Australia is renowned for some of the best rehab facilities in the world, offering transformative treatment to those seeking help. When mental health or addiction leaves you grappling in a time of need, it can be overwhelming to sort through so many options and decide which one may be the best fit for you or your loved one.
As one of Australia’s best rehabs, we understand it can be confusing when navigating an unregulated industry. Below, we outline a number of important considerations when choosing a rehab program, and have also provided a free downloadable Rehab Program Checklist to take the guesswork out of what to look for in your rehab.
Download our free Rehab Program Checklist
Take the guesswork out of choosing the right rehab for you.
Download the free Rehab Program Checklist today.
Key considerations when choosing a rehab
ACCREDITATION & LICENSING
The first and most crucial factor to consider when looking for the best rehab in Australia is accreditation and licensing. Organisations with the following certifications have thoroughly audited processes and operations, and this brings confidence to the service.
• NSQHS Certification for Quality Healthcare services
• ISO9001:2015 Quality Certified for Provision of residential rehabilitation services for mental health and dependency
• Requirements met for the National Quality Framework for Drug and Alcohol Treatment Services.
DEGREE-QUALIFIED, REGISTERED & EXPERIENCED HEALTH PRACTITIONERS
Health practitioners play a critical role in the recovery process. The best rehabs should have a team of degree-qualified, registered, and experienced health practitioners passionate about helping individuals overcome mental health or addiction. The team should offer wrap around care, with each practitioner working together rather than separately. You can ask the rehab centre about the qualifications, registrations of their staff and their experience working with mental health and addiction.
EVIDENCE-BASED TREATMENT
The best rehabs in Australia should offer evidence-based treatment backed by scientific research which is proven to be effective. Evidence-based treatment methods include acceptance and commitment therapy, and medication-assisted treatment options, among many others.
HOLISTIC APPROACH & MULTIDISCIPLINARY THERAPIES
Incorporating a holistic approach and multidisciplinary therapies into a rehab program can be foundational in building a sustainable recovery. This includes medical support, mental health and emotional therapies, physical therapies, and nutrition. By addressing all aspects of a person’s health, clients can achieve balance and healing across many pillars.
Psychological and emotional therapies, such as equine-assisted therapy, music therapy and art therapy, can provide an outlet for expressing emotions and exploring underlying causes of mental health or addiction issues. Physical therapies, such as exercise and yoga, can help restore the body’s physical health and significantly improve mental well-being. Additionally, wholesome nutrition can improve overall health, supporting recovery.
FOCUSED ON YOU
Recovery and rehabilitation can be a long and challenging journey. One-on-one therapy is a great way to focus intensely on your recovery. The main benefits of one-on-one therapy include:
• Minimise distraction and tangents as you and your therapist work together to stay on track.
• Greater attention from your therapist promotes deeper exploration of issues and self-understanding.
• Enhanced progress in a shorter period.
• The development of more personalised coping strategies for your unique circumstances.
• Reduced anxiety which can often arise in group therapy.
TAILORED TREATMENT PROGRAM
Mental health and addiction are complex and affect individuals differently. Therefore, the rehab should offer tailored treatment programs that cater to each person’s specific needs. The best rehabs will comprehensively assess each individual’s needs, offering a range of treatment plans, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
PRIVACY & CONFIDENTIALITY
Privacy and confidentiality can be critical factors to consider when choosing a rehab. They can help clients feel safe and secure in sharing their struggles without fear of judgment or outside interference. For certain individuals, group therapy may be a barrier to treatment due to a lack of privacy. Individuals who require privacy and confidentiality from their program may want to engage in rehab with a private location and one-on-one therapy offering.
INPATIENT, OUTPATIENT OR ONLINE?
Rehabs with comprehensive program offerings in Australia will ideally offer a range of program delivery modes that meet the needs of different individuals. These include inpatient or ‘live-in’ residential treatment whereby guests stay at a facility to receive treatment for weeks at a time; intensive outpatient day programs whereby a guest attends the facility one day per week; or online programs which allow guests to access treatment from anywhere in the world. Nowadays, with many individuals balancing work, family, or life circumstances, being unable to access a program shouldn’t be a barrier to accessing treatment.
HEALING ENVIRONMENT & AMENITIES
While quality of care should be the top priority when choosing the best rehab, a healing environment and certain amenities can also play a role in recovery. Most individuals will benefit from a change of environment entirely – away from the stress and triggers of home. A peaceful setting with amenities that promote relaxation and self-care (such as natural outdoor spaces, fitness facilities and healthy meals) can provide a more supportive healing environment.
24/7 SAFETY SUPPORT STAFF
Having 24/7 support staff with CPR, emergency, and mental health accreditations, as well as on-call medical support, is essential for the safety and well-being of all guests at the rehab. Recovery can be challenging and emotional, and clients may experience unexpected medical emergencies or mental health crises at any time. Trained staff can provide immediate medical attention in emergencies and mental health support for clients experiencing intense emotions or thoughts of self-harm. Having staff available around the clock ensures that clients receive the care and support they need any time, helping everyone feel safe on their journey to recovery.
POSITIVE REVIEWS & TESTIMONIALS
It’s helpful to consider reviews and testimonials from previous clients when selecting the best rehab. Positive reviews and testimonials indicate that the rehab centre has helped others on their journey to recovery. You can read reviews online or ask the rehab centre to provide testimonials from past clients.
In conclusion, finding the best rehab in Australia can be daunting for those struggling with mental health and addiction. By considering the important factors above and using our downloadable Rehab Program Checklist below, we hope you’ve gained clarity in finding the best rehab for you.
Take the First Step
The Banyans world-renowned rehab programs can help you regain control and live your fullest life. We offer Inpatient Residential Programs at our luxury accommodation in the Brisbane hinterland, Outpatient Day Programs at our flexible and convenient inner-city Brisbane facility, or Online Programs accessible anywhere in the world.
Taking the first step is nothing short of brave. Speak to our expert team for confidential discussion 24/7 by calling 1300 226 926, or enquire below to find out more.
This article was reviewed by The Banyans former Chief Psychologist, Peter Hayton.
