Rehab usually begins with assessment, followed by a treatment plan, a structured daily programme and preparation for continuing care. Withdrawal management may happen before or at the start of treatment, depending on clinical need and the facility’s capability. The details vary widely, so ask a programme what it actually delivers rather than relying on the word “rehab”.

Before admission

An admissions team normally collects information about alcohol or drug use, physical and mental health, medication, previous treatment and immediate risks. A credible programme should also explain what it cannot safely treat.

Important information should be confirmed in writing: cost, duration, inclusions, rules, privacy, family contact, medication arrangements and what happens if treatment ends early.

Assessment and the first days

A clinical assessment should guide the treatment plan and level of care. It may include medical history, substance use, previous withdrawal, mental health, living situation, relationships and personal goals.

Some people need medically managed withdrawal before therapeutic work can begin. Detox is not the same as longer-term treatment. Ask who is responsible, where it occurs and what happens if symptoms become more serious.

The first days can also involve practical orientation, meeting staff, understanding the routine and settling sleep and meals.

A normal residential day

Programmes differ, but a day may include:

  • Individual or group therapy.
  • Addiction and recovery education.
  • Treatment-plan or medical reviews.
  • Peer or mutual-support meetings.
  • Exercise, meals and structured free time.
  • Family sessions where appropriate and agreed.
  • Planning for triggers, relationships and life after treatment.

Activities such as yoga, massage, excursions and meditation may be included. Ask how much of the timetable is clinical treatment, recovery work, coaching or leisure.

Therapy, medication and recovery support

Evidence-based care can include behavioural therapies, appropriate medication and support for related medical or mental-health needs. One programme may use a strong Twelve-Step approach; another may combine mutual support with different clinical methods.

There is no single programme that suits everyone. What matters is whether the plan is based on a proper assessment, delivered by qualified people, reviewed as needs change and connected to continuing support.

Rules and everyday life

Residential programmes may restrict phones, visitors, unsupervised travel or access to money and medication. Some use a group community; others provide private accommodation and individual schedules.

Ask why a rule exists, how consent and confidentiality are handled and how complaints can be raised. Structure can support treatment; unclear or arbitrary control should not be accepted without question.

What should happen before discharge

Discharge planning should begin before the final day. A continuing-care plan may include therapy, medication follow-up, mutual-support meetings, safe accommodation, family agreements, work planning and steps for responding to cravings or a return to use.

For treatment in Bali, clarify who will provide care after the person returns home and whether records can be shared with consent.

Questions to ask a programme

  • Who completes the assessment and treatment plan?
  • What happens in a typical week?
  • How much individual clinical treatment is included?
  • How are medical and psychiatric needs handled?
  • What is the recovery model?
  • How are families involved?
  • What restrictions apply and why?
  • What aftercare is included?
  • What happens after relapse, early discharge or a complaint?

Use the choosing a rehab in Bali checklist and rehab in Bali guide to compare concrete answers.

Sources and verification

Last reviewed 13 July 2026. This is general information, not a description of every programme or individual treatment advice.