Author: Kayla Gill

With 9 years in the rehab space, Kayla has overseen the creation of comprehensive addiction treatment content for online audiences worldwide. Her experience managing content for a luxury destination rehab, and her personal path to healing via residential rehab and various therapeutic modalities, inform her first-hand understanding of recovery. She takes inclusion seriously and is especially interested in how trauma and minority experiences shape readers’ journeys.
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Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) For Depression: What It Is and Why It Works

Depression is debilitating, and finding adequate treatment is a deeply personal experience. Because every person’s experience is unique, what works for some may not work for others. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) is one promising treatment method that may work for you. This form of therapy takes elements from mindfulness training and cognitive behavioral therapy and combines them to combat depression.

Depression is downright exhausting, and the symptoms can be difficult to manage—especially if they interfere with daily life. You may even decide to attend rehab to help you learn to manage your condition. And fortunately, there are many rehab centers that offer mindfulness-based cognitive therapy to treat your depressive symptoms.

What Is Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy?

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) ((Tickell, A., Ball, S., Bernard, P., Kuyken, W., Marx, R., Pack, S., Strauss, C., Sweeney, T., & Crane, C. (2020). The effectiveness of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (Mbct) in real-world healthcare services. Mindfulness, 11(2), 279–290. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12671-018-1087-9)) is a group-based therapy originally developed to prevent depression from recurring. Because it was so effective, therapists now use it to treat active symptoms, too.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness techniques ((Parmentier, F. B. R., García-Toro, M., García-Campayo, J., Yañez, A. M., Andrés, P., & Gili, M. (2019). Mindfulness and symptoms of depression and anxiety in the general population: The mediating roles of worry, rumination, reappraisal and suppression. Frontiers in Psychology, 10, 506. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00506)) teach people to focus on the present moment. You learn to notice your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. Mindfulness is beneficial for overall health and well-being, and it reduces depression. And practicing mindfulness ((Hey, health coach: What is mindfulness and how can i do it? (2021, November 30). Forbes Health. https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/how-to-practice-mindfulness/)) can help you learn how to take life’s curveballs in stride. As Jon Kabat-Zinn, founder of the Stress Reduction Clinic and the Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, describes it, “You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.”

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Just like mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy is also effective in treating depression. ((Gautam, M., Tripathi, A., Deshmukh, D., & Gaur, M. (2020). Cognitive behavioral therapy for depression. Indian Journal of Psychiatry, 62(Suppl 2), S223–S229. https://doi.org/10.4103/psychiatry.IndianJPsychiatry_772_19)) People with depression usually have automatic negative thought patterns, which can trigger or worsen their symptoms. CBT shows people how to identify and reframe these negative thoughts and behaviors into positive ones. This empowers people to do something about their symptoms, which gives them a sense of control.

Connecting Mindfulness and CBT

MBCT fuses aspects of mindfulness and CBT ((Wang, J., Ren, F., Gao, B., & Yu, X. (2022). Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy in recurrent mdd patients with residual symptoms: Alterations in resting-state theta oscillation dynamics associated with changes in depression and rumination. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 13. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2022.818298)) to create a hybrid treatment model. Just like in CBT, patients learn to notice and free themselves from negative thought patterns. The therapist teaches patients to instead observe their thoughts and emotions in a compassionate, non-judgmental manner. MBCT incorporates mindfulness techniques, like meditation, alongside CBT.

What to Expect During MBCT Sessions

MBCT usually lasts for 8 weeks, ((Seshadri, A., Orth, S. S., Adaji, A., Singh, B., Clark, M. M., Frye, M. A., McGillivray, J., & Fuller-Tyszkiewicz, M. (2021). Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and positive psychotherapy for major depression. American Journal of Psychotherapy, 74(1), 4–12. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.psychotherapy.20200006)) with weekly sessions of about 2 hours. MBCT is administered in a group setting of 8 to 12 people. During meetings, patients participate in attention training activities for mindfulness. These may include body scan exercises or meditations. The goal is to help you become more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations. Patients learn to recognize negative thought patterns and practice acceptance, and complete homework assignments around these concepts. These activities help alleviate symptoms from depression.

How Does This Therapy Work for Depression?

MBCT can reduce depression and decrease the risk of relapse (meaning, it reduces the likelihood that symptoms will come back after treatment). In fact, evidence shows that in some cases, it works just as well as antidepressant medication. According to one study on the effects of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy on depression symptoms, ((Tickell, A., Byng, R., Crane, C., Gradinger, F., Hayes, R., Robson, J., Cardy, J., Weaver, A., Morant, N., & Kuyken, W. (2020). Recovery from recurrent depression with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and antidepressants: A qualitative study with illustrative case studies. BMJ Open, 10(2), e033892. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2019-033892)) “There is evidence from at least nine clinical trials… that MBCT reduces the risk of relapse to depression when added to usual care, and demonstrates comparable efficacy to maintenance antidepressant medication.”

There are many reasons why MBCT is so effective at treating depression. ((Tickell, A., Byng, R., Crane, C., Gradinger, F., Hayes, R., Robson, J., Cardy, J., Weaver, A., Morant, N., & Kuyken, W. (2020). Recovery from recurrent depression with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and antidepressants: A qualitative study with illustrative case studies. BMJ Open, 10(2), e033892. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2019-033892)) People learn skills that they can use in the real world, and empathize with each other. The following are concepts that MBCT can teach people to set them up for success in life after rehab.

A Greater Sense of Control

MBCT helps people feel more in control of their depression—and their lives. Learning how depression works gives patients a better understanding of their overall experience. And practicing the techniques to counteract their symptoms is empowering. It helps people feel like they have more power over their thoughts and feelings.

Mandy, a patient in an MBCT study on recurrent depression, ((Tickell, A., Byng, R., Crane, C., Gradinger, F., Hayes, R., Robson, J., Cardy, J., Weaver, A., Morant, N., & Kuyken, W. (2020). Recovery from recurrent depression with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and antidepressants: A qualitative study with illustrative case studies. BMJ Open, 10(2), e033892. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2019-033892)) said she learned “how the mind works” which gave her a better insight into her depression. She found the MBCT sessions “so liberating” because they gave her the tools to take control of her mental health. This “toolbox” included things like meditation, recognizing depressive symptoms, and reaching out to social contacts.

Other patients in the same study echoed Mandy’s sentiments. Some participants described it as “a shift from being a ‘helpless victim of circumstance’ to having more ‘control of my feelings and my life.’”

More Incentive to Manage Well-Being

Mindfulness practices are one way to engage in self-care. The techniques that MBCT teaches you serve as important ways of giving back—to yourself. And because people now have this toolbox, they’re more likely to use what they’ve learned to take care of themselves.

Some patients in one study noted that gaining more control over their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors gave them a greater sense of responsibility to manage their overall well-being. ((Tickell, A., Byng, R., Crane, C., Gradinger, F., Hayes, R., Robson, J., Cardy, J., Weaver, A., Morant, N., & Kuyken, W. (2020). Recovery from recurrent depression with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and antidepressants: A qualitative study with illustrative case studies. BMJ Open, 10(2), e033892. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2019-033892)) They felt they could actually do something about it. They mentioned that self-care was no longer an option—instead, it became a necessary component of their routine.

Peer Interactions Are Beneficial

Patients can benefit from being around peers in MBCT group therapy They can share experiences and receive advice. And realizing that other people have the same feelings as them can decrease the shame they feel about their condition.

Some people in the MBCT study were ashamed of their depression and antidepressant use. ((Tickell, A., Byng, R., Crane, C., Gradinger, F., Hayes, R., Robson, J., Cardy, J., Weaver, A., Morant, N., & Kuyken, W. (2020). Recovery from recurrent depression with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and antidepressants: A qualitative study with illustrative case studies. BMJ Open, 10(2), e033892. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2019-033892)) One participant felt “‘inadequate’ or unable to cope with life compared with other people because of their recurrent depression, treating it as a ‘guilty secret.’” Some patients were too embarrassed to admit to their depression or that they were taking medication.

Participants agreed that meeting other people in the group helped normalize their experiences. One participant said that being around others with depression ((Tickell, A., Byng, R., Crane, C., Gradinger, F., Hayes, R., Robson, J., Cardy, J., Weaver, A., Morant, N., & Kuyken, W. (2020). Recovery from recurrent depression with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and antidepressants: A qualitative study with illustrative case studies. BMJ Open, 10(2), e033892. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2019-033892)) “confirmed that I am a human, worthwhile person.” And another said, “I don’t feel any more when I take my pill every morning that there’s something wrong with me.” These interactions with peers helped participants accept their condition—and themselves.

Participating in Hobbies Improves Quality of Life

MBCT sessions teach people the importance of engaging in activities they enjoy. Therapists encourage patients to try new hobbies and pursue old interests. But this isn’t just for fun—it’s backed by science. People with hobbies have overall better mental health, ((Li, Z., Dai, J., Wu, N., Jia, Y., Gao, J., & Fu, H. (2019). Effect of long working hours on depression and mental well-being among employees in shanghai: The role of having leisure hobbies. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(24), 4980. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16244980)) and reduced rates of depression.

Participants in one study said that MBCT reminded them to do what they enjoy ((Tickell, A., Byng, R., Crane, C., Gradinger, F., Hayes, R., Robson, J., Cardy, J., Weaver, A., Morant, N., & Kuyken, W. (2020). Recovery from recurrent depression with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and antidepressants: A qualitative study with illustrative case studies. BMJ Open, 10(2), e033892. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2019-033892))—and to feel excited about life again. One person said, “I rearranged my life so that the things I do now are things that I enjoy and want to do.” And another continued, “I am now making bigger future plans to make my life better and introducing new ventures.”

Better Understanding of Relapse (and How to Prevent It)

In mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, patients learn how to recognize the early warning signs of a depressive relapse. And how to employ MBCT strategies to avoid it.

Some MCBT participants mentioned that they felt less panicked when they did experience negative feelings. They were able to accept their sad feelings, and not immediately assume it was a relapse. One said they felt better equipped to handle mood fluctuations. Instead of getting upset when they felt negative emotions, they told themselves, “Okay, this is how you’re feeling today.”

Limitations of MBCT

MBCT might not work for everyone. Because MBCT is typically a group therapy, you may find it overwhelming if you have severe social anxiety. And for some people, MBCT works best in combination with antidepressants. MBCT alone might not work well enough for everyone—and that’s perfectly alright. The idea here is to try different methods to find what will work best for you.

Healing Your Depression, Mindfully

You are worthy of care, in whatever way works best for you.

This might look like attending rehab, or just seeking MBCT on your own. It’s up to you to determine what your recovery process will look like. If you decide to go to rehab, this could be your chance to take a step back and give yourself much-needed time to heal.

Explore treatment centers that provide MBCT to contact rehab facilities directly and ask about pricing, insurance, virtual tours, and more.

Reviewed by Rajnandini Rathod

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What Is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Can It Work for You?

Talking about trauma isn’t easy—it’s often emotionally draining, and it can even be retraumatizing. That’s why alternative therapies like EMDR can be a helpful part of your treatment plan.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) uses eye movements to reframe traumatic memories. While that might seem unusual, this therapy works for many people and can be effective in a short amount of time. Rehabs often use EMDR as a supplemental therapy to ease the intensity of trauma symptoms.

What is EMDR?

EMDR is a trauma treatment technique ((Landin-Romero, R., Moreno-Alcazar, A., Pagani, M., & Amann, B. L. (2018). How does eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy work? A systematic review on suggested mechanisms of action. Frontiers in Psychology, 9, 1395. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2018.01395)) that helps you process disturbing memories. It was developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro, who got the idea while walking in a park. She noticed certain rapid eye movements decreased the intensity of her intrusive thoughts. Then she realized something important: if she controlled her eye movements while thinking about an upsetting memory, it reduced her anxious feelings.

Since then, EMDR has gained popularity. More clinicians are becoming certified to practice it, and more people are trying it.

Tony Tan, CEO of 180 Sanctuary At PuriPai Villa, explains its premise:

“Basically, we are using eye movement to desensitize and reprocess traumatic memories. We don’t erase the memory, but we can reduce the impact of the response.

Usually with someone who’s traumatized, their behavior seems to be paralyzed. When they can’t overcome certain kinds of strong emotions or flashbacks, that affects their daily functionality.

“So EMDR is mainly administered in treatment to help the person reduce their response to traumatic memories, to help them function better day-to-day. They can coexist with their memory, but we dull the traumatic response.”

How Do EMDR Sessions Work?

EMDR sessions usually last for about 50 to 90 minutes. Your therapist will help you determine how many sessions are necessary. This usually depends on the severity of your trauma.

According to standard treatment protocol, EMDR treatment should take place over 8 phases: ((

Phase 1: History Taking

In this phase, your clinician will review your trauma history and create a treatment plan. This plan determines which memories and situations to focus on during EMDR, and in what order. For example, you may focus on childhood trauma first, and move onto adult issues later.

Phase 2: Preparation and Stabilization

Your therapist explains how treatment works and addresses any concerns you have. You’ll decide on a stop signal if you need to take a break from processing. You’ll also work together to develop coping mechanisms like stress reduction techniques, which you can practice using between sessions.

Revisiting traumatic experiences can be emotional, so it’s perfectly alright if you need to pause.

Phase 3: Assessment

In this phase, you’ll visualize the traumatic event. Your therapist might ask you to write down all of your memories related to the trauma. Then, you’ll rate how uncomfortable each event made you feel, usually on a scale of 1 to 10. After that exercise, you’ll discuss any feelings, thoughts, or sensations it brought up. You may choose one memory to focus on in future sessions.

Phases 4-6: Reprocessing

This is the heart of EMDR, where you’ll learn to reprocess your trauma and become less sensitive to it. You’ll do this using what’s known as bilateral stimulation:

  • eye movements (following a light or your therapist’s finger with your eyes)
  • auditory tones
  • tactile taps (alternating tapping movements)

Your therapist will use one of the above techniques while you focus on an image, thought, emotion, or sensation related to the trauma. At the end of each set, they’ll ask you to let your mind go blank, and to notice whatever comes to mind. During this stage, you might experience the following:

  • new insights or understanding about the trauma
  • a positive change in your emotional response
  • reframing negative thoughts to positive ones

Throughout the session, your therapist might use techniques like these to bring you back to the present moment if you start to feel overwhelmed:

  • prompting you to focus on a positive belief
  • doing a body scan to check in with yourself physically

Phase 7: Closure

Before you leave a session, your therapist will guide you through relaxation techniques to help reinstate emotional stability. You can also use these in between sessions. Your therapist might ask you to keep a log to record any related thoughts, feelings, or sensations that arise the week after your session.

Phase 8: Reevaluation

Each session may start with a follow-up from the prior one. Your therapist can use this time to ask for feedback and evaluate your progress. This helps determine if you need to keep working on the same issues, or move on to new ones.

Which Conditions Does it Treat?

EMDR is often recommended for PTSD, ((Recommendations | Post-traumatic stress disorder | Guidance | NICE. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng116/chapter/recommendations)) but can also be used to treat the following conditions:

“My Traumatic Thoughts Don’t Come to the Forefront of My Everyday Life”

People with PTSD often experience flashbacks resulting from triggers related to a traumatic event. EMDR helps patients reprocess memories ((World Health Organization. Guidelines for the management of conditions specifically related to stress. Geneva: WHO, 2013.)) so they’re not as easily distressed when faced with those triggers.

Roger Rodriguez, a senior flight nurse who often went into life-threatening combat war zones, was diagnosed with PTSD ((Ptsd eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy | aboutface. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.ptsd.va.gov/apps/aboutFace/therapies/emdr.html)) after years in the field. Rodriguez said that after each session, he felt a “little weight” lifted off his shoulders. Eventually, he went from spending hours alone in his room to once again being the family man that everyone knew and loved.

“My traumatic thoughts don’t come to the forefront of my everyday life and consume my thoughts,” he said. “They have been processed and placed into long-term memory where they belong.”

Discover EMDR in Trauma Treatment

Trauma recovery has its challenges, but life on the other side of healing is so worth it. And in rehab, you’ll be surrounded by professionals who can help you see those challenges through in a safe and supported way.

Discover rehab centers with EMDR treatment to compare programs and speak with experts about trauma therapies that can help you.

Reviewed by Rajnandini Rathod

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How TF-CBT Helps Families Heal From Trauma

If you’re trying to help a child who’s experienced trauma, it can be hard to know what to do. They may suffer from post-traumatic stress symptoms like nightmares, anxiety, or behavioral issues. It can feel like neither of you has control over their trauma responses. And that can put more stress on your child and your family.

Thankfully, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, a family-focused type of talk therapy, can help your child heal from their trauma. They get to relearn that the world is a safe place full of trustworthy people—namely you.

TF-CBT may be offered as part of family therapy at rehab. This therapy, along with others, can give you tools, space, and support to work through your child’s healing journey.

What Is Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?

Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) is an evidence-based treatment for families looking to heal a child’s past trauma. ((Cohen, J. A., & Mannarino, A. P. (2015). Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy for traumatized children and families. Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 24(3), 557–570. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chc.2015.02.005)) It’s a form of CBT designed specifically for children and adolescents, and focuses heavily on caregiver involvement. Treatment takes place over the course of 8-25 sessions, which both you and your child attend.

During individual sessions, your child will work on dealing with negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors resulting from trauma with healthy coping skills. They’ll also be able to process their trauma in a safe, supportive environment.

Caregivers’ individual sessions are designed to teach positive parenting strategies. You’ll learn how to best support your child when they feel the need to talk.

During joint sessions with your therapist, you’ll work on practicing those skills to strengthen your relationship and encourage more open communication. There is a lot of flexibility in how quickly you move through TF-CBT, so you can work at your pace.

Who Can TF-CBT Help?

Treatment professionals use TF-CBT to help children aged 3-18 overcome trauma symptoms and learn healthy coping strategies. It can also address depression or behavioral issues stemming from childhood trauma. Children don’t need a post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis to benefit from TF-CBT.

Both the caregiver(s) and child take part in therapy sessions. Abusive or otherwise traumatic caregivers are excluded from participating. ((Ramirez de Arellano, M. A., Lyman, D. R., Jobe-Shields, L., George, P., Dougherty, R. H., Daniels, A. S., Ghose, S. S., Huang, L., & Delphin-Rittmon, M. E. (2014). Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy: Assessing the evidence. Psychiatric Services (Washington, D.C.), 65(5), 591–602. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ps.201300255))

Is it Effective?

TF-CBT is shown to be effective in improving PTSD symptoms. Components of TF-CBT can also effectively reduce the frequency and intensity of nightmares ((Levrier, K., Marchand, A., Belleville, G., Dominic, B.-P., & Guay, S. (2016). Nightmare frequency, nightmare distress and the efficiency of trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder. Archives of Trauma Research, 5(3), e33051. https://doi.org/10.5812/atr.33051)) among children who have suffered trauma.

It can also lessen the symptoms of other mental and behavioral issues in children with trauma. In TF-CBT, children gain important emotional regulation strategies. ((Farnia, V., Naami, A., Zargar, Y., Davoodi, I., Salemi, S., Tatari, F., Kazemi, A., Basanj, B., Jouybari, T. A., & Alikhani, M. (2018). Comparison of trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and theory of mind: Improvement of posttraumatic growth and emotion regulation strategies. Journal of Education and Health Promotion, 7, 58. https://doi.org/10.4103/jehp.jehp_140_17))

Studies also show that TF-CBT can increase caregivers’ ability to parent positively and lessen their emotional distress. ((Cohen, J. A., & Mannarino, A. P. (2015). Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy for traumatized children and families. Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 24(3), 557–570. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chc.2015.02.005))

How Can You Access TF-CBT?

Treatment is done via weekly sessions with a therapist.

Some rehabs cater specifically to young people. If you’re interested in TF-CBT and other trauma-specific therapies, ask potential treatment centers about their clinical staff qualifications and how they involve family in your child’s treatment process.

What to Expect: TF-CBT in 3 Phases

TF-CBT takes place in 3 stages ((Cohen, J. A., & Mannarino, A. P. (2015). Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy for traumatized children and families. Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 24(3), 557–570. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chc.2015.02.005)) to gradually increase exposure to trauma reminders. This way, your child isn’t confronted with their trauma without skills necessary to safely address it.

1. Stabilization:

This phase helps children and caregivers understand trauma in general.

Your therapists will explain to your child what trauma is and how it can show up in their lives after it’s over.

Meanwhile, you’ll learn important safety information. For example, if your child has been sexually assaulted, you’ll learn to communicate with them about appropriate vs. inappropriate touches. Your therapist will also teach you to identify cues that might trigger your child.

Trauma Narration and Processing

In this phase, therapists work with your child to describe their trauma in detail.

Because TF-CBT builds up your child’s resilience in the previous stage, they’ll be better prepared to handle their trauma using healthy coping strategies. This stage helps them reclaim their own experience.

During the session, you’ll hear your child’s trauma narrative read by your therapist. While this can be extremely difficult, your therapist will be there to support you and help you move through feelings that arise.

Integration and Consolidation

During this phase, you’ll begin joint sessions. Your child will share their trauma narrative with you face-to-face. Then, you can ask questions and share feelings. This phase improves the connection and understanding between you and your child.

The Goals of This Therapy

TF-CBT works on 8 key components to improve the lives of children and their caregivers:

  • education about trauma and positive parenting skills
  • techniques for relaxation
  • emotional regulation skills
  • understanding of the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors
  • mastery over past trauma through recounting exercises
  • gradual exposure to reminders of trauma
  • improved communication and connection between caregivers and child
  • personal health and safety skills

Limitations of TF-CBT

TF-CBT has not been studied for effectiveness for children who have intellectual disabilities. Not only are these children more at risk for exposure to trauma, ((Mevissen, L., Didden, R., Korzilius, H., & de Jongh, A. (2016). Assessing posttraumatic stress disorder in children with mild to borderline intellectual disabilities. European Journal of Psychotraumatology, 7, 10.3402/ejpt.v7.29786.
https://doi.org/10.3402/ejpt.v7.29786)) they’re also at a higher risk of developing PTSD. It’s an area that needs more research.

If you are the caregiver to a neurodivergent child, read more about how to find neurodiversity-affirming treatment.

Rehab Can Help You Reconnect With Your Child After Trauma

As a caregiver, you want to protect your child from anything bad that could ever happen to them. That’s why it’s so hard to handle when something does.

Trauma-specialized rehabs use treatments like trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy to allow both you and your child to make peace with the past and move forward.

Visit our searchable directory of treatment centers offering family therapy to learn more about their programs, facilities, pricing, insurance, and more.

Reviewed by Rajnandini Rathod

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5 Common Evidence-Based Treatments for Trauma

Trauma, no matter where it comes from or what form it takes, is real. And so are its effects on your life.

Today, as treatment professionals continue to learn how widespread trauma and trauma-related disorders truly are, more and more therapies become available to treat it. You might access these in individual therapy, or in residential trauma treatment.

You may know your trauma’s cause, or discover it in the process of healing from addiction. In either case, these treatments can help you work through trauma and manage its symptoms so you can start living a better, freer life.

How Trauma Affects Your Recovery

Trauma occurs when something you experience overwhelms your ability to cope. That’s why the causes and effects of trauma vary greatly from one person to the next. What severely affects one person might not matter much to another, and vice versa. One of the most widely used definitions of trauma1 comes from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA):

Individual trauma results from an event, series of events, or set of circumstances that is experienced by an individual as physically or emotionally harmful or life threatening and that has lasting adverse effects on the individual’s functioning and mental, physical, social, emotional, or spiritual well-being.

Some studies show that people who have a substance use disorder plus trauma2 face more challenges in recovery than those without a history of trauma. This is why, if you’re considering inpatient addiction treatment, it’s important to find a trauma-sensitive rehab.

If trauma is a factor in your substance use, it’s important to address not just the symptoms of your addiction, but also the trauma itself. Mental health experts agree that the need to address trauma is “an integral part of the healing and recovery process.”3

Getting treated for trauma can help you gain perspective on, and ultimately change your relationship with your trauma and the ways it impacts your life. And rehab is a safe place to do so with the guidance and care of trained professionals.

Trauma-Specific Therapies

You might come across these therapies in your search for treatment, or during your time in rehab. Keep in mind that this list isn’t exhaustive. Different rehabs have different therapies available, depending on their program and which treatment professionals they have on staff.

1. Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)

What it is: CPT is a type of talk therapy that’s proven effective for reducing symptoms of trauma. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), CPT is a strongly recommended treatment for PTSD in adults.4

The APA explains that “CPT is generally delivered over 12 sessions and helps patients learn how to challenge and modify unhelpful beliefs related to the trauma.”5 The goal of CPT is to help you think about and relate to your trauma in a new way. Some experts think that doing this can decrease any ongoing negative effects of trauma you might be experiencing.

What to expect during treatment: The Society of Clinical Psychology explains that CPT “focuses initially on the question of why the trauma occurred and then the effects of the trauma on the clients’ beliefs6 about themselves, others, and the world through the use of progressive worksheets.” In this therapy, it’s common for patients to write detailed accounts of their trauma, which they’ll then reflect on with the help of their therapist.

Karen Kattar, a psychologist with the Department of Veterans Affairs, says that during CPT, you’ll “look at the evidence for why you’ve drawn the conclusions that you have about what happened to you. And a lot of the times those thoughts are, ‘It’s my fault’ or ‘I should have done something differently’ and it brings about these emotions of shame and guilt. And some of the conclusions that you’ve drawn may actually not be true.” CPT helps you change how you think about your trauma. And this can empower you to take positive steps forward.

2. Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE)

What it is: Just like traditional exposure therapy helps people confront their fears, prolonged exposure therapy (PE) helps you “gradually approach trauma-related memories,7 feelings and situations.” Instead of avoiding anything that reminds you of your trauma, PE helps you process your experience and learn that your trauma-related memories aren’t dangerous. This form of cognitive behavioral therapy can be a bit more intensive and usually happens in weekly individual sessions for about 3 months.

What to expect during treatment: Because exposure sounds intimidating and can be anxiety-inducing, a PE therapist should first work with you to create a safe space. They can do this by giving you an overview of what to expect and by teaching techniques to manage your anxiety.

When you’re ready, there are 2 types of exposure you’ll work through during treatment:

  • Imaginal exposure: You’ll describe the traumatic event during therapy with guidance from your therapist, then process the emotions that come up. These sessions are usually recorded so you can listen back on them to practice managing your anxiety.
  • “In vivo” or real-life exposure: Using a plan you created with your therapist, you’ll face specific cues and triggers as homework. This could include slowly starting to encounter specific places or people, confronting your fear and then learning how to cope with feelings that arise.

3. Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

What it is: TF-CBT is “a psychosocial treatment of 8-24 sessions designed to treat PTSD and related emotional and behavioral problems8 in adults, children, and adolescents.”. Although TF-CBT was originally designed to treat children, “current treatment guidelines agree on recommending TF-CBT as first-line treatment for PTSD”9 in adult survivors of childhood abuse, according to experts in an article for the Clinical Psychology Review.

What to expect during treatment: TF-CBT incorporates techniques of traditional CBT and exposure therapy. Sessions may include these components:

  • Psychoeducation (common reactions to trauma exposure)
  • Coping skills (relaxation, feelings identification)
  • Gradual exposure (imaginary, in-vivo or “real life”)
  • Cognitive processing of trauma-related thoughts and beliefs
  • Caregiver involvement (parent training, conjoint child-parent sessions)

4. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

What it is: While the goal of other treatments is to process and alter your emotions, thoughts and responses to trauma, EMDR is a one-on-one therapy that focuses directly on changing the way a traumatic memory is stored in the brain.10 It does this through the use of eye movements and other rhythmic bilateral (left-to-right) stimulation (BLS), like sounds or taps.

What to expect during treatment: During EMDR, you’ll recall a triggering memory (which you identified beforehand with your therapist) while paying attention to the BLS at the same time. Eventually, you’ll learn to focus on a positive belief while remembering the trauma.11 After each session, you’ll reassess your symptoms and decide if you need to process other memories or triggers. In general, during EMDR you don’t talk about the details of your trauma out loud and you won’t have any homework outside of your therapy sessions.

5. Seeking Safety

What it is: Seeking Safety is a present-focused treatment model that helps you find relief from trauma and substance use disorders by prioritizing safety. An attractive quality of this therapy is how flexible it is. According to SAMHSA, “it can be used for groups and individuals, with women and men, in all settings and levels of care, by all clinicians, for all types of trauma and substance abuse.”12

What to expect during treatment: Seeking Safety doesn’t make you talk at length about the details of your traumatic memories. This treatment’s main goal is to teach general coping skills through casual, group, or individual discussions on 25 topics. Some of the coping skills taught include taking good care of yourself or asking for help. These topics address the cognitive, behavioral, and interpersonal aspects of trauma. Per SAMHSA’s protocol for trauma-informed care,13 “This treatment model builds hope through an emphasis on ideals and simple, emotionally evocative language and quotations.”

Finding the Right Rehab for Overcoming Trauma

Ignoring our trauma is a survival instinct—but it doesn’t allow us to heal and move on. Luckily there are safe, supportive spaces where we can start to do that, with the help of these and other trauma therapies.

No matter what kind of trauma you’ve experienced, when you experienced it, or how it’s affected you, you deserve peace. Finding a rehab with compassionate trauma specialists can be that first step on your healing journey. And with the right support, healing is possible.

Search our list of rehabs that treat trauma to learn about program options, pricing, insurance, and more, and reach out to centers directly.

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New York Rehabs: Find Calm in the City or Escape Upstate

New Yorkers’ lifestyles are as varied as the rich tapestry of people that define the state—and rehabs here build their programs around this. You’ll find programs with flexible lengths of stay, amenities for busy professionals, and specialized treatments for specific client groups. 

Whether you prefer the convenience of an urban setting, the quaintness of a mountain town, or the peacefulness of the seaside, New York rehabs have something for everyone and high-level care to boot.  

Serenity in the City

If you live in New York City and don’t want to travel for treatment, several rehabs in the city provide ways to find calm while staying close to home.

Urban Recovery 

Urban Recovery offers medically supervised detox followed by an intensive treatment program that includes 35 clinical hours per week. Their 5-story building on the waterfront in Red Hook boasts views of the New York Bay from the rooftop lounge. Residential treatment here can be short- or long-term, with detox programs lasting 5-10 days, residential stays up to 30 days, and intensive outpatient programs up to 90 days. Clients attend yoga and pilates classes with professional instructors and enjoy facilities like the fitness room, music studio, and art room while they heal.

Urban Recovery is decorated with plush, private bedrooms and luxury amenities, including a rooftop lounge overlooking the iconic New York Bay.

Ascendant NY 

Housed in a Manhattan brownstone, Ascendant NY offers a private space with a focus on confidentiality. Programming here prioritizes the detox process, providing nutritious meals, yoga, and fitness to ease the effects of withdrawals.

Hazelden Betty Ford New York 

Conveniently located on Manhattan’s West Side and backed by Betty Ford’s long-standing reputation, Hazelden Betty Ford New York offers a range of addiction treatment programs tailored to various needs. These include outpatient programs, virtual therapy, lower-intensity options, and recovery management. 

Bear Betty Ford animal therapy
Meet Bear, the resident certified therapy dog helping clients feel extra comfortable and calm at Hazelden Betty Ford New York.

Clients here also get to meet the center’s resident labradoodle and certified therapy dog, Bear, who rides the subway to work each day to provide residents with a dose of nonjudgmental comfort. 

See our list of rehabs in New York City for information on additional programs. 

Upstate Escapes

If you’re looking to connect with nature as you heal, rehabs upstate offer even more quietude. Not far from the city are the winding rivers, staggering mountain peaks, and seemingly endless seas of trees that make Upstate New York feel like a world away.

Mountainside Retreats 

New York State’s 4-seasons climate means its countryside is bright green in the summer, but transitions to vibrant oranges, reds, and yellows in the fall. Snow blankets the state in the winter, while blossoms burst with color in the spring.

Mountainside Chappaqua, for example, is only an hour away. But the complete change of scenery might lead you to believe otherwise. Chappaqua is a hamlet (tiny village) of just under 3,000 people. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature’s sanctuary on meditative hikes near the property.

You’ll find Saint Jude Retreats in the small town of Amsterdam. This secluded property rests on acres of forests and meadows. You can walk their private trails or fish for bass in the pond—and in the winter, the water freezes, setting the stage for outdoor ice skating. 

Activities in the natural world don’t end on their own property, though. Every other week, clients visit the Adirondack Mountains for outdoor excursions like hiking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing.

Coastal Refuge

If the sounds of ocean waves are calling you, The Dunes of East Hampton is just under 2 hours from NYC. Located inside a private gate and secluded woodland, this facility is only steps from the seaside. You can walk to the beach for picturesque views of Long Island coastal bluffs and rolling fields. Staff here also take clients on outdoor excursions like sailing, nature walks, and biking along scenic pathways.

the dunes of east hampton slide 3
Located right by the beach, clients at The Dunes of East Hampton have plenty of access to outdoor activities including scenic walks, swimming, and more.

Spending time outside is more than just a fun pastime—it’s also good for your mental health and well-being. One study found that spending just 2 hours per week in nature positively affects your health. According to psychological scientist Amanda L. Mahaffey, “A vast body of research shows us that, above all, humans flourish in nature. Pretty much everything about nature has a positive effect on us in some form.” And this includes your recovery journey.

Programs for Executives and High-Profile Clients 

Clients under extra pressure to perform face unique challenges in recovery.  In fact, some people believe that risk factors associated with these lifestyles mean people in high-powered positions may be more prone to addiction. 

K.L., a client at The Dunes of East Hampton, describes his struggle with substance abuse despite his polished image: 

“I am a professional with a high level of education, although I had been struggling with alcoholism and addiction for over 20 years. I was a patient at over 10 facilities in the past 10 years, with no improvement. Everyone in my life had given up on me, including myself. People who knew me thought, ‘He is highly educated and professional, why can’t he just stop?!’”

K.L. determined the causes of his addiction with the help of a team of specialists. For him, that included a past trauma, a family history of alcoholism, and underlying mental health issues. In recovery, K.L. worked through those issues, and began to heal from the inside out.

Fortunately, some rehabs have specific programs for professionals like K.L. who need more flexibility in their care. 

How NY Rehabs Cater to High-Profile Clients

Some people aren’t able to step away from their job for the duration of residential rehab. And that’s understandable—most programs are at least 28 days, and if you have people depending on you, it’s hard to stop work entirely. Or, you might be a celebrity seeking solitude and anonymity. Whatever your background, some rehab centers make an extra effort to accommodate executives, celebrities, and other high-profile clientele. 

These might include special resources for professionals, like those at The Dunes of East Hampton:

  • flexible technology policies that allow clients to use their cell phones and laptops for work
  • separate meeting rooms to give clients privacy while they work for enhanced focus
  • the ability to create your own schedule so you can go to therapy around work meetings
  • a sober companion who can accompany you to work-related events and activities, during and after rehab
  • private living quarters and secluded facilities that shield you from the outside world
  • comforts like massage, gourmet meals, swimming pools, and more

These services help clients have the most comfortable rehab experience possible—while keeping an eye on their responsibilities.

Treatment for Eating Disorders and Other Dual Diagnoses

Eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder (BED). While the symptoms in each condition differ, the core is the same: an unhealthy relationship with food. 

Eating disorders often occur along with substance use disorders,1 especially in adolescence. Women make up 90% of eating disorder patients, and 50% also misuse substances. There’s a good chance that another co-occurring condition is present too, like anxiety, major depressive disorder, or PTSD.

Because this is so common, some rehabs specialize in treating eating disorders, addictions, and other mental health conditions all at once. Clementine Briarcliff Manor treats girls ages 12-17. (Adolescent girls are more likely to develop an eating disorder.) Treatment includes exposure therapy alongside traditional talk therapy. In exposure therapy, clients work through uncomfortable situations in a safe, supportive environment. In this context, clients might practice food shopping or creating a nutritious recipe. Sometimes these exercises involve family members. They might even include exposure to activities at home or school to prepare you for situations you may encounter in real life.

Clementine Briarcliff
Clementine Briarcliff Manor specializes in treating eating disorders from their tranquil, boutique-style facility in Westchester County, New York.

Although more common in women, eating disorders—like substance abuse—can affect anyone. Other rehabs cater to specific groups, like Center for Discovery Hamptons for adolescents of all genders, and Monte Nido River Towns for adults.

Recovery Coaches

Mountainside Chelsea has a unique program in which each client is assigned a recovery coach. According to their team, “Mountainside Recovery Coaches are certified professionals that act as partners, allies, mentors, and advocates for clients in early recovery.” These coaches can help clients apply for jobs, find housing, and build support networks. They can help you complete goal-setting exercises, create a sustainable routine, and discover new hobbies. Recovery coaches are available to take calls 24/7, whether you’re having a hard day or want to share good news. Many of these coaches are in recovery themselves, and can directly relate to your ups and downs.

A recovery coach at Mountainside Chelsea describes his goal this way:

“Our job as a coach is to help clients get comfortable with being uncomfortable, so they can later do those things on their own.”

Weaving Culture Into Care

In addition to this special program, Mountainside Chelsea immerses clients in the thriving culture of New York City. Clients can go to museums, shows, amusement parks, cooking classes, and more. Remember that recovery can be fun—and in fact, parts of it should be. It’s important to balance out the emotionally exhausting parts of this work with rewarding activities. Having fun is crucial to a self-care routine, and can even prevent relapse. And in New York, this means exploring the life-affirming experiences that the city has to offer.

Mountainside Chelsea
Mountainside Chelsea provides addiction treatment and recovery coaching in the heart of New York City.

A Fresh Start Is a Phone Call Away 

New York has plenty of quality care options for those living in the state and traveling from elsewhere. Whether you’re looking for treatment in the heart of the city or the spaciousness of the countryside, New York may just have an option for you.

Search our collection of rehabs in New York to see photos, take virtual tours, read reviews, and more.

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Into the Wild: Adventure Therapy Explained

It’s no secret that spending time in nature is healing. The outdoors can be a great place to turn when you’re recovering from mental health issues or addiction. Nature provides peace, challenges, and new experiences—all without judgment.

Adventure therapy takes that idea a step further. This type of therapy shepherds people into the outdoors and out of their comfort zones. During these outings, clients participate in structured activities designed to achieve specific goals. 

Rehab isn’t just talk therapy and group meetings—many treatment centers use the power of adventure as part of their recovery process. Read on to learn more about how this works, and how it can help you.

Healing by Doing 

Adventure therapy1 is a type of experiential therapy, or “learning by doing, with reflection.” In the experiential theory, it’s believed that learning is greater in unfamiliar situations. And this is exactly what adventure therapy does—in the outdoors.

All adventure therapy programs have several aspects in common:2

  • The activities occur in a natural setting; usually one that’s unfamiliar to participants.
  • Clients must complete challenging activities, often in cooperation with others.
  • Tasks are typically completed in small groups, but can also occur 1-on-1.
  • Experienced guides lead the group, providing physical and emotional safety.

Although most adventure therapy programs share a core ethos, every rehab is unique.  Different centers may offer various activities, depending on their surroundings, weather conditions, and more.

What Activities Can You Do Treatment?

During adventure therapy, you can reflect on your feelings in a brand new context. But even when you’re deep in nature, you might have a busy schedule. These programs may offer some or all of the following activities:

  • water activities, like kayaking or surfing
  • land activities, such as hiking or biking
  • climbing activities, including rock climbing or ropes courses
  • snow sports, like snowboarding or snowshoeing

You may choose to try something new, or get reacquainted with an old hobby. But in either case, make sure to plan around the location of your rehab center. Not all places will be able to offer every activity. A facility in Kansas probably doesn’t have surfing, for example.

All Points North Lodge takes advantage of their location in the Rocky Mountains. “We have so many fantastic opportunities for activities outside of here, being in Colorado and being at the top of the mountain,” says Dr. Ryan Drzewiecki, Director of Clinical Operations. They take clients on almost any outdoor excursion you can think of—like canoeing, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, ATVing, and skiing. 

But these recreation opportunities aren’t just for fun—they also serve a purpose. Dr. Drzewiecki continues, “we have so many different options there, which we marry with an experiential philosophy of therapy.” So, you’re having fun and healing, all at the same time. This is the heart of adventure therapy: to enjoy yourself while you experience personal growth.

All Points North Lodge Pool
The beautiful Rockies surround All Points North Lodge in Vail Valley, Colorado.

Using Adventure to Reach Therapy Goals 

Throughout the adventure therapy process,2 clients should feel like they’re in between their “comfort zone” and “panic zone.” Researchers in one study coined this desired “zone” the “groan zone.” In this mental state, people feel more attentive and open to new experiences.

There are several common goals that adventure therapy aims to accomplish1 while people are in the “groan zone:”

  • increased self-awareness, which contributes to a better understanding of how their behavior affects outcomes
  • higher accountability, both to themselves and to others
  • healthier coping skills, which leads to better self-control
  • more positive beliefs about themselves, and less negative ones
  • better creative problem-solving, communication, and cooperation strategies
  • realistic understanding of their own strengths, weaknesses, and self-imposed limitations, which leads to better decision making

Wilderness therapy is a specific type of adventure therapy with similar goals. Although they both take place outside, there are slight differences between the 2 therapies.

Is Wilderness Therapy the Same as Adventure Therapy?

Wilderness therapy is a type of adventure therapy3 that is especially popular for treating teens. Wilderness generally takes place in uninhabited areas in nature, often far from urban environments. Groups are immersed in the outdoors, usually for a lengthy amount of time. Adventure therapy, on the other hand, often consists of much shorter outings and isn’t necessarily done in a group. Wilderness therapy4 consists of 3 core elements:

  • time spent in the wild
  • physical activity outside
  • a group setting that encourages camaraderie as well as personal growth

Ideally, the challenges participants face in these settings, and the personal strengths and group support they draw on to overcome them, bring on breakthroughs that can lead to lasting changes. 

Why the Great Outdoors are Great for Your Mental Health

Regardless of the activity, simply being in nature is good for you.5 Studies show that spending time outside can improve mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. And, research shows that trying adventurous activities can also have positive effects on mental state.6 

Adventure therapy can also help people access emotions that might be difficult to verbalize in talk therapy. And they can do so in a safe and supportive environment, where a qualified therapist is there to help when they feel triggered. And back at the rehab, clinicians are available to help clients process whatever their experience brings up for them. 

Benefits for Teens: Boosting Moods, Reducing Screen Time 

Pacific Quest in Hilo, Hawaii is a wilderness therapy program that helps young adults tune into the present moment.

Adventure therapy, and particularly wilderness therapy, can be especially healing for teens.4 Adolescents are more likely to use technology—the average American teenager spends 6.5 hours per day staring at screens.7 Adventure therapy can help them get off of their devices and out into the natural world. And time in nature is important—it promotes mindfulness, which in turn improves overall well-being. By placing the focus on the present moment, mindfulness can reduce symptoms of conditions like depression and anxiety.8

Because young people are often distracted with their phones, teens are spending less time outside than previous generations. This contributes to “nature-deficit disorder,”9 according to journalist and author Richard Louv—and it’s a serious concern. According to this theory, the reduction in time outdoors causes negative behavioral changes, like shorter tempers and moodiness.

However, some programs are aiming to combat this by fighting fire with…nature. One study found that 10 weeks of Wilderness Adventure Therapy (WAT) improved the mental health of adolescents.10 Immediately after the study ended, participants reported better psychological resilience and higher self-esteem. At a 3-month follow up, participants had less depressive symptoms as well as improved behavioral and emotional functioning.

The benefits clients get from wilderness therapy ripple into different parts of their lives, like their relationships with others.

Benefits for Families: Less Conflict, Better Communication 

Teens aren’t the only ones who benefit from adventure therapy. Reconnecting with nature can benefit the whole family.11 This is true whether a teen attends the program alone or with other family members. 

In the wilderness, communication is vital. Whether you’re talking about a meal time or a rendezvous point, mistakes can have clear consequences. In this environment, teens quickly learn to communicate with both adults and their peers. And when they return home, they can put this skill to use within their family system. 

Some rehab centers even offer adventure therapy programs for families. Others invite family members to join in some counseling sessions. Wasatch Crest, for example, encourages families to get involved in their loved one’s recovery by offering family therapy and allowing family visits. In addition, their treatment team provides families with support, and invites them to maintain contact with their loved one.

Wasatch Crest has an adventure-based residential program in Heber, Utah.

These programs have a noticeable impact on treatment. In one study, parents who underwent outdoor family therapy said it helped them understand their children’s needs.11 They even felt like treatment improved their parenting skills. In another, teens felt less anger toward their parents after completing this type of treatment. 

Improving family relationships is an important part of addiction recovery. This sets them up for success after treatment by making sure they have a strong support network in place.

Adventures in the Recovery Journey 

Adventure therapy can support addiction recovery. In one study, teens who completed a 70-day wilderness therapy program showed significant improvements12 in several areas:

  • psychological resilience
  • social confidence
  • behavioral functioning
  • emotional operating
  • decreased depressive symptoms

These all reduce the likelihood that someone will use substances. People struggling with their mental health may turn to substances13 to cope with their symptoms. But when people feel good about themselves, they don’t need to use drugs or alcohol to alleviate those negative thoughts and emotions. And they’re more likely to use healthy coping mechanisms instead of relying on harmful ones.

This might be why people who exercise are less likely to engage in drug use.14 Adventure therapy programs can help clients get back into physical activities, which can be beneficial for recovery. For example, research shows that people who completed physical exercise programs had a reduction in drug and alcohol cravings afterwards. Physical activity can also increase abstinence rates, decrease withdrawal symptoms, and improve overall quality of life. And, exercise decreases stress.14 Because experts agree that stress is a common cause of relapse, physical activity is important for people with addictions.

Who Should Try This Approach?

People who already thrive outdoors are great candidates for this type of treatment. But you don’t need to be an expert to reap the benefits. Trained guides teach newcomers the ropes—both literally and figuratively. They’ll make beginners feel comfortable (even if they’re in an uncomfortable place) and make sure they’re staying safe as they push themselves to overcome new challenges.

However, you should consult with a medical doctor before enrolling in an adventure therapy program. If you’ve just completed detox and are experiencing post-acute withdrawal symptoms, for example, you may not be ready for intense physical activity. And some people may have physical or mental conditions that might make it difficult, or even dangerous, to complete the activities at the rehab center.

Is Adventure Therapy Safe?

For the most part, adventure therapy is safe. Treatment centers employ guides with certifications and experience to safely conduct activities. As long as participants listen to the guide’s directions, there’s very little danger. The goal is for people to heal in a new context, and move away from reckless behavior.

If you have concerns about safety or legitimacy, talk to your rehab’s admissions team about who leads these programs, what credentials they hold and how they ensure the therapeutic value of outings. 

Learn more about rehab team members’ qualifications here.

Sober Fun and Newfound Joys 

If you love nature and want to try something new, adventure therapy can be a powerful treatment experience. This approach invites you to challenge yourself, both physically and emotionally, which can be highly rewarding. And as you build confidence, you set yourself up for success throughout recovery.

In recovery, it’s not just important to abstain from substances, but to find things that make sobriety fun and fulfilling. Outdoor adventure can give you a chance to connect with nature—and with others who enjoy doing the same.

See our directory of rehabs that offer adventure therapy to search for activities that interest you, as well as see facility photos, program highlights, pricing information, and more.

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Innovative Therapies and Immediate Care: Why Go to Private Rehab in London

London, like many other cosmopolitan areas, is full of diversity and culture. The many languages, ethnicities, and nationalities found here lend the city a unique and lively feel. History seeps from every cobblestone corner, and bright red double-decker buses whiz past famous landmarks like Big Ben and Westminster Abbey.

While a busy city may sound counterintuitive to recovery—people often equate healing with the quiet countryside—it’s still possible to find serenity in this metropolis. Countless parks speckle the city and serve as sanctuaries amidst the hustle and bustle. And rehab centers in London provide necessary pockets of peace. While inside, you might completely forget that the busy city is right outside the front door.

There are several benefits to attending private rehab in London. At some facilities, you’ll come across novel techniques, like TMS and Alpha-Stim therapy. You’ll experience a relatively mild climate that stays relatively warm all year round. And most importantly, you’ll have rapid access to high-quality care, instead of waiting for a spot in an NHS facility.

Should You Opt for Self-Pay?

All UK citizens are eligible for free addiction and mental health treatment. However, getting government funding to attend rehab1 can be complex. This process is often lengthy, and you’ll have to attend the first available facility. This likely won’t be the rehab of your choice.

By choosing to self-fund treatment, you’ll get to choose from a variety of options. There’s a good chance this means enrolling in your preferred center. Attending a private rehab streamlines your admission process. You’ll get faster access to care—and find safety that much sooner.

Some luxury facilities offer unique treatment options that NHS clinics don’t. By opting to self-pay, you can choose a center with innovative care methods that fit your unique needs.

Cutting-Edge Treatment Techniques

London is home to a number of universities, hospitals, and research centers. As these institutions study new treatment methods, rehab centers may add them to their list of services. In London, this means that clients can try novel therapies for treatment-resistant conditions, like Alpha-Stim therapy and esketamine.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

TMS is a non-invasive treatment that aids in relief from addiction, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. This procedure uses magnetic pulses that stimulate or suppress areas of the brain. While there are different kinds of TMS, repetitive TMS (rTMS) is one of the most popular. In rTMS, repeating pulses are applied to specific places in your brain that correlate to your mental health condition.

The rTMS Centre specializes in this treatment. Clients can even see how rTMS works2 in person before committing to sessions. While some people experience side effects, they’re usually minor.

Alpha-Stim Therapy

In Alpha-Stim therapy,3 clients use a handheld device to send microcurrents to their brain. While this technique is especially effective for people experiencing PTSD, anxiety, depression, and insomnia, many others can still benefit from it. At The Soke, clients can utilize this treatment in relaxation pods after a talk therapy session.

Esketamine

For some clients, severe depressive symptoms remain despite medication and therapy. This is treatment-resistant depression. Fortunately, there are plenty of alternative options available—one of which is esketamine, a version of ketamine available in nasal spray form.4 When used in combination with medication, this prescription nasal spray is more effective than antidepressants alone.

Nightingale Hospital prescribes this spray to both outpatient and inpatient clients. After receiving your diagnosis, you’ll work with a health professional to determine your exact dosage. A psychiatrist will help clients administer this alternative depression treatment5 in 2 phases:

  • an induction phase, in which clients use the spray twice per week for one month
  • a maintenance phase, where treatment frequency lessens to once per week or every other week

However, clients may experience side effects such as dizziness, headaches, nausea, or vertigo. It’s also important to note that certain conditions make you ineligible for this medication. If you’re considering this esketamine in rehab, you’ll discuss your health history with your treatment team to determine if it could work for you.

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

ECT also treats clients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD).6 During this process, you will be under general anesthesia while electric currents trigger a small seizure in your brain. This procedure can alter your brain chemistry, which may help alleviate depressive symptoms. While this might sound intimidating, experts agree that ECT is safe for most people. According to the National Library of Medicine, “ECT is a relatively safe7 and low-risk procedure.”

At Nightingale Hospital, medical professionals will decide whether ECT is a good fit for you. If it is, you’ll have access to this treatment at 2 different hospitals: St. Charles Hospital, Ladbroke Grove, and Northwick Park Hospital, Harrow. A private nurse escort will accompany you to and from each location to make your journey that much more comfortable.

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Nightingale Hospital is a private mental health facility in Marylebone, the heart of London.

Unique Treatments for Your Specific Needs

Luxury rehabs in London cater to a varied group of people. And because London is one of the most diverse cities in the UK8—if not the world—health professionals are used to accommodating many different needs. Each center has their own unique specialties. It’s possible that one of them will fit your personal preferences.

Treatment for Clients With Eating Disorders

Everyone’s relationship to food is different. And if you have an eating disorder, it might be a little more complicated. For example, you might restrict your eating habits or view food as an emotional escape. Choosing a rehab facility that specializes in eating disorder treatment is crucial. These centers understand how to help you create healthy eating habits so that you can heal from the inside out.

Clients with eating disorders will find a supportive place to heal at Wimbledon Park Clinic This facility specializes in conditions like anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder (BED), and other specified feeding or eating disorders (OSFED).

Wimbledon Park Clinic has both traditional talk therapies and eating disorder-specific programs. These include body image therapy, nutrition classes, and exposure therapy. During exposure sessions, therapists slowly introduce food-related activities. For example, clients may shop for food, create nutritionally rich recipes, or order a meal in a restaurant under the guidance of specialized staff. This allows them to practice challenging situations they’ll face in real life with professional support. 

Tucked away in the suburbs of South West London, Wimbledon Park Clinic offers a quiet, safe environment for eating disorder treatment.

Flexible Attendance Options: Outpatient and Stepped Care

Responsibilities at home can make outpatient care your best option. For example, you may have children or a full-time job—or both. Some rehab facilities have intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) to fill this need. An outpatient program requires you to attend rehab during the day, but allows you to sleep in your home at night. Some have flexible schedules that clients adjust to fit their needs.

Clients at Schoen Clinic Chelsea can opt for partial or full-day outpatient care. Their stepped care model allows you to complete treatment at your own pace.9 With stepped care,10 clients move through rehab in “steps.” This means they start with the least intensive, most cost effective methods, such as group therapy. From there, they work their way up to more specialized and expensive care, like individual therapy and medication. Specialists will evaluate your progress, and determine when you’re ready to move to the next “step.” This creates a more flexible treatment plan, and lets you attend rehab in a way that works best for you.

Single-Client Treatment

Some clients prefer 1-on-1 care, in which they’re the only person in treatment at the rehab center. A team of health professionals will focus on you and yo​​ur family—and no one else. Because there are no other clients around, you only take part in individual therapy. These highly confidential environments allow for complete anonymity and are perfect for high-profile clients.

At Harbor London, you’ll have the ability to personalize both your treatment plans and your residence. You’re able to choose the accommodation that best suits you. Treatment is flexible. You’ll work with your personal team to customize everything from your daily schedule to activities. And if in-person therapy doesn’t fit your needs, you can join an online program instead. Harbor London even has in-home services—meaning their team will give you 24-hour care in your own home. This allows you to feel as comfortable as possible during your recovery journey.

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You can receive treatment at Harbor London‘s boutique facility in Mayfair, London, or opt for their in-home service.

Tailored Rehab for Arabic Communities 

London has a thriving British-Arab community. According to a 2011 census, the largest population of British Arabs in England11 is in London. Because of this, Harbor London curated a rehab service for Arabs.12 Their team of Arabic-speaking specialists incorporate their understanding of cultural and religious nuances into treatment. This will help you feel more at ease during your recovery process.

Recovery in London’s Multicultural Atmosphere

With about 9 million people, London is the biggest city in the UK. It’s become an international hub of people from all over the world. These worldly influences reveal themselves in the city’s rich culture.

London’s many museums, movie theaters, and art galleries provide plenty of opportunities for unique cultural experiences. Some rehab centers take clients on excursions to explore the local area. For example, PROMIS London offers outings to museums, shopping areas and cinemas.

Some rehabs even bring the arts into the treatment experience.

Let London’s Arts Inspire Your Creativity 

London emphasizes the arts, and rehab is no exception. A number of treatment centers offer therapies that encourage clients to get creative. That’s because the process of making art can be highly cathartic for those in addiction treatment. Creativity is good for your mental health:13 studies show that engaging in imaginative activities reduces stress,13 decreases anxiety, and helps you process emotions. Nightingale Hospital capitalizes on the healing power of the arts through several types of creative therapy:14

  • dance therapy, in which clients use movement to process and explore emotions
  • art therapy, which can include painting, photography, or sculpting
  • drama therapy,15 which encourages clients to use action to move past traumatic events or emotions
  • music therapy, where clients play or listen to music to better understand their feelings

These therapies allow you to express yourself and work through difficult experiences in a safe space. And who knows—you may even find a new hobby in the process.

Care Close to the City

If you want to stay close to London but would prefer a quieter setting, there are several rehab centers located just outside of the city. For example, you’ll find The Cottage in the Surrey countryside, just under an hour away. Because of its secluded location, clients enjoy a truly private experience—the residence is even hidden from public view. And because of the proximity to nature, this center has plenty of activities that require a natural setting, like horseback riding and fly fishing.

the cottage surrey
The Cottage treats 1 client at a time at their Surrey countryside property.

Remember that there’s no right or wrong place to heal, just like there’s no right or wrong way to approach recovery. You get to choose where to begin your journey, whether that’s in the busy capital or the calmer countryside—there are plenty of luxury rehabs in the UK in quieter locations. Regardless of where you go, the weather in and near London will be similar.

London’s Mild Year-Round Climate

The city’s southeast location means London has a relatively temperate climate16—one of the mildest in the UK. The crisp winters boast an average temperature of 42 °F (5.5 °C) in January. The summers are slightly warmer, with daytime temperatures averaging 65 °F (18 °C) in July. 

And contrary to popular belief, the sun does shine. Statistics declare sunshine about 5 days out of 6, although it can be brief. While rain is not uncommon (it’s wet about 165 days of the year), London sees plenty of dry days too. And they’re distributed fairly evenly—it rains equally throughout each season. Sometimes this turns to snow in the winter, but it usually melts quickly.

Overall, London’s weather is quite moderate. It’s much colder up north; the climate in the southern portion of England is toasty in comparison.

The weather isn’t the only thing that’s great about London’s location. It’s also a travel mecca, making it much easier to reach your final destination with ease.

6 International Airports Make Arriving at Rehab Simple

With more international airports than any other city in the world, flying to London17 is easy. Heathrow and London Gatwick are the 2 busiest airports, and you’ll likely fly into one of them if you’re arriving from outside of the UK. The United Kingdom has over 40 airports,18 which also makes it easy to come from a nearby area.

Some rehab facilities organize an airport pickup service for their clients. While London has an extensive public transportation system, navigating it on your own is often overwhelming. Contact your center’s admission team to coordinate your arrival so you’ll begin treatment stress-free.

Rehab in London is Just a Call Away

Whether you already live in the city or want to take advantage of easy access to this well-appointed capital, London is a convenient location to start treatment. Because it’s so well connected to the rest of the world, it’s easy to catch a flight here from almost anywhere. And because it’s such an international city, people of all different backgrounds have a better chance of finding the culturally competent care they need. 
See our curated list of rehabs in London to discover more cutting-edge treatment methods, view self-pay costs, and get prompt access to life-changing care.

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Affordable Luxury Care in the Tropics: 7 Reasons to Consider Rehab in Malaysia

Lush surroundings, cost-effective treatment, and quality care: these are just a few of the advantages of luxury rehabs in Malaysia. 

Treatment facilities here can help you heal from the inside out. And with plenty of interesting activities, holistic treatments, and personalized programs available, Malaysia is the perfect backdrop for many people’s recovery journeys. We’ll explore those reasons in depth below.

1. Malaysia’s Dense Rainforests and Dreamy Coastlines are Healing Settings

In the tropical climate of Malaysia, vibrant rainforests teem with life. Bright vegetation encircles the capital city, Kuala Lumpur. Hot weather combines with plentiful rain to make greenery flourish. Green gives way to blue once you reach the sandy beaches that ring the country’s coastlines.

If this is the setting you’d like to start your recovery journey in, you’re in luck: several luxury rehabs offer comprehensive care in Malaysia. One such facility is Shine Wave Retreat, in the hills of Johor Bahru. Palm trees pepper the outdoor patio and grassy knolls surround the campus. Patients find refuge at this private oasis while they seek recovery for mental health conditions like anger, depression, or bipolar disorder.

Unique Jungle and Ocean Activities 

Some rehabs in Malaysia plan outings that immerse clients into the stunning landscape. Solace Asia, for example, has a variety of exhilarating outdoor activities to choose from. Time here might include white water rafting on local rivers, spotting monkeys, birds, and lizards on local trails in the forest, or reef diving among tropical fish and sea turtles.

Whatever adventure you embark upon, you won’t just be having fun—you’ll also be healing. Research shows that challenging yourself with new activities is beneficial for mental health.1 Adventurous pursuits make you feel good because they activate the same areas of the brain that rewards do. Learning new things strengthens your brain by creating new pathways. You’ll build confidence by accomplishing things that scare you. And you’ll feel more fulfilled—“a sense of flourishing,” says Frank Farley, Ph.D., a professor at Temple University.

And thanks to the tropical climate, it’s possible to do many of these activities most days of the year.

2. The Year-Round Warm Climate 

You can expect temperatures in Malaysia2 to range from warm (23°C or 73°F) to hot (32°C or 90°F). Because Malaysia has a tropical clim​​ate,3 conditions will be both humid and rainy. Monsoons bring heavy rainfall. The northeast monsoon lasts from November to March, and the southwest monsoon occurs from May to October.

If you’re wondering what to pack for rehab, definitely bring clothes for hot weather. However, most people in Malaysia are Muslim and dress conservatively. Because of this, it’s more acceptable to wear loose, lightweight clothing with more coverage for outings. A staff member at your facility can help you decide what to bring.

3. Malaysia Rehabs Accommodate Your Needs

It’s important to have your needs met as you focus on the challenging work of recovery. Whether you have diet restrictions or co-occurring mental health conditions, luxury treatment facilities in Malaysia are happy to accommodate.

Special Programs for Adolescents and Young Adults

No one is exempt from mental health conditions. Children, teens, and adults can all face challenges like depression or anxiety. In fact, research shows that mental health issues are on the rise in kids.4 And many struggle with additional distress due to recent world events. A report from the World Health Organization (WHO) found a 25% increase in anxiety and depression5 of people worldwide in 2020. 

Fortunately, centers like Shine Wave Retreat and The Wave Youth Clinic offer specialized treatment for young people, so no one is left behind.

The Wave Youth Clinic in Kuala Lumpur is a dedicated teen and young adult treatment center. Their full spectrum of care includes boarding and education, outpatient, and online services.

The Wave Youth clinic
An indoor pool, yoga deck, and outdoor basketball court are some of the amenities available at The Wave Youth Clinic in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Flexible Dietary Offerings

Good nutrition is crucial in recovery as you heal from the damage of substances and stress. Whether you’re gluten-free, dairy-free, plant-based, or adhering to religious guidelines, treatment centers cater to clients’ dietary needs.

At Serene Retreat, staff can prepare Kosher, Halal, vegan, or vegetarian meals. At Solace Asia, all food served follows Halal guidelines. Many luxury rehabs place a focus on healthy eating and will gladly adjust their menus to your dietary restrictions—check with admissions staff for details. 

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Mental health conditions often underlie substance use disorders. This is known as a “co-occurring disorder” or “dual diagnosis,” and many people aren’t aware of this until they discover it in treatment. It’s more common than you may think: about 9.2 million adults in the U.S. have a co-occurring disorder.6

Co-occurring disorders are complex, and require treatment by a team that truly understands them. You might require a combination of techniques that involve clinical, holistic, and medication-assisted care. Solace Asia is one rehab that specializes in dual diagnosis treatment.  Clinicians work with clients to create a personalized treatment plan that’s based on psychotherapy and may or may not include medication, depending on your needs. 

solace sabah slide 0
Solace Asia‘s quiet, tropical property sits tucked away in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

4. Healing (and Happiness) With Holistic Care

Luxury rehabs in Malaysia emphasize holistic care. Holistic treatment focuses on the whole person, addressing physical, mental, spiritual, and social needs as part of the recovery journey. Mind-body practices like yoga and mindfulness meditation facilitate the healing process and reconnect you to your happiness.

“Many of us forget to be happy,” says Solace Asia’s CEO & Clinical Director Dr. Prem Kumar Shanmugam. “Happiness is the basis of living. And I think whatever we do, it has to be based on being happy.”

Yoga

Yoga combines breath and movement to calm the mind and rebalance the body. Its many health benefits include reducing stress, depression, and anxiety.7 Avoiding difficult emotions is a huge driver of addictive behavior. But yoga helps people come into an easier, less judgmental relationship with these feelings—thus decreasing the urge to use.

It’s no surprise, then, that yoga is a common fixture at many rehabs. And this holds true at treatment centers in Malaysia, like Shine Wave Retreat, where clients are encouraged to take part in regular classes.

Art Therapy

You don’t have to be a skilled artist to try art therapy; the goal of this experiential therapy is to serve as an outlet for your personal expression. Art therapy provides a safe environment to process feelings that are difficult to discuss. 

According to research, art therapy supports the recovery journey8 in these ways:

  • boosts self-esteem
  • improves self-awareness
  • builds emotional resilience
  • develops social skills
  • increases insight
  • reduces stress

The Wave Youth Clinic uses art therapy to help their teen and young adult clients through a variety of challenges. “Art therapy offers our young people a safe form of emotional expression and communication, unrestricted by language and/or communication difficulties,” says the center’s Clinical Lead, Mahisha Naidu. “The art offers a bridge between their inner world and the outside world, free of the confines of meeting certain levels of cognitive functioning.”

5. Cost-Effective Recovery

Rehabs in Malaysia are extremely affordable compared to other countries. At Serene Retreat, clients pay MYR 25,000 (about $5,500 USD or £4,500 GBP) for 28 days. 

Rehabs in the West have a much higher cost—private rehabs in the U.S., for example, average $1,000 USD per day or more. Treatment in Malaysia means all-inclusive care at an accessible price point. 

serene retreat sabah dining
Serene Retreat in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia offers luxury accommodation at an accessible price point.

CEO & Clinical Director of Solace Asia, Dr. Prem Kumar Shanmugam says increasing access to mental health treatment is part of Solace Asia’s mission:

“When we first started Solace, our mission was to make sure anyone suffering from addiction could recover and live a normal life. After a few years, we revisited our mission and realized we have to make treatment affordable to the masses.”

And budget-friendly options don’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort. Luxury rehabs here are well-appointed with amenities like gourmet dining, outdoor pools, fitness facilities, adventure outings, and more.

6. Ambitious Treatment Standards

Many rehabs in Malaysia strive to stay up to date on the latest research and treatments. Dr. Shanmugam explains how the team at Solace Asia works to continually improve their programming: 

“We have a team of addiction treatment experts who are certified in this field specifically,” says Shanmugam.

“We make sure that our clinical team goes for training continuously. We are involved in research, in publications. We constantly keep ourselves updated with the latest treatment approaches.”

The Wave Youth Clinic also strives for clinical excellence, aiming to “raise the bar in the standards of family and adolescent therapy” internationally. Their integrated treatment approach is based on 7 core elements: clinical, medical, education, global citizenship, outside-inside, experiences, and destination future. 

7. Easy Air Travel

Malaysia has 6 international and 16 domestic airports.9 You’ll most likely fly into the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), as this is the main international airport. Once you arrive in Malaysia, it’s easy to take a connecting flight to an airport closer to your final destination. Most luxury rehabs can help you arrange airport transfers, and some can even connect you with sober coaches or companions to accompany you on the journey to the facility. 

See more on arranging treatment abroad in our article on traveling to rehab. 

Find Peace in the Land Below the Wind

Malaysian rehabs can be a great option for those who want treatment in a luxury setting, at non-luxury prices. The country’s incredible jungle and beach destinations and relaxed pace of life can go a long way toward easing the transition into recovery. 

See our list of luxury treatment centers in Malaysia to learn more about facilities, pricing, and program highlights, and reach out to admissions staff directly.

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India’s Holistic Rehabs Treat Your Mind, Body, and Spirit

Travelers are drawn to India for its beautiful landscape and tropical climate. This country is perfect for people who enjoy warmer weather and striking views of the Himalayas, lush jungles, or vast beaches. And its vibrant culture has a focus on holistic wellness—which is a great fit for some people in recovery.

If you’re interested in integrated treatment for addiction, you may find what you’re looking for at a rehab in India. This approach is designed to help you heal as a whole person, instead of only treating one health issue at a time. 

What Is Holistic Treatment?

Most of India’s rehab centers take a holistic approach to addiction recovery. The goal is to help you heal your mind, body, and spirit as one. These programs also have a strong focus on spirituality. Treatment may include activities like yoga, meditation, and massage.

Some of these alternative methods are controversial, due to a lack of scientific data deemed legitimate in the Western world. However, many people find these ancient treatments helpful. Holistic techniques may be gentler than Western ones, with a larger-picture approach to healing and a greater focus on sustainable wellness. For instance, you may be able to go through treatment without taking prescribed medications. Instead, clients use diet and exercise as tools to improve their mental health.

And there’s no need to choose one philosophy over the other. You can do yoga and take antidepressants. You can join a support group and meditate. Some rehabs even recommend this combination approach. Lotus Wellness and Rehabilitation Center, for example, combines traditional Ayurveda with Western biomedical treatments. 

Lotus Wellness and Rehabilitation Center blog
Lotus Wellness and Rehabilitation Center in Tamil Nadu, India, combines holistic and Western treatment methods.

India’s Most Popular Therapies

You’ll encounter many different holistic treatment methods at rehab facilities around the country. These are some of the most popular.

Meditation and Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a practice that teaches you to just be in the present moment. These exercises can help you cultivate self-awareness and improve emotion regulation.

Meditation is a mindfulness technique that helps quiet your mind. You’ll feel more at peace, and learn to let your thoughts pass by, without attaching emotions to them. And you don’t have to meditate for hours to reap the benefits. Meditating for only 13 minutes a day, over the course of 8 weeks, had a profound effect1 on participants in one study. After treatment, they felt more positive and less anxious, and their memories improved. And mindful meditation can be an effective treatment2 for addiction.

Most treatment centers in India offer some form of mindfulness training. For example, Kairali The Ayurvedic Healing Village provides daily group meditation sessions.

Kairali The Ayurvedic Healing Village‘s peaceful surroundings in Kerala, India, set the tone for their meditation sessions.

Yoga for Mental Health and Addiction

You don’t need to be flexible or strong to try yoga. While this practice has physical benefits, it’s also about self-acceptance—not competition. And because yoga originated in India, you’ll get the full experience by practicing here. You may even enjoy it enough to continue after you leave rehab.

In addition to its physical health benefits, research shows that yoga contributes to positive mental health outcomes.3 It is especially helpful for people who are quitting smoking.  

These positive effects translate to people with other mental health conditions as well, like women with PTSD.4 One study discovered that practicing yoga for 12 weeks decreased these subjects’ PTSD symptoms. These changes were present both right after the study and at the 3-month follow up.

People in addiction recovery5 can also benefit from yoga. Research shows that yoga minimizes stress, decreases addictive behaviors, improves confidence, and increases self-control for these patients. One survey even found that yoga is “an effective tool” for people in every stage of recovery.6 Because this practice addresses both physical and spiritual wellness, it can be an important part of integrated treatment.

Ayurvedic Medicine

Ayurveda,7 also called Ayurvedic medicine, is an ancient, holistic approach to health. It teaches that diet, exercise, and herbal remedies can all contribute to a healthy lifestyle. 

Providers at Kairali The Ayurvedic Healing Village incorporate Ayurvedic teachings into rehab for addiction, chronic pain, and other conditions. They describe these techniques by explaining that “the human body is made up of 3 components,” or doshas.  Each dosha has 2 distinct elements:

  • Vata consists of space and air. Vata controls movement in the body and mind, like blood flow, waste elimination, breathing, and thought.
  • Pitta consists of fire and water. It is associated with heat, metabolism, and transformation within the mind and body. These functions include digestion, perceptions, and understanding right and wrong.
  • Kapha includes water and earth. This dosha governs structure and lubrication in both the mind and body, like the joints, lungs, and body tissues.

Depending on your specific needs, you may try various Ayurvedic therapies during inpatient treatment. These may include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Abhyangam is a type of oil massage that improves sleep, circulation, and more.
  • During Podikizhi, the practitioner pounds warm bundles of herbs onto the body. This relieves muscle spasms and joint stiffness.
  • In Sirovasti, a clinician pours oil into specially-designed head gear while you wear it. This treatment relieves migraines, stress, sinusitis, and other issues.
  • During Kavalagraham, you’ll gargle oils and other Ayurvedic medicines to promote oral health.
  • Dhoompanam is a practice in which you inhale medicinal smoke intended to detox your body.

Your Ayurvedic practice doesn’t have to end when you leave rehab. Kairali The Ayurvedic Healing Village also provides lectures on Ayurveda every week, helping clients learn how to implement these techniques into daily life.

Acupuncture for Physical and Mental Wellness

During an acupuncture session,8 a trained acupuncturist will insert small needles into specific anatomical points. These points correspond with meridians, which are channels of energy that run throughout the body. The goal is to remove energy blockages, so that your qi—or vital energy—can flow freely. According to traditional Chinese medicine, this treatment can improve your physical, mental, and spiritual health. 

Massage for Detox and Recovery

Massage treatments can help you heal—both mentally and physically. Research suggests that massage therapy can treat chronic pain and various mental health conditions.9 And it’s hugely beneficial for people in early recovery from addiction. In fact, massage might even help decrease withdrawal symptoms.10 Rehab centers in India may offer Western styles of massage, Ayurvedic massage, or a combination of these techniques.

Ayurvedic massage techniques11 incorporate special oils, which are chosen based on the client’s energetic balance. Different oils correspond with the doshas, and are used to achieve specific purposes during treatment. Your provider may also stimulate certain pressure points that correspond to other areas of the body.

Mamta Landerman, president of the California Association of Ayurvedic Medicine, addresses the importance of Ayurvedic massage.12 “Ayurveda addresses therapies that relate to all the 5 senses,” she says. “And a very important component is the sense of touch.” For many clients, this is an essential part of holistic treatment.

Nutritional Therapy

A balanced diet can contribute to better health—and not just physically. In fact, studies show that good nutrition improves mental health,13 lowering depression and anxiety.

Because of this, most rehabs in India offer some form of nutritional therapy. For example, many centers will design a personalized nutrition plan for each client. These healthy, organic meals help you heal from the inside out. 

Kairali The Ayurvedic Healing Village takes it a step further. This center offers cooking classes, where clients learn to make their own rejuvenating meals. With this new skill, you can continue to eat well even after returning home. And, like any other creative pursuit, cooking can help you find joy in recovery. 

Train Your Brain With Music

Studies show that listening to music can decrease anxiety.14 Research suggests that music may even be more effective than anti-anxiety medication. Music has a natural ability to boost levels of certain hormones in your brain—like dopamine—that can increase positive feelings. In addition, music can decrease cortisol, which is the hormone involved in stress. Because of the role dopamine plays in addiction,15 the chemical effects of music can support your recovery process.

Alpha Healing Center offers various holistic treatments, including a Brain Health Training Program. In this program, clients participate in various activities, one of which is Brain Music Therapy. They describe Brain Music Therapy as an innovative treatment “based on the premise that personalized music derived from a guest’s own brain wave patterns can affect emotional stability.” Because this treatment hasn’t produced any negative side effects, it’s safe to try, and worth combining with other therapies. 

Alpha Healing Center India blog
Located in Gujarat, India, Alpha Healing Center offers innovative holistic treatments like Brain Music Therapy.

Hypnotherapy for Substance Misuse

According to researchers, hypnosis16 is a “state of awareness, (or consciousness), in which a person’s attention is detached from his or her immediate environment and is absorbed by inner experiences.” Hypnotherapy is just what it sounds like: receiving therapy while under hypnosis. 

Research shows that this treatment can minimize pain and emotional stress. It’s highly effective for patients with depression17 and anxiety.18 And one study found that “clinical hypnotherapy is a powerful promoter of mental and behavioral change” for people healing from addiction.19 In the right environment, this can be an inspiring way to start your recovery journey.

How to Travel to—And Within—India

India’s 2 largest airports20 are Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi and  Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai. Each one serves over 80 destinations. Because of this, it’s easy to travel to rehab in India—although it may be a long flight.

In addition to India’s 30+ international airports,21 there are more than 100 domestic ones scattered throughout the country. This makes it easy to take a quick flight if you’re traveling within India. 

If you fly to rehab, most centers will pick you up from the airport. 

If you’re traveling internationally, you may need a visa for India.22 These regulations vary by country, and you may need to apply in advance. Check with your rehab’s admissions team to see if they can help you arrange for travel.

Start Your Recovery Journey in India

If you’d like to begin your healing journey in a place that emphasizes spiritual and personal wellness, India might be a great fit. Maybe you want to surround yourself with people who share your values. Or if you’re coming from abroad, you might not have access to these treatments in your home country. Whatever your reasons, India is waiting for you. And so is your recovery.

Visit our list of rehab centers in India to learn about their philosophies, amenities, and unique treatment options.

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Music Therapy: Why Are Therapists Singing Its Praises?

Music can be more than just a fun hobby—it can actually be therapeutic. Many people enjoy playing or listening to music for its mood-boosting qualities, and music therapy takes this a step further. This type of therapy uses music as a tool during recovery. Music can help alleviate the symptoms of many mental health issues, and even addiction.

If you love listening to music or playing instruments, you may want to consider attending a rehab center with music therapy. This treatment is more than just listening to music. Music therapists have to complete a certification program in order to work with clients. Then, they’ll use the psychology and music concepts that they’ve learned to meet the needs of the client during sessions.

Music as a Catalyst for Change

Music therapy is an alternative therapy method1 that can help you heal from a variety of mental health issues, including drug addiction. Similar to sound healing, music therapy uses the properties of sound during sessions. With both modalities, the idea is that these sounds will help you through your recovery process. According to researchers, music therapy is the “the clinical and evidence-informed use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship in order to achieve physical, emotional, mental, social and cognitive needs.”

Recovery Unplugged Nashville is a rehab center with a strong focus on music-assisted treatment.2 In fact, this program integrates music into every part of recovery. Clients get personalized recovery playlists, and access to their own private music studios. They can also enjoy live performances from alumni and other artists in recovery.

“Music can be a catalyst for real change,” says Richie Supa, the Director of Creative Recovery at Recovery Unplugged. “When they hear it through a song, it’s non-threatening, and there’s a certain connectivity that happens. That’s the magic of what music does.”

The Sound of Music: What Happens in a Therapy Session

During your session, a trained music therapist will utilize “musical components,”1 like pitch, melody, and harmony to focus on various therapeutic goals. These can include better communication, expression, or any other areas you’re working on.. The therapist will also use music to help access the client’s feelings and memories, discuss social situations, or impact behavior.

“We use music to be able to open up a conversation,” says Marissa Duane, the Group Facilitator at Recovery Unplugged. “Or to deepen what we’re talking about in a specific topic.”

You don’t have to be a musical genius to benefit from music therapy. You just need to be willing to try something new. Your therapist will guide you the rest of the way, depending on the technique that they choose.

Most music therapists use 1 of 2 methods to help you accomplish your goals.

Active Music Therapy

In this form of music therapy,3 the client actively makes music. You might play a musical instrument, sing, improvise, or write music or lyrics. Musical improvisation is the most popular type of music therapy.1 During the session, the client and therapist will improvise together, either playing freely or following a specific structure.

The music therapist may use a mirroring technique to better understand the client’s needs. This is known as “patient-therapist attunement.” During this exercise, the therapist matches their music to the client’s, until they’re almost playing in unison. Then, the therapist can use the “Iso Principle” to shift the client’s mood. With this technique, the therapist gradually changes the tone of what you’re playing together. The goal here is to change the mood,  and eventually elicit a new emotion. For example, slow and steady music can lower your heart rate, and help you calm down. So if the music therapist wants to decrease the client’s stress, they may start to play more slowly and quietly. Ideally, the client naturally follows their lead, and reaps the benefits of that change in tempo.

Receptive Music Therapy

During receptive music therapy,3 the client “receives,” or listens to, music. The therapist may guide the client through music-assisted relaxation, guided imagery and music, or lyric analysis. The client may talk about their feelings or experiences while listening to the music.

Many music therapists use The Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music.4 The client and therapist first talk about any issues the client is dealing with, which determines the focus for the session. Then, the client closes their eyes, shifts to a relaxed position, and listens to music that the therapist chose. The client tells the therapist about any thoughts, feelings, and images that arise while the music is playing. The goal is for music to put the client into an “altered state of consciousness.” In that relaxed state, clients will be able to access their deeper thoughts and feelings more easily. Afterward, they’ll talk with their therapist about their experience.

For example, one woman decided to participate in guided imagery and music when she was feeling anxiety surrounding the birth of her son. During the session, she felt as though her late grandmother, whom she had been very close to, was telling her that everything would be alright.

“I feel some lightness in the body and at the same time feel spiritually connected to my grandmother,” she said about the therapy process. “Suddenly it feels like my heart is opening towards the music.” She went on to describe the experience as “relieving” and “peaceful” and even mentioned feeling moved to tears.

Music Therapy’s Mental Health Benefits

Music therapy also has the potential to help people with their mental health. Music is a creative discipline, and research shows that creativity is good for your overall well-being.5 And as the rehab center Little Creek Recovery puts it, “Sober doesn’t mean you have to stop being creative.” At Little Creek Recovery, clients can experiment with their creativity in their in-house music studio.6 Clients can play for fun as long as they’d like. If they decide they want to record one of their pieces, a sound engineer will guide the client through the recording process. Your music may even be put on the CD that the center releases each year, which can provide a sense of accomplishment. 

Research shows that creative activities can help reduce depression, anxiety, and stress. This includes music therapy. And according to Little Creek Recovery, music can help people find their own identity through self-expression. This can help improve mental health, since “playing, singing, writing, and/or creating music can build a person’s self-confidence and sense of purpose.”

Effects on Depression

Music therapy reduces depression.3 Although some methods work better than others, that doesn’t mean they’re not effective. For example, some studies show that recreative music therapy and guided imagery and music are the best ways to combat depression. During recreative music therapy, the client plays or sings to a familiar or new song.

The length of treatment is important too. For example, researchers saw a greater reduction in depressive symptoms in patients that went to music therapy from 1 to 13 sessions. And the amount of time in the session matters—lessons that were over 60 minutes were also more effective in lessening depressive symptoms.

Effects on Anxiety

Many people listen to music to relax—in fact, just listening to music reduces anxiety.7 And studies show that music therapy significantly decreases anxiety.8 However, whether or not this is a lasting effect is still under debate.

Effects on Stress

Music therapy also has a positive effect on stress.1 Listening to music minimizes cortisol levels (the hormone that causes stress), decreases heart rate, and reduces pressure in arteries—all physical effects related to stress. Music can also help improve overall emotional state because it reduces negative feelings (like nervousness) and increases positive ones (like happiness).

It can bring people closer together when playing or listening in a group, which also contributes to lower stress levels. And, it can help distract people from stressful thoughts and emotions.

How Music Therapy Soothes the Symptoms of Addiction

Music therapy can treat clients with substance use disorders.9 Studies show that people who participate in music therapy experience fewer drug cravings, especially when the program lasts at least 1-3 months. And it may not even matter which kind of music therapy clients undergo. According to one study, clients benefitted from motivational-educational songwriting and recreative music therapy equally.10 Both activities positively affected drug cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

But music therapy doesn’t just reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms; it can play a role in other areas of life too. In clients with addiction, music therapy can also improve11 the following:

  • confidence
  • motivation
  • socialization
  • communication
  • emotional expression
  • relaxation
  • emotional healing

These positive effects may have to do with the way that music affects the brain. For example, music and illicit drugs influence similar aspects of brain function.12 Both music and substance use increase dopamine, the neurotransmitter responsible for pleasure. The release of this chemical can help people heal, since studies show that happiness may support recovery,13 both during and after rehab.

Michael didn’t realize how therapeutic music was for him14 until he went through treatment for substance misuse at Recovery Unplugged. Here’s how he describes his experience: 

“I knew there was something that I needed to do in order to express my creativity and play music, but it didn’t really open up until I went through RU and realized that music was my outlet. I can sit down and play or listen to music and change my mood instantly. I had never used music as a tool in recovery before, now I do every day.”

The Soundtrack to Your Recovery Journey

Music therapy could just be the treatment method that kick-starts your recovery journey. While music therapy alone isn’t meant to replace traditional talk therapy, it can certainly be a powerful and inspiring part of your treatment plan. 

View our list of rehab programs that offer music therapy to read reviews, take virtual tours, and see how the arts can support your recovery journey.