Individualised addiction treatment for sustainable recovery
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we’re here to save lives
We don’t mean this just literally, although it’s very often the case.
Our clients generally arrive at The Cedars in a state of deep disassociation with reality. Wholly dependent on their addiction, they are unconsciously disconnected from all that underpins a life of quality and meaning. Our recovery programme is designed to reawaken these individuals, sparking understanding, connection and hope.
This is true not only for our clients, but for the families and loved ones who have been imprisoned by their addiction. Individually and together, they learn to live consciously and wholeheartedly, unencumbered by fear and grateful for the joy of a life rediscovered.
what we treat
chemical & behavioral addictions
Addiction can be split into two categories: chemical addictions
and process (or behavioural) addictions. Chemical addictions involve taking a mind or mood-altering chemical into the body, causing feelings of euphoria and wellbeing. Process addictions involve external addictions or behaviours that can have the same effect.
Although behavioural addictions do not chemically alter the mind or mood, they still produce a mind and mood-altering effect, by the release of chemicals like endorphins or dopamine in the system which are the body’s natural drugs. It’s possible to become dependent on chemical and process addictions, and in many cases, both categories need treatment.
chemical addictions
behavioural addictions
- Eating Disorders
- Exercise Addiction
- Gambling Disorder
- Gaming Addiction
- Pornography Addiction
- Sex Addiction
- Shopping Addiction
- Social Media Addiction
treatment phases & length
Primary Phase
This initial treatment phase forms the foundation of our highly effective addiction treatment program. Our primary treatment programme covered by medical aids is 21 days. The recommended treatment term at The Cedars is 90 days for the best possible outcome. True behavioural change takes time and practice, and it is our fervent belief that adhering to the recommended treatment term offers the client the best chance at sustained recovery.
However, we have no rules about length of stay and our program is customized per individual. After abusing substances over a period of years, it can take the brain
at least a month to return to the best possible cognitive functioning, where treatment efforts can be of
maximum benefit.
After a physical health assessment, a customised medication assisted stabilization plan will be drawn up
by our medical doctor and nurse to help clients abstain from substances safely and as comfortably as possible. The client begins one-on-one counselling, 12-Step treatment, group therapy and benefits from a healthy diet and regular exercise. Clients will usually complete the first three steps of the 12-Step program in primary care.
inclusions
- Medication assisted stabilization and withdrawal management
- Daily group-based therapy including interactive, discussion
and focus groups - Regular individual therapy sessions with a counsellor
- Introduction to 12-Step program and written Step work
- Counselling sessions and assessments with a psychologist
- Educational workshops about addiction related topics
- Family therapy sessions (arranged by Zoom if necessary)
- 12-Step Meetings
- Community outings involving fun sober recreational activities
- Healthy meals prepared by our in-house chef, regular aerobic exercise and yoga classes offered by a personal trainer, excursions
Secondary Phase
In the secondary phase, clients undergo a deeper exploration into the root cause of the substance abuse and other compulsive, self-defeating behaviour. They work hand-in-hand with our expert team to work through the balance of the 12-Steps, using the steps to process the damage and unmanageability their behaviour and substance abuse have caused in their lives, and the lives of their loved ones. They rely on their counsellors and the therapeutic community to identify their self-defeating behaviour and work towards change.
Clients are gradually given more responsibility in the community and given the opportunity to become role models and help the newer clients in their early process. Focus is put on discipline and routine, growth and responsibility, all to develop connection and self-worth.
At the end of this phase, discharge planning and relapse prevention tools are explored, and short and long term goals are determined for when the client leaves treatment.
inclusions
- Daily group-based therapy including interactive, discussion and focus groups
- Regular individual therapy sessions with a counsellor
- Counselling sessions and assessments with a psychologist
- Educational workshops about addiction related topics
- Family therapy sessions (arranged by Zoom if necessary)
- 12-Step Meetings
- Community outings involving fun, sober recreational activities
Tertiary Phase
During this final phase, our clients learn how to maintain their life in recovery, prevent relapse and reintegrate into society. Counsellors help the client prepare for a return to employment and family life. Important choices may need to be made that are most beneficial to sustaining long-term recovery. It’s also an opportunity for the client to take up a senior role in the therapeutic community, explore employment options and resolve any persisting behavioural addiction issues in the safest possible environment. Clients are given more freedom and responsibility and are able to work during the day and return in the afternoon.
inclusions
- Accommodation and meals
- Weekly check-in groups
- Check-in sessions with their counsellor, by appointment
- Weekly 12 Step meetings
post treatment support
When a client completes treatment, we are very sensitive to the fact that life in recovery is filled with challenges. At The Cedars, we have a number of structures in place to ensure the safest possible transition for clients from treatment and back into life.
We offer family workshops to educate families about the realities
of addiction, and how to help their loved ones on their journey. We offer the client deep insight into the 12-Step fellowships, meetings and sponsorship – all vital to an ongoing recovery.
Our multi-disciplinary professionals are available to you when your loved one is ready to move into the next chapter. We are here to help you learn and grow throughout the process.
If you require post-treatment counselling, please click here
the role of medication in recovery
In treating addiction, stabilisation medication is prescribed to help addicts deal with the acute symptoms of their illness in early treatment. This is to assist while intensive in-patient therapy and working through the 12-Step programme can begin to help the addict deal with the real issues and emotions surrounding their disease.
Medication itself, however, is not a long-term solution, and has many detrimental side effects after use over an extended period of time. Some medications themselves have abuse potential, such as stimulants and depressants. Others still affect the mind or a person’s ability to feel, impacting the ability to process the recovery process fully.
Although we support the use of medication assisted treatment (MAT), we do view abstinence as a goal. A small percentage of people do however suffer from legitimate physical or mental illness that does require long-term or even lifelong pharmacotherapy.
Through our recommended three-month program, we are able to help properly assess and diagnose any co-occurring illness, and rule out any possible misdiagnoses that may have occurred during active addiction. The symptoms of addiction are similar to many other disorders, and our team of addiction professionals are experienced and equipped to distinguish between them.