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American Addiction Centers National Rehabs Directory

Holistic Addiction Treatment Programs & Rehab Centers Near Me

Holistic Rehab for Drug and Alcohol Addiction

woman doing acupuncture holistic rehab

Substance use disorders are among the costliest medical and public health problems in the United States, with 23 million individuals needing treatment annually, but only 25% of them receiving it.1 Integrative Mental Health (IMH), which embraces a bio-psycho-spiritual model, is playing a role in how we treat addiction and substance use issues.2 Holistic treatment centers incorporate mainstream approaches, such as psychotherapy and psychosocial interventions, as well as alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, herbal and nutritional medicine, yoga, and meditation.2 A holistic center can treat addiction and provide tools that promote whole-body health through this integrative approach.

What Is a Holistic Treatment Program?

Holistic treatment is one of the approaches that can be incorporated into an addiction recovery plan if it’s deemed to be helpful in a particular patient’s case and if it doesn’t clash with their belief system and worldview.7

By acknowledging the unity of mind, body, and spirit, holistic drug rehab programs incorporate mainstream approaches into their treatment plans (individual or group counseling, psychotherapy, medication therapy), but they also apply alternative therapies to treat the whole person. They focus on the general physical health of the whole body, as well as the mind-body balance. The program is modified to meet the individual needs and goals of each patient.7, 8

The integrative approach of a holistic addiction treatment program focuses on the ways to help patients develop a healthy sense of self-identity, improved self-esteem, and self-confidence. The elements of holistic treatment program usually include:9

  • Acupuncture.
  • Herbal and nutritional medicine.
  • Yoga.
  • Tai Chi.
  • Mindfulness and meditation.
  • Spiritual growth.
  • Cultural awareness and appreciation.
  • Dance or movement therapy.
  • Art therapy.
  • Leisure and recreational skills.

Holistic drug rehab involves a variety of practices, some of which might not be suitable for everyone since not all patients are comfortable with the same amount of sharing, socializing, or physical touch-based interventions during the vulnerable time of addiction therapy.7

For example, the general focus of Mindful Awareness in Body-oriented Therapy (MABT) is on the embodiment. This is a combination of manual and mind-body therapy. It may include massage to reduce anxiety and facilitate access to sensory experiences.10

This approach also uses interoceptive skills training to reduce avoidant or dissociative coping mechanisms and teach patients emotion regulation skills so they can respond to stressors in healthy, constructive ways.10

Emerging evidence shows that mindfulness training can target neurocognitive mechanisms to combat dysregulation of neural processes SUDs are driven by. This can produce significant therapeutic effects and prevent relapse.11

Yoga is another good example of a mind-body approach that involves a combination of physical activity and mindful focus on the self. The main goals of yoga include achieving tranquility of the mind and creating a sense of well-being. Yoga practice produces feelings of relaxation, improves self-confidence, attentiveness, lowers the irritability, and leads to a more optimistic outlook on life. Therapeutic yoga applies its practice and teachings to addiction treatment to help reduce both physiological and emotional pain.12 

What Are the Benefits of a Holistic Rehabilitation Center?

In combination with standard treatment practices, such as CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and medical detoxification, a holistic rehabilitation center offers services that aim to foster comprehensive health: mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual.

Holistic treatments might include:
people rock climbing holistic treatment

  • Tennis, swimming, yoga, and other forms of exercise.
  • Acupuncture, massage, and herbal medicines.
  • Nutritional counseling.
  • Guided meditation.
  • Opportunities to attend church, temple, or another religious establishment.
  • Spiritual growth classes.
  • Equine therapy.
  • Rock climbing.
  • Tai chi.
  • Alternative healing techniques such as Reiki and rolfing.
  • Outdoor excursions, such as beach walks.
  • Vision boards and imagery.

Detoxification

happy teenager stress free detox Detox facilities provide a safe, medically supervised setting to help teens come off of drugs or alcohol. Treatment centers have different strengths and weaknesses, so you may need help to find the right one for your teenager. Read More

The holistic rehab philosophy focuses on the connection between your mind, body, and spirit. By working on all aspects of healing, holistic centers aim to attack addiction from all sides. Treatment plans aim to address the underlying reasons for addiction while also rebuilding the body and cultivating the confidence and peace needed to continue the recovery journey.

In response to the limitations of biomedical psychiatry, various alternative models have been advanced to more adequately explain the causes of mental health issues.2 And while holistic treatment appeared on the scene later than traditional programs, the movement is gaining momentum. Whole-body treatment programs have been successful with people who have not responded to traditional rehab and for those who do not want pharmacologic interventions.

A center that focuses on whole-body healing usually has extra facilities designed to promote all-around health. Some centers have whirlpools, saunas, or spas to promote relaxation, while others have fitness facilities or provide transportation to gyms and exercise classes. Many holistic centers are in secluded areas or incorporate a natural setting into their treatment programs, allowing participants to meditate or practice yoga outdoors.

People who have addictions often report that they feel an inner void, which they have tried to fill with drugs and alcohol. But when they receive treatment for the addiction, the void remains. Holistic centers seek to fill the spiritual emptiness by helping clients develop a personal spiritual connection. Some centers have spiritual counselors who work one-on-one with clients on their individual spiritual goals. The specific process differs from person to person, and holistic rehab centers tailor their programs to work with each person’s beliefs and worldview.

To boost physical health, holistic rehab centers focus on nutritious meals that are designed to heal from the inside out. Patients have access to fresh foods without having to plan or prepare them.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) with Holistic Rehab

Holistic treatment centers are known for integrating Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) into their programs. CAM is a group of diverse medical and health practices that fall outside the scope of conventional medicine.3 The demand for CAM by the general public is increasing despite the fact that its use is largely paid by consumers who don’t have complementary therapy coverage by third-party payers.4

Some popular CAM interventions include:3
people doing yoga complementary and alternative medicine

  • Acupuncture.
  • Deep-breathing exercises.
  • Yoga.
  • Qigong.
  • Massage.
  • Meditation.
  • Hypnosis.
  • Diet-based therapies.
  • Naturopathy.

How Long Does the Holistic Drug and Alcohol Rehab Program Last?

Nontraditional, holistic programs treat the entire person by helping them improve self-esteem and self-worth, learn life skills, gain control over addictive patterns, and improve their physical health. Holistic treatment facilities are similar to traditional treatment centers in the typical length of stay. Most holistic rehab programs last 30, 60, or 90 days; some last longer. Residents are generally encouraged to stay as long as possible, but this decision often depends on what their insurance will cover and what they can afford out of pocket.4

Types of Addiction Treatment Offered in Holistic Rehab Program

Many holistic treatment facilities are suitable for people with dual diagnoses; they offer treatments to address both mental health and substance use problems. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), treatment should address other possible mental disorders besides substance addictions. Additionally, research shows that people with co-occurring mental health issues are more likely to seek out both inpatient and outpatient services.1,5

Common stages of treatment may include:5

  • Detox. This first stage of treatment may help manage the potentially dangerous effects of stopping alcohol and drug use. This may or may not include medication-assisted treatment (MAT).
  • Assessment and the development of individualized treatment plan with goals. The treatment team (medical staff, counselors, and other care providers) develops a treatment plan based on the initial assessment and specific recovery goals.
  • Individual counseling and group therapy. Therapists and trained professionals conduct one-on-one psychotherapy sessions to discuss values, life goals, and personal challenges. Rehab programs also offer group therapy on topics such as anger management, trauma, and relapse prevention.
  • 12-step meetings. Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and other 12-step meetings may be offered to residents in treatment.
  • Aftercare planning. The treatment team and staff work to develop an ongoing treatment plan for the client upon discharge of their residential stay.
  • Discharge. This is the last stage, when a client is officially released from the residential facility. A client is typically discharged upon completion of the program requirements, but may be discharged for other reasons, such as violating the rules.

A client is typically discharged upon completion of the program requirements, but may be discharged for other reasons, such as violating the rules.

Types Of Holistic Addiction Therapies

Behavioral therapies help patients change behaviors related to drug use, build positive life skills, and cope with life events.5

Common therapies used in treatment may include:5,6
family in group therapy

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This type of therapy uses behavioral modification to change unhealthy behaviors.
  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). This therapy focuses on enhancing the client’s emotional regulation skills and learning to cope with specific challenges and life events.
  • Family counseling. These educational groups allow friends and family to engage in the patient’s treatment and to understand the recovery process, as well as to work through family system issues.
  • Motivational interviewing (MI). A clinical style in which the practitioner elicits positive “change talk” and helps clients resolve ambivalence that often prevents them from making positive changes.
  • Equine therapy. Activities with horses are used to improve mental health.

How to Choose a Holistic Addiction Rehab Program?

When researching holistic drug and alcohol rehab centers, it is important to ask detailed questions so you know exactly what the program offers. Treatment can be a big investment of your time and resources, and your needs are important.

Some issues to consider when researching programs include:

  • The rehab’s location and associated costs. Determine where the rehab is located and if the travel costs are feasible.
  • The overall cost and payment options. Review your payment options and know exactly when the first payment or fees are due. Also consider how you will afford them.
  • The treatment approach. Center philosophies can vary widely, from 12-step to evidence-based to faith-based. Make sure you are aligned with the center’s philosophy and treatment modalities.
  • The experience and personalities of the staff. Research the credentials of the staff, especially the clinical director, and take note of the general attitude. (Are the people warm, friendly, and accommodating?)
  • Amenities. Does the center come equipped with services you want (e.g., pool, spa, gym)?
  • Whether it can treat mental health issues. If you have or suspect you have a mental disorder in addition to your substance addiction, can the facility treat this dual diagnosis?
  • Whether aftercare or alumni programs are available to speak with. Ask to talk with the aftercare department to find out if and how they help you post-treatment.
  • Online reviews of other people’s experiences. Look up rehab reviews and ask to speak to former patients or family members of program graduates to get an objective view of the rehab’s overall quality.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

person in cognitive behavioral therapy There are many forms of treatment to choose from, but the one that has proven to be fundamental in helping treat addictions and many mental health issues is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT. Talk to nearly any drug and alcohol treatment program, and they will tell you CBT is their cornerstone treatment modality. CBT has been extensively studied and demonstrated to be highly effective during treatment, with the skills learned lasting long after a patient leaves the program. Read More

How Much Does the Holistic Treatment Program Cost?

Holistic drug and alcohol programs are quite expensive and may require private pay. The cost can be affected by several factors, such as length of stay, amenities, location, your insurance coverage, and any extra therapies/treatments you receive, as well as other factors. Even if your insurance covers part of the program fees, it may not cover your entire stay. Get this information up front so you are well informed and can make proper financial arrangements.

Options to pay for treatment may include:

  • Insurance. Some facilities accept health insurance, but you should check with them and your insurance provider to know exactly what is covered. Other centers may not accept private insurance.
  • Out-of-pocket/private pay. Cash pay is welcomed at almost all private rehabs.
  • Payment plans. The rehab center may allow you to set up a scheduled payment plan, and they may work with you based on your income to afford the program costs.
  • Borrowing. Friends and family members who support your recovery may be a viable resource for financial help.
  • Loans. You can look into bank loans or loans from private lenders, corporate sponsorships, or others.
  • Credit cards. Opening a line of credit to pay for treatment may be an option, but make sure you are able to afford the monthly payments.
  • Liquidation of assets. Do you have any private assets that you can cash out to pay for your treatment? You must weigh their importance against that of your health.
  • Crowdsourcing. Kickstarter, GoFundMe, and similar websites are gaining popularity in fundraising for individual health care costs. People are often inspired and willing to donate, even if it’s a small amount.

How Effective Are Holistic Techniques in Rehab?

Even though the effectiveness of some holistic recovery approaches and techniques has been proven by research, it’s worth noting that not all techniques will work for everybody. The patient must be open to a particular experience.7

Some studies indicate that acupuncture can affect drug-induced physiological activities. These findings suggest that drug-dependent patients (in comparison to alcohol-dependent ones) preferred acupuncture treatment, which was associated with a decrease in psychological distress and an increase in confidence.13

Mindful Awareness in Body-oriented Therapy (MABT)

As an individual therapy, Mindful Awareness in Body-oriented Therapy (MABT) combines manual and mind-body approaches to help patients develop self-care tools for emotion regulation. Clinical and experimental data about manual interventions like massage and body-oriented therapy is promising. Massage is useful for increasing awareness of tension, teaching patients to recognize sensory symptoms of stress and their habitual patterns of responding to stress. Touch therapy experience with alcohol-dependent patients has shown a decrease in both physiological and psychological stress symptoms, as well as symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.10

More than a decade of research has demonstrated that MABT helps to reduce both craving and substance use in response to social pressure. It also leads to significant improvements regarding issues and symptoms like depression, anxiety, eating disorder symptoms, as well as the frequency of physical symptoms.10

The cycle of addiction creates changes in the brain’s reward and stress systems, leading to decreased responsiveness to natural rewards, increased sensitivity to stress, and automatic, conditioned responses to cues that drive substance use behavior. That’s why mindfulness practice, as an essential component of a wellness-oriented lifestyle, can help combat addiction and prevent relapse. Just like physical health, regular exercise and a healthy diet are essential to well-being.11

Yoga

Yoga is another great example. In addition to muscular strength and body flexibility, yoga can improve respiratory and cardiovascular health and sleep patterns. The efficacy of yoga as a complementary element of addiction recovery has been demonstrated regarding mood-related disorders and mental health issues.12 

It significantly raises serotonin levels, leading to relaxation and helping with anxiety and depression. It also improves self-confidence and body image and helps maintain better interpersonal relationships by lowering irritability, reducing stress, and creating a more optimistic outlook on life. All these benefits enhance the overall quality of life.12

How to Find the Best Holistic Addiction Treatment Center?

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