How to Choose an Addiction Treatment Centre

The first, and often the hardest step of recovery is making the decision to start treatment. 

When choosing an addiction treatment centre, you have to ask yourself what is important to you. Is it the type of program? Cost? Staff qualifications? Often, it’s a combination. In this blog, we will explore a variety of aspects to look for when determining if a treatment centre is right for you.

Addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Because of this, many private treatment centres design their programs with a demographic in mind. This is done to ensure clients are surrounded by like-minded individuals and that the group programming will be applicable to their recovery. Specialized programs also foster a sense of community among clients who share similar struggles, creating an environment of support and understanding that can enhance motivation and accountability.

For example:

• Age-specific programs
• Gender-specific programs
• Programs for individuals with dual diagnosis and co-occurring disorders
• Programs for individuals in the workforce 

Learn about the specialized treatment programs offered by Newgate 180.

Treatment programs will look different from centre to centre. It’s important to ask questions about what is offered and what to expect through the duration of the program, as well as a centre’s approach to addiction treatment. Below are examples of common programming:

• Group therapy
• Individual therapy
• AA/NA programming
• Holistic therapies
  • Yoga
  • Meditation
  • Art therapy
  • Fitness
  • Nutrition
  • Naturopathic therapies 

Many residential programs offer additional support included in their program. This could include support and programming for the client’s family, continuing or outpatient care after the residential program, individualized relapse prevention planning and increased support in the case of a relapse.

Accreditation is a voluntary process where an organization is evaluated by a third party against an extensive set of industry-leading standards.

Accreditation is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process. Organizations must maintain their accreditation by demonstrating continued compliance with the criteria set by the accrediting agency. 

Among others, common accreditors of rehab centres in Canada are the Canadian Centre for Accreditation and Accreditation Canada. 

An accredited rehab centre has been through rigorous review to ensure they meet the standards for quality in governance, management and community mental health and addiction services. sound financial, administrative and operational practices. When a centre is accredited, you can have peace of mind that their program is operating at the highest standard.

• Who are you accredited by?
• What aspects of your program/organization were reviewed during accreditation?
• What process did you undergo to receive your accreditation?
• How often is your accreditation reviewed?

Learn about Newgate 180’s accreditation status.

Clinical teams often have a wide variety of credentials, specializations and skills. There are a few important factors to keep in mind when evaluating a centre’s team. You can usually find information about the team on their website, or during a tour. 

Meet the team at Newgate 180.

Look for clinical staff with relevant licenses and certifications, such as licensed counsellors (Canadian Certified Addiction Counsellor, CCAC), social workers, medical staff (e.g., doctor, nurse practitioner or nurse).

Staff should have substantial experience in addiction treatment, particularly with the specific substance or behaviour being addressed. This includes familiarity with various therapeutic approaches and modalities. They should also have experience working with individuals with similar life experiences as the prospective client. 

Beyond formal qualifications, during your initial interactions, assessments and tour, look for staff who exhibit compassion and empathy. Feeling safe, respected and understood by a clinical team is crucial to the success of a client’s treatment.

The cost of treatment at private treatment centres can vary greatly and is determined by many factors. Here are a few things to keep in mind when inquiring about the price of treatment.

Transparency: No matter the cost, it is crucial that a treatment centre is upfront and transparent about the cost of their program. When asked, they should be able to provide detailed pricing information. 

Learn about financing options at Newgate 180. 

Not-for-profit or for-profit: Private treatment centres in Canada can be either for or not-for-profit. Not-for-profit treatment programs are typically less expensive as they operate on a fee-for-service model.  

All-inclusive: It is important to understand whether the cost of a program will include everything (meals, amenities, programming, aftercare, family support), or if they function as “a la carte” which could significantly increase the initial fee.

Some treatment centres are covered by insurance or offer flexible financing options so clients can choose a payment schedule that is suited to their needs.

When choosing the program that best suits your needs, it’s important to research and ask questions to ensure you will get the most out of your treatment.

At Newgate 180, our number one priority is that you receive the treatment that is right for you, wherever that may be. We are happy to answer any questions or schedule an in-person tour.