Choosing the right rehab clinic can seem like a challenging task. But you can take away guesswork if you know what questions to ask. Your recovery success depends on the quality of the rehab you choose. To make your choice easier, we have compiled a list of questions you can use to refine your choice and confidently choose a rehab centre that is right for you.

1. Is your rehab clinic licensed/accredited?

One might assume that all rehab centres are properly licensed or accredited in their area. However, this is not the case. A licence often requires meeting certain standards, and not all facilities qualify for this. Ask to see the licences if this is an important issue for you.

2. An inpatient or outpatient rehab clinic?

First, you need to understand the difference between inpatient and outpatient care. So that you know what both types of treatment include. Generally, an inpatient clinic is considered the most effective because it takes away the entire environment of use. By being in a new environment, you will have the space to fully focus on your treatment. This encourages you to adopt new routines and habits. Outpatient care can be a good feature for ‘high-functioning’ addicts who prefer a convenient treatment programme that fits their schedule.

3. What are your accommodations and facilities like?

It is important that you feel comfortable within the accommodation, as most residential programmes recommend a stay of at least 28 days. Ask whether clients get their own room, whether they have their own bathroom or have to share one and – of course – what forms of relaxation are available. Make sure there are communal areas that encourage relaxation and personal development. Such as reading and meditation rooms, a fitness area, swimming pool or outdoor activities.

4. What types of therapy are included in the treatment programme?

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), one-to-one therapy and group therapy are mostly considered integral parts of addiction treatment and are most likely offered at all high-quality facilities. However, complementary therapies such as wellness, physical exercise and sports, mindfulness meditation, yoga, art therapy and trauma release exercise (TRE) have also been proven to help in the recovery process. Choosing a treatment centre with a variety of these types of therapy means that you will have access to more treatment options that work for you.

5. To what extent is the staff qualified?

Make sure you check the qualifications of the staff who will offer you drug addiction treatment. A rehab centre that is not open about these details may employ therapists who are not fully qualified to treat you – posing a risk to both your safety and sobriety.

6. What kind of support is offered to family members?

Addiction is often called a family disease because it affects the whole family. Some rehab clinics offer family programmes, in which family members are encouraged to participate in their loved one’s treatment. Such programmes are known to significantly increase the client’s chances of long-term recovery.

7. Do they have experience in treating dual diagnosis disorders?

This applies to clients suffering from not only addiction, but also underlying mental wellness problems. Dual diagnosis addictions are common – this occurs in more than 50% of all addiction cases. In these cases, it is extremely important that both the addiction and the mental disorder are treated simultaneously, to encourage long-term recovery. Given the likelihood and complexity of co-occurring disorders, make sure your treatment provider employs staff trained to diagnose and treat such cases.

8. Is there an aftercare programme?

Completing a treatment programme is only the first (but very important) step towards recovery. Once you stop treatment, it takes a lifetime of dedication to stay sober. This is why it is so important that the rehab clinic you choose offers a solid aftercare programme. These may include options such as sober living, follow-up care at an outpatient treatment centre in your area, AA/NA meetings, online therapy and peer support networks. Ask how the aftercare programme works, what it entails and how long the programme lasts.

9. Is on-site detox under medical supervision available?

Certain substances can cause harm to users when they stop using. If you are addicted to one of these substances, it is important to get medical supervision during detox. Some facilities offer on-site detox under medical supervision, while others send their clients to another hospital or medical clinic – which is not only inconvenient, but can even be dangerous. It is important to keep this in mind when making your choice.

10. What are my payment options?

This is a very important part of the decision-making process for many addicts and their families. Some rehabs accept payment from insurance companies, and others do not. Make sure you know all the facts about payment, and understand what fees need to be paid upfront to ensure your loved one’s recovery is not disrupted by financial obstacles.