5 Essential Questions to Ask When Choosing a Rehab Center
Choosing the right rehab center is one of the most important decisions you’ll make on your journey to recovery—or for a loved one. It’s not just about finding a place to detox or receive treatment; it’s about selecting the environment and approach that best suits your unique needs for long-term success.
To help guide you through this process, we’re using Dunham House as a reference. As you consider these five essential questions, we’ll share how Dunham House answers them, so you can better understand what to look for when making your decision.
1. What Types of Programs Do You Offer?
The first question to ask any rehab center is about the types of treatment programs they offer. Some people need residential (inpatient) care, where they stay at the facility full-time, while others may benefit from outpatient programs that allow them to maintain work or family obligations.
At Dunham House, we offer both short-term and long-term options. Our 1-Month Intensive Recovery Program is ideal for individuals who need a condensed but immersive treatment plan, while our 6-Month Program provides extended support for those who require more time to focus on their recovery.
What to look for:
Does the center offer inpatient, outpatient, or both?
Do they have flexible options like short-term (30-day) programs and longer programs for extended care?
Can they accommodate your personal or professional commitments while still providing high-quality care?
2. What Is Your Approach to Treatment?
Many people dealing with addiction also struggle with mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or trauma. This is known as a dual diagnosis, and it’s critical that both addiction and mental health are treated together. Otherwise, untreated mental health disorders can lead to relapse.
At Dunham House, we specialize in dual diagnosis treatment, addressing both mental health and addiction simultaneously. Our integrated approach includes evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI), which help treat co-occurring conditions to ensure a well-rounded recovery.
What to look for:
Does the center treat dual diagnosis (addiction + mental health)?
Do they offer therapies specifically for mental health issues such as CBT or trauma therapy?
Are they experienced in treating complex conditions that require mental health and addiction rehabilitation?
3. What Therapies Do You Use?
Effective addiction treatment is built on evidence-based therapies, which are proven by research to work. These include therapies like CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Relapse Prevention Therapy (RPT). These treatments help individuals understand their behaviors, manage triggers, and build strategies to prevent relapse.
At Dunham House, we prioritize evidence-based care, offering a wide range of therapies such as CBT, art therapy, and equine therapy. By combining traditional methods with holistic approaches, we cater to individual needs and ensure a well-rounded healing process.
What to look for:
Does the rehab center offer evidence-based therapies that are proven to work?
Do they personalize therapy plans based on individual needs?
Are alternative or holistic therapies, such as art or equine therapy, available to complement traditional methods?
4. What Is the Environment Like and What Amenities Are Available?
The physical environment can have a significant impact on recovery. A calm, supportive atmosphere can enhance the healing process, while certain amenities—such as fitness programs, yoga, or recreational activities—can provide therapeutic benefits and stress relief.
Dunham House is set on 85 acres in the serene Eastern Townships of Quebec, offering a peaceful natural setting ideal for recovery. Residents have access to a range of amenities, including fitness facilities, meditation areas, and recreational activities that promote wellness and relaxation.
What to look for:
Is the rehab center located in a peaceful, healing environment?
What kinds of amenities and recreational activities are offered?
Can you visit the facility before committing to get a feel for the atmosphere?
5. What Aftercare and Ongoing Support Do You Provide?
Addiction recovery doesn’t stop after treatment ends. The transition back to daily life can be challenging, which is why aftercare programs and ongoing support are critical for long-term success. This might include continued therapy, outpatient services, or support groups that help individuals maintain sobriety and prevent relapse.
At Dunham House, we provide a comprehensive aftercare program based in Montreal, offering continued support through outpatient services and regular check-ins with our counsellors. This ensures that clients are not left on their own after completing the residential program.
What to look for:
Does the center offer a structured aftercare program?
Do they provide ongoing support like outpatient services, therapy, or support groups?
How do they help individuals transition back to their everyday lives?
Bonus: What Are the Success Rates and Reviews from Past Clients?
Although every individual’s recovery journey is unique, it’s important to ask about the center’s success rates and read reviews from past clients. A rehab center that is transparent about its success and shares testimonials can give you a better sense of its reputation and effectiveness.
Dunham House is proud of our commitment to helping people achieve long-term recovery, with a swathe of testimonials from past clients highlighting our compassionate care and effective treatment programs.
What to look for:
Does the center share reviews or testimonials from former clients?
Are they transparent about their success rates and outcomes?
Are they accredited or certified by reputable organizations?
Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision
Choosing the right rehab center is a big decision, but asking the right questions can help ensure you make the best choice for yourself or your loved one. By considering the type of treatment programs, dual diagnosis care, evidence-based therapies, the healing environment, and aftercare options, you’ll be able to find a center that meets your needs.
At Dunham House, we are committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for both mental health and addiction recovery. If you’re ready to take the next step or simply want to learn more, we’re here to help guide you through the process.
Contact us today to explore how Dunham House can support you or your loved one on the journey to lasting recovery.
About Dunham House
Located in Quebec's Eastern Townships, Dunham House is a residential treatment centre specializing in mental health and addiction. We are the only residential facility of our kind in Quebec that operates in English.
Our evidence-based treatment programs include a variety of therapeutic activities such as art, music, yoga, and equine-assisted therapy. In addition to our residential services, we offer a full continuum of care with outpatient services at the Queen Elizabeth Complex in Montreal.
Click here more information about our programs and admissions