The Retreat

The Retreat is a not-for-profit specialist mental health provider, working with the NHS to provide care for people with complex and challenging needs. This includes a wide range of issues such as anorexia, bulimia, self-harm, bi-polar affective disorder and alcohol addiction.

The service is provided in a relaxing and supportive environment where modern, clinical and professional therapies take place in a setting where human relationships are seen as the central element in recovery from alcohol misuse and mental health concerns.

Types of Treatment Programes The Retreat offers

The first step in treatment is medically assisted detoxification; this involves replacing alcohol with detoxification drugs and reducing the dose over seven to ten days.

The 10-day Detox programme at The Retreat will begin with an assessment to understand the degree of the problem and to determine the appropriate level of care.  Nutrition and hydration issues will also be looked at, providing the appropriate medication to safely detoxify from alcohol.  From the time the person feels physically strong enough to do so, they will be encouraged to join any relevant groups and social activities taking place at the unit.

During the second stage of treatment at The Retreat, therapy sessions (1 to1 and group) will be provided by members of the multidisciplinary team.  This provides the opportunity to explore all aspects of the drinking behaviour, the reason why the person started and to develop new skills and strategies to manage stress in the future. Therapeutic approaches will be considered on an individual basis, e.g. psychodynamic psychotherapy, interpersonal therapy, family work, cognitive behavioural therapy, motivational interviewing techniques and concordance work. Therapeutic activities will include activities of daily living, meaningful occupation, social skills and budgeting skills.

Aims of the programmes:

  • To minimize the distressing physical and emotional symptoms of withdrawing from alcohol consumption by prescribing appropriate medication, while guarding against damage to the body.
  • To rebuild self-esteem, self-confidence and the ability to socialise.
  • To increase an individual’s knowledge of the effects of alcohol on their physical and mental health.
  • To build a thoughtful approach to underlying issues including stress management, relaxation and physical fitness.
  • To consider personal factors underpinning the problem, and begin learning alternative, more positive strategies in managing the difficulties.

How long could treatment for drug and alcohol addiction at The Retreat take?

An alcohol detox at The Retreat will typically last 10 days. The psychological support that is necessary for successful recovery will than take an initial 18 days, taking the total time spent in treatment up to 28 days. Continuing engagement with the fellowship meetings is encouraged following treatment. It is crucial that the client engages in the continued process of development and alteration to his or her lifestyle once abstinence is achieved, in order to maintain their sobriety.

Where to find Rehab Centers in the UK

When looking for a rehab centre it is important that the individual factors behind each and every addiction are considered. Addiction is a personal matter. There is no one-size-fits-all solution; what works for one person may not be the right option for another.

Triage Healthcare have a team of experienced advisors who go through intensive training in order to identify the treatment option that is most likely to result in success for all concerned. We understand that it can be confusing and time consuming to try and find treatment for you or a loved one. Therefore, when you call us you will be assigned a Primary Treatment Worker who will gently guide you through the maze of information available. All of our staff members are salaried – we do not work in a commission basis. You can call us safe in the knowledge that the information we give you is ethically based on what is most likely to work, not on what is going to cost you the most money.

Triage Healthcare advise independently on the best value treatment centres in the UK and abroad. We are also happy to provide information about the free NHS services local to you. We believe that everyone can get better; they just need to be guided in the right direction. This is why we are here. Whether it is private treatment options, free treatment, or just advice you require, call us at any time safe in the knowledge that everything you say will remain confidential.