDTP services, an intensive outpatient program, and residential rehabilitation through the Houston Domiciliary. 

Treatment for Veterans includes support for homelessness, returning Veterans, and individuals living with PTSD. Care is delivered through an integrated behavioral health approach that combines counseling, group therapy, medication, and contingency management. 

Eligible Veterans may use VA benefits to pay for treatment, while third party sources also report acceptance of private insurance, Medicare, military insurance, and self pay options. 

The medical campus operates 24/7 and provides amenities such as free parking, shuttle service, a cafeteria, and wheelchair availability. Additional support services include housing assistance, vocational rehabilitation, PTSD care, and Whole Health programming. 

Starting Treatment in Houston

To begin care at Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston, Veterans can connect with the Mental Health Care Line for an assessment and referral into the appropriate level of substance use treatment. 

The intake team can review eligibility, explain program options and help coordinate additional VA supports.

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Edited by:
Gayle Morris, BSN, MSN

Facility Overview

Bed icon 535
Number of Available Beds

Latest Reviews

Dorance
1 month ago on Google
5
Best hospital for me
Monique Richardson
1 month ago on Google
5
My experience was really good at the VA they finally found a way to help me. LSSN RICHARDSON
Pamela Klinegardner
1 month ago on Google
5
Nurse Sharrika has been a blessing to our family! She was pulled from her regular floor to come help out. She is a breath of fresh air. Her communication is clear, she is so caring and thoughtful. You can rest assured she has many years of experience. You are in great hands with her. She is truely a blessing!!
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Rehab Score

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Scoring is assigned by a proprietary system which helps surface key metrics that determine quality. The 10-point scale factors in categories such as operations, customer satisfaction, and trust metrics. Read Full MethodologyCaret icon
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7.2 / 10

Other Forms of Payment

Private insurance refers to any kind of healthcare coverage that isn't from the state or federal government. This includes individual and family plans offered by an employer or purchased from the Insurance Marketplace. Every plan will have different requirements and out of pocket costs so be sure to get the full details before you start treatment.

Self-pay involves paying for treatment out of your own pocket. You can use savings or credit, get a personal loan, or receive help from family and friends to fund your treatment. If you don't have insurance or your insurance plan doesn't cover a specific program, self-pay can help ensure you still get the care you need.

Medicare is a federal program that provides health insurance for those 65 and older. It also serves people under 65 with chronic and disabling health challenges. To use Medicare for addiction treatment you need to find a program that accepts Medicare and is in network with your plan. Out of pocket costs and preauthorization requirements vary, so always check with your provider.

Military members, veterans, and eligible dependents have access to specific insurance programs that help them get the care they need. TRICARE and VA insurance can help you access low cost or no cost addiction and mental health treatment. Programs that accept military insurance often have targeted treatment focused on the unique challenges military members, veterans, and their families face.

Addiction Treatments

Levels of Care

Outpatient Programs (OP) are for those seeking mental rehab or drug rehab, but who also stay at home every night. The main difference between outpatient treatment (OP) and intensive outpatient treatment (IOP) lies in the amount of hours the patient spends at the facility. Most of the time an outpatient program is designed for someone who has completed an inpatient stay and is looking to continue their growth in recovery. Outpatient is not meant to be the starting point, it is commonly referred to as aftercare.

Residential treatment programs are those that offer housing and meals in addition to substance abuse treatment. Rehab facilities that offer residential treatment allow patients to focus solely on recovery, in an environment totally separate from their lives. Some rehab centers specialize in short-term residential treatment (a few days to a week or two), while others solely provide treatment on a long-term basis (several weeks to months). Some offer both, and tailor treatment to the patient's individual requirements.

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) are for those who want or need a very structured treatment program but who also wish to live at home and continue with certain responsibilities (such as work or school). IOP substance abuse treatment programs vary in duration and intensity, and certain outpatient rehab centers will offer individualized treatment programs.

Rehab aftercare programs are based on a model of continuing care and the premise that recovery is a life-long process requiring ongoing client support. Many rehab aftercare services include outpatient care, but clients often continue to receive support after being discharged from formal treatment. Case managers and care teams typically collaborate with clients to design their long-term care plan, which may include peer coaching, career counseling, and 12 step program induction, among other services.

12 step programs promote participants' sustained sobriety through rigorous and ongoing peer coaching and personal spiritual growth. Participants routinely attend 12 step meetings, which are available multiple times per day, 365 days per year in most communities. This ensures that those in recovery have prompt access to the structure and support they need when they need it. These programs use spiritual precepts to address the root causes of addiction and encourage compassion, self-awareness, forgiveness, accountability, and acceptance.

Residents of a sober living home in Texas reside at the halfway house with others who have agreed to abstain from substances and practice sober-living skills. The relationships and accountability formed here can help individuals strengthen their mental health and achieve long-term recovery. Residents share common spaces such as kitchens and back yards, share meals together, and share household responsibilities such as cooking and cleaning.

Intervention services helps family or friends of addicts stage an intervention, which is a meeting in which loved ones share their concerns and attempt to get an addict into treatment. Professional intervention specialists can help loved ones organize, gather, and communicate with an addict. They can guide intervention participants in describing the damage the addict's behavior is causing and that outside help is necessary to address the addiction. The ideal outcome of an intervention is for the addict to go to rehab and get the help they need.

24-hour clinical care in Texas provides a safe environment for medical detox. This setting is crucial to provide medical care during withdrawal. Certain withdrawal symptoms can cause life-threatening conditions, but patients in a supervised clinical setting have treatment readily available to address any symptoms before they become severe. Treatment can also be provided for co-occurring physical and mental health issues.

Drug and alcohol addiction often takes a heavy toll on one's body. Over time, a physical dependence can develop, meaning the body physiologically needs the substance to function. Detox is the process of removing drugs and/or alcohol from the body, a process that can be lethal if mismanaged. Medical detox is done by licensed medical professionals who monitor vital signs and keep you safe, healthy, and as comfortable as possible as you go through detox and withdrawal.

Treatments

The goal of treatment for alcoholism is abstinence. Those with poor social support, poor motivation, or psychiatric disorders tend to relapse within a few years of treatment. For these people, success is measured by longer periods of abstinence, reduced use of alcohol, better health, and improved social functioning. Recovery and Maintenance are usually based on 12 step programs and AA meetings.

During rehab in Texas, you'll deal with underlying issues that contribute to addiction. By addressing these challenges and learning healthy ways to cope with them, you'll develop strategies that help you live a drug-free lifestyle.

A combined mental health and substance abuse rehab has the staff and resources available to handle individuals with both mental health and substance abuse issues. It can be challenging to determine where a specific symptom stems from (a mental health issue or an issue related to substance abuse), so mental health and substance abuse professionals are helpful in detangling symptoms and keeping treatment on track.

Opioid rehabs specialize in supporting those recovering from opioid addiction. They treat those suffering from addiction to illegal opioids like heroin, as well as prescription drugs like oxycodone. These centers typically combine both physical as well as mental and emotional support to help stop addiction. Physical support often includes medical detox and subsequent medical support (including medication), and mental support includes in-depth therapy to address the underlying causes of addiction.

Programs

Adult rehab programs include therapies tailored to each client's specific needs, goals, and recovery progress. They are tailored to the specific challenges adult clients may face, including family and work pressures and commitments. From inpatient and residential treatment to various levels of outpatient services, there are many options available. Some facilities also help adults work through co-occurring conditions, like anxiety, that can accompany addiction.

Young adulthood can be an exciting, yet difficult, time of transition. Individuals in their late teens to mid-20s face unique stressors related to school, jobs, families, and social circles, which can lead to a rise in substance use. Rehab centers with dedicated young adult programs will include activities and amenities that cater to this age group, with an emphasis on specialized counseling, peer socialization, and ongoing aftercare.

Recovery is most successful when clients feel accepted and validated by their peers and treatment providers. Facilities that offer LGBTQ-inclusive programming are committed to creating a safe space where everyone can grow and recover without fear of judgment or discrimination. They will have dedicated policies in place to create a safe and supportive environment that fosters free expression.

Serving in the military is both mentally and physically challenging, and can result in trauma that persists even after combat ends. Military programs are tailored to the specific and often complex needs of active duty personnel, veterans, and military families. Clients often access these programs through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Clinical Services

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a therapy modality that focuses on the relationship between one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is used to establish and allow for healthy responses to thoughts and feelings (instead of unhealthy responses, like using drugs or alcohol). CBT has been proven effective for recovering addicts of all kinds, and is used to strengthen a patient's own self-awareness and ability to self-regulate. CBT allows individuals to monitor their own emotional state, become more adept at communicating with others, and manage stress without needing to engage in substance abuse.

In individual therapy, a patient meets one-on-one with a trained psychologist or counselor. Therapy is a pivotal part of effective substance abuse treatment, as it often covers root causes of addiction, including challenges faced by the patient in their social, family, and work/school life.

Research clearly demonstrates that recovery is far more successful and sustainable when loved ones like family members participate in rehab and substance abuse treatment. Genetic factors may be at play when it comes to drug and alcohol addiction, as well as mental health issues. Family dynamics often play a critical role in addiction triggers, and if properly educated, family members can be a strong source of support when it comes to rehabilitation.

Life skills trainings involve all the skills a person must have in order to function successfully in the world. These include time management, career guidance, money management, and effective communication. Truly successful addiction recovery is based on the ability to not only live substance-free, but to thrive. Life skills teaches the practical necessities of functioning in society, which sets clients up for success in life, and therefore sobriety.

Amenities

  • car iconPrivate Transportation
  • home-setting iconResidential Setting
  • private-room iconPrivate Rooms

Staff & Accreditations

Staff

Francisco Vazquez, MBA

Medical Center Director

Lindsey Crain, MHA, FACHE

Deputy Medical Center Director

Charlie Lan, D.O.

Chief of Staff

Julianna Cotton, DNP, RN, NE-BC

Acting Associate Director Patient Care Services

Jeremiah Jackson, MPH, FACHE

Acting Associate Director

Brent Kratky

Chief Experience Officer

Accreditations

The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) is a non-profit organization that specifically accredits rehab organizations. Founded in 1966, CARF's, mission is to help service providers like rehab facilities maintain high standards of care.

CARF Accreditation: Yes
Accreditation Number: 248027

The Joint Commission, formerly known as JCAHO, is a nonprofit organization that accredits rehab organizations and programs. Founded in 1951, the Joint Commision's mission is to improve the quality of patient care and demonstrating the quality of patient care.

Joint Commission Accreditation: Yes
Accreditation Number: 4510

Rehab.com regularly reviews this listing for accuracy but changes may occur between updates. For the most up-to-date information, please contact Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center.

Contact Information

Building icon

2002 Holcombe Blvd
Houston, TX 77030

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Reviews of Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center

3.26/5 (1265 reviews)
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Google Reviews

3.26 (1265 reviews)
Charles
1 month ago
1

“ You fell through the cracks here since 2007 “ = told this on 9/2023 following a MVA , by M.H. Exam Dr. J. Lampkin “ you cannot connect lines on a cognitive test “ = told this by a M.H. Exam Dr. J Lampkin. = 9/2023 following a MVA “how did WE fail you Mr. Hanna“ an unknown / un-named female “Doctor”asked me this question during a inpatient stay in 2024 = then no more care ever. No name tag, would not present i.d. Would not positivity identify herself. Just ill fitting scrubs curly blond-ish hair and a uneven gait wearing a white coat. Yet what a great question huh. “ We can’t help you , TYFYS “ In regards to er care and arrest after a MVA ( Nuero related as well ) = yes I was told this following a MVA “ maybe next time we will bring a dr in so you don’t have to repeat yourself “ Nuero dept told me during a visit “things happen before people die” = great bedside manner during a inpatient visit. = told following a MVA Overall. ** They will give you 2-10 years in jail rather then healthcare. ** They will drag you outta the er. ** They will backdate a BEHAVIORAL FLAG to ensure you can’t come back. *** Their patient advocates p. franklen and w. babbers Will threaten physical bodily harm upon you and nothing happens. Execpt you may get arrested several times seeking “ care “ get charged. Jailed. And Denied all future care. *** *** Good job Houston great hospital. Va you’ve been great since 2007 it seems.

Sarcastic Cynic
1 month ago
4

There was a White SUV today between 12 PM & 2 PM parked near the parking lot of the VA Houston Regional Office with a young white man that got behind a blue Honda Civic Texas plates CB7-X947 and it was strange bc no one got out of that SUV but it looked like an unmarked police car with Louisiana plates. The man ask me what I was doing and I told him that i have PTSD and that I routinely check my vehicle before getting in and driving away and that it was simply a process for me to feel safe. He claimed he wasn’t a cop but he wasn’t dropping off or picking up anyone at the regional office so why the need to get behind me in a partially empty parking lot and just monitor me in an unmarked vehicle with a spotlight on the side, and them tires cops car have. Call me crazy but it is weird to just sit there playing with your phone inside your vehicle. Different Incident ( Friday June 5th 7 am -8:20 AM) This past Friday I had another vehicle with 2 white man do the same exact thing in the J lot. at around 7 am to 8:30 am! they never got out but just sat there! parallel to my car so they could monitor me from their rear view mirror which is weird when you catch ppl doing that to you seceral times as yoy ate getting all your things together in your vehicle for your medical appointment … so concerned bc this has never happened to me at the VA hospital … I approached their vehicle window and tapped on it to bring the window down but the driver quickly tried blowing me off like talking to me was too much of an effort. I have never see a veteran act i. this manner at the hospital so what ever these two clowns were up to it must have not being legit to be have this tantrum when they were the ones picking through their rear window to me. Imagine if this had happened to a female … you’d be concerned too right? the driver wasn’t on the phone or anything, just sitting in the vehicle parked parallel to my blue Honda civic Texas plates CB7-X947. They never even got out! the older man told me he wasn’t an undercover police but the young one just kept quiet! why act like a cop but then stay quiet when a veteran ask you a simple question? I might just be over thinking but I told my psychiatrist that I feel being followed. (Christina Knot & My name is Sanchez-Maldonado, last four is 4857). The very least, if the VA police can check the video feed from the one from today, wed the 10th between the hours of 1 PM & 2:30 PM near the Houston regional office parking lot. ( I moved there from the J parking lot near the emergency ER entry bc I wasn’t done checking the car and I gave my spot to another veteran and this is after I spoke with security about the incident this past Friday and they told me to take a pictures of the plates net time … but not ten minutes late in the other lot i get who ever that kid on the white suv with Louisiana plates was. You can’t miss me relocating to the lot by the regional parking lot to further check my vehicle when this character pull up behind me. does VA police have undercover vehicular units operating inside the VA hospital? and if yes then why from Louisiana plates? Hell maybe it is my PTSD … is just this stomach instinct that something isn’t right bc I have never had this happened in the 3 years I have been going to the VA hospital. Just watch out for strange characters! not everyone on the parking lot is a veteran and we have a lot of elderly vets walking between vehicles.

Sarah Donnell
1 month ago
5

I had a great experience. Early Saturday morning dentist appointment, so traffic was smooth and I easily found parking. I usually really hate dentist visits, they're usually full of being told all the ways I live incorrectly and need to do better. Dr. Heckenbach and the team there didn't do that. He was very professional and answered all of the questions I would've had just as he spoke while conducting his exam. He was thorough and honest with me about things that needed to be addresses versus things that weren't an issue. I was also seen very promptly. I didn't have to wait a crazy long time past when my appointment was supposed to be. I did feel a little lost getting into the building at first, and nobody was at the information desk to help. But thankfully I was able to find my way with the appointment info in my VA app.

Kevin Summers
1 month ago
5

my experiences have been positive. They were very I recently began utilizing the VA for medical. They sent me to several specialist, to create my medical profile. I have no complaints.

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