Hannah Friedman - Luxury Rehab

August 23, 2021June 8, 2023

LGBTQ+-Affirming Rehab

As an LGBTQ+ person, it can be hard to find supportive, affirming healthcare. People in this community face unique barriers to treatment. You may struggle to find providers who are both willing and able to give you the care you need. In some cases, it can actually be dangerous to disclose certain aspects of your life to a doctor. And even staunch allies sometimes lack cultural competency, requiring clients to do the emotional labor of describing their own identities at every appointment. When you expect the very act of getting help to be such hard work, recovery can be daunting.

Fortunately, as time goes on, more and more healthcare providers are starting to understand the needs of the LGBTQ+ population. Information is readily available in ways it hasn’t always been, and people are actively learning what it means to be respectful. And it’s not just about reading up on theory. There are a number of luxury rehabs that cater to the unique needs of LGBTQ+ clients.

Addiction in the LGBTQ+ Community

Historically, research has shown that LGBTQ+ people are at higher risk for substance use disorders¹than other populations. A 2012 study found that “between 20 percent to 30 percent of gay and transgender people abuse substances, compared to about 9 percent of the general population.” This finding was supported by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health in 2015, which asserted that lesbian, gay, and bisexual people were “more likely than their sexual majority counterparts to have substance use and mental health issues.”²

Addiction is a mental health issue, and queer communities often lack access to effective mental health care. Recovery is the process of healing yourself as a whole person, reintegrating different aspects of your identity, and focusing on the parts of your life that bring you joy. In order to do that, it’s important to work with healthcare providers who encourage you to be the best and most authentic version of yourself. As time goes on, providers are learning more about what it means to do that for LGBTQ+ people. Thankfully, there are a growing number of resources available for LGBTQ+ people in the process of recovery.

caron ocean drive — Caron Ocean Drive in Boca Raton, Florida has on-staff endocrinologists who work closely with transgender clients.

What Is LGBTQ+-Affirming Care?

As with any demographic, LGBTQ+ affirming care is not one-size-fits-all. Skilled healthcare providers understand that there is more to you than your gender or sexuality. However, certain types of treatment are especially important to people with these identities.

Respectful Therapy

The goal of therapy is to become your best self, not to change or “fix” who you are. Culturally competent therapists honor their clients’ identities. By helping clients define and understand their own personal values, therapists encourage them to build joyful, sustainable lives.

It’s important to find a therapist who is willing to meet you where you are, whether or not you subscribe to dominant cultural norms. For example, the United Recovery Project offers LGBTQ+ clients “resources designed to address the unique challenges and needs of those within this community” and “a space where you can feel at home and respected.”

Medical Support for Trans Clients

When seeking any kind of medical care, trans clients may be concerned about the way prescriptions interact with hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Addiction recovery adds a deeper layer to this concern, because the detox process is yet another change in body chemistry. However, it’s absolutely possible to start recovery without losing access to the prescription medication you need.

Finding the right balance of medications can be hard, and it can take time. Some rehab facilities, like Caron Ocean Drive, have staff endocrinologists who work closely with transgender clients. These experts are there to ensure your access to gender-affirming care³ throughout the process of detox and recovery.

Body Image Therapy

Rehab isn’t just for substance addiction. Many people also attend inpatient programs for various mental health conditions, including eating disorders. For example, providers at The Emily Program Seattle aim to offer all clients a positive experience of treatment—including LGBTQ+ people.

The providers at this facility are well-trained in the nuances of gender-affirming care. According to one of their published resources, “16% of transgender individuals have been diagnosed with an eating disorder. Eating disorders in the transgender community⁴ may be partially attributed to the attempt to more closely match a person’s physical appearance to their gender identity. Transgender men may rely on their eating disorder to lose weight, and thus, lose feminine curves and appear more muscular. Transgender women may engage in disorder[ed] eating in an attempt to lose muscle and appear more petite.”

the emily program — The Emily Program in Seattle, Washington offers inclusive treatment for eating disorders: a common condition in the transgender community.

Chosen Family Therapy

For the LGBTQ+ community, “family” is a complex and often painful concept. Many of those in this demographic are closer to their chosen families than their families of origin. Whether your family is defined by shared DNA, experience, or values, your health has an impact on your loved ones. Because of this, family therapy can be an important part of recovery.

The providers at Caron Ocean Drive recognize both the importance and complexity of family in LGBTQ+ communities:

“Family engagement is critical to treatment success so we invite those you identify as your family of choice to take part in education that enables them to better understand substance use disorder, mental health disorders, and how to best support you in recovery as well as attend to their recovery and emotional health.“

LGBTQ+ Youth

Historically, it’s been difficult to find adequate health care for young LGBTQ+ people. At its worst, treatment was once intended to force these vulnerable clients into living inauthentic lives. Mental health care has come a long way since that time, and there’s still a long way to go.

Thankfully, there are now many resources available that aim to support LGBTQ+ youth in the process of coming out and growing into healthy adults. Providers today are proactively creating programs to support this population. With or without support from their families of origin, LGBTQ+ youth deserve high-quality care.

In particular, the providers at Paradigm Teen Treatment recognize that “One of the most vulnerable populations among youth today are LGBTQ teens.”⁶ This rehab center has a special focus on family therapy. They explicitly encourage parents to accept and support young people in the process of coming out. This is not just intended to heal family dynamics, but also to connect young clients with more community resources. Providers teach that when a family can accept a teen as they are, “it helps a community to do the same.”

At any age, LGBTQ+ clients face unique stressors. Culturally competent healthcare providers recognize that recovery will not make these hardships disappear. Instead, queer-friendly rehab programs are designed to help you navigate whatever life brings your way.

Treating Mental Health in LGBTQ+ Communities

Certain factors put LGBTQ+ people at higher risk⁷ for mental health concerns. Specifically, people in this demographic may face discrimination, harassment, a lack of access to adequate healthcare, and family rejection. These external stressors can exacerbate underlying mental health conditions. When your mental health takes a hit, it can be all too easy to return to unhealthy coping mechanisms.

With or without a diagnosed mental illness, many LGBTQ+ people experience minority stress.⁸This state is the result of living under discriminatory conditions that are, according to researchers, “unique (not experienced by nonstigmatized populations), chronic (related to social and cultural structures) and socially based (social processes, institutions and structures).” Even people without severe trauma can be worn down by daily life in difficult circumstances. Minority stress is common among people who experience oppression,⁹ including queer and BIPOC communities.

People who experience more severe, specific trauma are likely to develop mental health disorders. For example, LGBTQ+ youth are at higher risk for PTSD.¹⁰ Many luxury rehabs offer trauma-informed care, which is designed to respect these clients’ unique needs and boundaries. Your providers will pay careful attention to your personal history, triggers, and treatment goals. This process encourages clients to understand the relationship between their trauma and substance use. The better you understand your own emotional experience, the better equipped you’ll be to handle stress in a healthy and sustainable way.

As prevalent as stress and trauma are among LGBTQ+ clients, no experience is universal. Many rehab facilities pride themselves on offering bespoke treatment, tailoring the program to suit each individual client. If you have a specific mental health concern, it may be helpful to find a program that offers treatment for co-occurring disorders. Remember: there are as many ways to heal as there are people in recovery. You have the right to find a rehab program that honors every aspect of your health and your identity.

Take Pride in the Healing Process

Navigating the healthcare system can be hard for anyone, and even harder for queer folks. Members of minority populations are often taught that asking for help means admitting your lifestyle is problematic, and that’s simply untrue. LGBTQ-affirming care is designed to honor and support you, just as you are. In the right rehab program, you can learn to let go of unhealthy behaviors, while still celebrating your authentic self.

To find a program that suits your unique needs, you can connect directly with a rehab facility that offers LGBTQ+-affirming care.

Frequently Asked Questions About LGBTQ-Affirming Rehab

What is LGBTQ+-affirming rehab?

LGBTQ+ affirming rehab is a type of rehab program designed specifically for people in the LGBTQ+ community. These programs aim to create a safe therapeutic environment where people can explore their issues without fear of retraumatization.

Why is LGBTQ+-affirming rehab important?

Members of the LGBTQ+ community face unique challenges when seeking treatment for addiction or mental health issues. These can include discrimination, lack of understanding, and lack of access to appropriate resources. Affirming rehab programs provide safe, supportive spaces where people can receive the care they deserve.

How do LGBTQ+-affirming rehab programs differ from traditional rehab programs?

LGBTQ+-affirming rehabs may take a trauma-informed approach to treatment that assumes a history of identity-based trauma. They may also offer LGBTQ+-only housing, groups, or entire programs. The goal of LGBTQ+-only spaces and LGBTQ-focused care is to allow LGBTQ+ clients to engage in therapy without the self-censoring that would stall progress in a mainstream treatment setting.

August 23, 2021April 17, 2023

Is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Right for You?

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an addiction treatment method that uses pharmaceuticals to address substance dependency. Because it entails medications that can themselves be addictive, this approach is controversial among those seeking treatment, the medical community, and addiction treatment professionals. And while this evidence-based treatment helps many people overcome their addictions, it also carries a significant amount of documented risks.

If this is a treatment option you’re considering for yourself or for your loved one, it may be helpful to think of MAT as just one available tool that some find beneficial on their path to recovery. According to Douglass Weiss, President and Chief Customer Officer of Gallus Detox Centers,

“Substance use disorders occur within a much greater percentage of the population than you would ordinarily think. About 20 million people in the United States have a substance use disorder. However, only 11% of those people seek treatment.”

Considering how pervasive this problem is, any tool that can help someone sustainably recover is one worth (carefully) considering.

If you’re trying to decide if MAT is an appropriate option for you, learning more about what it is, what specific medicines are used, and what addictions it can treat will empower you with the knowledge you need to move forward in the direction that feels best for you.

What Is MAT?

In short, medication-assisted treatment¹ is exactly what its name implies: “the use of medications, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, to provide a ‘whole-patient’ approach to the treatment of substance use disorders,” as defined by the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

SAMHSA further explains how the prescribed medicines used in MAT help “normalize brain chemistry,² block the euphoric effects of alcohol and opioids, relieve physiological cravings, and normalize body functions without the negative and euphoric effects of the substance used.”

Addictions That Can Be Treated With MAT

MAT is primarily used to treat three substance use disorder or conditions:

1. Alcohol use disorder (AUD)

2. Opioid use disorder (OUD)

3. Opioid overdose

Medication-assisted treatment is used to treat a range of opioid addictions including heroin and prescription painkillers. According to SAMHSA, “research shows that a combination of medication and therapy can successfully treat these disorders, and for some people struggling with addiction, MAT can help sustain recovery.”³

On the other hand, some rehab professionals, like Weiss, believe that “the best way to start the recovery journey is to be completely clear of substances so that when you enter psychotherapy, you’re doing so on the right foot. It also helps people succeed in talk therapy.”

It’s important to know that MAT is not a one-size-fits all addiction solution. Today, several medications are approved and used for MAT. Effective MAT programs should be “clinically driven and tailored to meet each patient’s needs,” as SAMHSA explains.

Medications Used in MAT

Specific medications used for MAT vary depending on a) what kind of SUD is being treated, and b) your personal medical and substance use history. In the U.S., the medications used in MAT⁴ must be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In Europe, these medicines are regulated and approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

Note: The following information has been compiled from the following guides, all from the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration:

Disclaimer:The information below has been professionally reviewed but does not represent, nor should be mistaken for, medical advice. Please seek medical advice from your doctor or qualified addiction treatment professional to fully review and understand the benefits, risks and side effects of the medications discussed.

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Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder

Acamprosate

Acamprosate is a delayed-release synthetic compound used to help maintain abstinence from alcohol.

What it does: This drug helps modulate and normalize alcohol-related changes in brain activity. This may help reduce common withdrawal symptoms like insomnia, anxiety, and restlessness which may help people remain abstinent.

Pros and cons: In many European trials, acamprosate is much more effective than placebo in reducing drinking days and increasing complete abstinence, both in the short and long term. Acamprosate appears to have no potential for abuse, and carries virtually no overdose risk. Its side effects, which are mild and usually disappear after a few weeks, may include diarrhea, upset stomach, loss of appetite, anxiety, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. Acamprosate’s rare but serious side effects include suicidal ideation and suicide attempts.

Where it’s administered: This medicine is only available at pharmacies with a doctor’s prescription.

Disulfiram

The first medication approved by the FDA to treat alcohol dependence, disulfiram is an alcohol-aversive or alcohol-sensitizing agent.

What it does: Disulfiram disrupts the metabolism of alcohol, which creates an acutely toxic physical reaction if a person taking disulfiram consumes alcohol. These reactions range from moderate to severe, depending on the individual, and can include sweating, hyperventilation, blurred vision, nausea and vomiting, chest pain, tachycardia, vertigo, confusion, and weakness.

Pros and cons: The time between alcohol ingestion and the reaction can be as long as 30 minutes and the intensity of the reaction is unpredictable. The disulfiram-alcohol reaction can be life-threatening if taken in wrong dosages. Studies on the effectiveness of disulfiram have mixed findings, and this drug isn’t appropriate for people with severely impaired judgment or high impulsivity from a severe mental illness or cognitive impairment.

Where it’s administered: Disulfiram is a prescription medication, and, according to SAMHSA, is highly recommended when “supervised administration by a pharmacist, healthcare provider, or family member.”

Medications for Opioid Use Disorder

Buprenorphine

Buprenorphine is used to decrease opioid withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

What it does: When taken in low to moderate doses, buprenorphine produces partial opioid effects like euphoria and respiratory depression. These effects are considered “partial” because they’re weaker than the effects of “full” opioids like heroin.

Pros and cons: Buprenorphine causes limited respiratory depression and has a therapeutic limit, which means it’s less likely to produce an overdose⁵ even if doses are increased. But because buprenorphine does have opioid effects, it can be misused. Additionally, some of buprenorphine’s serious side effects include respiratory distress, dependence, withdrawal, and neonatal abstinence syndrome in newborns.

Where it’s administered: Buprenorphine is the first OUD treatment medication that can be prescribed or dispensed in doctor’s offices with dosing done at home, rather than strictly from opioid treatment programs.

Methadone

Methadone is a schedule II controlled medication⁶ that activates the brain’s opioid receptors, producing an opioid effect.

What it does: When taken as prescribed, methadone can help reduce opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms by blunting or blocking the effects of opioids.

Pros and cons: Methadone has been used to treat OUD for more than 50 years. Because it interacts with other medications, has drastically different effects on different people, and has long-lasting active ingredients, methadone doses must be individually tailored and often adjusted and readjusted. Methadone does not have a ceiling effect, or a point at which the drug’s potency and benefits plateau. So, unmonitored dosing can lead to intentional or unintentional intoxication and overdose death, which is why methadone isn’t available as a take-home prescription.

Where it’s administered: In the U.S., by law, only practitioners at a federally accredited opioid treatment program⁷ (OTP) or specially licensed clinic can offer and administer methadone treatment.

Medications for Both Alcohol and Opioid Use Disorders

Naltrexone

Naltrexone, an opioid antagonist, can be used to treat both alcohol use disorders and opioid dependence.

What it does: Naltrexone blocks the rewarding effects and feelings of intoxication from alcohol and opioids, helping reduce cravings.

Pros and cons: Naltrexone is a potentially effective treatment option for people with a history of both opioid and alcohol use disorders. This medicine has been shown to lower alcohol consumption and improve relapse rates, has little abuse potential, and most don’t develop a tolerance to its effects. But before using naltrexone for treatment, patients should be fully withdrawn from all opioids, or the drug could cause severe opioid withdrawal symptoms. Treatment outcomes in studies have been mixed and high doses of naltrexone can cause liver damage. There is also poor compliance and retention with its use and people with chronic pain should not use it.

Where it’s administered: Naltrexone can be prescribed by any licensed health care provider.

Medication for Opioid Overdose Prevention

Naloxone

Naloxone is essentially an antidote to opioids.

What it does: If administered in time, naloxone rapidly reverses the toxic effects, or respiratory depression, of an opioid overdose. It does this by temporarily blocking and reversing the effects of other opioids, like heroin or morphine. It has no effect on non-opioid drug overdoses.

Pros and cons: Because of its life-saving potential, naloxone is classified as an essential medicine by the World Health Organization (WHO).⁸ It has no dependency potential and a high safety margin. Some people have experienced allergic reactions to this medicine and naloxone causes symptoms of opioid withdrawal.

Where it’s available: In the U.S. you can get naloxone from a pharmacy, and many states do not require a patient-specific prescription. As of 2019, 11 EU member states and Norway run take-home naloxone programs,⁹ which “combine training on overdose risk and management with the distribution of naloxone to potential bystanders,” making the life-saving drug more available “in places where overdoses might occur.”

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Risks of MAT

Many rehab and medical professionals have reservations about using potentially addictive or harmful medicines to treat addictions. Below we’ll address some of the most common concerns and risks associated with MAT.

Prescribed Opioid Medications Can Potentially Be Abused

Most of the medications used in MAT are themselves addictive. Inadequate medical supervision, mismanagement of doses, or self-medicating can all lead to an increased risk of abuse and cross-addiction of the medications meant to help people overcome their addictions. For example, one study found that “young adults are much more likely to start abusing prescription opioids¹⁰ than they are to start abusing illegal opioids such as heroin.”

“We are also very conscientious about not cross-addicting patients, which is, in a way, what medication-assisted therapy does,” says Weiss. “It puts you on another medication, but it is nevertheless an addictive medication. Suboxone, for example, has a 7- to 8-day detox period to get the person off of that medication.”

A 2021 study by the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) found that although half of the EU’s 1.3 million high-risk opioid users were receiving opioid substitution treatment* (OST), and nearly 15% of people who entered specialized drug treatment programs “sought treatment for problems associated with the misuse of an OST medication.”¹¹

*Similarly to MAT, opioid substitution treatment (OST) is what harm-reduction programs that prescribe medications are called in the EU.

Some Recipients of MAT Need to Stay on Medications to Stay Abstinent

A 3-year trial called the Prescription Opioid Addiction Treatment Study (POATS) concluded that “prescription opioid-dependent patients are most likely to reduce opioid use during buprenorphine-naloxone treatment,” supporting the argument in favor of MAT which claims that opioid medications help people maintain abstinence from full opioids. It’s important to note that the opposite—in order to stay abstinent you have to take prescription opioids—has also proven true. The same study also found that more than 90% of adults relapse after tapering off of prescription opioids,¹²even when the length of tapering was increased from 8 to 12 weeks. A different 2008 study found that the duration of prescription opioid therapy “exceeded the time spent abusing”¹³ and concluded that “there is no evidence-based data to suggest when or if substitution therapy can be discontinued.”

Counseling Doesn’t Necessarily Improve the Results of MAT

To be most effective, MAT is typically recommended alongside conventional talk therapy. Results from the POATS show, though, that “the addition of individual opioid dependence counseling to buprenorphine-naloxone plus medical management did not improve opioid use outcomes.” Counseling may help some have successful outcomes with MAT, but its effectiveness in combination with this treatment hasn’t been consistently proven.

Study Results Are Mixed and Inconsistent

Some studies on the benefits and effectiveness of MAT don’t include a control group of people who aren’t receiving MAT. For example, one study evaluating the effects of counseling on MAT outcomes¹⁴ acknowledged that it didn’t examine the effects of counseling alone or with less intensive medical treatments. And, even for those receiving MAT and counseling, about only half of the patients had successful outcomes.

Potential Benefits of MAT

Despite the documented risks of MAT, there are still many organizations, medical professionals, and MAT patients who support its use. Just as there are many studies showing the risks, scientific research also shows the benefits of MAT, including its medical effectiveness at helping people achieve abstinence, as well as behavioral benefits.

It Reduces Substance-Related Deaths

In general, overdose survivors have an increased risk for drug-related death. One 2018 study by the American College of Physicians found that methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) and buprenorphine “were associated with reduced all-cause and opioid-related mortality.”¹⁵ The results from a different 2021 study by the U.K.’s Harm Reduction Journal similarly found that the longer duration and better retention in MAT is associated with a decreased risk of overdose.¹⁶

It Helps Some People Stay in Treatment Longer

The 2009 methadone treatment for opioid dependence study from the Cochrane Library determined that methadone is an effective treatment for heroin dependence¹⁷ because it “retains patients in treatment and decreases heroin use better than treatments that do not utilize opioid replacement therapy.” Another trial funded by NIDA in 2005 reported that “retention in treatment was dose related,¹⁸ with 39%, 60%, and 68% of patients in the placebo, 192 mg of naltrexone, and 384 mg of naltrexone groups, respectively, remaining in treatment at the end of 2 months.” And lastly, a 2003 article published by The New England Journal of Medicine concluded that clinically administered medical treatments for opioid addiction had greater efficacy than placebo¹⁹ and reduced the use of and craving for opiates.

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MAT Provides a Tool to Address the Growing Opioid Crisis

Experts in the U.S. are calling for greater use of MAT to reduce the risk of death after opioid overdose.²⁰ “A great part of the tragedy of this opioid crisis is that, unlike in previous such crises America has seen, we now possess effective treatment strategies that could address it and save many lives,” says Dr. Nora. “Yet tens of thousands of people die each year because they have not received these treatments.” To illustrate this point, a 2020 investigation published by the American Medical Association found that of about 3,800 teens and young adults from 13 to 22 years old who experienced nonfatal opioid overdoses, only one-third received “any timely addiction treatment after overdose.”²¹

MAT is Supported by Medical, Mental Health, and Government Organizations

In the U.S., the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Family Physicians jointly published a document urging policymakers to remove all barriers to MAT²² for people with substance use disorders. In 2020, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy published the U.S. federal government’s first ever National Treatment Plan for Substance Use Disorders,²³ which prioritized increasing access to “evidence-based addiction treatment, including Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD).” And in June 2021, the Council of the E.U. approved the 2021-2025 EU Drugs Action Plan²⁴ which details several measures to increase access to prescription opioid treatments.

Questions and Concerns About MAT

Disclaimer: The answers below have been professionally reviewed but do not represent, nor should be mistaken for, medical advice. Please consult with your doctor to learn more about any potential side effects or concerns about MAT that you should take into consideration.

Is MAT effective at helping people recover from addictions?

The effectiveness of MAT differs from person to person and can be affected by any number of factors. While the effectiveness of MAT varies and is not guaranteed, MAT has been shown to have positive outcomes on:

improved patient survival
increased retention in treatment
decreased illicit opiate use and other criminal activity
increased ability to gain and maintain employment
improved birth outcomes among women who have substance use disorders while pregnant

What risks are associated with taking medications to overcome SUD?

As with any therapies that require medication, MAT does entail risks and side effects. Documented risks of MAT include:

MAT requires close medical supervision—Some people aren’t in a position to regularly receive treatments, or have difficulty finding or going to a treatment center.
Potentially becoming “cross-addicted”—In other words, there’s a risk of simply trading one addiction for another.
Over-reliance on medications—Whether intentionally or not, MAT may become a crutch people use to avoid addressing their deeper traumas that are the core cause of their addictions.
Overdose—The main risk of overdose comes from methadone. There’s also a slight risk of overdose with buprenorphine if it’s taken while drinking alcohol.

What are the side effects of MAT?

The side effects of MAT vary depending on which specific medication(s) you’re given. Even then, similar to taking different medications for different mental or physical health conditions, not everyone reacts the same or experiences the same side effects from MAT. Common side effects to MAT range from nausea and vomiting, to constipation and frequent urination, to sexual dysfunction and addiction. More serious side effects can include suicide ideation and death by overdose.

Does MAT just substitute one addiction for another?

The answer to this question is complicated and really depends on what you believe, your personal substance use and treatment experiences, and what research resonates more with you. Some addiction treatment professionals do believe MAT replaces one addictive substance for another, while others recognize MAT’s potential to reduce drug-related deaths.

Luxury Rehab Centers That Offer Medication-Assisted Treatment

Ultimately, the decision to pursue medication-assisted treatment is a personal one. Your primary care physician, psychiatrist, and/or treatment center admissions staff can provide more information on what to expect from this process and help you determine what course of action is best for you.

Search our list of medical rehabs to learn more about available programs.

August 14, 2021April 17, 2023

Should You Travel for Addiction Treatment? Pros and Cons of Local vs. Destination Rehabs

Attending rehab marks the start of a new chapter in your life. No matter where you go, you’ll be entering a time of great change. As positive as this may be, it’s also very stressful. For some people, it’s helpful to change every aspect of their life at once; traveling to a new environment can kick-start that process. For others, it’s better to focus only on their internal changes, without being distracted by external stressors.

It’s important to choose an environment that will support your healing process. There’s no right or wrong place to heal, just the right place for you. If you already have a location in mind, you can narrow your search to that geographical area. If not, you might want to weigh the pros and cons of traveling for addiction treatment versus staying close to home.

Why Travel to Rehab?

There are luxury rehab facilities all over the world. Some of the programs that suit you best might be located in other states, or even other countries. If you’re at all interested in travel, it can be inspiring just to consider these options, whatever you ultimately decide.

180 sanctuary — 180 Sanctuary At PuriPai Villa in Mae Hong Son Province, Thailand offers trauma-informed, integrated care in the picturesque mountains of Northern Thailand.

Pros of Traveling to Rehab

Research suggests that a change of scenery may have a positive impact on neurochemistry.¹ According to Aaron Heller, an assistant professor in the University of Miami’s Department of Psychology, there is “a connection between real-world exposure to fresh and varied experiences and increases in positive emotions.” In layman’s terms: just the act of visiting a new place or having a new experience might make you happy.

Destination rehabs tend to offer activities that are unique to the area, which you may not be able to access at home. These programs encourage clients to actively build better habits, in place of unsustainable behavior. And remember, healing can be fun! Various rehab centers offer a wealth of adventure therapies, such as skiing, scuba diving, or even going on safari.

Local culture can also have an impact on your inpatient experience, even if you don’t completely explore the surrounding area. In some cases, the cultural context within the rehab center itself is extremely impactful. Tony Tan, the CEO of 180 Sanctuary At PuriPai Villa, has worked at multiple destination rehab facilities in Thailand. He explains,

“The client experience is also unique, because there are clients from all over the world that are coming together: from the States, Australia, Europe, and Asia. They each bring with them a different aspect of their experience. That really strengthens their awareness in their recovery journey.”

Traveling to rehab may give you the inspiration you need to restructure your relationships. You’ll have the chance to connect with people who have a great diversity of life experiences, which can help you view your own life from a fresh perspective. What’s more, this geographical distance can provide you with emotional distance from negative influences. This is an excellent opportunity to step away from toxic relationships, whether you’re setting permanent boundaries or just taking a much-needed break.

Cons of Traveling to Rehab

Distance can be powerful. Depending on your personal experience, that may have a positive or negative impact on your mental health. The act of traveling itself can be difficult, especially if you’re struggling to keep yourself safe. Most rehab facilities will provide clients with transport to and from the airport, but being alone on a long flight may still be a risk. You may need to ask for more support, and plan around more logistics, if you’re headed to a distant location.

These aren’t the only logistics to consider. If you plan to use insurance to pay for your stay at rehab, you may need to do more legwork to ensure you’ll have adequate coverage. Some insurance plans cover you overseas, but not all; for example, Medicare and Medicaid generally don’t cover treatment at a destination rehab.²

After you arrive at a destination rehab, you may face some communication barriers. If you choose to take a break from all outside communications during treatment, this may be less of a concern. However, you might choose to keep working while you attend rehab. If you plan to stay in touch with work, friends, or family during your stay, be mindful of the time difference. You’ll also want to be sure that you have access to internet and cell phone service, and that these amenities are permitted by your program.

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Why Attend a Local Rehab Program?

Travel is a great opportunity for some clients, and an overwhelming prospect for others. There are also many compelling reasons to start treatment closer to home.

Pros of Local Rehab

Attending a local rehab can significantly decrease the number of logistics you’ll have to manage. For instance, if you’re concerned about your safety while traveling, a local rehab facility will be much more accessible. This course of action also has financial benefits. Your insurance may or may not cover travel costs, and it will be easier to file a claim for treatment with a nearby facility.

If you have commitments you can’t step away from, such as work, school, or family, it’s far easier to stay connected from a local rehab. That’s true even for inpatient programs. Your loved ones will be able to attend in-person family therapy without traveling to see you, and you won’t have to worry about a time difference when you connect with people online.

Staying local will also give you access to more affordable treatment options, like IOPs or PHPs. You might even choose to live at home while attending intensive, daily therapy. This option isn’t right for everyone, but it can be much more cost-effective.

No matter where you’re located, rehab is a big change. If the idea of getting to know a new location while you’re just beginning to get to know yourself again feels like a barrier to treatment, traveling to rehab might not be right for you.

Cons of Local Rehab

Although it can be daunting to travel to a new place, it’s often difficult to heal in the same place where you experienced trauma.³ It’s important for clients to live in a very safe and supportive environment while they’re beginning recovery. If you’re considering rehab, it’s quite possible that your current living situation doesn’t meet these criteria. In that case, living at or near your home while you attend treatment may be counterproductive.

As you begin recovery, it can be helpful to temporarily isolate yourself from external sources and reminders of stress as a part of your relapse prevention⁴ approach. Your current surroundings might contain triggers you have yet to work through. One researcher notes that people in recovery are most successful when they “avoid people, places, and things associated with using.” If you don’t take space from those difficult stimuli, it can be hard to start the healing process.

Even if you’re not concerned about being triggered, staying nearby will give you access to many more distractions. You may be tempted to leave treatment in order to deal with a family or work emergency, or you may feel like you’re missing out on a party that you know is happening close by. It’s far easier to set aside these urges when you’re physically isolated from those events. Distance may make it easier to stay focused on the tasks at hand.

Transitioning Out of Rehab

After you complete inpatient treatment, your focus will change. As you reacclimate to living in the wider world, it’s important to move slowly and deliberately in order to guard against relapse. Many clients choose to attend additional aftercare programs immediately after they leave rehab. You may not know whether this is the right path for you until you’re part of the way through your initial treatment program.

Attending an aftercare program abroad, or in another state, can afford you even more time and space away from the triggers you might encounter at home. This slow, gentle transition lets you learn about yourself in a new context, and gives you plenty of time to prepare for what comes next.

If you attend rehab close to home, it may make more sense to stay in the area for aftercare. These programs do even more to ease your transition back into your daily life. You’ll be able to get support not just around your own mental health, but also in the specific context of your work, relationships, and daily activities.

Wherever it Starts, Healing Is a Journey

Wherever you choose to attend rehab, it’s important to make space for yourself to grow and change. Recovery is not an easy or simple process, and you won’t be “fixed” right away. Although a change of scenery may improve your mood, it won’t change your identity.

As you consider your options, remember that transitioning into and out of rehab can be jarring even in the best of times. Some people find it helpful to mark these major changes with a geographical transition, but that’s not the right choice for everyone. Anywhere you begin recovery, it’s up to you to do the serious work of healing.

Learn more about luxury rehabs, near you and abroad, here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Local vs. Destination Rehab

Why should I consider traveling for rehab?

Traveling for rehab removes you from your usual environment and triggers, allowing you to focus on your recovery without distractions. It’s also an opportunity to experience a new location and gain a fresh perspective.

Is traveling for rehab more expensive than staying local?

It depends on the specific rehab center and location. While some destination rehabs may be more expensive, others may be comparable or even more affordable than local options. Additionally, some insurance plans may cover the cost of travel and out-of-state treatment.

What should I look for in a destination rehab center?

When looking for a destination rehab, it’s crucial to find one that is aligned with your values and tailored to your unique needs. The program should offer a combination of evidence-based and complementary therapies that makes sense for you. You may choose a setting that appeals to you, in a culture that inspires your recovery. As with any treatment center, make sure the staff is qualified to help you achieve your treatment goals and that programming can support you into lasting recovery.

July 29, 2021May 31, 2023

Life After Rehab: How to Plan for Aftercare

While rehab is a place to begin recovery, it’s only the first step in a long journey. During your program, you’ll start learning how to build a better life. This carefully curated environment may include individual and group therapy, recreational activities, and medical treatment. Most rehab programs are designed to temporarily protect you from external stressors, including work and family obligations. Without those concerns, you can dig deep into healing, developing sustainable tools to use in the future.

Think of your time in rehab as an intensive retreat. This is a crash course. It isn’t meant to be temporary. The goal is not to stay in rehab forever, but instead to learn new skills that you can put to use after leaving the program. And, best of all, you don’t have to do it alone. There are many resources available to people transitioning out of residential rehab.

Post-Treatment Challenges

It’s natural to be concerned about your transition out of rehab and back into the wider world. Without the structure of the program, you can expect to encounter both new and established triggers on a more frequent basis. You may also be returning to difficult circumstances. For example, you and your therapist might discover that work stress prior to rehab was interfering with your mental health. If that’s true, you may be planning to change jobs soon after you return home. Situations like this one can be stressful even in the best of times.

Every person’s experience of rehab is different, but recent graduates tend to have a few common concerns. Before you finish the program, it can be helpful to plan around how you’ll navigate the following:

Relationships and Community

Many people go to rehab when they realize they need more care than they’re getting from their loved ones. Because of this, it’s common for alumni to return home to difficult dynamics. You have to let go of unhealthy relationships in order to prioritize your own healing process. Without the structure of your program and the in-person support of your recovery peers, it can be hard to maintain those boundaries.

Healing takes time. That’s true for the body, the mind, and also for relationships. Many programs offer family therapy, so your loved ones can begin healing even before you return home. This work not only affects your familial dynamic; it can also have a positive impact on your and your loved ones’ other relationships. Ryan Soave, the Director of Program Development at All Points North Lodge, says “…often when we do family work, the families get better. We also find that they get better in their lives outside of the family.

However, family therapy is just one part of rehab. They may have attended weekly sessions, but you’ll have gone through a much more intensive program. You may find that you have more tools for emotion regulation than the people around you. Be patient with them, and with yourself, as you learn how to relate to each other during this new stage of your process.

Relapse

From the moment you arrive at rehab, you’ll begin preparing for the possibility of relapse. Healing isn’t always a linear process, and this is an area of concern for many people in recovery. As such, your team of providers can help you plan ahead. Jan Gerber, CEO of Paracelsus Recovery, offers a clear description of this issue. “There’s a term called ‘post-treatment crash,’” Gerber says, “which is a quite familiar term to everybody working in addiction treatment. No matter how successful and intensive the treatment has been, without the proper care and company after leaving treatment, there are risks for relapse.”

Leaving rehab is stressful. And if substance use has been your primary way of coping with stress up to this point, you may have the urge to fall back into old patterns during this transition. Instead of engaging in unhealthy behavior, it’s important to stay focused on yourself and your goals. Having a clear and specific plan for aftercare can make that much easier. Even before you return home, you can start researching aftercare options to support you in life after rehab.

aspenridge recovery iop — AspenRidge Recovery in Lakewood, Colorado provides a comfortable sober living environment for clients attending their intensive outpatient program (IOP).

Individual Therapy

Individual therapy is an essential component of recovery. In most rehab facilities, this is a major focus of the program; clients often have daily one-on-one sessions, in addition to group sessions and other activities. Individual therapy is one of the most effective ways to heal from any mental health issue, including substance use. It’s highly recommended for people in recovery to continue individual therapy even after transitioning out of inpatient care.

Therapy offers a private, confidential space where you can explore your emotional experience. Because your emotional life changes over time, this isn’t a quick process. It takes time to process your past, learn to navigate the present, and plan for the future. Many people attend therapy for years, or throughout their lives. Like rehab, therapy is a tool to kickstart the healing process. However, therapy is also important for the maintenance of your mental health regardless of where you are in your recovery journey.

You may or may not be able to continue seeing the same therapist you saw during rehab after you leave the program. Most therapists are only licensed to practice in certain locations. Because of this, people who travel to attend rehab will almost certainly need to find a new therapist once they leave. Some therapists are able to offer telehealth services, or sessions on a remote basis. If you’d like to continue seeing the same provider after you return home, make sure to check with them before you leave to find out if that’s possible.

Finding the right therapist for you can be a long and even arduous process. The therapist-client dynamic works best when your provider has an intuitive sense of your needs, goals, and values. What’s more, not every therapist has experience in treating addiction. If you have additional concerns, you may need a provider who has other competencies as well. For example, a therapist who specializes in working with teenagers might not be a good fit for someone in their 40’s. Remember that you’re allowed to shop around. You can research a provider’s credentials before reaching out, and you can ask to have an initial trial session before committing to a longer process. It’s ideal to begin looking for a therapist before you leave rehab.

Intensive Outpatient Programs and Partial Hospitalization Programs

Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) and partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) are one step down from residential treatment. These programs allow you to live off-site—usually either at home or in a sober living environment—while undergoing intensive therapy at a hospital or rehab center. An IOP or PHP might be right for you if you need significant support during the transition out of rehab.

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs)

If you participate in an IOP, you will live at home, on your own, or in a sober living environment, but you will attend the clinical program several days a week. Each of these programs is unique, but most of them include 10 or more hours of group and individual therapy per week. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) lays out specific guidelines for IOPs,¹ stating that “IOP services may incorporate other in-house treatment and peer services, encourage clients’ attendance at mutual-support groups, and collaborate with local community providers to secure needed services (e.g., medication-assisted treatment, psychological assessments, vocational rehabilitation services, and trauma-specific treatment).”

IOPs offer a gentle transition out of rehab. AspenRidge Recovery, a facility in Colorado, describes this type of program as “a safe and accountable way [for clients] to test their skills in real-world situations while still having a supportive team to rely upon.” You’ll continue to have a team of healthcare providers at your fingertips, as well as access to a cohort of people who are also in recovery. Your time on-site is intended to help you process the experiences you have outside of rehab and in between therapy sessions.

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs)

PHPs are similar to IOPs, but clients spend more time in the program. If you attend a PHP, you’ll spend the majority of each day in treatment, and only go home at night. This is a good option for people who need to be closely monitored by healthcare providers, but have some responsibilities they can’t simply put on pause, like family or schoolwork. You can attend a PHP after rehab, or choose this type of program instead of 24/7 treatment.

Pillars Recovery, a rehab in California, recommends PHPs to clients who can’t afford inpatient rehab. They also offer clients the option of staying in a sober living environment during the program. Depending on your insurance, one of these options may be more accessible than a more traditional stay at a rehab facility.

Sober Living Environments

A sober living environment hosts residents who are adjusting to the rhythm of life without substance use. They are safe environments with clear rules and regulations, but far less structured than inpatient rehab programs. While you may choose to attend therapy during your time there, those sessions would likely take place off-site and through a different program. The goal of your stay in a sober living environment is to transition out of intensive treatment into a more flexible schedule.

Many sober living environments will only admit clients who have already completed a residential treatment program. Some, however, are available to people recovering from a number of concerns, and not only from substance use.

Unlike inpatient rehab, sober living offers you the opportunity to socialize and set your own schedule. You may have access to planned outings, a library of relevant materials, and other activities, such as yoga and meditation. You’ll likely be required to attend regular meetings, such as 12-step meetings, that support your new lifestyle.

Some kinds of healing can only be accomplished alone or in therapy. Other kinds of healing can only be achieved in a community. As you transition out of inpatient treatment, it’s important to take the skills you developed in rehab and put them into practice in your daily life.

pillars recovery iop — Pillars Recovery in Newport Beach, California offers an intensive outpatient program (IOP) and day treatment (PHP) for clients wanting to step down to transitional living for a structured, healthy lifestyle post-rehab.

Support Groups

Support groups are a valuable resource for people in recovery, both during and after therapy. These settings allow you to learn from other people with similar life experiences, and gain insights you might not have access to in individual therapy. Catherine Ulrich Milliken, Program Director of McLean Borden Cottage, explains that attending groups is “an important part of recovery, and the evidence shows that it’s a good, helpful component. It’s another way to be connected to a community. It’s another place of accountability. It’s another place for support. It’s the roof on the house of sobriety – making sure people engage in a spiritual component.”

Various support groups are available in most areas. Most aftercare programs—such as IOPs and PHPs—will provide facilitated sessions on-site. However, most of these groups are easily accessible to anyone.

If you’re living independently, don’t be afraid to try out a few groups before you decide which one(s) you’d like to attend regularly. The specific people in your group have a huge impact on the experience. You may find that you really connect with the people who attend a certain meeting on Wednesday nights, but you don’t have much in common with the people who go to the same group on Fridays. Rehab alumni often find it helpful to attend more than one group; some people even go to at least one session every day after leaving inpatient treatment. These groups are offered in a wide variety of styles, giving you the freedom to choose which philosophy works best for you.

12-Step Groups

In 12-Step support groups, participants follow 12 clearly defined steps toward recovery. These steps were originally defined by Alcoholics Anonymous, and over time, numerous similar groups have branched off. All over the world, it’s now possible to find local chapters of Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Cocaine Anonymous, Pills Anonymous, Codependents Anonymous, Sex Addicts Anonymous, Workaholics Anonymous, and more. While these different groups use slight variations on the original 12 Steps, they all share a similar philosophy.

Most 12-Step meetings open with a reading or a prayer. After that, members may be invited to share their stories, or to engage in a group conversation. Every group’s format is a little different, based on the specific needs and goals of the participants and facilitators.

Sponsorship is an important component of the 12-Step program. A sponsor is someone who has been attending the group for some time, who feels ready to volunteer to work closely with newer members. When you form a relationship with a sponsor, you’ll connect with them outside of group meetings, possibly through regular conversations or other activities. This allows you to learn from their experience, strategize ways to achieve your own goals, and stay on track as you continue to heal. Depending on your specific sponsor, you may even be able to call them at a moment’s notice when you’re having a hard time.

12-Step groups have a strong focus on faith. While all are welcome, much of the literature references a higher power, and sometimes even a Christian God. These groups are a good fit for people who want to develop a spiritual practice, and they may be less effective for those who don’t. Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and other 12-Step groups are some of the best-known support groups for people in recovery, but they’re far from the only options.

Other Support Groups

If the 12 Steps aren’t right for you, there are many other established support groups you can join. For example, SMART Recovery groups focus on self-empowerment and behavioral health. Their 4-Point Program² encourages members to prioritize the following goals:

Building and maintaining the motivation to change
Coping with urges to use
<anaging thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in an effective way
Living a balanced, positive, and healthy life

Groups are led by trained facilitators, who may or may not have personal histories of substance use. This abstinence-oriented program is founded in science rather than faith.

LifeRing Secular Recovery is another secular group, with a similar focus on personal growth. They espouse the 3S philosophy, “Sobriety, Secularity, and Self-Help.” Members give and receive support from each other in each meeting, but unlike 12-Step programs, do not engage in sponsorship. Instead, this organization teaches that “you know what’s needed in your life³ and what has to be abandoned. You know what triggers cravings and what provides healthy and strengthening pleasure. You know the path you want to be on and you are the only person who can figure out how best to get there.” Participants are encouraged to make their own choices, and to creatively build a life that makes them happy.

Social Interest Groups

As important as it is to see a therapist and connect with your peers, there’s more to healing than processing complex emotions. Recovery is also an opportunity for joy. As you begin to live a more sustainable life, you’ll naturally find healthier ways of relating to the world.

After completing inpatient treatment, many people find joy in taking up new hobbies and learning new skills. Joining a special interest group can support that process. You may even want to continue working on something you started during rehab. For example, if you loved your time in art therapy, you might enroll in a painting class. Pursuing these activities can keep you grounded as you go forward, and may even remind you of positive experiences you had during treatment.

There are meet-up and affinity groups for almost any interest you might have. You can join a knitting circle, take a philosophy class, or start playing softball. It can be especially helpful to connect with people in person, instead of only engaging through social media. Forming relationships with people who share your interests but not necessarily your struggles can also be a helpful reminder that you are a complex, multi-faceted person. There’s far more to you than just your challenges.

Just as there are lessons you can learn in group therapy that would never come up in a one-on-one session, there are also valuable experiences you can only have outside of therapy. In an affinity group, you can learn about social dynamics and problem solving in entirely new contexts. You can also create new memories, develop a sense of accomplishment, and find ways to have fun without substances! These are the experiences that make life in recovery meaningful.

Charting a Course After Treatment

Recovery is the process of creating a life you don’t need to escape. Rehab can give you the tools to begin that process, but it’s up to you to follow through after you leave treatment. Maintaining your health isn’t just about giving up destructive habits; it’s about replacing them with positive ones.

The map is not the territory. During rehab, you’ll start to define what kind of life you want. After primary treatment, you can begin actively moving toward that life. This process can sometimes be messy and surprising, but it can also be highly rewarding.

No matter what, you don’t have to do it alone. All of these strategies—individual and group therapy, support groups, and social groups—invite you to connect with people who want to see you succeed. Making those connections is the first step toward a better life after rehab.

It’s not too early to start planning what you’ll do after rehab. Learn more about your aftercare options here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rehab Continuing Care

What can I expect after leaving rehab?

After leaving rehab, you can expect to face new and existing triggers in the wider world. It’s important to plan around navigating relationships, maintaining boundaries, and addressing post-treatment challenges. This is especially true if you’re returning to difficult circumstances. Remember to get sufficient support in place before leaving treatment, and be patient with yourself and others as you adapt to this new stage of your recovery journey.

Should I continue individual therapy after leaving rehab?

Yes, individual therapy is highly recommended even after transitioning out of inpatient care. It provides a private space to explore your emotional experience and continue your healing journey. Therapy helps with emotional processing, navigating the present, and planning for the future. Finding the right therapist may take time, so it’s ideal to start looking for one before you leave rehab.

What continuing options are available after completing residential rehab?

After completing residential rehab, most patients use some combination of stepped-down care options. These include intensive outpatient treatment programs (IOPs), sober living, support groups, and virtual therapy. These provide ongoing support, structure, and community as you transition from residential rehab to daily life.

July 28, 2021May 31, 2023

Attending Rehab as a High-Level Executive

Addiction can affect anyone, even high-level executives. According to a 2012 study conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), people who worked in management had the third highest rate of illicit drug use¹ of any surveyed profession. This issue is invisible to many people, which makes it even harder for executives to seek the addiction recovery help they need.

Executives face unique stressors. With so many people depending on you, including employees, loved ones, and colleagues, it can be hard to recognize the signs of abuse. You may be so focused on your lengthy to-do list that you simply don’t have time to consider your own well-being. And even if you do recognize that you have a problem, it can be even harder to get help. Many executives feel like they don’t have the time or freedom to step away from work in order to begin recovery.

As difficult as this process may appear, there are options available. Some rehab centers offer treatment plans tailored to meet the unique needs of high achievers, without isolating you from your responsibilities.

Understanding Addiction Among Executives

According to popular perception, high achievers have it easy. That just isn’t true. In order to maintain your lifestyle, you may face extreme pressures coming from many different directions, including the workplace, home, and social situations. In these circles, it’s often important to maintain appearances. Because of this, many executives have no way of knowing how common it is for people like them to struggle with substance use and mental health. Everyone’s experience is unique, but a few concerns in particular are extremely common among this demographic.

Anxiety

With great power comes great responsibility, and with great responsibility comes a great risk of anxiety. If you’ve ever lost sleep over a board meeting, had to stop and catch your breath on your way to a gala, or spent hours replaying a sound bite from your last business lunch, this might be something to consider. According to experts, “Studies indicate that approx. 10–40% of alcoholics have a panic-related anxiety disorder,² and about 10–20% of anxiety disorder patients abuse alcohol or other drugs.”

Perfectionism

When an entire team of people relies on you, you may feel that you need to be the best of the best. As Louise Stanger, LCSW, writes “People in powerful positions are associated with strength, confidence, and a rock solid moral compass. Unfortunately, our society still views addiction as a weakness or moral failure, which sharply contradicts the key qualities of successful individuals. Add in public visibility and it can be difficult for an influential CEO or celebrity to seek help³ in an honest and open way.”

When you feel like you can’t ask for help, it’s natural to develop coping mechanisms that replace community support. You may even feel like substance abuse is what’s helping you to succeed. In reality, though, addiction is far more likely to hold you back. Research suggests that there may be a connection between perfectionism and substance misuse.⁴

However, there’s a way to make perfectionism work for you. Positive perfectionism is the attitude of striving to achieve high goals “while maintaining the ability to be satisfied with one’s performance.” Striking this balance may help you recover from substance misuse.

If you’re a high achiever, there are likely aspects of your life and your personality that you don’t want to lose, even temporarily. Going to rehab can help you reintegrate the aspects of life that you find fulfilling, while stepping away from that which doesn’t serve you.

Unique Amenities at Executive Rehab Facilities

When selecting a rehab, high achievers have a very specific set of needs. There are a number of luxury rehab programs that are tailored to meet those needs, helping you heal in a way that won’t undermine your lifestyle.

Discretion

mercui confidentiality — Mercui Recovery offers life and business coaching as part of their personalized treatment program at their centers in Malibu, Aspen, and Costa Palma, Mexico.

Luxury rehabs offer the utmost discretion. Some even serve only one client at a time.

Mercui Recovery, a facility with locations in Malibu, Aspen, and Costa Palma, Mexico, is one of these. The program offers each guest treatment from several different schools of thought. You may do yoga and meditate, or participate in specialized therapies such as DBT or CBT. Most notably, Mercui Recovery also offers life and business coaching. Clients are not expected to simply step away from their entire life in order to focus on recovery. Instead, clinicians take a holistic approach, helping you heal every aspect of your life. This highly personalized program ensures that your specific concerns will be addressed during treatment.

Bespoke Treatment

white river manor suite — White River Manor in Mpumalanga, South Africa has an on-site business center that makes it easy for executive clients to work remotely during their stay.

Personalized addiction treatment means more than just connecting with the right therapist. Jan Gerber, CEO of Paracelsus Recovery, explains that “every person is very different, and this one-size-fits-all approach to treatment, mental health, and addiction rarely works well. Everybody has a different background: culturally, in terms of their family values, political views, hobbies, what gives meaning to their lives, and their lack of purpose in their lives. We can only help somebody recover from all these factors that have fueled an addiction if you individually attend to all these underlying reasons. And you can only do that when you individually tailor a treatment so that every client gets exactly what they need.”

Paracelsus is just one of many rehab facilities that work with each guest to create a unique treatment program. If you participate in this type of treatment, you’ll be able to choose from a wide variety of options, from art therapy to rock climbing. White River Manor, in South Africa, even takes guests on safari.

Contrary to popular belief, rehab doesn’t need to be an isolating experience. Guests can continue to have adventures, learn about themselves in new contexts, and connect with the wider world.

Stay Connected During Recovery

orenda at futures — Orenda at Futures in Tequesta, Florida connects clients with sober companions to support their return to work after rehab.

Rehab is a protected environment. In some programs, this means that guests have no phone or internet access, in order to focus on themselves instead of the people in their lives. However, this isn’t universally true. It can be especially important for executives to stay connected during their time in rehab. This makes rehab much more accessible to people who can’t take time off work.

Giles Fourie, Director and Co-Owner of White River Manor, says “A lot of business executives, business owners and professionals come through our program. And that’s because we offer our clients the ability to be able to use their phones, to work from the luxury of their rooms or the business center, and keep whatever they need to keep going at their office still running.” The healthcare providers at these facilities have a deep understanding of the stressors that may contribute to your emotional experience. As a result, they’re well-positioned to help you navigate the first stages of recovery.

If you continue to work while you’re in rehab, you may be preparing to return to the office as soon as you complete residential treatment. In that case, you may need to plan for social support in addition to therapeutic care. Some rehabs programs, like Orenda at Futures offer you access to a sober companion who can accompany you to business meetings and social engagements. Having someone there to support you in person can help ease the transition back into daily life after rehab. This external reminder of your new goals and healthy habits can remind you to strike a more sustainable balance, even as life returns to a faster pace.

Making Recovery Work for You

High-powered professionals often prioritize work over their own health. As laudable as this is, it can be unsustainable. Remember: you are the only person who can define what success means to you. It’s possible to achieve your goals while still living a healthy life.

Rehab facilities that work with executives understand this delicate balance. These programs won’t ask you to walk away from your responsibilities entirely. Instead, they’ll teach you how to maintain a positive relationship with your personal definition of accomplishment. Recovery is not just a way to set down unhealthy patterns. It’s also a way to find balance in your busy life.

To learn more about programs that can help you restore your sense of peace, see our collection of luxury rehabs serving executives.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rehab for Executives

What should I expect from a rehab program for executives?

Executive rehab programs offer personalized treatment plans that take your unique needs and work responsibilities into account. They may have flexible technology use policies and offer greater privacy, such as private accommodation and one-on-one therapy if group therapy isn’t an option for you.

How can I maintain my privacy while attending rehab as a CEO?

CEOs can maintain their privacy during rehab by enrolling in an executive program. These tend to prioritize confidentiality, with bespoke treatment plans and luxurious, single accommodation. Some don’t require group therapy for utmost privacy.

How do I manage my work responsibilities during rehab?

Many executive rehab programs let you stay connected to work during treatment. They may have more flexible technology policies, a business center, and even a sober companion who accompanies you to business meetings and social engagements.

July 20, 2021May 31, 2023

Trauma-Informed Care: How Rehab Can Support Post-Traumatic Growth

Trauma can be an isolating experience. When you go through something so painful that it changes you, it’s natural to feel like no one else can understand your new reality. You may have trouble connecting with the people around you, or no longer enjoy activities you once found meaningful. No matter how hard it is at first, remember: this is not the end of your story. You can always create a new beginning.

By going to rehab, you can get help from experts in trauma, PTSD, and CPTSD. The simple fact that these experts exist is proof that trauma is extremely common. You may feel isolated, but you’re certainly not alone. Depending on your program, you can also spend time in rehab building community with people who have life experiences like your own.

Diagnosis After Trauma: PTSD and CPTSD

This process can teach you a great deal about your own perspective. There are countless kinds of trauma, and everyone’s response to it is unique. For the most part, however, people whose mental health has been severely impacted by trauma are diagnosed with PTSD and/or CPTSD.

PTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder¹ (PTSD) normally develops in response to trauma that occurred in a discrete, specific amount of time. It’s often diagnosed in veterans and survivors of sexual assault. This condition is characterized by many symptoms, including but not limited to the following:

recurring, involuntary, and intrusive memories of the traumatic event
flashbacks and/or dissociation
avoidance of reminders of the traumatic event
dissociative amnesia
persistent negative beliefs and/or self-blame
feelings of alienation

PTSD can be overwhelming. You may have the sense that one moment, or one brief period of time, permanently changed your emotional capacity. And that might even be true. But it doesn’t mean you’ll always be in pain.

paracelsus confidentiality — Paracelsus Recovery in Zurich, Switzerland takes developmental trauma into account when addressing mental health and addiction issues.

CPTSD

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder² (Complex PTSD or CPTSD) is similar but not identical to PTSD. This describes people who have experienced prolonged trauma, such as long-term domestic abuse or long-term childhood trauma. While many veterans who served only one tour have PTSD, those who spent years in active service, and especially those who were detained in Prisoner of War camps, may in fact have CPTSD. The term may also apply to people who grew up in violent neighborhoods or spent time in prison.

CPTSD is not yet officially classified as a diagnosis by the DSM-V (the American Psychiatric Association’s manual for assessing and diagnosing mental health conditions). However, many clinicians use it as a framework for discussing their clients’ experience. The term has been in use since at least 1988, when Dr. Judith Hartman of Harvard University suggested that the symptoms of long-term trauma may require a different kind of treatment than those of PTSD. She referred to a number of specific symptoms:

self-destructive behavior, such as impulsivity and substance misuse
emotional difficulties, including rage, depression, and panic
chaotic personal relationships
dissociation and personality changes

Although CPTSD is not yet classified as a medical diagnosis, a growing number of healthcare providers use the concept as a therapeutic tool. It may very well be included in a future version of the DSM. Even now, many people in recovery identify with the term. Like any diagnosis, this is not only meant as a way of explaining ineffective or damaging behavior. Instead, it can help you define your experience in order to chart a path away from destructive patterns.

What Is Trauma-Informed Care?

“Trauma-informed care“³ refers to a variety of healthcare practices that take into account the unique experiences of people with a history of trauma. Providers may be experts in treating PTSD and CPTSD, and they may offer special accommodations for certain clients. For example, when a survivor of assault sees a massage therapist who offers trauma-informed care, the therapist might make it a point to ask for verbal consent before touching any new area of their body. The provider’s goal is to treat the client with respect, making sure they feel as safe as possible throughout the healing process.

Trauma-informed care takes the client’s past, present, and future into account. It’s not productive or even possible to ignore the original traumatic event while trying to move forward. Jan Garber, the CEO of Paracelsus Recovery, explains:

“When we’re looking at trauma, we often look at family of origin to understand how people were shaped and how that then informs how they react in life and how they relate to others.”

He adds, “If someone’s coming to us, most of the time they’ve identified a set of symptoms that’s saying, ‘Hey, stuff in life isn’t well, or it’s not working the way it could.’ So that’s the smoke, and where there’s smoke, there’s fire. So we want to really look at where that fire is and how the fire started.”

Looking at the root cause of trauma is not about assigning blame. It’s unlikely that you caused your own trauma, and it’s certainly not true that you’re responsible for other people’s behavior. You did not make this mess; or at least, you didn’t make it alone. Whatever or whomever the source of your pain may be, though, healing is your responsibility. That can feel very daunting, especially for people who experienced childhood trauma. Remember that you are not the first person to feel this way. There is a great deal of research that can guide you through PTSD and CPTSD, and your healthcare providers are there to help you navigate it.

mclean fernside — McLean Fernside in Princeton, Massachusetts recognizes clients’ need for trauma treatment as an essential part of recovery.

Learning From Triggers

Trauma-informed care is sensitive to triggers. This word has been co opted and even denigrated in recent years, so it’s important to define it in this context.

A trigger is an inciting event that elicits a strong emotional reaction which may be disproportionate to the present moment, but is a reasonable response to the past trauma you’ve experienced.

It is not true that being triggered means you are weak, or fragile, or maladjusted. On the contrary, triggers exist for good reason. The extreme emotional reactions they cause used to serve you well. With time, effort, and therapy, many people can overcome these disproportionate reactions.

Triggers are unique to everyone. Some are very common; for example, many survivors of physical violence have trouble looking at gorey images. However, they can also be hard to predict. A bouncy pop song might be triggering if it was playing when you got in a terrible car accident. If you struggle with your family of origin, you may be triggered by a funny sitcom about a happy family.

Simply avoiding triggers is both impractical and ineffective. Even if you never play the radio in your home, that same bouncy pop song might come on the speakers while you’re at a grocery store. Isolating yourself from situations in which you might be triggered can prevent you from living the life you want. The long-term goal of trauma-informed care is not to protect you from triggers—although that may be a useful short-term strategy. You will instead learn how to regulate your emotions and tolerate difficult situations.

The first step toward building habits is to acknowledge your current patterns. From there, you can decide which of them are still helpful. The skills that got you to this point served an important purpose, but they may not be the skills you need to build a better life.

Trauma, Addiction, and Mental Health

When you experience trauma, it’s natural to develop coping mechanisms that are appropriate to use in emergencies. These strategies are very important; they are designed to help you survive and ultimately escape. But life isn’t always an emergency. Some of these habits can become harmful if you keep using them after the danger has passed. For example, a person who grew up in a violent home might have learned to mistrust their family members. That skill was probably a very important defense mechanism during their childhood. In adulthood, however, that same skill has the potential to damage a romantic partnership.

If you’re living in an unsafe situation, it’s normal to want to escape. If physical escape is not an option, you may turn to other means of escape, such as substance use. Researchers have found “that there is high comorbidity between PTSD with substance abuse disorders⁴ and other mental disorders.” Because of this well-understood connection, many rehab centers are well-equipped to offer trauma-informed care.

“Even if the person doesn’t define for themselves that they have trauma history, we assume that they do,” says Dr. Monika Kolodziej, Program Director of McLean Fernside. She describes their trauma-informed approach:

“What that means is being very respectful of space. It means being a clear communicator. It means not overstepping boundaries. And it means introducing the possibility that treatment for trauma might be an important part of their recovery. So in addition to being sensitive and interacting with the person in a way that’s respectful, that doesn’t overstep boundaries or is not aggressive or confrontational, it also means providing treatment and skills.”

PTSD and CPTSD can also co-exist with or even cause other diagnoses, such as anxiety and depression. Scholars have also suggested a link between CPTSD and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD);⁵ some even suggest that we stop differentiating between these two conditions.⁶ If you’re living through ongoing trauma, and develop an additional mental health issue as a result, it can be even harder to get out of danger. And once you do arrive at a safer place, these conditions can complicate the healing process.

Trauma-informed care takes these many complexities into account. Rehab is a place to not only move past substance use, but also learn to cope with the underlying cause that led you to use substances in the first place.

Camino Recovery exterior pool — Camino Recovery in Vélez-Málaga, Spain uses EMDR to help clients reduce the impact of traumatic memories.

Trauma-Informed Behavioral Health Services

Rehab is designed to be a safe, protected environment in which you can begin healing from trauma. You’ll have access to experts who can help you process your past experiences and learn new skills to use in the future. Without the added responsibilities of work, school, or caring for your family, you’re free to focus on yourself. This dynamic is especially important for people with a history of domestic violence, and anyone whose trauma has caused them to struggle with interpersonal dynamics.

PTSD and CPTSD can be extremely isolating, both during and after the original trauma. That isolation can even be a key indicator of whether or not you’ll develop one of these conditions in the first place. For instance, if a person gets in a car accident and then has to wait for hours before an ambulance arrives, that waiting period might be just as emotionally damaging as the accident itself. After that traumatic event, it could also be hard for them to explain why they’re triggered by sitting quietly at the side of a road.

Rehab offers clients the opportunity to inhabit a safe and protected environment, without isolating them from care. By connecting with your cohort and your team of providers, you can learn how it feels to simultaneously exist in a private space and benefit from community support.

Various rehab facilities offer different types of therapy for people with a history of trauma. Behavioral therapy is a particularly effective treatment. This approach provides clients with very specific tactics for navigating difficult situations, coping with triggers and urges, and living in accordance with their personal values. Some common styles of therapy for healing from trauma⁷ include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).

Each of these kinds of therapy looks at trauma from a slightly different vantage point, and it’s important to choose the one that’s right for you. EMDR, for example, aims to restructure the way memories are stored in the brain. Meena Lavender, Family Therapist and EMDR Practitioner at Camino Recovery, explains:

“If you had a filing system in your brain, it would house traumas in different sections of your brain. What EMDR does is access it one by one and processes that to eliminate the emotional charge it has.”

EMDR is just one example of trauma-informed care that simultaneously treats the mind and the body. This holistic approach can be helpful for clients who experience physical symptoms as a result of their emotional experience. In some cases, these symptoms can be extreme: panic attacks can be mistaken for heart attacks, and dissociative episodes can put a person at risk of physical harm. Ryan Soave, Director of Program Development at All Points North Lodge, states:

“We hold trauma in our body, and stress is really the symptom of trauma. we can start working some of that stress out of the body, utilizing things like yoga, breath work, meditation, massage, the sensory deprivation tank, exercise and other types of functional movement, then when that stress is released from the body, it makes it easier to deal with the stressors that are going to come on a daily basis.”

The Ball, the Box, and the Button: A Metaphor for Healing

Imagine that, at the moment you originally experienced trauma, someone handed you a box. Inside it, you find a bouncy ball and a big red button, which is mounted on one of the sides. Whenever the ball hits the button, you’re reminded of your painful experience. That may mean you get triggered, feel anxious, and/or have the urge to engage in destructive behavior.

At first, the ball and the box are almost the same size. The ball is constantly pressing down on the button, and you spend most of your time feeling the effects of what you’ve been through. This acute phase of healing from trauma can be very overwhelming. Without effective tools to regulate your emotions, it’s unfortunately easy to fall back on unhealthy coping mechanisms.

Over time, though, you learn. You grow. The box gets bigger, and the ball has room to bounce around. It spends less and less time pressing on the button. Your feelings may still be intense every time the button gets pushed, but you’ll have some space to breathe in between those moments. You’ll develop skills to manage your own reactions, and be better prepared for the next time the ball hits.

This metaphor was originally developed to describe grief. And the process of healing from trauma is not unlike the process of grieving.⁸ Often, though, what you’re grieving is a version of yourself. As painful as that is, there is a well-charted path forward.

Trauma-informed care offers people the space they need to get to know themselves again. This is your opportunity to redefine yourself, your life, and your values. Healing is a-linear, and there will always be good days and bad days. This process is intended to help you navigate them both.

To learn more about your options for care, see our collection of residential rehabs offering trauma treatment here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Trauma-Informed Care in Rehab

What is trauma-informed care in rehab?

Trauma-informed care in rehab is an approach to treatment that recognizes the impact of past traumatic experiences on an individual’s mental, physical, and emotional health. It focuses on creating a safe and supportive environment for healing and recovery.

What are the key principles of trauma-informed care in rehab?

The key principles of trauma-informed care in rehab include safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, empowerment, and cultural sensitivity. These principles inform every aspect of treatment, from the initial assessment to ongoing support after leaving rehab.

What are the benefits of trauma-informed care in rehab?

Trauma-informed care in rehab benefits individuals by taking their experiences and trauma into account to provide a safe and supportive environment for recovery. This can foster a sense of empowerment and autonomy, which may lead to improved mental health outcomes.

July 7, 2021May 30, 2023

What to Expect While You’re in Rehab

Rehab is a place for you to build a sustainable life. In order to do that, you’ll develop healthy daily habits, learn to cope with cravings, and set goals. This is not a simple process. In order to create a better future, you first need to understand what led you to this point. By working through your emotional experience of your life so far, you’ll learn more about yourself and your own values. And when you truly understand yourself, you open the door to a life that can support your unique version of health.

Most rehab programs are designed to give you a type of structure you may have been missing up until now. You’ll likely have a full agenda, waking up early for a full day of activities and going to bed soon after you finish them. This schedule strikes a delicate balance. The intensive process keeps you focused on the work at hand, with little time to get too distracted by the cravings and triggers you came to get a break from. You will, however, have some opportunities for downtime to process the hard emotional work you’re doing in therapy. How intensive this journey is varies from program to program.

Because everyone is different, each rehab center offers a number of different healing modalities, ranging from individual therapy to recreational group outings. The process may feel more accessible if you have a sense of what to expect in advance.

A Typical Day in Rehab

Your time in rehab will be carefully curated by a team of healthcare providers. In addition to receiving medical care, you’ll spend time with the other residents, attending one-on-one therapy, and processing your experiences. Here’s what a typical schedule might look like:

7am – 8am Yoga

8am – 9am Breakfast

9am – 10:30am Individual therapy

10:30am – 12pm Group therapy

12pm – 1pm Lunch

1pm – 1:45pm Medical aspects or energy work

1:45pm – 3:30pm Trauma therapy

3:30pm – 4:30pm Recreation therapy

4:30pm – 5:30pm Meditation

6:30pm – 7:30pm Group Activity or Speaker

7:30pm – 10pm Free Time & Homework

10pm Bedtime

You won’t have the same schedule every day, but it’s likely that each day will be tightly structured. Most facilities have time set aside for visiting hours, family therapy, and experiential therapies or outings such as skiing and rock climbing. Some rehabs offer even more flexibility. For example, at All Points North Lodge , a luxury rehab in Colorado, clients sometimes go on nature walks with their therapists during individual sessions.

As you can see, most centers maintain a balance between time alone, one-on-one sessions with a provider, and group experiences. Every one of these dynamics is an important part of healing. Because rehab is a place to reconnect with yourself, it’s valuable to learn how to be alone. Talking through your feelings with a trusted guide in a private setting will help keep you on track throughout that process. Social dynamics offer group support, and encourage clients to hone their interpersonal skills. Many clients even find the simple act of sharing meals with their rehab community gives them a helpful sense of camaraderie and support.

paracelsus bedroom — Paracelsus Recovery in Zurich, Switzerland.

Personalized Programming at Bespoke Treatment Centers

Some residential rehabs serve only one client at a time, offering a completely bespoke experience tailored to meet their needs. Other rehabs take a holistic approach, treating a few clients at a time using a highly individualized approach. For instance, the team at Paracelsus Recovery works very closely with each person in their care to come up with a plan perfectly suited to their recovery goals. Louis Fitzmaurice, a therapist at Paracelsus, says:

“Everything that goes on in the therapeutic environment that we exist in has been created for and directed at our client. It’s designed. It’s tailor-made for our client, everything that goes on. That’s the food, the complementary therapy, the psychotherapy, the psychiatry. That’s me, the live-in therapist. That’s the physical work. Everything that goes on in the environment is focused on our client and is for the best outcome for our client.”

This careful scheduling offers clients the structure they were likely missing before rehab. It also ensures that you’ll have the chance to benefit from a number of different healing modalities.

Emotional Exploration in Individual Therapy

Individual therapy is a safe, private space for you to express yourself without being concerned about the listener’s reaction. Your therapist’s job is not to fix you, but to help you do the hard work of healing.

This is not a fast or easy process, but in the end, it’s worth the effort. By developing the skills to navigate whatever life throws at you, you can come to rely on yourself and go forward with confidence. Ryan Soave, Director of Program Development at All Points North Lodge, says that “With therapy in general, the goal is not to reach some place where nothing affects you and you’re happy 100% of the time. It’s really about building the capacity to experience difficult emotions, to experience hardship. We’re going to experience pain – it’s part of life. In fact, we can’t have joy without pain. The more we can build the capacity to experience the full amount of pain, the more capacity we have to experience joy in life.”

During individual therapy, you’ll get to process anything that’s coming up for you. You might feel called to talk about your life before rehab, your daily experience of the program, or your concerns about the future. This is also a place to discuss practical skills like how to manage cravings, how to define your goals, and how to set healthy boundaries in your relationships. Bear in mind, however, that one-on-one therapy is just a starting point. It’s your responsibility to take what you learn in this context and apply it to the rest of your life.

There are many different styles of one-on-one therapy. Depending on where you go to rehab, you may have access to some or all of these; you may even want to choose a program based on which types of therapy they offer. Some popular styles of therapy offered at rehab are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT),¹ Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR),² and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).³

As productive as individual therapy is, it’s not a simple solution to all your problems. In fact, much of the work of therapy happens between sessions. This allows you to reflect on your observations, put what you’ve learned into practice, and gain new insights into your patterns. When you return for your next session, you’ll be ready to delve even deeper into your treatment process. As you integrate the lessons of therapy into your daily experience, you’ll develop a greater understanding of yourself. Eventually, you’ll start to define what you want your life to look like after rehab.

Group Therapy and Social Dynamics

Group therapy is another way to prepare yourself for life after rehab. This is an opportunity to connect with people at a similar point in their path. By building community with the other clients in your program, you’ll realize through sharing your experiences that you’re not alone. As valuable as it is to work with a therapist, there are some lessons that you can only learn from peers. As Lana Seiler, Associate Director of Clinical Operations at All Points North Lodge, says, “We’re social creatures by nature, so it’s a very different feel working one-on-one with someone versus working in a small group and in their community.”

If you attend a program for a specialized cohort—such as a men’s group, a women’s group, or a group for older adults—group therapy may allow you to speak in shorthand. If you’re the parent of adult children, for example, there are parts of your life that a childless 23-year-old might not understand without explanation. On the other hand, that same person can probably teach you a great deal about what it’s like to be a young adult relating to her parents in this era of history. There is no right or wrong group of people with whom to undergo group therapy, but it’s important to find the right group for you.

For many people in rehab, interpersonal skills are an area of growth. Group therapy is a safe, gentle way to learn or relearn how to build healthy relationships. Openly describing past and present experiences can help clients work against shame. “Group therapy is important for a variety of reasons. Firstly, addiction and substance use bring around a lot of isolation, shame and secrecy over time. People often feel very alone. So an important vehicle for change is to have support and encouragement from others,” says Dr. Monika Kolodziej, Program Director of McLean Fernside. This dynamic helps clients cultivate a sense of self-acceptance, which is essential in order to move forward from substance use.

Substance use can easily damage your relationships with family, partners, colleagues, and friends. As such, group therapy is a safe place to practice skills that will serve you well when you return to your community after rehab. The act of building relationships in this context provides a certain level of accountability, which may have been lacking in your life before rehab. When you see how the people around you approach their treatment, you may be inspired to commit to your own process even more fully. Data shows that group therapy can improve clients’ engagement with recovery.⁴

all points north online aftercare — All Points North Lodge in Edwards, Colorado

Finding Joy in Complementary Therapies

Recovery is hard work; there’s no way around that. However, recommitting to yourself and your wellness means building a better life. In support of that goal, there are many therapies that focus on relaxation and fun. Inpatient rehabs often offer complementary therapies, giving you time and space to process the more demanding aspects of treatment.

Bodywork: Healing the Body to Heal the Mind

Many luxury rehabs invite clients to receive bodywork such as massage, acupuncture, and other spa services. These experiences have a dual purpose. On a therapeutic level, they help your body heal from the negative impacts of substance use. They’re also an opportunity for you to relax and enjoy yourself. Some of these modalities have a component of mindfulness, which can contribute to your emotional recovery.

Recreational Therapy: Emotional Processing Through Self-Expression

Depending on where you go to rehab, you may have the opportunity to participate in recreational therapy. Arts and crafts, film, and psychodrama—to name just a few—offer a different way of relating to yourself and expressing your emotions. Veronique De Buck, Evolutionary Art Therapist at Camino Recovery, explains:

“By working with art, you can reconnect with your resources, your potential, your talents and all the beautiful things you have inside of you. Sometimes people can’t put their trauma into words. So it helps to feel, to contact their heart, to feel the emotions and to put those emotions on paper.”

Adventure Therapy: Exploring Your Inner and Outer Worlds in Tandem

Some luxury rehabs are known for their adventure therapy programs. These experiences vary widely from location to location. In California, you might hike a beautiful mountain trail. Some Florida rehabs offer beach activities from surfing to wave running. At White River Manor in South Africa, you can even go on safari. These activities are a fun and exciting way to learn about your own reactions to life in different contexts. According to Ryan Soave, these experiences are more than just a break from the intensity of therapy:

“Fun and play are super important to getting well. It actually allows people to access creative states, which we want people to be in. In behavioral health, it’s about inventing a new way of relating with oneself and others and the world around them. So being able to get out and have fun can really help their process.”

Through these experiences, you’ll develop more sustainable ways of relating to the world. And having positive memories to draw from can make the next chapter of your life feel more accessible.

People are complex, multifaceted beings. Rehab is designed to treat every aspect of self. The demanding work of individual and group therapy encourages you to delve into your reasons for being in rehab in the first place. By balancing this work with enjoyable low-stakes activities, you’ll be reminded of how much the world has to offer you. As challenging as recovery can be, it’s the first step in moving towards a life you love.

Browse our collection of luxury treatment centers to learn more about the experience of rehab.

Frequently Asked Questions About What Happens in Rehab

What is a typical daily schedule like in rehab?

A typical day in rehab is highly structured from morning until late evening. Schedules usually include individual and group therapy, complementary therapies like yoga, other recovery activities, and downtime.

How long does rehab typically last?

The length of stay in rehab varies depending on individual needs, but most programs last between 30 and 90 days. Some programs are shorter or longer stays depending on the severity of addiction and the individual’s needs.

What kind of therapies are offered in rehab?

Rehab programs offer a range of therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). These different styles of therapy may be delivered in a one-on-one or group setting. Luxury rehabs tend to offer complementary therapies like yoga or art therapy.

July 2, 2021May 31, 2023

Florida Rehab Has Something for Everyone

There is no one right way to heal. When you choose a rehab center, you’re not just choosing a place: you’re also choosing your treatment environment, who you’ll be around, and which therapeutic modalities you’ll have access to. This can be an empowering decision that sets you up for success as you move forward in your recovery journey.

If you’re interested in recreation therapy—such as psychodrama, arts and crafts, or horseback riding—a facility in Florida might be the right fit for you. Several Florida rehab centers also specialize in treating the underlying circumstances that contribute to addiction. For example, some of these programs cater to high-powered professionals, older adults, people with co-occurring mental health diagnoses, or those with chronic physical pain. Some programs also offer gender-specific treatment, with different groups for men and women. And clients of many demographics are offered specialized care designed to help with their specific concerns.

Recovery by the Sea

Florida’s beautiful climate can have a powerful impact on your health. Visitors can relax on the state’s world-famous beaches, or engage in more active pursuits like scuba diving, paddle boarding, or wave running. Local culture places a great focus on physical health and enjoyment of the outdoors—but this isn’t just for athletes. The state’s temperate weather is also a big draw for families and older adults seeking a gentler experience.

Many of Florida’s rehab centers offer direct access to the coast. Some of them are located close to the water, and others invite residents to go on beach excursions. While these spaces are protected from the hustle and bustle of major cities, they’re not necessarily completely isolated in remote locations. Guests at treatment centers in this area have the time to enjoy nature and adjust to a new pace of life while engaging in the physical activities that suit them best.

In this diverse area, there’s a great emphasis on respecting each client’s unique needs. If you choose to attend a luxury rehab here, there’s a good chance you’ll work closely with your clinical team to design a personalized treatment plan.

futures recovery healthcare — Futures Recovery Healthcare in Tequesta, Florida

Treatment Tailored to Each Client’s Background

Florida has long been a destination for people from all walks of life, from college students to retirees. And like the state itself, the rehab facilities in Florida offer specific opportunities to several different populations. This is an excellent place to connect with other people in recovery who can easily relate to your own life experience.

Recovery for Older Adults

Older adults in recovery have a unique set of priorities and needs. Some Florida facilities, such as The Hanley Center at Origins, specialize in offering care to this community. When you begin recovery later in life, it’s especially important to form connections with people you can relate to. The emphasis on group therapy empowers clients to learn together and share the wisdom they’ve cultivated over time. To that end, this addiction treatment program for older adults encourages “patients to feel a human connection, share experiences, and polish their interpersonal skills… We strive to create a close-knit community of peers so that our patients feel safe, welcomed, and comfortable.”

Physical fitness can also play a role in recovery. While there is a well-understood link between physical and mental wellness for people of all ages, older adults often have unique health considerations. For example, the medical treatment of chronic pain can easily lead to opioid addiction.¹ Recovering from that addiction is important, but the underlying cause remains an issue. The Hanley Center helps older clients learn to manage their physical health without engaging in destructive behavior. To that end, you may develop skills that support healthy medication management, nutrition, and exercise.

Gender-Specific Addiction and Mental Health Treatment

Rehab is, by nature, an insulated setting. Some guests may want to take this a step further, and only be among people of their own gender. Florida has many options for gender-specific treatment. If you choose this type of environment, you’ll join a cohort of all women or all men, and heal alongside people who understand the pressures that come along with your identity.

The Hanley Center’s program for women offers a deep and compassionate understanding of the unique stigmas and traumas they often face. Specifically, “women are more likely to experience discrimination based on their physical appearance and more likely to function as single parents. Likewise, women are also more likely to be victims of abuse or assault, and they receive diagnoses of depression and anxiety at higher rates than men…[and] many of these issues can exacerbate substance use. Body image disorders, trauma, and co-occurring mental health disorders are all risk factors for addiction that we see among the women seeking treatment.” By taking these circumstances into account, the facility offers women space to heal in a protected community.

Men in recovery face a different set of concerns. The pressures men face in their respective cultures often isolates them from the support they need. In particular, the simple act of asking for help often carries a stigma. Without a strong support network, it’s all too easy to resort to unsustainable means of emotion regulation. In the men’s group at the Hanley Center, expert professionals “address deeply rooted issues and clear a path to emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness.” Men are invited to seek support not only from these professionals, but also from each other. Learning how to ask for and accept community care, they learn to navigate life’s challenges.

beachway therapy center — Beachway Therapy Center in West Palm Beach, Florida

LGBTQ+ Affirming Programs

LGBTQ+ clients often struggle to find competent care, especially for mental health concerns and substance use. It can be difficult to find healthcare providers who understand how to affirm your experience, allying with you to address your concerns without pathologizing your identity. The LGBTQ+ community faces higher rates of mental health disorders² due to minority stress. Yet many people struggle to access the support they need and deserve.

Caron Ocean Drive, a rehab center in Boca Raton, Florida, offers LGBTQ+ affirming services. In all of their programs, this facility focuses on treating each client as a whole person. And in their efforts to support LGBTQ+ clients, they offer individual and group therapy and access to community events through their partnerships with organizations such as the PRIDE Center in Fort Lauderdale and Lambda North in Delray Beach. These opportunities actively work against the isolation that so many LGBTQ+ people face in their daily lives.

People with these identities face not only social stigma, but also unique concerns related to physical and mental health. With that in mind, Caron Ocean Drive offers collaborative therapy that’s open to a client’s family of origin and/or chosen family. Transgender clients also have the opportunity to work with endocrinologists to ensure that they have a plan for ongoing gender-affirming medical care during and after the transitions that take place in rehab.

Discrete Care for High-Powered Clients

Certain clients require a high level of discretion and flexibility. Florida has a number of programs that cater to extremely successful clients, including CEOs and those with public personas. These lifestyles can be very demanding, and the pressure to maintain an appearance may make it difficult to find the care you need.

Orenda, a program at Futures Recovery, is designed to support high-achieving clients. This process is supported by a staff of medical professionals and hospitality experts. Orenda’s highly personalized program gives you access to innovative medical techniques, from neurorestorative care to hypnotherapy. Athletes continue their physical training in conjunction with therapy and the amenities of rehab. Programs like this one encourage guests to learn more about their own needs, and to meet them in creative ways.

tikvah lake — Tikvah Lake Recovery in Sebring, Florida

Adventure Therapy

In the effort to support each client’s individualized care plan, many Florida rehabs offer adventure therapy. Most of these programs are meant for small groups, and allow participants to explore social dynamics in a safe and structured way. Some outings are only offered to those in outpatient treatment, but certain residential programs have a special focus on these experiences.

Rise, at Futures Recovery, is one of these adventure-based programs. After completing detox, residents can choose to go fishing, paddle boarding, scuba diving, wave running, and more. These physical activities provide a number of benefits for people in recovery. First, they have a positive impact on physical health, which can aid in the biological process of healing. Experts have also found a link between physical activity and improved executive function.³Any group activity is also an opportunity to have fun, bond with program peers, and create positive memories.

Traveling to Florida

Florida is easily accessible by plane, with four major airports servicing the state. New clients are discouraged from driving themselves to rehab. Most rehabs will help you plan travel logistics, even offering transport to and from your flight. Because of the temperate climate, it’s easy to reach these facilities at any time of year.

If you’re coming from the Midwest or the East Coast, Florida is one of the most accessible warm-weather locations in the U.S. Many programs in this area offer both residential and outpatient treatment. These choices may be especially appealing to Florida residents, or to those who want to stay on in the state for a longer period of time.

Freedom to Define Health for Yourself

Your time in rehab—anywhere in the world—is a chance to step away from the stresses of daily life, and instead focus on your own needs. Florida’s climate is a good fit for people who want to heal both physically and emotionally. This is an opportunity to decide what you need to feel healthy.

Florida centers are best for people who want to get personalized care. This is a place to connect with a cohort of people who are likely to understand your experience of the world. And those connections can be a valuable source of insight as you discover what recovery means to you.

For more information on available programs, see our collection of luxury rehabs in Florida here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rehab in Florida

What are the benefits of rehab in Florida?

Florida rehabs offer tailored treatment for diverse client groups, a full spectrum of care, and adventure programs where clients can go fishing, paddle boarding, scuba diving, wave running, and more.

What are the costs of rehab in Florida?

The average cost of inpatient rehab in Florida is $30,000 per month; the average cost of PHP is $15,000 per month; and the average cost of IOP is $10,000 per month. In general, inpatient rehab is the most expensive type of rehab, followed by PHP, IOP, and outpatient rehab.

How do I find a rehab center in Florida?

To find a rehab, you can start by asking your doctor, therapist, or a trusted friend or family member for a referral. You can also search online using an unbiased platform or SAMSHA’s treatment finder. When choosing a rehab, it’s important to consider your individual needs and preferences. Ask about the treatment options offered, the cost of treatment, and the success rate of the program.

June 21, 2021May 25, 2023

What Happens if I Relapse?

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Rehab is just the first step in making long-term changes to your lifestyle. Because many people choose to go to rehab in response to a crisis, it’s easy to approach this process with a sense of urgency. In the moment, that urgency is warranted. However, when you’re so focused on the short term, it can be difficult to imagine a better future. People tend to catastrophize, picturing themselves going through crisis after crisis, and this emotional spiral can lead to poor decision-making.

Preparing for hard times is helpful, but catastrophizing is not. You are a dynamic, learning, growing person. And the more time you spend focused on healing, the more tools you will develop to navigate any hardship that comes your way.

After rehab, it’s natural to be concerned about relapsing. And that’s understandable, because relapses do happen. But they’re not the end of the world. By the time you leave rehab, you’ll be prepared to work through these setbacks. Nearly 75% of people who experience addiction ultimately recover.¹ This includes people who experience relapses.

The process of preventing a relapse begins the moment you enter rehab. Addiction treatment providers understand that your goal isn’t just to complete the program, it’s to successfully reenter the world and live a sustainably healthy life. Your experience of rehab will prepare you for what comes next.

Relapse is a valid concern for many clients. That’s why so many good-quality rehabs focus on giving you the tools you need to work through it.

michaels house relapse prevention — Delamere in England offers relapse prevention support, 12 months of aftercare, and a 24/7 helpline for those who complete their residential program.

What Causes Relapse?

Stress

Stress is a natural part of life, and research shows that people with a history of addiction may be more sensitive to stress. Even positive events can be stressful,² like getting a promotion or planning a wedding. The goal isn’t to eliminate these triggers, but to manage them in a healthy way.

Following rehab, stress can make you vulnerable to relapse.³ That’s because there’s a well-understood link between stress and addiction⁴—and this is especially true of chronic stress. Many people first turn to substances in response to difficult life situations. And without strong coping mechanisms, it’s easy to fall back into those unhealthy patterns. During rehab, you’ll learn how to manage your responses to stressful situations.

Although mindfulness is something of a buzzword these days, it’s also an effective tactic for coping with stress. This and other emotion regulation techniques taught in rehab can help you focus on the issue at hand, instead of getting lost in a series of overwhelming reactions.

Unexamined Trauma

Don Lavender, Program Director of Camino Recovery in southern Spain, explains the impact of unresolved trauma on relapse:

“The biggest contributor to relapse is stress, and the biggest contributor to stress is unaddressed or unresolved trauma.”

Trauma can result from any number of things, and no two people have the same experience. One person might develop PTSD from a car accident, while another walks away with no lasting psychological effects. Ongoing trauma, such as an abusive relationship or a toxic living situation, can result in complex PTSD (CPTSD), which has slightly different symptoms than PTSD.

With either of these conditions, it’s quite common to develop triggers. A trigger is an experience that evokes feelings of the original trauma, which are often disproportionate to the present moment. For example, open flames might trigger a person with PTSD from a house fire. When they see a burning candle, they may feel a sense of fear and urgency or even rush to put out the flame. In life, this isn’t always an appropriate response. That’s why, in healing from PTSD and CPTSD, clients are encouraged to pinpoint their triggers and develop more effective coping mechanisms.

Substance abuse is a common response to triggers⁵ like these. When you feel frightened or hurt, substances can short-circuit your emotional state. However, mind-altering substances are just tools, and each one of them has a specific effect. And when substances are the only tool you have available, it makes sense that you would try to use them to fix emotional problems. That’s why rehab is designed to give you more tools, so you can always use the right one for the task at hand.

How to Plan Ahead

Rehab is designed to give you the resources you need to not only guard against relapse, but to deal with it when it happens. Many people have concerns about transitioning out of rehab and back into their regular lives. It’s important to remember that rehab is not a vacation; it’s more like a class. You won’t be expected to go back to your old routine when you finish the program. In fact, your experience in rehab will help you decide how to change that routine in order to prioritize your long-term health.

By the time you decide to go to rehab, you probably already know that your habits need to change. Your team of healthcare providers understands this, and they want to help. The process of planning for your reentry into the wider world begins the moment you enter the program, says Rowland Tweedie, the Health and Fitness manager at Paracelsus Recovery:

“Often I tell clients their job, in that initial period after the treatment, is them: it’s their health, it’s their wellbeing. We should plan that…It’s important to have local support in place.”

Planning for life after rehab is different for everyone, and your providers will help you come up with strategies that fit your needs. Some clients find it helpful to create an emotional first aid kit, in which they write down strategies to employ in the future. It can be difficult to think clearly during times of extreme stress, and this is one way to remind your future self of the tools you have available. For example, an emotional first aid kit might include the following:

The phone number of your therapist or sponsor
A list of activities you enjoy, like cooking or exercising
A list of distress tolerance skills you learned in therapy, such as listening to a song you love, lighting a scented candle, or holding an ice cube in your hand
A comfort object, like a soft pillow or a worry stone, that you can pick up and hold in the moment
A mantra you can repeat to yourself during meditation

Rehab is a valuable opportunity to learn from experts, and many programs include educational components. You might learn about the root causes of addiction, including biological predispositions, risk factors in your upbringing, and co-morbid diagnoses. Many rehab centers offer skills coaching, equipping you with healthy habits intended to improve your quality of life. You might learn how to exercise properly, how to cook, or even how to paint. Craving management classes provide strategies for working through any urges you experience in the future.

This type of learning is extremely important, and you’ll ideally come away from it with many useful coping strategies. However, finishing rehab doesn’t mean you’re simply “fixed.” When you exit the program, you’ll begin a whole new learning process. The environment of a rehab facility is very different from the wider world, and it will take you time to reacclimate. There will be times when you’re overwhelmed and unsure of how to react to a new situation. Each of these moments is an opportunity to put your new skills into practice.

immersion recovery relapse prevention — Immersion Recovery Center in Florida helps patients prevent relapse via stepped-down treatment like sober living and outpatient care.

Life After Rehab

By the time you leave rehab, you’ll have a very specific plan in place for aftercare. Although the transition may be jarring, your team will work with you to make it as seamless as possible. Most clients make plans for continuing care, which may be ongoing or may just see them through the transitional period. These services may be offered by your original treatment facility, or you may work with a different provider after you complete the program. Certain types of care may be covered by insurance, but that’s not universally true.

If you traveled to a destination rehab center, you can still find providers that will be locally available when you return home. This may take a little more effort on your part, but it’s important to at least begin the process before you finish the program. You’ll want to have ground support as soon as you arrive, so that your new team can help you process the move to a new place. At this point, you’ll also be navigating brand new big changes. You may need to restructure your relationships, move to a new home, or change careers. It’s far easier to do this with a team standing by to support you in person.

Continuing care refers to any type of support that sustains your ongoing recovery. Components of continuing care may include the following:

Individual therapy
Psychiatry
Group therapy
Support groups (12-Step programs, harm reduction meet-ups, etc.)
Work with a nutritionist
Personal training and exercise
Massage therapy or acupuncture
Family support (family of origin or chosen family)
Community support (friends and loved ones)
Recreational groups (hiking groups, sports teams, fan clubs, knitting circles, etc.)

Any or all of these types of care may be appropriate for you. And remember that healing can be fun! Joy and passion are essential components of recovery. Taking pride in your accomplishments—whether a big presentation at work or a doodle of your cat’s face—allows you to find meaning in your daily life. It’s also important that you find healthy and sustainable ways to unwind. As you transition out of your old lifestyle, it can be difficult to imagine having fun without using substances. But don’t be afraid to try new things. There are countless ways to enjoy yourself, and you may be surprised to find you have much more fun when your head is clear.

Responding to Relapse

Relapses happen. Even when you have new skills, a strong support network, and the very best of intentions, this is a risk that you’ll face during recovery. Remember that relapse is not a sign of weakness, and it doesn’t have to be a failure. As Dr. Christine Merzeder, Senior Clinical Coordinator at Paracelsus Recovery, explains:

“When [you] relapse, there’s no moral issue with that. We say, ‘Okay, back to square one.’ If you relapse, phone us, come back to us. We give you advice on what to do. Don’t panic.”

If you do relapse, start by reaching out to a trusted healthcare provider. This could be someone you see regularly, like a local therapist or psychiatrist, or you can call the facility where you started treatment. Don’t isolate yourself or get lost in feelings of shame. There is a strong link between shame and addiction,⁶ and hiding your struggles often amplifies them.

Remember that this is a relapse. That means you’ve been here before, and you’ve gotten help before. You already have the tools you need to start or restart the healing process. You are living proof that change is possible. Some rehabs offer programs specifically for people who have relapsed after treatment. Depending on where you go, you may be able to return to the same place for a shorter stay. If that’s not available to you, you might also consider an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) in your area. In an IOP, you would continue to live at home, attending regular therapy sessions and workshops at a local treatment center.

Healing is a holistic process. If you’re considering rehab as an option, you probably already understand that substance abuse can have an impact on every area of your life. This might include your job, your family, your social life, and even your physical health. The goal of rehab is not just to heal your mind; it also aims to empower you to make big changes to the structures around you. You’ll have to reexamine the way you relate to the world, and take steps to make your life more sustainable. Don’t be daunted by this process. With every positive change, you’ll build momentum. This is true even during setbacks. If you relapse, remind yourself how far you’ve already come.

Lasting change is a long, slow process. The Stages of Change model⁷ lays out the many steps that go into this process, from precontemplation to ongoing maintenance. Most notably, this model includes relapse as a distinct possibility. Alex Lickerman, M.D., writes:

“Never let a few days, or even weeks, of falling back into bad habits discourage you from fighting to reestablish the good habits you want. Always remember: No one was born with habits. They were all learned, and can all, therefore, be unlearned.”

Relapse is just one step in a lifelong journey. It may feel like a step backward, but it’s also an opportunity to learn more about yourself. Pain of any kind—be it emotional, physical, or spiritual—is just information. When you touch a hot stove, you learn not to do it again. The lessons of relapse are more complex. You may learn that a particular relationship is causing you harm, or that you need to pay more attention to your sleep schedule. Any information about yourself is valuable. This learning process empowers you to build a life aligned with your values.

Remember: the path to healing isn’t linear. Whether you’re recovering from a broken ankle or emotional trauma, setbacks are to be expected. If you can, let these experiences motivate you. Listen to yourself, understand your needs, and focus on doing the next right thing.

If you’re in need of support, many rehabs offer programs that can help. Search for a facility based on your criteria and speak directly with an admissions advisor about the best course of action for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Relapse

What are the causes of relapse?

Many factors can contribute to relapse, including stress, boredom, negative emotions, and peer pressure. Be aware of your own triggers and to have a plan in place for coping with them.

What can I do to prevent relapse?

There are a number of things you can do to prevent relapse. These include attending regular therapy and support groups, learning healthy coping strategies, avoiding triggers, taking prescribed medication (if necessary), and leaning into your support network.

What should I do if I relapse?

If you relapse, talk to your therapist or sponsor. They can help you understand what happened and develop a plan to prevent relapse in the future. Remember: relapse is a common part of recovery and it does not mean you’ve failed. An addiction treatment center, addiction-specialized therapist, or supportive loved one can help you recommit to your recovery and get back on track to your goals.

June 17, 2021May 31, 2023

Colorado Rehabs: A Beautiful Backdrop for Creating Life Change

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Rehab is an opportunity for all-around healing. Although you will receive clinical care during your stay, that care is just one aspect of the experience. You’ll also get to connect with people at a similar point in their lives, develop healthy new habits, and redefine your own wants, needs, and goals. In order to do this effectively, it’s important to choose the right environment for you.

Rehabs in Colorado offer a unique combination of opportunities to do just that. Your time at a residential rehab center can be full of rich and inspiring new experiences. This diverse landscape is beautiful during every season, and especially appealing to more adventurous people. Many centers offer experiential therapies based in nature, encouraging their guests to go hiking, skiing, rafting, rock climbing, or even horseback riding. The cultural focus on healthy living and outdoor exploration invites clients to heal through interaction with the world around them.

We paid a visit to Colorado to find out what makes treatment there so special. Hear from experts at All Points North Lodge and Gallus Detox Center about how this special setting promotes recovery.

Colorado’s Revitalizing Landscape

To call the Colorado landscape “diverse” would be an understatement. This state has eight distinct regions, appealing to people from all walks of life who enjoy exploring the great outdoors. You can go snowboarding in the Rocky Mountains, soak in the Colorado Hot Springs, hike the Manitou Incline, or just enjoy the temperate weather and majestic views. Some facilities even invite clients to spend time outside during their regular therapy sessions.

Most of these activities can be either solo or group experiences, while more extreme sports may require a professional guide. Whether you want to push yourself to new heights or just commune with the natural world, outdoor sports can be a great opportunity for emotional catharsis. Experts agree that exercise has a positive impact on mental health.¹Some also hypothesize that the social component of sporting activities plays a role in this, which can be very helpful for people in recovery. Rehab is a place to start healing yourself, and to begin thinking about how you can heal in the context of your family and community.

These external events let you learn about your internal experience in a broader context, and not just in the privacy of therapy. As Dr. Ryan Drzewiecki, Director of Clinical Operations at All Points North Lodge, explains, “it puts you in your place in the world.”

Because of the state’s cultural focus on alternative medicine, many medical professionals in the area are especially qualified to help clients decide which treatments will work best for them. For example, you may choose to go through a medical detox program before arriving at a rehab facility, or you might decide to stay in a sober living environment after the first stage of treatment. By staying in close communication with your treatment team, you can choose your own adventure, both literally and figuratively.

all points north lodge — Views of the Vail Valley and New York Mountain Range surround All Points North Lodge in Edwards, Colorado.

Experiential Therapy: Learning by Doing

Colorado rehab centers tend to take a holistic approach to healing. Many programs place a strong focus on experiential therapy, in which therapy techniques are delivered via hands-on processes. In the right context, activities like canoeing, kayaking, hiking, snowshoeing, and whitewater rafting can serve as transformative experiences. Dr. Drzewiecki explains:

“The experiential philosophy says that the way you do one thing is the way you do everything, or at least there’s something to learn from the way that you experience everything. So we periodically pause during activities and say, ‘What’s going on for you right now? What are you noticing?’ And we’re able to use that as a therapeutic opportunity to look at what’s happening.”

These outings also provide opportunities for clients to unplug and process the hard work they’re doing in their sessions. Temporarily stepping outside of the conventional therapy box can spark new insights into your treatment experience.

Physical activity is certainly an important part of treatment in this region, but it’s just one facet of a much larger perspective. For example, some clients choose to begin recovery before they even arrive at a rehab center. Medical detox is a way to safely move past physiological dependence on substances prior to attending a longer program.

Before Residential Rehab: Private Detox in the Heart of the Rockies

The Gallus Detox Center in Colorado is a highly regarded destination for medical detox, visited by people from across the U.S. Like any medical detox program, a team of doctors and nurses closely monitors patient progress—but the Gallus Method provides an especially high standard of care.

So why do people come to Colorado for medical detox? Douglass Weiss, President and Chief Customer Officer at Gallus Detox Centers, says the state itself is a draw:

“First of all, Colorado is a destination in and of itself. We find that substance use patients like the outdoors. They may want to go skiing or kayaking or hiking after they’ve done detox. Denver is easy to reach if you’re coming in for destination care, which a lot of our patients do. And the outdoor activity component complements the recovery journey very nicely.”

Residents at the Gallus Center are treated by physicians who specialize in addiction. They use cutting-edge equipment to monitor every aspect of each patient’s progress, from cardiac telemetry to video monitoring of every room. This practice ensures safety during every phase of treatment. And because detox is only the first step in a long-term recovery journey, in addition to daily doctor visits, patients also work with counselors and partnered rehab facilities to plan how they’ll proceed after their discharge.

Advanced Therapy Technologies for Specialized Care

Some Colorado luxury rehabs offer a unique opportunity to try innovative treatment technologies, like All Points North Lodge’s float tank and hyperbaric oxygen chamber. President Jerry Vaccarro says these enhance clients’ treatment experience:

“One of the things here at APN that we focus on is that we like to see ourselves as innovative and embracing technology. We have a hyperbaric oxygen chamber which is used in a lot of areas of medicine as an indicated intervention. We’re now performing an investigation of it to see whether it has an impact, and we believe it does, in behavioral health conditions. For example, it looks to be effective when people have PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and other conditions of that nature.”

Sandstone Care in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Traveling to Colorado for Treatment

As a popular tourist destination, Colorado is extremely accessible by plane. All major airlines fly into the Denver International Airport, including international flights. And if you’re traveling to a facility far from Denver, there are 12 more commercial airports to choose from. Some rehab centers also offer free transport to and from the airport. If you’re attending treatment in the winter, it’s important to take the weather into account when making your travel plans, as flights or roads may be affected by snowfall.

When you travel to a rehab center, you’ll need to account for your safety throughout the trip: it’s inadvisable for clients to travel alone. To help with this, luxury rehabs’ admissions teams can often assist you in the planning process. Heather Charlet, the Director of Admissions at Gallus Detox Centers, explains that their facility has “a white-glove car service that goes to the airport, picks [clients] up and brings them straight to us. So we can help with all the aspects of planning to get them here safely.”

Colorado offers a pleasant balance between rural and urban life. While its mountain slopes, hot springs, and remote wilderness areas are the epitome of natural beauty, they are still easily accessible. Both Denver and Boulder boast vibrant metropolitan areas, and numerous smaller towns pepper the countryside. Visitors can choose to be high in the mountains, near major-city conveniences, or anywhere in between.

At most rehabs, core programming takes place at the facility itself. However, the world around you can still have a great influence on your experience. This region is most compelling for people who appreciate vast open spaces and plenty of time outdoors. The landscape is an ever-present component of life in Colorado.

Could Your Next Chapter Start in Colorado?

Traveling is a powerful way to mark a major change in your life. New scenery may help you gain a fresh perspective on your most deeply ingrained patterns. This is certainly not the right choice for everyone; some people may find travel to be too stressful at a time when life feels unmanageable. Remember that this is your journey. Recovery is, among many other things, the process of relearning how to trust your own judgment. The simple act of choosing the right facility for your needs can be very empowering.

Whether or not you decide to travel, this is a time to start making changes. If you’d like the next chapter of your life to focus on holistic health and physical activity, Colorado has a great deal to offer. Outdoor adventures can allow you to learn new skills, take pride in your accomplishments, and most importantly, have fun in the process.

To explore treatment options in this state, see our collection of luxury rehabs in Colorado.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rehabs in Colorado

What makes rehabs in Colorado unique?

Rehabs in Colorado offer a unique combination of clinical care in a beautiful natural environment. Clients can connect with others, develop healthy habits, and redefine their goals. Colorado’s diverse landscape allows for outdoor experiential therapies like hiking, skiing, rafting, and more. This focus on healthy living and outdoor exploration enhances the healing process.

Why should I consider a rehab in Colorado?

Colorado’s revitalizing landscape and cultural focus on alternative medicine make it an ideal choice for rehab. The state’s diverse regions offer various outdoor activities, from snowboarding in the Rocky Mountains to soaking in hot springs. Outdoor sports and exploration contribute to emotional catharsis and positive mental health. Moreover, Colorado has qualified medical professionals who can guide you in choosing the best treatments for your needs.

How does experiential therapy play a role in Colorado rehabs?

Colorado rehab centers emphasize experiential therapy, delivering hands-on processes for holistic healing. Activities like canoeing, hiking, and snowshoeing serve as transformative experiences. These outings provide opportunities to unplug, gain new insights, and complement conventional therapy. Experiential therapy in Colorado encourages self-reflection and personal growth, promoting a comprehensive recovery journey.