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Desert Rehab: A Peek Inside Arizona’s Most Luxurious Treatment Centers

Arizona’s warm climate, distinctive desert scenery, and unforgettable natural wonders have made it a sought-after destination since the 1920s. Its red-rock landscapes marked by canyons, boulders, and giant saguaro cacti serve as the perfect backdrop for getaways to its tasteful ranches and resorts. Nowadays, the same features attract rehab clients from surrounding metro areas as well as from across the U.S. and beyond, who find relief from dreary weather and the pressures of city life under its endless skies.

Arizona consistently stands out as a top rehab destination, and for good reason. Rehabs here demonstrate high standards of clinical care, as do some of the country’s leading detox programs. Clients enjoy uninterrupted privacy on spacious grounds, which also make room for a lineup of plush facilities ranging from movie theaters to putting greens.

Residential rehab in Arizona includes plenty of time outdoors, whether lounging by the pool or dining al fresco. Local culture and heritage play into the spiritual components and holistic therapy offerings found at many treatment programs–excursions may even include a visit to an energy vortex known for its reputed ability to accelerate healing. And those in search of equine therapy will find plenty on offer, as virtually all of Arizona is horse country and centers’ generous acreage allows for boarding and trail access.

If you’re looking for recovery in comfort, surrounded by serene scenery and a laid-back local culture, Arizona could be the place for you.

We talked with clinicians at several Arizona rehabs about how the state’s desert backdrop and unique local culture affect their clients’ treatment experience. Watch to find out what we learned.

Program Quality

Arizona is ranked as the 4th best state for healthcare quality1 by U.S. News. This caliber of care is reflected in the quality found at luxury addiction treatment centers here. Well-established facilities offer programs run by highly trained clinicians with top-notch clinical oversight. A wide array of specialized programs are on offer, including some for specific client groups such as veterans and pregnant women, meaning those in need of a specific type of treatment have a good chance of finding what they’re looking for.

The Hope House Scottsdale

The Hope House in Scottsdale defines luxury rehab as “access to highly qualified clinicians, a multifaceted list of therapy options, and the space and privacy to recover from addiction.” For those recovering from alcohol or opioid dependency, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is overseen by qualified medical professionals and integrated with the larger clinical program. Specialized treatment here includes an executive program to accommodate those who need to continue working while in rehab, and dual diagnosis treatment to address co-occurring addiction and mental health conditions.

Treatment is delivered via a customized plan, tailored to each client’s needs and designed to address underlying issues like unresolved trauma. Hope House’s Nurse Practitioner Alex Spritzer elaborates:

“We have clinicians that are trained specifically to treat trauma…We use different approaches: cognitive behavioral approaches, dialectic behavioral approaches, and other novel evidence-based treatments, such as EMDR. Each client is assessed and given an opportunity to be evaluated. From that evaluation, we develop a custom care plan.”

hope house balcony
The Hope House in Scottsdale, Arizona

Sierra Tucson

Sierra Tuscon, a psychiatric hospital and treatment center with over 37 years in business, employs masters- and PhD-level clinicians to guide clients through their individual treatment plans. Their Sierra Tucson Model® operates on the principle that “all of us exist as mind, body, spirit, and emotions,” and includes optional family therapy. Specialized programs here include treatment for eating disorders, chronic pain, maternal mental health, LGBTQIA+ clients, and a Red White and Blue recovery program for first responders and military service members. Programs are delivered by robust teams of medical and clinical professionals, as well as integrative and experiential therapists.

Sierra Tucson’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jasleen Chhatwal attributes the program’s effectiveness to their use of various modalities, like the combination of allopathic and integrative medicine:

“We don’t just use one type of treatment or the other. And we typically layer treatments that are effective and evidence-based to help people recover their lives.”

Soberman’s Estate

Soberman’s Estate is a men-only residential treatment center in Cave Creek, Arizona–or as it’s known locally, the Shadow of the Saguaro. Clients here attend 3 to 5 hours of individual therapy sessions per week, in addition to daily group sessions. Small group sizes and a gender-specific model allow for plenty of personal attention and opportunities to build trusting relationships with peers.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer Mitch Prager says clients at Soberman’s benefit from a multitude of therapeutic aspects:

“Good food, good exercise, and good nutrition all supplement our incredible clinical program. We have 2 psychiatrists, a psychologist, 2 licensed professional counselors, 3 registered nurses. We have a team of 20 professionals to serve between 5 and 10 clients. So the programming here is really unmatched, as well as this beautiful property.”

The center also gives clients the opportunity to attend to business while in treatment if needed.

sierra tucson labyrinth
Sierra Tucson in Tucson, Arizona

Luxury Detox

Arizona is also home to some of the most reputable luxury detox programs in the U.S.

Gallus Detox Centers

Gallus Detox Centers is highly respected in the addiction treatment community for their clinical expertise and high level of care. Their proprietary Gallus Method, developed by founder Dr. Patrick Gallus, allows patients to move through the process faster than they typically would at a standard detox center. Laura Herrmann, Gallus’ Marketing and Outreach Director, explains: 

“We use IV medication instead of oral medication, which allows us to keep our patients extremely comfortable. It also shortens the length of stay. Generally, standard detox takes about 5-7 days. At Gallus, because of the IV medication that we use and our restful and peaceful environment, the length of stay for alcohol detox is 3-5 days.”

Clients come from across the country to detox at Gallus, even when they plan to follow up with residential treatment in another state. This is due to their exceptional clinical standards and ability to take severe cases. Hermann says,

“We have a full amount of medical equipment that you would find in a hospital. We have telemetry (remote monitoring of vital signs). We have everything here so that people with higher co-occurring medical disorders can also come and be with us. Everything in the facility is anti-ligature. We do that because we have the ability to take higher levels of medical, psychological, and behavioral acuity, which means if somebody comes to us with suicidal ideation, they can be with us safely because there’s nothing here to help them self-harm.”

Treatment takes place in a discreet, comfortable setting with hotel-like rooms and privileges like working remotely and ordering food from local restaurants.

Scottsdale Detox

Scottsdale Detox offers medical detox treatments to help patients withdraw from substances safely, comfortably, and effectively. Staffed by board-certified medical providers and master’s-level clinical therapists, the center takes a comprehensive approach that includes management of co-existing medical conditions. Clients also have the option to attend one-on-one and group counseling sessions.

Silkworth Detox Center

Run by Soul Surgery Rehab, the Silkworth Detox Center takes a holistic approach to detox, using a combination of medication-assisted treatment (MAT), integrative medicine, and therapeutic techniques. A team of professionals including a naturopathic doctor leads patients through a tailored treatment plan based on their initial assessment, and integration with Soul Surgery Rehab means a supported transition to residential care.

All of these centers are staffed by doctors and nurses who are specially trained in substance detox and provide round-the-clock care. Unlike hospitals, luxury detox centers place more focus on comfort and privacy, with quiet rooms and full amenities.

See our guide to drug and alcohol detox for more information on what to expect from this process.

sobermans estate
Soberman’s Estate in Cave Creek, Arizona

Expansive Properties and Full-Service Facilities

Arizona’s abundance of open space means rehabs here are often situated on large campuses with room for one-of-a-kind amenities and added treatment options.

Equine Therapy

Arizona’s wealth of open spaces, scenic riding opportunities, and proud cowboy heritage make it a fantastic home for the 177,000 horses that live in the state. A plethora of rehabs in Arizona offer equine therapy, which can have a powerful impact on clients’ treatment experience.

Soberman’s Estate‘s Equine & Meditation Coach Janice Story explains that horses can create opportunities for people to move past emotional blocks in ways that traditional talk therapy sometimes can’t:

“A lot of the clients, when they come in, don’t know how to feel their emotions. And sometimes they really don’t know what some of their underlying traumas are. And the horses have a natural ability to bring that out in people. They really create that safe space.”

These sprawling desert campuses also allow rehabs to house other animals such as dogs and Sierra Tucson’s full-time resident Sheldon the Therapy Tortoise.

Ample Amenities

Arizona’s spaciousness enables luxury rehabs in this region to give clients a treatment experience in comfort and style. Most campuses offer views of the surrounding desert, where clients can take in awe-inspiring sunsets and make the most of facilities like these:

  • Swimming pools
  • Hot tubs
  • Sports courts
  • Fully equipped gyms
  • Rock climbing walls
  • Outdoor lounge areas
  • Gardens
  • Walking trails

Roomy accommodations may feature balconies or private outdoor space, and are often appointed with Southwest-style art and furnishings. A hallmark of this architectural style is the use of natural elements indoors, which is proven to reduce stress and anxiety.2

Arizona rehab centers’ acreage also allows them to purpose-build facilities for specific use in treatment. The Sanctuary at Sedona’s on-campus IV drip clinic, for example, provides an integrated space where naturopathic and medical teams administer ketamine therapy, as well as NAD+ and other vitamin therapies, to support clients in post-detox and treatment.

gallus
Gallus Detox Center in Scottsdale, Arizona

Outdoor Excursions in the Grand Canyon State

Home to Monument Valley, Cathedral Rock, and cultural sites like the Anasazi cliff dwellings, Arizona offers no shortage of incredible outdoor experiences. Treatment professionals have long known about the benefits of immersion in nature for mental health,3 and addiction treatment centers here incorporate a healthy dose of it into their programming.

Activities and excursions can serve as a transformative part of the rehab experience, as they give clients opportunities to discover new passions, form healthy habits, and reconnect with the world around them. Almost all Arizona luxury rehabs offer some type of activity each week, and many include an excursion or two. These might include hiking, biking, kayaking, or other adventure outings in the desert, which are proven to be just as beneficial as greenscape walks.4

Local Heritage and Spiritual Components

Arizona’s reputation as a healing mecca5 is influenced by its landscape and local culture. Deserts have long been associated with spiritual journeys and mysticism. The region’s lands are revered as sacred by its Native peoples. It’s also known among new-age communities as home to several power spots: places on the Earth with increased energetic potency, such as the energy vortices scattered around Sedona.6 This also means the state attracts talented healers from around the globe–a boon for those interested in alternative treatment modalities.

It’s common to find cultural elements in use at Arizona treatment facilities. Soberman’s Estate invites clients on a meditative walk through its labyrinth each day at sunrise and sunset. Sierra Tucson holds healing burning ceremonies in their kiva. And The Sanctuary at Sedona facilitates weekly ceremonies in their sweat lodge.

Dr. Chhatwal describes how the larger culture benefits Sierra Tucson’s clients:

“I always tell people that Tucson is a mystical place. It has a very serene, local and community vibe to it. So when it comes to Sierra Tucson, all the people who are working here also demonstrate and show that same vibe where they’re very focused on the community here. And that I think is what makes our treatment center and location unique.”

Could Your Healing Journey Start in Arizona?

There’s much more to the rehab experience than just clinical care. Comfort, surroundings, and access to amenities and activities that help you feel well all come together to facilitate healing.

Clients at Arizona’s luxury rehabs often find that the occasions it offers to quiet their minds and connect with the surrounding environment makes them more receptive to the treatment process. And many find that exposure to a wide variety of holistic therapies gives them a chance to discover something that resonates with them and helps them along their journey to recovery.

If you’re looking for an addiction treatment program that combines high-level clinical care with mind-body-spirit healing in a quiet, comfortable space, Arizona has a number of options for you.

See our list of luxury rehabs in Arizona, and take a virtual tour of a facility, here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona Rehabs

What types of addiction treatment programs are available at Arizona rehabs?

Private rehabs in Arizona cover the full spectrum of addiction treatment, including detox, inpatient and outpatient treatment, individual and group therapy, holistic therapies, and aftercare support.

What are the benefits of choosing a luxury rehab center in Arizona?

Luxury rehabs in Arizona offer a wide range of amenities and services, like private accommodations, gourmet meals, spa treatments, and outdoor recreational activities. Generous amenities create a comfortable and relaxing environment for recovery.

How can I choose the right Arizona rehab center for me or my loved one?

Look at the qualifications and experience of the treatment team, the evidence-based therapies offered, the holistic approach to healing, and the quality of the accommodations. You might also look for a program that personalizes treatment plans to meet your specific needs.

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Single Client Rehabs: A Guide to the Ultimate in Luxury Rehab

Kusnacht1

There’s a new luxury treatment option growing in popularity: single client addiction centers. These innovative, highly confidential—therefore ideally suited for high profile business people, celebrities, and politicians—luxury rehab centers treat one person only in an exclusive environment.

A client stays at these centers—The Bay in Australia, Paracelsus in Switzerland, The Cottage in the UK, Kusnacht in Switzerland—and is alone except for the team of professionals treating them.

There are significant differences between single client and multi-client centers. Single-client rehabs often have the following:

Complete client-focus: There is no one else at the center, the client receives a dedicated service.

No group therapy: Often, these clients do not wish to expose themselves and have an urgent need for confidentiality—some may be public figures.

A team of dedicated professionals: An entire team will deliver a tailor-made recovery program for their clients. In these single client centers, there is no such thing as a one-for-all program. Each client receives their own bespoke recovery based on their individual and unique needs.

Integrative approach to healing: Most single-client rehabs believe that addictions do not have one cause, but a complex combination of emotional, mental health, medical, physical and spiritual issues. Their approach tends to be multi-disciplinary.

Privacy: Accommodation is private and luxurious, helping clients relax.

Confidentiality: The client’s recovery is paramount and their personal journeys are held in absolute confidence.

Unique services: These centers deliver all sorts of extra services like cars for client outings, therapists to accompany their meals if they wish, and internet facilities for family and business meetings.

Aftercare: Single-client centers help with the transition back into everyday life with personalized aftercare support.

Four of the Best “One Client at a Time” Centers Around the World

One of the criteria that we look for when listing a center on RehabPath Luxury is the staff-to-client ratio, and most of the rehabs on our site have a great ratio. The most private, individualized care you can receive is found in centers that treat one client at a time.

1.The Bay, Byron Bay, Australia

The Bay in Byron Bay

The Bay programs are run in lovely private houses near the beach or hinterland amid tropical flora. It was founded in 2005 by a group of psychotherapists who wanted to treat addiction in a different way. “We believed that the addiction was being treated but not the underlying trauma and mental health issues,” says psychotherapist and founder, John Dass. “We wanted to address this so we created The Bay.”

Why did you want it to be a single client center? “We didn’t want clients to have to deal with other people because that can be a disruption to recovery. The idea was that the client would come to us and be able to have a totally private recovery experience and one that was dedicated to their personal recovery. Being private means that our international clients could relax more; and relaxation is a key to healing.”

Why is The Bay different? “Many rehabs do “one-to-one” therapy sessions, but in the context of having a group of clients staying in one facility, or attending on a daily/weekly basis. We have a range of highly qualified psychotherapists, nutritionists, doctors, nurses who all come to the client. There is a team of up to 20 professionals who dedicate themselves to one client.

Because of my multi-disciplinary background, we have created a holistic environment, which is truly unique at The Bay. Clients have said that it is more like a retreat than a rehab. We use meditation, yoga, qi gong, mindfulness, acupuncture and massage with one-to-one psychotherapy which produces an intentionally “emotionally warm” structure for our clients. The atmosphere is openhearted and welcoming. Warmth, nurture and nourishment are very important at The Bay.”

Why is it vital to recognize and treat the trauma behind the addiction? “If we only treated the addiction and its symptoms, we would be failing our clients. We know that most addictions have underlying reasons—often from childhood trauma—for being there. By creating a safe space in the psychotherapeutic context, we encourage clients to resolve past traumas, thus enabling a deeper recovery. It might be the first time that clients start to understand where their alcoholism, food or drug addiction comes from so we also use compassion-focused therapy in order that they feel fully seen, heard and understood in a tender, non-judgmental way. I think we’re the only Rehab in the world to provide this heart-centered approach. Clients often get in touch with a lot of shame—they feel they have let down their family and colleagues—and we find ways for them to let go of it.”

Why is one-to-one therapy so important? “Many clients don’t feel comfortable around group therapy. We design the programs for them specifically so that they trust the process. Many clients are well-known or high profile and our gentle but engaging regime helps them to gain this trust. They want confidential therapy and that’s what they get.”

Can a client keep on working? “Yes, there is plenty of room at the house for the clients who often come from the business world to keep on working. We don’t take their mobiles or computers, we just ask that they are ready to work with our therapists when they arrive. We recognize that it’s important to many of our clients to keep working.”

2. Paracelsus Recovery, Zurich, Switzerland

paracelsus

Paracelsus was founded in its current form in 2012 as a family business. It is located on the scenic lakefront of Zurich. They focus on the luxury aspects of their services as well as the single client core philosophy. “Our international team of highly qualified therapists, doctors, nurses, counselors and other professionals focus on the recovery of only one client at a time. Our team works with our clients eight to twelve hours a day, not weekly or monthly as is the case with most other addiction therapy providers,” says chairman, Jan Gerber MSc.

What makes Paracelsus different? “We have recognized the importance of a balanced bio-chemistry of the brain and body for recovery from addiction. We don’t only address the addiction itself, but we identify and treat the underlying reasons for the client’s addiction. We treat the entire person—body, mind and soul. We call it the 360 degree approach.

We also provide an unparalleled high-end all-round service during the treatment program from limousines, a chef, a butler and a 24 hour a day concierge service. We give 7 star service.”

Who are your clients? “Our clients are looking for the best treatment available. They are also looking for 100 percent confidentiality. That’s what we give. We also guarantee that they will never come across another client. We have treated heads of states so it’s very important to guarantee this confidentiality and privacy.”

How do you work as a team? “We assign a team around this client, pull information together and work together very much in a collaborative way until the client leaves,” says clinical coordinator, Dr Christine Merzeder, PhD.

How does the treatment work with psychotherapy? “The client arrives and I find this exciting because I know I have the opportunity to facilitate change. I am here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. I am getting to know the client so that I can work in the best way with them. Sometimes if they would like, we eat together. It all supports the process,” states psychotherapist, Louis Fitzmaurice.

How does the bespoke program work? “Clients don’t adhere to a program that is already in place, they have their own program. We provide an interdisciplinary program that includes nutrition but also yoga, personal training etc,” says Dr Thilo Beck, the medical doctor.

How long can a client expect to be with you? “Normally they would stay for 4 to 8 weeks but it depends on the individual. We also provide comprehensive after-care in that they might come back for weekends or the psychotherapists visits them,” says Gerber.

What does Luxury Rehab mean to you? “It’s not about spoiling someone because they have an expensive lifestyle. You can’t judge someone because they have a lot of money or are very successful. They are vulnerable like everyone else, and they need support,” says Gerber.

3. The Cottage, Surrey, UK

the cottage surrey

The Cottage is part of Life Works, one of the Priory Group’s leading centers network and is located in the charming Surrey countryside with easy access to Heathrow and Gatwick airports. The Cottage is the only single client addiction center in the UK. They treat addictions and a wide range of mental health issues. They are the exception in this small group in that they do offer group therapy and 12 Steps, if the client would like them. “Our high end, bespoke treatment caters for clients who might be suffering from drug and alcohol addictions, eating disorders, prescription drug addiction, depression, gambling addiction and more,” Stephen Clarke, the hospital director.

What makes The Cottage’s approach different? “We believe that addiction and behavioural health issues require an in-depth and sophisticated approach that treats the physical, mental, social and spiritual elements of each person. Therefore our treatment program looks at us as a whole person, beyond, just their addiction and offers a person-centered approach to treatment. This vastly increases the chance of sustained recovery and enjoying a good quality of life.”

What is your core treatment philosophy? “We offer a range of treatment programs to help our clients with their recovery process. Our therapies are based on scientific evidence and research. We offer specialist programs for eating disorders, we offer CBT, sex addiction specialists, a mood disorder program, one to one psychotherapy, psychiatric care, group therapy. We also offer all the complementary therapies. We are comprehensive in what we have on offer.”

How does your team work together? “Our experienced team work with the clients to ensure they have maximum input into how their program is designed. Their entire stay will be organized by your own personal Program Coordinator who is available to support the client and tailor their treatment program according to their needs. Five star treatment begins before they even arrive with our private car and chauffeur service available to pick them up from anywhere in the UK if necessary.”

Why do you offer single client occupancy? “Our facility caters to clients looking for the most discreet and exclusive environment to relax, unwind and deal with their recovery. We only take one client at a time to ensure everyone we treat has the best possible care.”

4. The Kusnacht Practice, Zurich, Switzerland

the kusnacht practice slide 5

The Kusnacht Practice opened in 2007 and is located on the beautiful shores of Lake Zurich. It prides itself on being one of the most exclusive and expensive Rehabs in the world. Both George Michael and John Galliano are said to have been treated there. Each client has his or her own villa—there are seven villas—with a butler, maid and chauffeur. “We make a home for our clients,” says owner and CEO Eduardo Greghi.

What makes the Kusnacht Practice different? “The level of luxury. This all-inclusive service, as if in a hotel, is characteristic of 5-star psychiatry and it includes 70 permanent employees and 90 freelancers, from a yoga teacher to an acupuncturist.

The clinical team here has a rich heritage of developing innovative methods of looking beyond the surface issues in order to identify the true underlying causes. We find these forms of compulsive behavior are usually associated with biochemical or neurochemical imbalances. We have developed our own Bio R methodology to deal with these imbalances.”

Why single client? “We prefer to treat clients individually rather than in a therapy group, as this enables us to tailor a unique care plan to the personal requirements of each individual. Clients stay at our exclusive luxury residences. We provide clinical excellence in luxurious surroundings.”

Do you include family members in the recovery process? “Many people who seek treatment at The Kusnacht Practice may be experiencing emotional pain or may have suffered trauma, which can also be distressing for family and friends.

Although not mandatory, in most cases we strongly recommend that family and close friends take part in our treatment program. This helps each party to truly understand what is causing their family member’s disorder and their part in the healing process. A thorough preparation for a healthier and happier life after treatment and during our continuing care for the whole family system is an important part of the lasting treatment success.”

What types of therapy are used? “We offer a wide range of innovative and science-based therapies and procedures delivered by qualified medical professionals, along with counseling, complementary treatments and 12 Steps spiritual programs. This may include biomolecular restoration, clinical hypnotherapy, psychotherapy/cognitive therapies, EMDR, Family Systems Therapy, Mindfulness work, Neurofeedback, Positive psychology, repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and more.”

Finding Recovery That’s Tailored to You 

Addiction can make us feel misunderstood. In that vulnerable state, feeling seen is so important. That’s what single-client rehabs do for their patients. By understanding and catering to the individual needs of their clients, these rehabs create a comfortable and nurturing environment for recovery. 

Search our collection of luxury rehab centers to learn more about single-client rehabs, their accommodations, pricing, amenities, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions About Single-Client Rehabs

Are there rehabs that treat just one person?

Single-client rehabs treat just one patient at a time. Their clients include executives, celebrities, and high-profile people who want an ultra-bespoke, confidential rehab experience.

What’s the most private rehab?

Single-client rehabs are as private as they get. They offer personalized treatment, an entire team dedicated to your care, secluded and luxurious accommodation, and complete confidentiality.

Are single-client rehabs effective?

They can be—personalization improves treatment outcomes. Single-client rehabs address each client’s unique situation, including trauma or concerns that stem from addiction. They tailor therapies to clients and adjust treatment as needed, according to your progress.

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The World’s Top 6 Places for Natural Healing

waterfall and trees, relaxing nature

Location can be a large part of recovery. Where you are in the world will set your mood, provide you with the right nourishment and help you eradicate bad habits. The right location will offer you a cathartic release from negativity, give you a chance to reflect and learn, and help you slow down and process the challenging parts involved in recovery.

But the perfect healing place can be a tricky thing to find; by and large, these idyllic areas of the world are few and far between, despite how fundamental they are to our overall happiness and healing in life.

Here are 6 of the top natural healing places in the world.

1. The Blue Lagoon, Iceland

Scandinavia is known for its natural healing remedies. Finland has saunas,1 Denmark has hygge2 and Iceland has mineral salt baths. For someone going through recovery, this part of the world has much to offer.

Iceland’s Blue Lagoon3 is healing at its finest. It’s a natural geothermic lagoon that oozes mineral-rich volcanic sulfur, which helps to exfoliate your skin and rejuvenate your mind.

Relax and learn how to become more present-minded while surrounded by Iceland’s glorious volcanic landscape. Be sure to visit the spa for a bathrobe, slippers and a cleansing mud mask, too.

blue lagoon iceland

2. The Healing Forests, Japan

Shinrin-yoku Forest Therapy4 is a real thing, and it’s helping many people get back to nature, slow down and ultimately, find a sense of peace. ‘Forest bathing’ (as it’s commonly called) was developed in Japan in the 1980s and has become a fundamental part of modern Japanese medicine.

Many people in Japan believe that, quite simply, if a person visits a natural area and walks in a relaxed way (unlike the agenda-driven walks of London and New York), there are calming, restorative benefits to be achieved. It’s about opening up your senses, taking in the beauty of your environment, and working on becoming more focused on the here and now. For those going through recovery, forest bathing might just be the thing needed to find the reset button.

healing forest japan

3. Mount Shasta, California

No, you don’t have to jet-set off to the far east to find a sense of spirituality, you can drive to the state of California and hike Mount Shasta, a mountain best known as the place where heaven and Earth meet.

Many people believe that they are called to Mount Shasta and that it is a ‘dimensional doorway to the frequency of love’. There are also guided meditations5 up the mountain helping you to connect your star seed lineage and find a sense of grounding.

When you come back down again, expect to be newly born again. This is natural healing at its finest.

mount shasta

4. Ubud, Bali

The jungle city of Ubud on the Indonesian island of Bali has long been known as a place of natural healing. Whether through cleansing rituals at Hindu water temples, yoga and ecstatic dance classes, or organic foods, Ubud offers visitors countless ways to reconnect with themselves.

Every spring, Bali celebrates an Indonesian Day of Silence6 where all distractions are removed and all noise stops. There are multiple wellness centers and tranquil areas to explore in Ubud, many of which are designed to help you progress along your journey to recovery.

[Be sure to explore our list of the best rehabs and wellness retreats in Bali, 2 of which are in Ubud. In the video below, we tour some of the top rehabs in Bali and explore what makes this island so special.]

5. Le Monastere des Augustines, Quebec City

A big part of the natural healing process is removing the distractions we surround ourselves with in everyday life, and Quebec City’s Le Monastere des Augustines7 is exactly the place to do it. This quiet hotel focuses on the mind, body and spirit, helping you form good self-care habits and rediscover balance.

Sleep therapy, spirituality, stress release and an appreciation for silence are all fundamental reasons to pay this hotel a visit, and outside its walls sits the small French-Canadian town of Quebec City, so you’re not entirely removed from some of the western comforts you might be more used to.

6. The Dead Sea, Jordan and Israel

Visitors from around the world come to the Dead Sea8 for therapeutic floats on its salty waters. This potassium-rich body of water is famous for its natural healing properties, and many people fly in to pay a visit to one of the resorts located along its shoreline.

The Dead Sea is the lowest body of water on Earth, and its natural healing powers include drawing out toxins from the body, soothing stress and reducing inflammation and swelling. Emerge with silky smooth skin and a calmed, collected mindset.

the dead sea

Natural Healing and the Journey to Recovery

Recovering from addiction and mental health concerns anywhere in the world is tough. Challenges will present themselves, but you are capable of moving through them. You don’t have to do it in a negative environment either. You can work through your recovery in a supportive, guided place, where natural healing aids your journey.

Discover our collection of luxury rehabs with access to nature and filter by price, location, insurance accepted, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions About The World’s Top Places for Natural Healing

How does location affect recovery?

The right location will offer you a cathartic release from negativity, give you a chance to reflect and learn, and help you slow down and process the challenging parts involved in recovery.

What are some of the top natural healing destinations in the world?

The top natural healing destinations are scattered all across the globe:

• Iceland’s Blue Lagoon
• Ubud, Bali
• Japan’s Healing Forests
• The Dead Sea in Israel
• Mount Shasta in California
• Quebec City’s Le Monastere des Augustines

What are the benefits of visiting natural healing destinations?

Visiting natural healing destinations has a variety of benefits. It fosters relaxation, mindfulness, and connection to nature, which helps reduce stress and anxiety. Some of these destinations also offer activities that promote self-reflection, like yoga and meditation.

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What Does It Cost to Go to Rehab in Malibu (And Why Do So Many People Pay)?

malibu beach at sunset with building, palm trees and one person walking, silhouettes

Want to compare Malibu treatment options? Check out our collection of 25+ luxury Malibu rehabs. We’ve compiled pricing info, treatment specializations, and other key differentiators to help you find the best rehab option in Malibu.

It probably comes as no surprise to hear that attending rehab in Malibu is expensive. It’s where Mel Gibson, Lindsey Lohan, and plenty of other rich and famous people have checked in, often spending multiple thousands on an ocean-view room (Mel Gibson went to Passages, where a room starts at $80,000 a month, for example).

But how much does it really cost you to go to rehab in Malibu? And why are people willing to pay the prices?

Here’s everything you need to know.

No Place Like Malibu

The city of Malibu is located about 30 miles west of downtown Los Angeles, along scenic Highway 1, and encompassing a 21-mile strip of coastline. Home to Hollywood stars, glorious sandy beaches, and some of the best surf along the entire Pacific coast, Malibu also comes to mind when thinking of the word “rehab.”

In 2013, the New York Times reported that there were 35 state-licensed drug and alcohol rehab clinics in the Malibu area1 alone (which had a population of just 12,645), along with an ever-rising collection of unlicensed sober-living homes popping up across the city.

Today, it seems Malibu has a rehab center on almost every corner, and many of these have ventured beyond traditional drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs, treating mental health conditions too, and often adopting more unique, experiential and alternative treatment approaches.

What Does It Cost to Go to Rehab in Malibu?

With such a desired location, treatment in Malibu is bound to be costly. The answer here depends on which rehab center you’re looking to visit, not to mention any insurance benefits that may help with some of the costs.

Passages (where Mel went) is one of the most luxurious of all the residential providers in Malibu, and its price also reflects this. For your $80,000-per-month stay, you get access to the following:

  • 5 different estates, which offer exquisite ocean-view rooms
  • 10 acres of Malibu paradise
  • Tennis courts
  • A glass-housed gym and personal trainer
  • A private and tranquil detox unit
  • Two swimming pools and a Jacuzzi

They can treat up to 29 clients at a time, and they recommend a 60-day commitment to guided sobriety.

While Passages and Summit Malibu sit at the two ends of the financial scale, there are many other rehab options between them, such as

And there are several reasons so many are willing to pay Malibu prices …

The Beach Is Right There

Of course, a big benefit to receiving addiction and mental health treatment in Malibu is the beautiful scenery and warm climate. Whether it’s the sound of barreling waves breaking along the shoreline, the sight of an epic sunset along the Pacific horizon, or the smells of fresh sea air and the feel of a light breeze on your face, Malibu is a truly magical location, a location that can help you find that all-important reset button.

Malibu offers complete tranquility, calmness and peace. It’s a place where you can switch off, slow down and take the time to watch the sun descend below the horizon, every single day.

You’re Close Enough to Normal Life

Given how close Malibu is to Hollywood and LA, it makes for the perfect place to escape without needing to disconnect from everyday life completely. Many Californian residents, for example, can attend a program and continue to receive follow-up care, reducing the rate of relapse down the road.

Places like Passages offer relapse prevention counseling, for example, while other centers offer clients specialized outpatient treatment, so clients can go about their regular life while continuing treatment.

While most of the centers mentioned are primarily residential, for some people, outpatient treatment is the best approach to their recovery. It gives people a sense of normality, and it helps bring the lessons learned in recovery into real life, helping them overcome issues for good.

There’s an Array of Specialized Centers

Many rehab centers in Malibu are well experienced in treating high-profile individuals and the issues they face, such as alcohol and drug use. For instance, Center for Professional Recovery and Seasons in Malibu specialize in treating executives, celebrities, doctors, lawyers and the like.

Other groups can also find treatment tailored to them. Paradigm Malibu, for instance, is committed to treating underlying core issues that are impacting the lives of teens and Visions Adolescent Treatment offers top-of-the-line treatment to teens specifically aged between 13 and 18 years of age.

Across providers in Malibu, there’s a wide range of alternative and holistic wellness programs that help those suffering from issues like mental health disorders and trauma as well.

Malibu Has Some of the Best Recovery Centers in the World

Because of its location, Malibu has become one of the most sought-after rehab locations in America. Malibu, in many ways, invented the stereotypical high-end, resort-style rehab center. Some have received criticism of simply being a spa or vacation and lax on the hard work of recovery. However, many providers offer both the luxury of vacation-like settings and solid clinical treatment. For instance, centers like Oro House Recovery, Seasons in Malibu and Avalon Malibu have some of the best clinicians across the country, and as a consequence, the quality of treatment often outranks many other centers.

There are Many Reasons So Many Pay the Cost to Attend Rehab in Malibu

It’s home to an abundance of alcohol and drug addiction rehabs that exclusively treat high-end clients and often get attention from the press, which may be the reason the general public associates “rehab” with Malibu and with Hollywood stars.

But Hollywood aside, Malibu is the location of choice for many looking to recover due to the various treatment options and the beautiful weather and scenery.

A person would have to travel far and wide to find a place similar to Malibu. The likes of Spain, for example, hold up in terms of climate and tranquility, and Thailand offers warmth and a less expensive rehab experience as well.

This makes Malibu an extremely popular destination of choice for rehab. To find out more about rehab in Malibu and to find a luxury rehab, visit here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rehab in Malibu

How much is rehab in Malibu?

• Prominence treatment, price starts at $47,000 per month
• Paradigm Malibu, price starts at $48,000 per month
• Summit Malibu, price starts at $48,000 per month
• Sunset Malibu, price starts at $50,000 per month
• Malibu Hills, price starts at $68,000 per month

Why is rehab in Malibu popular?

Because of its location, Malibu has become one of the most sought-after rehab locations in America. Malibu, in many ways, invented the stereotypical high-end, resort-style rehab center.

Where do CEOs go to rehab?

Many rehab centers in Malibu are well experienced in treating high-profile individuals and the issues they face, such as alcohol and drug use. For instance, Center for Professional Recovery and Seasons in Malibu specialize in treating executives, celebrities, doctors, lawyers and the like.

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Athletes and Addiction: Can You Attend Rehab Without It Becoming a Headline?

Athletes-and-addiction

Professional athletes battle with keeping up with the competition, and performance-enhancing drugs are one such way to do so.

But what about when athletes begin abusing drugs or other destructive behavioral patterns outside of the workplace? When depression and isolation overcome an athlete off the field?

Addiction in sport is quite common. And due to the nature of the work, it can be difficult for athletes to both accept and receive the help they need without it destroying their career. Yet, if you carry on without getting help, you put everything at risk—your career, your health, and even your life.

Michael Phelps lost his sponsorship deal with Kellogg’s1 when he was pictured smoking cannabis. Montee Ball’s NFL career was short-lived due to struggles with alcohol and depression.2 Chris Herren’s professional basketball career ended due to addiction;3 paramedics revived him several years later from a heroin overdose.

If you’re a professional athlete, here’s how you can attend rehab and get help without landing in the headlines.

1. Leave the Country

Some countries thrive on celebrity culture.

Their people soak in celebrity problems like they’re their own. But there are countries where celebrities can walk down the street without hassle (and attend rehab without landing in the tabloids).

Switzerland is renowned for its security, privacy and non-sensationalism. The country has some of the most exclusive rehab centers in the world. They prioritize your privacy and ensure that the tabloids can’t get to you.

Many centers here offer individual therapy and bespoke treatments so that you can get the help you need without fear of getting caught by reporters.

To find out more about rehab in Switzerland, watch our video series on Swiss rehab centers.

2. Get Exclusive Treatment, Tailored to You

If you’re a celebrity athlete struggling with addiction and you want to get help in privacy, consider avoiding group therapy sessions. While other people in therapy might not tell your story to the news, they may sell it at another point in the future.

Keeping out of the tabloids is about risk reduction. The fewer people that see you, the less likely your story will leak.

Attending private individual treatment that is personalized to you is one way to do that. Some centers, such as Tikvah Lake Recovery in Florida or The Dawn Rehab in Chiang Mai, help you stay off the grid.

3. Get the Tabloids to Sign a Super-Injunction

Before you go to rehab, you can take steps with the media to legally inform them that they can’t report on particular issues for the sake of selling a story.

In the U.K., a super-injunction4 is an effective way of minimizing reported stories about your rehab. However, it uses the term “reported stories” because it’s becoming difficult to avoid stories leaking on social sites like Twitter.

Ryan Giggs’ case is a famous example. He sought an injunction to protect his identity over an alleged affair with a reality TV contestant, as well as a super-injunction to protect himself against an affair he had with his brother’s wife for eight years.

While these stories were eventually leaked and brought to light by media sources, a super-injunction can be an effective way of reducing your risk of making the headlines, especially if your story is personal to you and uncontroversial.

4. Tell Your Team You’re on Holiday or Hiatus

In most cases, tabloid news stories are leaked from the inside. It’s not unusual for a member of your team to sell your story to make a quick buck. And while we encourage you to only work with trusted people, that isn’t always the case.

To minimize your risk of getting “caught in rehab,” avoid telling people. It might seem like simple advice, but money buys secrets, and the media has a lot of money.

Your team only needs to know that you’re away on holiday or hiatus; they don’t need to know more details.

5. Be the First to Share About It

This is definitely counterintuitive and not for everyone. If you don’t want to be in the headlines for a drug or alcohol problem or other mental health issues, submitting an honest, transparent statement to media sources or posting an update on your social media accounts is the last thing you would choose to do.

However, this approach may work really well. You may desire, for instance, “to be the change you want to see in the world” and show that it’s okay to seek out treatment for addiction and mental health issues. That it’s actually the best thing you can do and a sign of strength not weakness. You may feel that being straightforward and honest about your situation will actually help mitigate speculation and gossip, especially if you’re concerned about it leaking anyway. Although all were in blackmail situations, consider Alexander Hamilton with the Reynolds Pamphlet, Jeff Bezos’s Medium article,5 and John Skipper’s resignation statement.6 If you do choose this route, be prepared for potential consequences.

Be Sure to Seek the Help You Need

With all this said, the most important factor about attending rehab is to get the right help for you.

Many locations across the globe have unique and tailored solutions that will work for some athletes but not for others.

Be sure to do your homework on the rehab center you’re interested in and choose one based on the treatment available and the expert clinicians who work there. These clinicians, after all, are the ones who will help you get sober and stay sober.

To get the specialized treatment you may need, explore our collection of rehabs across the globe to learn about pricing, their treatment approach, clinical team, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rehab Privacy for Athletes

Where can athletes with drug addiction get help?

Help is available for athletes struggling with addiction:

• Your primary care physician may refer you to treatment.
• A specialized mental health professional can guide your recovery.
• Find an addiction treatment program specifically for athletes. Some have unique therapies like HBOT. 
• Join a 12-Step or non-12-Step support group in addition to a treatment program.

Can athletes go to rehab without anyone knowing? 

It’s possible. Single-client rehabs offer completely private treatment. Going abroad is another option. Countries like Switzerland have strict privacy laws and some of the world’s most exclusive rehabs.

How can athletes attend rehab in private?

You can attend rehab abroad, or get personalized treatment at a private rehab that offers individualized care, private rooms, and doesn’t require group therapy.

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Addicted Attorneys: How to Identify Your Addiction and Get the Help You Need

A 2016 study held by the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation and the American Bar Association found that out of the participating 12,825 licensed attorneys, 21 percent of lawyers qualify as problem drinkers,1 while 28 percent struggle with mild or more serious depression and 19 percent struggle with anxiety.

What’s worse, only 3,419 lawyers responded to the question about drug use. As explained by the study’s lead author, Patrick Krill, in the New York Times:

“It’s left to speculation what motivated 75 percent of attorneys to skip over the section on drug use as if it wasn’t there.”

Substance use disorder among lawyers isn’t just prevalent in the United States. In fact, much of the Western world’s legal profession is built on drink and drugs. But the true problem does not lie in the substance use itself, it lies within the culture surrounding it.

In this blog post, we shed light on some of the common factors of addiction for those in the legal profession, why lawyers need to be vigilant in recognizing them, and how you can seek the help you or a colleague might need to get sober and stay sober.

Death by Drugs: The Story of Peter

In July 2017, the New York Times published an article about the life of Peter, a high-level Silicon Valley attorney who overdosed on drugs.2

According to the article, it was a problem that his ex-wife, children, colleagues and close friends didn’t see coming. Further, it was a problem Peter felt he could fight on his own, but he failed to make the necessary priority adjustments to make time for doing so. His work always came first.

The article is eye-opening for any lawyer experiencing similar issues, and we urge you to read it. In the article, the writer depicts a scene prior to Peter’s death. The line reads:

“Of all the heartbreaking details of [Peter’s] story, the one that continues to haunt me is this: The history on his cell phone shows the last call he ever made was for work. Peter, vomiting, unable to sit up, slipping in and out of consciousness, had managed, somehow, to dial into a conference call.”

In any scenario, it’s difficult to understand why humans put their work before their own lives.

Perhaps it’s because we don’t want to let others down. Perhaps it’s because self-punishment is an all too common illness we’ve yet to talk about. Whatever it is, work is work and will remain so for the rest of time. Your health is precious; and it requires intentional effort to keep it stable.

A Few Addiction Factors to Watch Out For

There are many reasons people turn to drugs to deal with the realities of life. Failed careers, a lack of income, the death of a family member, stress … each person becomes addicted for their own reasons.

In the legal profession, however, there are some specific warning signs to watch out for. For example:

1. Overworking

attorney overworked

We can only work so hard.

We need sleep, food, water and rest to ensure we can sustain a peak level of performance in anything we do. But due to the nature of the legal profession, lawyers tend to work more than most other people.

Sure, they might bill 40 or 50 hours of work in a week, but in truth, lawyers likely work 60 or 70 hours3 just to keep up.

Balancing this level of work with a social life often means staying awake and “on” to get the job done, and some people may turn to artificial substitutes. According to the same study, 5.6 percent of respondents used cocaine, crack and other stimulants, 5.6 percent used opioids, and nearly 16 percent used sedatives to turn themselves off after a long day.

Be sure to recognize the signs of overworking and proactively deal with these problems by speaking up. There’s no shame in admitting you need help.

2. A Lack of Time With Family

In Peter’s story, it was expressed that he didn’t have enough time to spend with his family and that he’d often go out in the evening and not return.

Isolation is an all too common addiction factor, and it makes it difficult for people to identify personality changes. If you begin to notice that you’d rather be alone and taking drugs instead of around the people you love, it’s time to speak up and seek expert help.

3. Stress

Often people use smoking, alcohol and drugs as ways of trying to evade the reality of a situation and “calm down” when life gets overwhelming. In 2015, Bloomberg estimated that workplace stress contributes $190 billion in healthcare expenses4 and more than 120,000 deaths each year.

Given the nature of hard work, stress can be classified as an epidemic in the legal profession.5 Last year, legal website Above The Law wrote an article titled Stressed-Out Lawyers in First 10 Years of Practice More Likely to Have Mental-Health and Wellness Issues and they’re accurate in their statement.

As explained in the article:

“If you know 10 lawyers, three of them are likely depressed, and two of them are suffering from a drinking problem or anxiety.”

Get the Help You Need With Rehab

The stigma behind going to rehab is slowly diminishing, and the acceptance of seeking help is becoming more prevalent.

In the medical profession, which is also a high pressure, high-stress career path, doctors can enter rehab, get the treatment they need, and still continue practicing medicine once they’re sober.

The legal profession is similar. No longer should you or your colleagues fear losing your legal license and getting fired; you’re human. However, continuing down a path of substance use and overworking can be detrimental to any career.

We finish this article by addressing you personally:

If you notice that you’re becoming reliant on drugs, it’s difficult to balance work and life, or if you’re failing to treat yourself with the respect you deserve, help is available.

The United States has several lawyer assistance programs and we urge you to pick up the phone and call them.

If you feel that rehabilitation is your ticket to recovery, we urge you to find a rehab center that fits your needs.

Remember: You are not alone.

Frequently Asked Questions About Addiction Among Lawyers

Are lawyers more prone to addiction?

Certain factors increase the likelihood of addiction among lawyers. These include the normalization of drinking and drug use, overwork, and chronic stress.

How prevalent is drug use among lawyers?

Self-reported figures show 22.6% of lawyers engaged in problematic drug use or drinking at one point in their lives. Actual numbers may be higher. (75% of respondents in the same study skipped over questions about drug use.)

Can lawyers continue practicing after rehab?

If you were disbarred due to drinking or drug use, you can practice again under 3 conditions: 

1. You received appropriate rehabilitation.
2. You’ve abstained from drinking and drug use for one year minimum. 
3. You’ll likely continue to abstain.

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5 Reasons Yoga Is Used in Addiction Treatment

women holding yoga pose on beach, ocean in background

Why yoga?

Yes, we know what you may be thinking. “Yoga is only for people who are flexible” or “What if I’m not strong enough to do some of the yoga poses.” So, before we delve more into reasons why yoga is used in addiction and mental health treatment, let’s explore who yoga is for.

Yoga Is for Everyone.

Yoga is not only for the physically elite, but yoga is for all levels of fitness and flexibility. Also, it’s important to remember that nobody becomes great at something overnight. Yogis who may be physically fit started from a beginning as well. So, improvement takes time, patience and the strength to say yes to things that may be out of your comfort zone at first. Yoga instructors in rehab facilities will walk with you along the way of discovering your physical and mental strength. With time and practice, you may become the yogi who is more self aware, flexible, mindful and physically fit!

It’s also worth noting that some yoga programs focus on meditation, wholeness, and breathing techniques, while others may focus more on physical fitness and challenging poses. Most programs are a combination of both. Whatever the yoga program is, we are thankful India birthed a practice that can be used to help overcome addictions and mental health issues.

So, let’s explore 5 of the many reasons yoga is used all over the world in addiction treatment programs.

1. Yoga Helps You Build Confidence

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Yoga teaches how a person is in control of their body, mind, and breathing, which then helps build empowerment. When overcoming obstacles, an important part of recovery is discovering confidence, self-awareness, and resiliency. For instance, a person recovering from addiction learns to be confident in their ability to say no to things they no longer want part of their life, and can gain confidence in new habits through the daily practice of yoga.

Yoga instructors in rehab facilities are there to teach yoga to all levels. It takes time and patience with oneself to become good at things that are unfamiliar. Yet, confidence arises each time a yoga session is complete because the learner is starting to master something that might have seemed very difficult or impossible.

2. Yoga Helps You Practice Deep Breathing

yoga breathing

Yoga focuses significantly on controlled breathing and for good reason. Deep breathing helps alleviate worries that you may be experiencing, and you can instead begin to focus on being grateful and whole with each breath you are breathing in and out. Practicing more awareness of your breath in yoga also helps shift mindsets to live in the present time. With the stress in the world, sometimes it can be hard to live in the moment, and yoga can help fight the tendency to always live in the past or in the future. Yoga poses focus on using motions paired with intentional breathing that center the mind and physical body. So, practicing yoga can help calm the mind and increase self-awareness.

3. Yoga Provides Community

yoga community

Although yoga can be done alone, yoga classes provide another opportunity to build community. Yoga classes in the rehab center are good places to start building connections, and after leaving treatment, yoga classes are typically accessible if one wants to continue the practice. Participating in classes or joining a yoga studio can help you have space to decompress, focus on wholeness, well-being and build friendships with others who share common interests. Research shows that community and support are beneficial to recovery; it’s important to surround oneself with people who encourage and pursue healthy mindsets.

4. Yoga Has Physical Health Benefits

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Yoga helps decrease stress while promoting physical health. Stress impacts the nervous system1 and can cause structural changes in the brain, including cerebral atrophy. While stress on the mind and body from addictions can cause high blood pressure and other health related issues, yoga helps lower blood pressure and reduce stress.2 Yoga is a great practice to turn to when you are feeling stressed.

5. Yoga Helps You Practice a Positive Mindset

yoga positive mindset

Yoga challenges negative thinking with positive thinking. The mindset shift is important for people who may be healing. Often in addictions, negative views of oneself and the world can hinder the person to see the beauty in themselves and all around them. Yoga centers and grounds you to reflect and see the good in oneself. You’ll start to learn how to love yourself and think positive thoughts.

These 5 reasons are only a glimpse of why yoga can be effective in addiction treatment. Once learned, yoga can be done at any time. So, for instance, if it is a busy day and you only have 15 minutes to spare before the next meeting at work, yoga is a great way to relieve stress and pursue wholeness. Doesn’t yoga sound incredible?

Explore our list of luxury treatment centers that offer yoga. Compare pricing, treatment approaches, insurance accepted, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions About Yoga for Addiction Recovery

Is yoga effective for addiction treatment?

Yoga is effective for managing addictive behaviors. It brings you into the present, promotes self-awareness, is a healthy way to cope with stress, and can help you connect with sober community.

How long does it take for yoga to help with addiction?

Patients in recovery from different substances notice the therapeutic benefits of yoga at different times: 

• PTSD and alcohol addiction: reduced drinking after 12 sessions
• Cocaine addiction: reduced stress after 2 months 
• Opioid addiction: improved quality of life after 6 months

What are the benefits of yoga for addiction recovery?

Yoga helps patients build physical and emotional strength:

• It teaches deep breathing and mindfulness.
• You can gain confidence in a new skill.
• It helps with managing stress. 
• You gain access to a positive support network. 
• It boosts your physical health.

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Top 5 Benefits to Going Abroad for Mental Health Treatment

“Environmental factors may increase a person’s risk of addiction, including a chaotic home environment and abuse, parent’s drug use and attitude toward drugs, peer influences, community attitudes toward drugs, and poor academic achievement.”1

The National Institute on Drug Abuse

There’s no arguing that environmental factors play a large role in facilitating addiction, substance abuse and depression. From a person’s family life and personal relationships to their economic stature and career, there are many “realities” that factor into why addiction is such a prevalent problem.

And it is a prevalent problem.

In 2017, over 70,200 people died from drug overdoses in the United States, and 19.7 million people across the country battled substance abuse.2 The 2021 UNODC World Drug Report revealed an estimated 36 million people worldwide struggle with drug us disorders3 while the World Health Organization Global Status Report on Alcohol and Health (2018), estimates 283 million people struggle with alcohol use disorders (AUD) worldwide.4

When it comes to recovery, then, our everyday surroundings might not be the best place for it. In fact, a complete disconnect is arguably the healthiest way to recharge and reset.

Here are five reasons why going abroad for mental health treatment is a smart choice.

1. Disconnect from “Normality”

Oprah Winfrey once said:

“Surround yourself with those who only lift you higher.”

Taking yourself out of your normal routine and everyday surroundings can provide a fresh, new beginning for recovery. Chances are, in your current situation, you are surrounded by many “reasons” to drink or use, whether your friends encourage it or the tension with your family makes you feel the need to numb.

Going abroad to a rehab treatment center means you can disconnect from current enablers and negative people in your life, and remove the notion of peer pressure, judgement and snarky comments.

Here, you can begin to regain control over your choices and can consciously choose to improve and get better on your own terms, without fear of what others might think.

2. Get Specific and Expert Treatment

When it comes to rehabilitation, there are a plethora of treatment options available across the globe, and different countries often have their own unique treatment approaches to help heal a variety of addictions.

In Portugal, for example, several rehab centers offer ibogaine treatment to help recovering opioid addicts. But, ibogaine treatment is controversial. Although the U.S. government has declared opioid addiction an epidemic across the country, they’ve banned the use of ibogaine treatment as a viable recovery solution. For opioid addicts, then, ibogaine-assisted treatment only exists abroad.

Further, doctors and clinicians often specialize in particular areas and gain a reputation worth noting. To get the best treatment from these experts, it might require visiting a rehab center somewhere other than at home.

3. Gain a New Perspective

Oftentimes, what’s needed to jumpstart recovery is a new perspective.5 While family and friends often enable us to abuse drug and alcohol, so too can the way we see the world. When it comes to substance abuse, it’s common for our perspective to be negativity skewed, and negativity facilitates more negativity.

Perhaps you’re not earning enough money and you’re frustrated, for example. Perhaps your family takes you for granted. It might even be something as little as someone not saying thank you when you do something nice.

Whatever it is, new experiences, new cultures and observing a new way of living life can help us shift our perspective on everyday activities and experiences, and consequently, it can help us climb out of negativity. In Spain, for example, good weather, delicious food and a slower pace of life can help us breathe, heal and ultimately, overcome our addictions.

4. Save Yourself a Little Money

It’s often the case that rehab centers abroad are less expensive than rehab centers at home (depending on where you call home, of course).

If you’re from Britain, your sterling will get you a lot further if you attend rehab in Thailand, and you won’t be sacrificing on the quality of care. Accessibility to a rehab facility because of one’s economic viability can be a big barrier to attending rehab. It might be more cost-effective to travel abroad for recovery. Plus, you get to see a little of the world, which can only do you good.

5. Gain Privacy

Admitting addiction and seeking help is courageous. Sometimes you may want to participate in drug and alcohol treatment with complete privacy and discretion, perhaps even keeping it from people close to you (and your employer). Although staying local for treatment has its own set of advantages, going to rehab abroad can allow a person more privacy. You don’t have to disclose your reason for travel and you’re less likely to bump into those you know.

Experience Something New

Going abroad for rehab has many personal benefits attached to it. From altering our perspective and removing ourselves from unhealthy environments to getting specialist treatment at an affordable price, there are many reasons why a different country can aid in recovery.

But while these reasons have weight, there’s one overarching reason to attend rehab abroad, and that’s to simply experience something new. A new place, a new culture and a fresh take on life can jump-start the next chapter of life for many, and these personal learnings are arguably as important as the treatment program itself. These new paths we seek can help us heal.

Discover our collection of luxury rehabs around the globe. Filter by price, treatment approach, and more, and view key information about each center, including reviews, to find what you’re looking for.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rehab Abroad

Why do people travel abroad for rehab? 

Going to rehab abroad is appealing for a few reasons:

• Removal from daily triggers 
• Access to specific therapies, such as ibogaine treatment
• An extra layer of privacy 
• Affordable treatment 
• New experiences and perspectives

What are the benefits of a destination rehab?

Affordable luxury programs, greater privacy, exciting cultural experiences, exposure to a different way of life, and unique, specialized treatment draw people to rehab abroad.

Is it cheaper to go to rehab in another country?

Some regions offer more affordable addiction treatment than others. For example, luxury rehabs in Asia cost between $3,000 to $15,000 per month while a 30-day luxury rehab program in the U.S. falls between $25,000 and $50,000.

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10 of the World’s Best Luxury Rehab Centers

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When it comes to finding the best addiction treatment, needs can vary drastically from person to person. That means it’s virtually impossible to create a one-size-fits-all list of the best rehabilitation centers in the world. Still, wherever they’re located, most successful rehab programs share a number of traits in common, including excellent facilities, effective treatment options and experienced, specialized staff. One way to make sure you’re choosing the right rehab is to decide which of these qualities is most important to you. Here are some of our top picks for the best luxury rehabs out there, based on the areas they excel in most.

Please note: We’re an independent resource, with over 20,000 treatment centers listed from all over the world. This list is simply a sampling of that. To find the best option for you or your loved one, browse all centers. This post is completely editorial content to help surface some of the best rehabs worldwide and there has been no payment for placement in this list.

Best for Evidence-Based Care

Evidence-based rehab programs stand out because of their strong emphasis on treatment options backed by top-quality studies and years of research. While other approaches to rehab can and do provide important advantages, addiction experts often regard programs in this category as a gold standard for effective care.

McLean Fernside (Princeton, Massachusetts) and McLean Borden Cottage (Camden, Maine): McLean Fernside and McLean Borden Cottage are both operated by Harvard-affiliated McLean Hospital, ranked by US News and World Report as the best psychiatric hospital in America. Fernside and Borden Cottage specialize in treating people who’ve already participated in a rehab program, but who face ongoing challenges such as relapses or mixed feelings about the lifestyle changes required to support their long-term sobriety.

“McLean Hospital is an affiliate of Harvard Medical School… so we’re fully a part of that system, which means that when we approach a problem like addiction or like depression, we’re approaching it with that same high level of evidence-based proven methodology that you would expect if you went to get surgery or cardiology treatment at a major academic center.”

Rocco A. Iannucci, MD, McLean Fernside’s Director.

Best for Individualized Care

Individualized rehab is prized for its ability to focus on the unique needs of each person recovering from drug or alcohol problems. Such a targeted approach often increases the odds that treatment will prove effective and set participants on the path to a sustainable, substance-free lifestyle.

Paracelsus Recovery (Zurich, Switzerland): Paracelsus Recovery is perhaps the ultimate example of an individualized care facility. This program accepts only a single person at a time and sets out to maximize the potential of customized treatment. While participating in the program, each client resides in a lakefront penthouse and receives access to a range of personal, luxury services. Treatment takes place in this relaxing environment rather than at a separate facility. Kusnacht Practice is a somewhat larger operation, but follows a similar model, and is also located in Switzerland.

The Lighthouse Bali (Bali, Indonesia): The Lighthouse provides individualized care in a tropical setting, with treatment principles based in a Balinese philosophy known as Tri Hata Karana. This unique philosophy places an emphasis on creating harmonious relationships in three areas: with other people, with the natural world and with the spirit or higher power. All of this comes with a high level of expertise in clinical substance abuse treatment.

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One of the private villas at The Lighthouse Bali.

Sanctuary Byron Bay (Byron Bay, New South Wales, Australia): Sanctuary Byron Bay was one of the first luxury treatment centers in the world to specialize in one-on-one care. Each client receives detailed attention from a staff of multi-disciplinary therapists, who meet frequently to coordinate their activities. Sanctuary also focuses on a holistic approach to treatment that draws from evidence-based traditional and complementary medicine.

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Private, luxury accommodations at Sanctuary Byron Bay.

Best for Young Men

Out of all segments of the world’s population, young men have the highest odds of developing serious drug or alcohol problems. Fortunately, when provided with effective treatment, men in their late teens and 20s also have an excellent chance of achieving and maintaining sobriety.

The Edge Rehab (Chiang Mai, Thailand): Programs at The Edge are custom-designed to meet the needs of this large, diverse group. The list of available options includes onsite family therapy, combined treatment for co-occurring addiction and physical/emotional trauma, and recovery-promoting activities such as Muay Thai boxing, wilderness outings and triathlon training.

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The Edge Rehab in Thailand has developed a program specifically for young men.

Best Bang for Your Buck

There is a common perception that only the most exclusive rehab centers can provide you or your loved one with luxury accommodations. However, in reality, some of the best drug rehab centers in the world provide a luxurious setting while also keeping prices in a more affordable range.

White River Manor (Mpumalanga, South Africa): Located near South Africa’s Kruger National Park, White River is known for its combination of affordable pricing, five-star accommodations and expertise in both addiction treatment and general wellness. Programs available in this beautiful lodge setting include group therapy, individual therapy, family therapy, mindfulness training, psychodynamics and music therapy. Clients also have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take part in an African safari.

DARA Thailand (Koh Chang, Thailand): DARA has a well-deserved reputation as one of the best addiction treatment facilities in all of Asia. Its program combines an idyllic island setting with a proven track record for effectiveness. The staff at DARA are fluent in both English and Arabic, and they gear their efforts to meet the cultural and treatment-related needs of each client.

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One of the many engaging activities clients take part in while in treatment at DARA, Thailand.

Best for Trauma-Informed Care

Exposure to abuse, violence or some other form of severe trauma is unusually common among people with drug or alcohol problems. In many cases, a history of this kind of exposure can alter the course of effective substance treatment. This means that access to trauma-informed care can be critical to the short- and long-term prospects for recovery.

The Guest House Ocala (Silver Springs, Florida): The Guest House designs all of its programs to meet the needs of people with a history of significant trauma exposure. Available, customizable treatment options include group and individual psychotherapy, somatic therapy, transformational breathwork, meditation, yoga, psychodrama, music therapy, art therapy and adventure-based therapy. The Guest House was co-founded by Judy Crane, one of America’s most highly regarded addiction and trauma specialists.

Ocala, Florida provides an excellent environment for the trauma-informed care offered at the Guest House.

Best Adolescent Care

Preteens and teenagers who use drugs and alcohol have a higher chance of becoming addicted than their adult counterparts. In addition, they can develop symptoms that differ from those found in adults, and often respond best to different types of treatment. What’s more, preteen and teenage girls often face treatment issues specific to their gender. For all these reasons, adolescent care is often provided in dedicated rehab centers.

Newport Academy (Newport Beach, California): Newport Academy specializes in the treatment of adolescents ranging in age from 12 to 22. Programs are available for preteens and teens affected by drug or alcohol problems, as well as by depression, eating disorders, anxiety or various forms of trauma. Separate residential facilities are maintained for males and females.

Find a Luxury Rehab That’s Right for You

Each rehabilitation program offers unique benefits – the key is to find one that works well for you. Still not sure which center is the best fit for your needs? You can browse our site for luxury rehabs based on location, price, specialization, amenities, treatment philosophy and more here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Top-Rated Luxury Rehab Centers

Which is the best rehab program for drug addiction?

Evidence-based rehab programs stand out because of their strong emphasis on treatment options backed by top-quality studies and years of research. While other approaches to rehab can and do provide important advantages, addiction experts often regard programs in this category as a gold standard for effective care.

Who can afford luxury rehab?

There is a common perception that only the most exclusive rehab centers can provide you or your loved one with luxury accommodations. However, in reality, some of the best drug rehab centers in the world provide a luxurious setting while also keeping prices in a more affordable range.

What amenities do luxury rehab centers typically offer?

Luxury rehab centers offer a range of comfortable amenities, such as private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, gourmet meals prepared by on-site chefs, spa and massage services, and a fitness center. Some also have outdoor recreational activities like hiking and equine therapy.

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Top 5 Reasons Why Spain Is the Perfect Place for Rehab

View of Malaga

Spain is the healthiest country in the world, according to Bloomberg’s Healthiest Country Index.1 In fact, by 2040, the country is expected to have the highest life expectancy at 86 years old, surpassing the likes of Japan and Switzerland.

Perhaps it’s all the sunshine and siestas. Or maybe it’s the paella and olive oil. Whatever it is, the Spanish are evidently doing something right with their lives, and if you’re looking for a fresh perspective and a place for rehabilitation, Spain might just be the place for it.

Here’s why.

1. Healthy Eating Habits

salad healthy eating Spain

The low-fat diet is old news. Instead, the Mediterranean diet—supplemented with extra virgin olive oil or nuts—has been shown to reduce cardiovascular disease and increase life expectancy.2

Of course, diet alone won’t alter your life forever, but healthy eating has many benefits to both the mind and body. Good food gives us energy and makes us happier within ourselves. It promotes positive thinking and helps us focus, and if you’re looking to make sincere changes in your lifestyle and regain balance through rehab, what you eat is a great place to start.

2. Temperate Weather Conditions

sea view Spain

Spain is notoriously known as “the place in the sun.” In the summer months, much of the country basks in glorious and humid sunshine, while the rest of the year remains hot and occasionally rainy throughout.

Rehab requires time to think, time to relax and time to switch off. And believe it or not, the weather plays a big part in this process. The sun makes us feel more positive, and it encourages us to breathe deep, reflect and heal.

3. It’s a Culture-Infused Paradise

seville plaza de espana

Spain is shrouded in mystery and history, and the country dates back to well before 1512 (when the country officially became “Spain” as we know it). During the 16th Century, it was the most powerful country in Europe, and consequently, Spain is soaked in rich tapestries, churches and fortresses alike.

This culture-rich country makes for the perfect place for exploration, adventure and self-growth. Chances are, if you enter rehab in Spain, you’ll discover new and exciting things to check out every day, which will impact your healing and help you connect with what’s important.

4. The Locals are Lovely

Malaga feria Locals in Spain

Spaniards are lovely. They’re an open people and, oftentimes, they don’t shy away from speaking truths and showing appreciation. Unlike the preconceptions of communication that exists in the U.S. and U.K., Spaniards typically put up fewer barriers. So they often welcome visitors with open arms.

When it comes to rehabilitation, then, there’s a lot to learn from the Spanish way of life. They operate with good moral practice in mind and often demonstrate important values that can be overlooked.

5. It’s a Slow Pace of Life

Spain, by all intents and purposes, does not operate a fast pace of life. They’re a stress-free society that believes things will work out on their own. In fact, a famous Spanish expression is “mañana mañana,” which translates to “tomorrow morning.”

Of course, if you’re entering rehab in Spain from another country and exploring the local culture, this slow pace of life can be quite the culture shock, but a sense of stillness is something that should be sought during rehab, and Spain provides the perfect breeding ground for this.

Year after year, Spain is voted as one of the top tourist destinations in the world. In 2017 alone, it received more than 80 million tourists,3 surpassing the U.S., the U.K., Italy and Mexico.

And for good reason.

The Spanish lifestyle is designed to promote rest and recovery. It’s the perfect place to switch off and forget the hardship of everyday life, and its hot climate, healthy diet and welcoming culture make it the perfect location for rehabilitation and healing, regardless of where you’re coming from.

To find out more about rehabs in Spain, watch our video series above or explore our list of luxury treatment centers in Spain.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rehab in Spain

What makes Spain an ideal location for rehab?

Spain offers a range of rehab centers staffed by experienced professionals, a pleasant climate, beautiful scenery, healthy cuisine, and opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

What types of addiction can be treated in Spain’s luxury rehab centers?

Rehabs in Spain provide treatment for a variety of addictions including alcohol, drugs, gambling, sex, and co-occurring mental health disorders.

What are the benefits of choosing a luxury rehab center in Spain?

Advantages of luxury rehabs in Spain include personalized treatment plans, a holistic approach to healing, luxurious accommodations, a supportive and compassionate environment, and a chance to start a new life in a beautiful and inspiring setting.