What to expect from rehab
During rehab, we'll help you to overcome your addictive behaviours and take steps towards a lasting recovery.
An addict presents as someone who repeatedly engages in a certain type of behaviour, whether this is in relation to a substance (such as alcohol or drugs) or an activity (such as gambling), despite the harm this causes. The harmful behaviour is repeated because it initially results in pleasurable or valuable outcomes for the person and ultimately, results in an emotional or physical dependence on the substance or activity.
Addictions have a detrimental effect on a person’s quality of life, as well as their general health and wellbeing. It impacts their families and friends, too. Addictions can also cause a wide range of long-term physical and psychological problems.
Rehab services at Priory
At Priory, we offer expert treatment for addictions and addictive behaviours. We offer world class treatment for substance use disorders such as:
- Alcohol
- Drugs (for example, cannabis and cocaine)
- Prescription medication
We can also provide support for behavioural addictions such as:
- Gambling addiction
- Internet and gaming addiction
- Love and sex addiction
- Shopping addiction
- Porn addiction
The addiction treatment process
Addiction rehab at Priory is designed to help you take meaningful steps towards recovery, in a way that works for your life and circumstances. Whether you need intensive support or a more flexible approach, we’re here to guide you through the process from the very beginning.
Reaching out for help
If you think you’re struggling with an addiction, the most important first step is to reach out for professional support. Your first port of call may be your GP – they'll be able to explore your symptoms and addictive behaviours, offer medical advice, and refer you for specialist treatment.
Alternatively, you can contact Priory directly. We offer a free, no obligation addiction assessment with one of our specialist therapists, either over the phone or in person. This no-obligation assessment helps us understand your situation and recommend the most appropriate type of treatment based on your individual needs.
What to expect from treatment
Addiction treatment typically involves a combination of detox (if required) and therapy to help you address the emotional, psychological, and behavioural aspects of substance use. Treatment can be delivered in different ways – from structured, intensive programmes to more flexible options like day sessions or online support.
If you access more intensive treatment, such as an inpatient programme, you’ll be supported by a team of medical and therapy professionals in a safe, therapeutic environment. You’ll take part in a tailored therapy plan that may include one-to-one sessions, group work, and wellbeing activities such as mindfulness or guided relaxation. Drug screening and medical checks may be part of the process, always carried out with your safety and care in mind.
Many of our services also offer 12 months of free aftercare, helping you stay supported and connected as you move forward in your recovery.
No matter what stage you’re at, we’ll work with you to create a treatment pathway that feels manageable and right for you – and help you take that first step towards lasting change.
A typical day in rehab
Whether you're receiving intensive or more flexible support, your treatment will follow a structured plan tailored to your needs. Therapy sessions and wellbeing activities are an important part of your day, alongside time set aside for rest, reflection and self-care.
We understand the value of balance, so while your treatment will be focused and purposeful, there will also be opportunities to recharge – whether that’s connecting with others, enjoying some quiet time, or taking part in gentle activities that support your wellbeing.
Detox
If you’re struggling with a drug or alcohol addiction, you might need to go through a medically assisted addiction detox.
During detox, we’ll support you to withdraw from these harmful substances in a safe and carefully controlled environment. You’ll be located in one of our specialist detox rooms and will receive round-the-clock care and monitoring from our multidisciplinary team, to make sure you’re comfortable and well taken care of.
The detox process at Priory usually lasts for 7 to 10 days and we can prescribe medication to help you manage any withdrawal symptoms during this time. Once your detox has commenced and you’re feeling physically stable, you’ll be able to join our intensive addiction therapy, if this is appropriate to your treatment plan.
Therapy
For many people, a core element of rehab will be an intensive programme of addiction therapy. We offer wide range of therapeutic techniques as part of addiction treatment at Priory, which will usually consist of group therapy, complemented by additional one-to-one therapy.
The types of addiction therapy we offer at Priory include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) and mindfulness, alongside many others. These therapies are essential to overcoming any underlying causes of your addiction, such as dual diagnosis mental health difficulties, stress, or circumstances in your environment that might trigger a return to your addictive substance or behaviour.
Family support sessions
Many of our addiction treatment programmes include dedicated family support, recognising the important role loved ones can play in your recovery. Where included, this may involve therapy sessions with your immediate family or close friends, giving everyone the opportunity to better understand addiction, explore its wider impact, and learn how to support one another moving forward.
We know addiction can affect the whole family, and we're here to offer support to those around you – if that's something you want. The type and level of family involvement will vary depending on your programme, and we’ll always work with you to make sure it feels appropriate and helpful.
The 12-step approach
Addiction treatment at Priory draws upon elements of the 12-step approach. You may have heard about this approach from meetings like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), or Narcotics Anonymous (NA). You can also attend 12-step fellowship meetings alongside your rehab programme, with options available both on-site and in the community, to suit your needs.
Wellbeing activities
As part of our inpatient and residential addiction rehab programmes, we recognise the importance of caring for your mind, body and spirit alongside psychological therapy. That’s why we offer a range of wellbeing activities to support your overall recovery and enhance your experience. These may include:
- Yoga, Tai Chi and Shiatsu classes
- Meditation and relaxation groups
- Exercise classes and groups
- Art and drama therapy
- Acupuncture and massage
These activities take place within our treatment centres, which are thoughtfully designed to offer a calm and supportive environment where you can focus on getting better. You can view our addiction treatment centres to find out more about our locations and facilities.
How long is the rehab process?
The length of addiction rehab can vary depending on your needs, goals, and the type of support that’s right for you. Many people benefit from a 28-day inpatient stay, which is often recommended for those needing intensive, structured care. This gives you time to stabilise physically – often through a 7 to 10-day detox period – and begin therapy to explore the emotional and behavioural aspects of addiction.
However, treatment doesn’t always follow a fixed timeframe. We offer flexible residential options that can be extended beyond 28 days, if that’s clinically appropriate. You may also benefit from structured online support or ongoing outpatient therapy, which can continue for as long as you need and fit around your daily life and responsibilities.
Your free addiction assessment is designed to help us understand your situation and recommend the most suitable treatment path – whether that’s inpatient care, outpatient therapy, digital support, or a combination.
Life after rehab
Recovery is an ongoing journey, and we’re here to support you beyond your initial treatment. Many of our programmes include 12 months of free aftercare for those who complete a 28-day residential stay. Aftercare may involve weekly support groups, family sessions, continued care planning, and alumni events where you can stay connected with others in recovery. Find out more about what happens after rehab.
We also offer further follow-on support, including one-to-one outpatient therapy and digital services, to help you maintain momentum and feel supported during early recovery and beyond. Whatever your journey looks like, we’ll work with you to ensure you have the tools, support and guidance to move forward with confidence.
