Steps to Enter a Drug Rehab Centre in Canada
Have you ever wondered how to enter a drug rehab centre in Canada? This article gives you the different steps to take.
When attempting to enter a treatment centre in Canada, you have two options: public (government-funded rehab centres) or private treatment facilities.
Here are some of the differences between both choices.
Steps to Take with the Public Sector Treatment
A general process must be followed when signing up for a government-funded substance abuse treatment centre.
Step – 1: THE ASSESSMENT
The first action required will be the initial screening process. You need to contact your local addiction resource and set up an appointment for an assessment. A substance abuse-trained social worker will do the assessment.
This assessment is an interview to determine who you are and what issues exist, such as your skills, areas of difficulty, health problems, financial concerns, etc. It is usually based on the Multi-Axial System in the DSM IV. Once done, you will be referred to an addiction resource.
Step – 2: APPOINTMENT FOR EVALUATION
Once referred, you will be given an appointment at a specified time and place for a substance use evaluation by an addiction counsellor. (In some locations across Canada, you must be referred by a licensed physician.) Afterward, you will be added to the list and called at least one week before intake. This gives the person the time to prepare and stop any consumption of mind-altering substances. In most cases, the person must be substance-free at least 3-5 days before intake.
Step – 3: DETOX
If the abuse of drugs or alcohol is such that the person is told they need a medical detox, this will also be part of the healing process. The mandatory detox will require the person to show up at a proposed detox centre in their area. In cities across the country, these centres have limited space, and it is often a first come, first served.
The period of detox will vary depending on the person, the substance being abused and the amount and length of time the person was consuming. The average time will be 5 to 7 days, but can be longer.
Step – 4: WAIT AND ACCEPTANCE
Depending on where you live in Canada, the steps may be a bit different. You should stay in constant contact with the referred treatment centre. As beds become available, you will be called. Once accepted into treatment, the program or facility will either have a 12-step program or AA-based treatment. In the public sector, the majority of addiction treatments follow the same outline for all substances. These programs are 28-days to 45-days. Some programs are longer than others. Check with your assigned case worker to be informed.
Steps to Take with the Private Sector Treatment
Step – 1: MAKING A DECISION
Making the decision you want to stop and live drug or alcohol-free, or maybe you want more control over your consumption. Possibly, your job or marriage is in jeopardy due to substance use. No matter the situation, you need to tell yourself, “I need to overcome this craving and be free of the chains of substance misuse.” That is the first action—a simple, clear-cut self-evaluation of actions and surrounding effects on others. Once done and your answer is “YES,” do step 2 below.
Step – 2: SEARCHING FOR THE RIGHT REHAB CENTRE
Call a private drug rehab facility in your area or one that services your area. The other option is to contact an addiction referral counsellor. These counsellors offer free services to inform the person about various options for private treatments. Most will also do the initial assessment and, based on that, propose a program most suited to your needs. They can help accelerate the process and sometimes get a person into a program within a few days.
Step – 3: ASSESSMENT AND ADMISSION
Based on the assessment with the intake counsellor of the chosen facility, you may need a detox. The majority of private centres will offer detox as part of the overall treatment schedule. You will then be introduced to some group counselling and one-on-one addiction counselling sessions. You will also have time for recreation. The centre may offer family support counselling. If staying in touch with the business is necessary, some centres accommodate time to connect with work.
Based on the degree of abuse of mind-altering substances, you may be required to do a medical detox. This is offered in many private treatment programs.
Cost of a Drug Rehab Centre in Canada
In all private treatment programs, there is a cost for the service. Across the country, one will find costs between $5000 and upwards to $25000 and more. Much of this depends on amenities, environments, and professional resources. Some facilities accept insurance, which is something to look into. In such cases, the centre may require a deposit for a room; sometimes, they may ask the full payment. And you will get a refund from your insurance company. It is also advisable to ask about any other payment options.
Program time can vary from 30 days to 45, 60, and 90 days. Additionally, the facility will include aftercare follow-up as part of the overall program service. In some areas, this can be up to 6 months.
Private or Funded Drug Rehab Centre in Canada
Not everyone can afford a private facility; therefore, it is strongly recommended that you contact your local social services centre and get the process started. If you believe that your needs tend towards the private sector, you can call our referral counsellor for immediate assistance. Sobriety is not just a hope; it can be achieved. Thousands of people can attest to it.
Marc J. Bernard
Author,
Substance Use Disorder & Recovery Professional,
Referral & Consultation Counsellor
