Posted on

How Much Individual Treatment Do You Need in Rehab?

Recovery is an immensely personal journey, but it doesn’t have to be isolating. 1-on-1 treatment, otherwise known as individual therapy, offers the opportunity to build a unique and strong bond with your therapist or care provider. For many people, this personal connection facilitates healing in a powerful way.

Most luxury rehab programs include a balance of one-on-one treatment, group therapy and activities, and family therapy. The goals of each are different, so one isn’t necessarily better than the other. They all have the potential to powerfully impact your treatment experience.

A core component of one-on-one treatment is the additional focus your provider has on you, allowing both of you to explore your situation in depth. Many people find this beneficial, and it might even be necessary for certain patients. Some conditions, for example, require one-on-one attention. Or if you’re a high-profile person, you may need to remain anonymous throughout treatment, which makes attending groups a challenge.

Here, we’ll guide you through the different aspects of one-on-one treatment.

Understanding One-On-One Treatment

Individual vs. Group Therapy: What’s the Difference?

Individual treatment is delivered in a different setting than group treatment,1 which impacts the therapeutic experience. Each modality has its own set of goals and outcomes.

Individual Therapy

In individual treatment, you attend one-on-one sessions with your therapist, counselor, or care provider. This type of environment offers some unique takeaways:

  • You are the focal point. Your provider focuses solely on you, allowing them to gain a deeper understanding of different aspects of your life.
  • You can address a wide range of topics per session. Because it’s just you and your provider, you can work through issues that may be more unique to your situation, like employment status, legal matters, and more.
  • You can make adjustments to your program. In a group setting, you may not have the opportunity to address your individual treatment plan. 1-on-1 sessions give you the space to discuss the nature and structure of your recovery program. If certain things aren’t working for you, you can talk to your provider about changing them.
  • You have greater privacy. You can work through your issues in confidentiality, but without having to go through your healing process alone.
  • You can work at a pace that’s comfortable for you. Addiction treatment involves a lot of goal-setting and skill-building work. During individual sessions, you can go through these at your own pace.

Group Therapy

Group therapy usually involves 5 or more people. 1 person leads these sessions, though a co-leader may be involved in larger groups. While some treatment facilities may have groups of 15 people or more, many luxury rehabs have groups of around 6-8 people. Group settings offer a different dynamic from individual treatment:

  • The door opens for conversations to flow. Participants can jump in and offer feedback, creating opportunities to discover new insights.
  • You can focus on a topic that unites all participants. While conversation topics may fluctuate in individual treatment, group treatment often centers on a singular topic that involves all participants. For example, you may join a group that focuses on eating disorders or depression treatment.
  • Group treatment more closely resembles real-world situations. You’ll gain skills for being part of a community and speaking more openly with others.

What to Expect From a One-On-One Treatment Session

1. Getting to know you: Your first 1-on-1 treatment session may look different from the following ones. It’s an opportunity for you and your therapist to get to know one another. The relationship you build with your therapist is a fundamental aspect of individual treatment, so most therapists will use this chance to learn as much about you as possible. You can expect them to ask questions about your personal history, substance use history, needs, and goals. This is also a good time to address any questions or concerns you may have.

2. Laying out a treatment plan: Next, you’ll work on a treatment plan that’s suited toward your recovery goals. At centers that offer highly individualized care, like single-client rehabs, you have the option to be heavily involved in the planning process. For some people, taking such an active role in designing a treatment course might be overwhelming. If that’s the case, you can follow a predetermined plan laid out by your therapist. Once you’ve agreed to a treatment course, you’ll begin your sessions.

3. Open up in a private, safe environment: In an individual treatment session, you can discuss anything that comes up in private, without judgment. Your therapist will be there to guide you through challenging thoughts, behaviors, and feelings using various psychotherapy techniques. Goal setting and skill building are both key aspects of individual therapy. Skills you may learn include how to set healthy boundaries, or finding healthy ways to cope with emotional hardship. As you progress through your healing journey, you can expect your goals to change.

4. Doing the work outside of sessions: Your therapist will help guide you through your process. However, your readiness for change will influence what you get out of treatment. That is, the actual healing work falls on you. Oftentimes, this happens outside of therapy sessions. You’ll have time to reflect on your thoughts and behaviors while learning how to integrate lessons from therapy into your daily life. This process can help you glean further insight into your thoughts and feelings. Bringing this information into your next session allows you to dive deeper into the therapeutic process.

Common Types of Therapies Used in 1-on-1 Treatment

Most luxury rehab programs offer a mix of psychotherapy, otherwise known as talk therapy, and experiential therapy. This helps maintain a balance between the intensity of talk therapy and the immersiveness of embodied experiences.

There are many different styles of psychotherapies and therapeutic activities. You may even want to choose a program depending on which of these they have available.

Psychotherapy

Popular types of individual therapies include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

As one of the most common types of therapies available, a majority of rehab programs offer cognitive behavioral therapy. CBT is an evidence-based treatment based on the principle that psychological issues stem from our thoughts, learned patterns, and behavior. In CBT, your therapist will take you through methodical strategies for changing your thought process, along with homework to put what you learn into practice. CBT is proven to reduce symptoms of mental health conditions2 like depression and anxiety.

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

DBT is a proven effective evidence-based treatment3 approach that incorporates mindfulness techniques with practical skills to help you tolerate and regulate your emotions. DBT draws from principles of Zen Buddhism and teaches you that your emotions are valid, however,you’re not your emotions. Your therapist will guide you through 4 distinct modules of DBT, often taken from the first or second edition of Dr. Linehan’s original DBT workbook:4 mindfulness, emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and distress tolerance. DBT is especially beneficial for people with certain diagnoses, including borderline personality disorder and PTSD.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and commitment therapy5 is an approach of behavioral therapy that focuses on mindfully accepting, rather than avoiding, unhelpful or challenging situations. The underlying thought behind ACT is that all of our feelings, even the difficult ones, are a necessary part of life. Your therapist will take you through techniques to help you accept your psychological experiences (acceptance). You’ll clarify your personal goals and values. From there, your therapist will teach you the skills to build psychological flexibility, so you have the tools to act in a way that’s in line with your values (commitment

Experiential Therapy

Popular one-on-one experiential therapies offered at luxury rehabs include animal-assisted therapy and different forms of physical movement.

Equine Therapy

Equine therapy involves working with horses to treat trauma and suffering from addiction. At some luxury rehabs, a health professional will work with you alone through a series of activities designed to achieve therapeutic goals. In this 1-on-1 environment, they can help you process any emotions that come up in the moment. Benefits of equine therapy6 include improved social connection and self-esteem, enhancing your trust levels, becoming more perceptive to the needs of others, and more.

Physical fitness

Several studies reveal that physical exercise improves mental health,7 so you’ll see many private rehab centers that include physical fitness in their program. Some centers offer sessions with a personal trainer, allowing you to explore your fitness needs in depth.

The team at Paracelsus Recovery in Switzerland strives to gain a comprehensive understanding of their clients’ needs when it comes to fitness.

“We start with an assessment process, looking at the client’s exercise history, what they’re doing, and whether they have injuries. We assess their relationship with fitness, whether they’ve been to a gym or have worked with a trainer before, and examine their current state of health. Then, we build the program around that. It’s really important for me to gauge their fitness levels and design the right type of exercises for it.”

– Rowland Tweedie, Health and Fitness Manager, Paracelsus Recovery

If you’re searching for mental health or addiction treatment, it’s a good idea to look for a program that blends individual and group therapy. This can target various aspects of your recovery for a more complete healing journey.

Is Individual or Group Therapy More Beneficial?

Because everyone’s recovery journey is so unique, most rehab centers offer a number of healing modalities to accommodate different needs. This includes both individual and group therapy. Each has different goals, and both can be valuable to your healing journey. Some clients find that a blend of the 2 modalities is a good way to gain the benefits of both.

Benefits of Individual Therapy

1. The focus is on you: In individual therapy, all the focus is on you: conversations with your therapist are tailored to your story. Your therapist will try to gain a more in-depth understanding about different aspects of your life. This type of individualized attention can help you unpack very specific issues.

2. You can form stronger bonds with your therapist: The relationship between a patient and their therapist may be stronger in individual treatment,8 which has shown to result in lower drop-out rates.

3. Individual therapy may be more effective in the short term: A meta-analysis comparing individual versus group therapy in the treatment of adults with depression showed that individual therapy can be more effective9 than group therapy in the short term. There may be higher risk factors for drop out in group therapy10 due to challenges in compiling the right group. However, findings at this stage shouldn’t discourage people who may truly benefit from group therapy.

4. Your therapist can meet you where you’re at: Not everyone is at the same stage of readiness for change in their recovery journey. With individual treatment, your therapist can meet you where you are, and you can work on your issues at a pace that matches your situation.

5. You can open up in greater privacy: In individual treatment, it’s just you and your therapist. You’re working through your issues in complete confidentiality. For some clientele, like high-profile people, this level of privacy is a requirement.

6. Certain clientele require 1-on-1 focus: Some demographics have a unique set of needs for recovery, and certain conditions require more 1-on-1 attention. Someone with a dual diagnosis may need more individualized sessions with their psychiatrist, for example. Meanwhile, people with severe social anxiety may not be able to open up in group settings.

Benefits of Group Therapy

1. You have a support network: Many people who face mental health or substance use disorders feel isolated in their struggles. Speaking about it in a group setting can help you realize you’re not alone.

2. You can gain new perspectives: Group settings allow for dynamic conversations to occur. Other people in your group may offer feedback that helps you realize aspects of your healing you weren’t previously aware of.

3. Empowerment through support: An important aspect of group therapy is the peer support it offers. You may feel empowered to support others in their healing journey, and this can inspire your own.

4. Diversity of opinions: You can hear from diverse voices in a group setting. Seeing how different people work through their struggles may offer inspiration.

5. You can open up in a social setting: In group therapy, you have the opportunity to speak about topics you may not otherwise bring up in your normal social circles. Some people find it therapeutic to open up to others, and this teaches valuable social skills that you can carry into life outside of rehab.

How Many Clinical Hours Do Rehabs Actually Offer?

Inpatient programs at psychiatric or general hospitals11 offer an average of 4.2 hours per week of contact with medical professionals and 2.5 hours of contact with nonmedical professionals.

Good-quality private residential rehabs offer even more hours with a well-rounded clinical team. Luxury programs tend to provide 2 or more individual sessions a week.

For example, at McLean Fernside in Princeton, Massachusetts, “patients have the opportunity to meet with psychiatry 5 days a week and may meet with a case manager 3 times a week,” according to Quinn Tremblay, Admissions Coordinator.

More clinical hours with a therapist means you can address important emotions and needs as they come up. Your therapist has more time to learn about you, allowing you both to explore your situation thoroughly.

How Much 1-on-1 Treatment Do You Actually Need?

The length and duration of 1-on-1 treatment sessions you need will depend on your situation.

Usually, therapy sessions are 1 hour or more. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), “on average 15 to 20 sessions are required for 50 percent of patients to recover12 as indicated by self-reported symptom measures.”

Some conditions may require more treatment hours than others. If you have a dual diagnosis, where substance use co-occurs with another mental health disorder, you’ll find value in specialized care. The APA suggests that longer treatment programs for co-occurring conditions can result in more effective outcomes.13 They recommend around 60 sessions for 12 to 18 months.

Individual Treatment Lets You Dive Deeper Into Your Healing Process

1-on-1 treatment allows you to build more rapport with your therapist or care provider, which can aid recovery in powerful ways. Strong therapeutic relationships are a cornerstone of successful treatment. As you spend more 1-on-1 time with your therapist, you may find yourself more comfortable opening up about intimate aspects of your life. And in 1-on-1 settings, your healthcare provider is dedicated to offering care for your distinct situation.

It’s important to remember that other modalities, like group therapy and family therapy, also provide benefits that you may not be able to get from 1-on-1 treatment. Unless you need to attend a single-client program, most rehab centers offer a balance of group therapy and individual treatment for well-rounded care.

That being said, your circumstances and rehab program requirements are unique–not everyone is comfortable opening up in group therapy, and this can hinder the recovery process.

If you’re looking for the additional focus that individual treatment provides, browse our list of rehabs that offer 1-on-1 treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Individual Treatment in Rehab

What is individual therapy in rehab?

Individual therapy in rehab refers to one-on-one sessions with a trained therapist. It provides personalized attention. This lets individuals explore their unique challenges, develop coping skills, and work towards recovery goals in a private and supportive environment.

How does individual therapy help in rehab?

Individual therapy in rehab offers numerous benefits:

• Explore personal issues in a focused environment
• Address any co-occurring mental health conditions
• Identify underlying causes of addiction
• Gain individualized strategies for long-term recovery 
• Promotes self-reflection and emotional healing

What can I expect during individual therapy in rehab?

During individual therapy in rehab, you can expect a safe space to discuss your experiences, emotions, and concerns. Your therapist will guide the sessions and tailor them to your needs. Expect collaborative goal-setting, skill-building exercises, and ongoing support to help you navigate challenges and work toward sustainable recovery.

Posted on

Elite Recovery: How Social Status Affects Substance Use Disorders

Substance use disorders can affect people from all walks of life. And despite certain cultural stereotypes, elite clients may be especially vulnerable. Because people with high status face a specific set of stressors, they also have unique needs during recovery. If you’re a person who faces these unique challenges, it may be helpful to seek out a rehab that caters to luxury clientele.

These programs are specifically designed to provide support for people who are accustomed to a certain standard of living. What’s more, the staff at these facilities are highly qualified to help people of your demographic. By working with people who can intuitively understand your personal history, your current experience, and your goals for the future, you may have a much easier time approaching recovery.

Luxury rehabs are there to help you live your best life. In this type of treatment, you won’t be asked to give up the amenities you rely on, and you won’t be pressured to make changes that might jeopardize your future. Instead, your team will help you learn to navigate ongoing stress and triggers, without giving up the most meaningful parts of your life.

Stress and Socioeconomic Status

Every person has their own experience of stress. Elite social status doesn’t protect you from this. It may actually increase your stress levels, and as a result, make you more vulnerable to certain mental health conditions.

One expert writes, “Stress is a well-known risk factor in the development of addiction1 and in addiction relapse vulnerability.” Even the most affluent lifestyles may come with unique difficulties. As you consider attending rehab, you might benefit from reflecting on which areas of your life are the most challenging, in spite of their potential rewards.

The Weight of Reputation

People with high social status also tend to have high visibility. Whether your position comes from your family, your career, or any other source, it can feel as though you’re being scrutinized by the public. Your actions may reflect on the people around you, including your loved ones, colleagues, and employees. If you have celebrity status, your behavior may even have a direct impact on the lives of your fanbase.

When your behavior has such far-reaching consequences, it’s natural to feel pressure to perform. And because of the stigma surrounding substance use disorders,2 well-known figures may delay admitting that they need help. However, new research suggests that the public acknowledgment of mental health conditions can “serve as a powerful method of communication to increase awareness of mental health3 and normalize psychiatric illnesses.

Great Responsibility

Some elite clients have a great deal of responsibility. This is often true of high-level executives, who may be responsible for the success of their colleagues, shareholders, and employees. Others may have responsibilities to their family, or even to the public.

When people are depending on you, you may be concerned about letting them down. And if you have a substance use disorder, you may struggle with associated guilt and shame about your condition. But you’re only human. If you had a physical illness, seeking treatment would be seen as reasonable and responsible. Although it may not feel this way, the same is true of mental health diagnoses. Asking for help is not a failure.

Orenda at Futures
Orenda at Futures in Tequesta, Florida, has a comprehensive treatment program for high-level executives, complete with plush amenities.

Affluence and Mental Health

Although it can bring people great security and pleasure, material success does not protect your mental health.4 In fact, your annual income may be directly related to your experience of stress. In a 2018 study, “researchers found that people who earn between $51,000 and $75,000 generally feel the least stressed. By contrast, of those who make an income of $200,000 or more, nearly 70 percent said they feel stressed.”

And stress is just one component of mental health. Additionally, affluent people “are at a higher risk for depression.”5 For some clients—but certainly not all—this can be related to your attitude about your finances.

Managing wealth requires a great deal of emotional energy. And when you’re responsible for protecting yourself, your family, or your legacy, that may be unavoidable. However, it’s important to remember that your finances are just one aspect of your life. You are more than your external circumstances. It’s easy for elite clients to lose track of this, and as a result, become disconnected from the activities that make them feel most fulfilled.

Substance Misuse Among Luxury Clients

Perhaps due to these unique and isolating stressors, substance use disorders are common among high-powered clients. As one expert writes, “While money itself doesn’t cause addiction or substance abuse, wealth has been linked with a higher susceptibility to addiction problems.”6

In addition, numerous studies have found that in particular, the children of wealthy parents are extremely vulnerable to substance use disorders.7 In fact, teens of high socioeconomic status are significantly more likely to use alcohol and drugs than those with less privilege.

The stereotypical image of a substance user as destitute couldn’t be further from the truth. While it’s true that people with this diagnosis may come from any social class, substance misuse is likely on the rise among the elite. Reporting for Forbes, Alice Walton writes, “The prevalence of substance abuse in the CEO circle8 is hard to gauge because it is so clandestine—these are not the people who are checking themselves into rehab, they’re the people who [are] staying out of it and continuing to function. A recent study from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism found that about 20% of alcoholics are high functioning and well-educated. Prescription medication addiction is rising in many circles, the C-suite among them.”

However, this demographic also experiences unique barriers to treatment. Walton goes on to explain that some elite clients may be less trusting, and therefore resistant to receiving care. What’s more, many high-powered clients are high-functioning substance users. If you’re used to performing under pressure, you may be able to keep up appearances for a long time, despite overwhelming emotional turmoil. “There’s often the if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it mentality.”

It can be difficult to internalize the idea that you don’t need to lose everything before you admit you need treatment. This can be especially hard for clients who enjoy an especially high standard of living. If you’re accustomed to a certain lifestyle, it can be difficult to imagine giving it up, even temporarily.

Many elite clients may delay seeking help because they’re unable to step away from pressing responsibilities. And others have trouble considering inpatient treatment because they’re concerned about leaving certain amenities behind. Fortunately, some rehab programs are designed specifically for these clients. You may be able to benefit from inpatient treatment without losing access to the healthy parts of a lifestyle you love.

Luxury Rehabs for High-Powered Clients

There are luxury rehab programs all over the world. These upscale facilities are capable of offering treatment to elite clients, without interrupting their access to important amenities. You may even be able to attend a bespoke rehab facility that will tailor the program to suit your exact standards.

Mercui Recovery interior
Stays at Mercui Recovery combine privacy and comfort with luxury.

Personalized Treatment

Many rehabs offer individualized treatment. These programs may be personalized in a number of ways, giving clients a great deal of control over their own recovery processes. For example, you may be able to decide what type of therapy you participate in, how much access you have to technology, and how long you spend in residence.

Clients at Mercui Recovery, for example, are housed in “private luxury accommodations in a natural wilderness environment.” This rehab boasts five-star service, offering clinical therapy, business coaching, massage, and infrared sauna therapy, among many other modalities. By serving only one client at a time, they offer the utmost discretion and highly personalized care.

Executive Treatment

High-level executives may have difficulty leaving work to attend rehab. To accommodate their needs, some programs allow you to work remotely while you’re in residence. Orenda at Futures, for instance, provides executive clients with a private workspace during their stay.

The team at this facility recognizes that this hard-working demographic has a unique set of needs, goals, and barriers to treatment. Clients have the freedom to work during rehab, while still receiving care of the highest quality.

Luxury Amenities

Recovery is hard work, but parts of it can be enjoyable! Remember: rehab is an opportunity for you to reset. Finding activities you can healthily enjoy is a very important part of the healing process.

Luxury rehabs offer a wide variety of amenities. White River Manor, in South Africa, offers spa services, one-on-one personal training, and Pilates. At Sierra Tucson, you can engage in equine therapy, acupuncture, yoga, and more. Many programs also invite clients on adventure outings. You might go on a safari, swim with the dolphins, or explore the rim of a volcano.

White River Manor spa
White River Manor in South Africa caters to their clientele with a host of luxury amenities, including spa services.

Some therapeutic modalities—such as mindfulness and meditation—are commonly found at holistic rehabs. This approach is designed to treat every aspect of a client’s health as a whole, and may focus on strengthening the mind-body connection.

Healing is hard work. However, one of rehab’s main goals is to help you create a life you love, even without the use of illicit substances. At the right facility, you won’t be denied access to the activities you find most meaningful and fulfilling. On the contrary, you’ll be encouraged to learn new skills, and develop healthier habits as a result.

Living a Life You Love, Sustainably

When you complete inpatient treatment, you may ultimately decide to return home. This is not a necessity, of course. And you may first spend time in a transitional facility, such as a sober living environment. But for elite clients, especially those who continue working during rehab, it’s often the appropriate choice.

Returning to your previous environment may mean that your stress levels increase. Although that can be challenging, it’s not necessarily a barrier to recovery. From the moment you arrive at rehab, your team will begin to help you strategize ways to avoid or cope with relapse. Some programs, like Orenda at Futures, may also offer you in-person support for social functions that may be triggering.

Perhaps most importantly, remember that a life without substance use can still be fun. For some clients, it proves to be even more fun and more meaningful than life before rehab. The goal of healing is not to deny yourself life’s many pleasures. Instead, you’ll learn how to live your life to the fullest, in a much more sustainable way.

Recovery on Your Own Terms

Everyone deserves care. No matter how affluent you are, how much pressure you’re under, or how many responsibilities you have, that includes you. First and foremost, you are responsible for yourself. And by getting help, you’ll be in a far better position to support the people who rely on you.

For many elite clients, rehab feels out of reach. It can be hard to imagine letting go of certain behaviors, spending time out of the office, or stepping back from social engagements. However, recovery doesn’t mean giving up the best parts of your life. It means letting go of unhealthy patterns, to make room for something even better.

To learn more about programs tailored to high-powered clients, you can browse our list of luxury rehabs here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Luxury Rehab Programs

What is a luxury rehab and what does it offer?

Luxury rehab refers to high-end treatment centers that provide exclusive amenities, personalized care, and a luxurious environment for individuals seeking recovery. They offer upscale accommodations, gourmet meals, individual treatment, and tailored services to ensure a comfortable and comprehensive rehab experience.

How does luxury rehab differ from traditional rehab?

Luxury rehabs differ from traditional rehab by offering a higher level of comfort, privacy, and personalized care. They provide upscale accommodations, additional amenities, gourmet dining, and treatment tailored to meet the unique needs of their clientele.

What types of personalized services are offered at a luxury rehab?

Luxury rehabs provide a range of personalized services to cater to individual needs. Following a tailored plan, treatment may include one-on-one therapy sessions, holistic therapies such as spa treatments, gourmet dining, and various recreational activities. These personalized services enhance the overall experience and contribute to the effectiveness of the treatment program.

Posted on

Experts Weigh In on Individualized Care

Recovery is an extremely personal process. Each person’s needs are different, whether you’re healing from a broken leg or a substance use disorder. With that in mind, many luxury rehabs offer individualized treatment.

As Jan Gerber, CEO of Paracelsus Recovery, explains:

“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.”

Most rehab facilities offer some aspects of individualized care, such as one-on-one talk therapy. However, some programs take this approach much further. Certain residential rehab centers offer every individual client a completely bespoke experience, tailored to meet their exact needs.

What Is Individualized Rehab?

If you choose to attend an individualized rehab program, the treatment process may begin even before you arrive. You’ll begin by going through a detailed intake process, in which providers get to know you. Dr. Christine Merzeder, Senior Clinical Coordinator at Paracelsus Recovery, says,

“We start with an interview on the telephone or people write their own history of how they think their situation is. Then we work our way through the medical file. There’s no routine – it’s always something very, very different. Every client is a very individual case.”

Paracelsus individualized care
Paracelsus Recovery goes to great lengths to offer individualized care to each client.

Once your team is familiar with your personal needs and priorities, they’ll collaborate with you to create a treatment protocol that fits your values, needs, and goals. For example, some clients may benefit from 12-Step programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous. Others might prefer to focus on one-to-one therapy. At White River Manor, for example, groups are not mandatory. Jeanine Fourie, Therapeutic Director and Co-Owner of the facility, firmly believes:

“Each client is here for their own treatment, and their own journey of recovery…it’s important for us that they feel that they get what they need out of their time with us. We accommodate what each client specifically needs.”

These bespoke programs offer benefits that may be hard to find in more structured rehabs. Notably, clients are more active in the process of choosing which therapies they’ll engage in. This allows you to practice making healthy choices in a safe context, surrounded by treatment providers who can provide structure as needed.

Who Is a Candidate for Individualized Care?

Individualized care isn’t for everyone. If you’d prefer to recover in a more structured and predictable environment, you may prefer a different style of treatment. However, certain demographics are more likely to benefit from a highly personalized approach.

Dual Diagnosis

Many people with substance use concerns present with co-occurring disorders. And clients with co-occurring conditions often find great value in programs tailored to meet their unique needs. For example, if you’re in recovery from both substance use and PTSD, you may require a very different treatment plan than a person recovering from both substance use and treatment-resistant depression.

The Hope House Scottsdale, for example, offers individualized care to treat dual diagnoses. According to their philosophy, “There isn’t one way to treat mental health problems.” This program utilizes a variety of treatment options—such as biofeedback, EMDR, family therapy, CBT, DBT, and group therapy—to treat clients with substance use disorders and additional mental health concerns.

Executive Clients

Like any other demographic, high-level executives are sometimes subject to substance use disorders. However, high-achieving people often have a unique set of needs during recovery. You may be unable to step away from work or family commitments to get the help you need. You may also be accustomed to a certain standard of living, and concerned about spending time without necessary amenities.

A number of rehab facilities offer executive treatment programs, which are specifically designed to address these concerns.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 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.”

This approach makes recovery accessible for clients with demanding schedules. Individualized care is often a good solution for people who need to balance their health with their responsibilities, instead of sacrificing one for the other.

White River Manor lobby
A peek into White River Manor in South Africa.

High-Profile Clients

Individualized care programs tend to have a strong emphasis on discretion, which may be important to high-profile clients. Safe from prying eyes, you’ll be able to focus entirely on your own healing process.

It’s important to note that while these environments are protected, they don’t have to be isolating. Clients are often encouraged to continue the activities that make them feel the most grounded and capable. For example, Orenda at Futures is home to an addiction and mental health treatment program specifically designed for athletes. In residence here, clients continue to train throughout the recovery process.

Recovery in Private, But Not Alone

Research suggests a link between social isolation and substance abuse.1 And many clients benefit from honing their interpersonal skills during rehab. Individualized care often offers a greater degree of privacy, but doesn’t have to be isolating.

Of course, your specific rehab program will determine how you connect with the people around you. In some facilities, you’ll go through recovery with a small cohort of peers. Soberman’s Estate, for example, hosts a maximum of 10 people at a time. This format allows clients to find common ground and build relationships with each other. You’ll also be able to practice social skills in a safe, supervised context, which may alleviate concerns about falling back into unhealthy patterns.

Dr. Thomas Gazda of Soberman’s Estate is very focused on providing individualized care to each of his clients:

“When I sit down with a patient, I want to know more about them. I want to know about their background. What are their passions in life? What passions have they lost during their addiction? Have they become bored or distracted by something? What are they getting away from? Those things kind of come out…It’s very individualized.”

Clients are able to receive a high level of personal attention, as well as observe their peers in recovery. For many people, this is an effective way to balance their need for a specific type of treatment with the universal need for community.

Other programs take individualized care a step further, treating only one client at a time. Mercui Recovery is one such rehab center. Clients are hosted in a remote wilderness location, far from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Each person’s experience is unique, and “every client service is customized for the individual, every time.” This experience would likely not be a good fit for people who want to focus on peer-to-peer support during rehab. However, this unfettered access to your clinical team gives clients the time to create a comprehensive aftercare plan before completing the program. That plan may include a network of family and loved ones, local support groups, continued therapy, and medical care.

Mercui Recovery
A look at one of Mercui Recovery’s properties.

For many clients, the experience of individualized care is “the first time in their life that they pool all their medical information together,” says Dr. Christine Merzeder, Senior Clinical Coordinator of Paracelsus Recovery.

“With one client at a time, the knowledge base and communication base are very efficient. It’s a lot of being alert and not missing any information, and there’s no standard clinical path you can develop for that because every case is individual…it’s efficient, it’s fast, it involves the client and their family. And when they leave they get a written summary with all the findings and recommendations.”

In some highly individualized programs, you’ll be able to stay in touch with your friends, family, and possibly even your colleagues. This is most often true of rehabs that treat only one person at a time, and those that cater to high-achieving professionals. This strategy allows you to connect with people from afar, and then process your recent interactions with them during therapy. Even without on-site peer support, you’ll be able to practice interpersonal relationships. By engaging with the people who matter the most, you can learn not only about general social skills, but about how those skills can have the greatest possible impact within your own community.

Choosing an Individualized Care Program

Although individualized care aims to meet your unique needs, not every program will offer the exact mix of programming and amenities that’s right for you. It’s important to find a rehab center whose treatment philosophy aligns with yours. In the right context, you’ll be surrounded by providers with expertise that applies to your experience, and able to engage in activities that support your personal healing process. There are many different therapeutic modalities to choose from, and individualized therapy invites you to do just that.

Experiential Therapy

Experiential therapy is a way to process your emotions from a brand-new perspective. Rehab programs around the world offer a wide variety of activities that you may find engaging or inspiring. For example, if you want a fully embodied, adventurous experience, several rehab centers in Orange County invite clients to go surfing. At The ‘Ohana, in Hawaii, you can swim with the dolphins. Activities like these invite you to examine your behavioral habits in a greater context, and not just in a private room with a talk therapist.

The Ohana Hawaii
The ‘Ohana in Hawaii

Holistic Treatment

There are countless ways to approach healing. It’s quite common for individualized treatment programs to offer holistic care, with the intention to heal the body as well as the mind. You may have the opportunity to receive massage, reiki, acupuncture, or similar treatment modalities. These techniques encourage clients to learn about mindfulness, come into the present moment, and accept themselves just as they are.

Outpatient Care

Recovery is important, but it’s not always convenient. But you don’t have to delay your own healing process. Many clients choose to attend intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), which may be more feasible than residential treatment.

For example, Evolve Treatment Centers has several locations in California, treating adolescents from 12 to 17 years of age. This program allows them to continue living at home and going to school, while still engaging in treatment that’s tailored to meet their needs. Because of this flexibility, clients can get the help they need without interrupting this important chapter of their lives.

Bespoke Treatment Puts You Back in the Driver’s Seat

People of many demographics can benefit from individualized treatment programs. Alex Spritzer, Family Addiction and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at The Hope House Scottsdale, says,

“For example, a middle-aged mom of two children going through a separation is going to have very unique needs…versus someone who might per se not have a family, not be married, might be a single male, youthful, 18 years old. Considering where the person exists before the disease process, their home environment is really essential to their recovery.” In the context of individualized treatment, healthcare providers seek to honor each client’s experience, providing the best possible care for that particular person, at that particular time in their life.

However, bespoke care isn’t right for everyone. For some clients, it may be overwhelming or counterproductive to take such an active role in designing their own treatment course. Individualized treatment is founded on the idea that your unique needs are important. If what you need is a predefined structure, it’s important to respect that.

Rehab is, among other things, a way to regain control of your own life. When you begin treatment by working with a team to assess and understand what your life entails, you will almost certainly learn a great deal about your needs, goals, and values. This process mirrors the process of recovery itself.

If you think bespoke treatment may be right for you, learn more about luxury rehabs offering individualized care here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Individualized Addiction Treatment

What is individualized care in rehab?

Individualized care is a type of treatment that is tailored to the needs of each individual. This can involve a number of factors, such as the individual’s substance use history, mental health history, and personal goals.

What are some of the different types of individualized care available in rehab?

Types of individualized treatments available in rehab include: one-on-one therapy (where you discuss your individual needs and goals with a therapist), experiential therapy (to help you process emotions from a new perspective), and holistic treatments (like massage, Reiki, and acupuncture).

What are the benefits of individualized care in rehab?

Individualized care in rehab can help you get the most out of treatment by addressing your specific needs. Your therapists and treatment team will consider your substance use history, your mental health, and personal goals when creating a treatment plan for you. This attention to detail can help you stay on track and motivated during recovery.

Posted on

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.

Posted on

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.

Posted on

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.

Posted on

Luxury Rehab in South Africa: A Visit to White River Manor

When my colleague and I were invited to visit a luxury rehab center in South Africa, I was intrigued. I had been to the continent of Africa once before, but never to South Africa. I knew it would be a fun place to visit, but what I quickly discovered upon arrival is that it is an ideal place for recovery.

Getting There

Although a long flight across the Atlantic, there are 2 U.S. airports (JFK and Atlanta) and numerous other major European and Asian cities offering direct flights to Johannesburg, South Africa. The airport in Johannesburg (O.R. Tambo International) is the busiest African airport and was completely renovated and expanded for the 2010 FIFA World Cup hosted in South Africa. It was nicer and had more shops and restaurants than most U.S. airports I’ve been to!

Once we arrived in Johannesburg we had two options to get to White River Manor. One option is a pick up by White River Manor directly at the airport in a luxury van for about a 2.5 hour drive to the center. Or, the second option, which we chose, is to take a 45 minute connecting flight to the Kruger/Mpumalanga airport and White River Manor will pick you up for the 15 minute ride to the center. With connecting flights basically on the hour, we were able to pick the perfect time for the connection and found that option to be extremely convenient.

First Impressions

We arrived at the Kruger airport and I knew right away we were in a special place. Since this airport is the gateway to the world famous Kruger National Park, the terminal is built to look like an African lodge, and the interior and exterior are African themed, with lots of information about the “Big Five.”

South Africa airport

Within minutes, we were met by a White River Manor staff member who helped us with our bags and loaded them into a luxury Mercedes van. On the quick ride to the centre, we were able to take in the surrounding beauty of this part of South Africa. A lot of rolling hills and farmland. The climate and scenery reminded us of time spent in Napa Valley, California.

South Africa views

We turned off the main road and after a few more minutes saw the entrance to White River Manor. Once past the main gate, the driveway runs through a grove of tall trees, and then leads to the main building. The main building’s front room is where clients first check in and has a welcoming, yet modern style.

White River Manor front room

As we began to tour the grounds and surrounding buildings, I was immediately struck by the perfect serenity that is offered in this place. Thousands of miles away from home, I felt completely comfortable and immediately refreshed. As we sat and talked on the patio with the owner, Jerry Hartless, and other members of the team, I recognized another element that is sometimes missing from luxury centers: excellent service. Staff checked in with us frequently to make sure that our needs were met, bringing us lattes, and giving us a menu to choose which course we preferred for the upcoming meal.

The Story Behind White River Manor

White River Manor tour

The location of the center was formerly a 5-star boutique lodge that was well regarded in the area. Jerry, a successful American businessman who had his own struggles with addiction in the past was looking to start a luxury rehab centre in South Africa. So when the property came up for sale, he purchased the property and transformed it into the world-class centre it is today. While there we were able to hear his and his team’s vision for offering luxury treatment that has better accommodations and better customer service at a fraction of the price of U.S. luxury centers.

A Personalized Program

White River Manor provides a highly personalized program, and is a great fit for executives who might need more flexibility from a treatment program than others. While 28 days is a very short time for rehab, White River Manor has structured a program that makes full use of that time and when there is buy in and drive from the client they have seen great success.

Enjoying an African Experience

A key piece of the program is the excursions clients go on to enjoy being in Africa. Whether it’s a safari in Kruger National Park, white water rafting, traditional African dancing, mountain biking, the team helps clients make the most of being in South Africa! While we were there we had the opportunity to enjoy a safari in the neighboring Kruger National Park. So cool!

White River Manor safari tour

Check It Out for Yourself!

After having spent a few days at White River Manor myself, I highly recommend it to people who are open to traveling for rehab. If you are, the benefits are well worth the trip!

Frequently Asked Questions About Luxury Rehab in South Africa

Is there luxury rehab in South Africa?

There are a number of luxury rehabs in South Africa. They’re known to offer the benefits of a premium center, like high-quality programming and upscale accommodation, at a more affordable price point than Europe or the U.S.

Is there rehab for CEOs in South Africa? 

South Africa has several luxury rehabs. Some are geared toward CEOs and offer specialized executive programs that accommodate their clients’ work needs, including flexibility around schedule and tech use.

How do I get to White River Manor?

Support staff will pick you up from Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport and drive you to their center 2.5 hours away. Or, you can take a connecting flight to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, 15 minutes from the center.