FAQ

We know that finding help for addiction or mental health isn’t always straightforward. There’s a lot to think about, from how treatment works and what it costs, to whether you can trust the information you’re reading. Here you'll find practical answers about how we work, how to choose a rehab and what to expect before, during and after treatment.

About Open Recovery

  • What is Open Recovery?

    Open Recovery is a transparent, independent directory of addiction and mental health treatment providers. We connect individuals and families with services that match their needs without pressure, commissions or hidden agendas. We’re built by people with lived experience who believe that finding help should feel safe, honest and empowering.

  • Why was Open Recovery created?

    Open Recovery was created by people who’ve lived it, the chaos, the Google searches, the confusing phone calls, the fear of being sold to. We were tired of directories that prioritised profit over people. So we built the resource we wish we’d had: honest, transparent, pressure-free. A place where getting help doesn’t feel like being hunted, it feels like being seen.

  • How is Open Recovery different from other rehab directories?

    Many directories are run by marketing companies that list any clinic willing to pay, often prioritising profit over ethics. At Open Recovery, we verify every clinic ourselves and never accept referral fees. Our goal is to put trust, care and honesty at the centre of treatment searches.

  • Does Open Recovery receive commission or referral fees from clinics?

    No. We do not accept commission, referral fees or kickbacks from any clinic. We believe people deserve help without being steered by financial incentives, and we’re proud to be part of the change this industry needs.

Finding Treatment

  • How do I find the right rehab or mental health service?

    Start by thinking about what matters most to you, location, cost, type of therapy, or specialist support (like trauma, neurodiversity, or LGBTQ+ inclusion). Use our filters to narrow your search, or explore our Recovery Guide to learn more about what good treatment looks like.

  • What should I consider when choosing a treatment centre?

    Consider the clinic’s approach (12-step or not), staff qualifications, whether medical detox is available, and how they support your specific needs (such as mental health, trauma, gender, or ADHD). If something feels vague or rushed, trust your gut, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

  • How do I know if a rehab centre is legitimate?

    In the UK, all residential rehabs must be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). We link to inspection reports where available, and our “Verified” badge means a clinic has completed our ethical onboarding process. If you’re unsure, we’re happy to help you check.

  • What do the “Verified” and “Not Verified” badges mean?

    Verified clinics have been reviewed by Open Recovery. We’ve checked their CQC status (where applicable), reviewed their admissions process and received key details about their care model, staff and pricing. “Not Verified” clinics are either pending review or haven’t provided enough information for listing.

Transparency and Ethics

  • How does Open Recovery ensure the information on listings is accurate?

    We ask every clinic to complete a detailed verification checklist before publishing their listing. We also manually review public inspection reports (like those from the CQC), cross-check details, and follow up with clinics directly when something isn’t clear. Accuracy isn’t optional, it’s central to trust.

  • How often are rehab centre listings reviewed and updated?

    Verified listings are reviewed at least every 6–12 months, or sooner if we’re made aware of any changes (e.g. new leadership, inspection updates, pricing shifts). Clinics can also request updates by contacting our team directly.

  • Why don’t you list every rehab or mental health service?

    Some directories aim to list every service, regardless of quality or ethics. We don’t. We only include clinics we’ve reviewed and believe meet a minimum standard of care, transparency, and trustworthiness. Clinics that decline verification or refuse to disclose key information will not be listed.

  • What should I do if I suspect a clinic is misleading people?

    Please let us know. We take all concerns seriously, whether they relate to false advertising, harmful treatment practices, or unethical admissions. Use our contact form to flag the issue, and we’ll review it with care and discretion.

Costs and Payment

  • How much does rehab cost?

    Private rehab costs vary widely depending on the length of stay, type of treatment, and location. In the UK, a typical 28-day residential programme ranges from £4,000 to over £15,000. We include pricing ranges on each verified listing whenever available, so you can make informed comparisons.

  • Does insurance cover addiction or mental health treatment?

    Some private insurance providers do cover residential or outpatient treatment, but it varies by policy. Always check with your provider first. Unfortunately, many UK policies exclude private addiction treatment unless medically required. NHS funding may be available for some people via local authority referrals.

  • What if I can’t afford private rehab?

    You still have options. Some clinics offer payment plans or bursary placements. Others work with local authorities or accept NHS referrals. Our Recovery Guide includes resources on how to access free or lower-cost support, and we’re building partnerships with charities to increase accessibility.

  • Does Open Recovery provide financial assistance?

    Not directly, but we’re working toward partnerships that will help increase access to affordable care. In the meantime, we’ll always help you find options that fit your circumstances, without judgement or pressure.

Treatment and Services

  • What’s the difference between residential and outpatient rehab?

    Residential rehab (inpatient) means you live at the treatment centre full-time, usually for several weeks. Outpatient rehab allows you to attend therapy and groups while living at home. Residential care is typically more intensive and structured, while outpatient suits those with strong external support or milder symptoms.

  • Do all rehabs offer medical detox?

    No, not all rehabs are licensed or staffed to provide medical detox. If you’re physically dependent on alcohol, opioids or other substances, it’s important to choose a clinic that can support you safely through withdrawal. This usually involves 24/7 nursing and prescribing support.

  • Can I go to rehab if I have a co-occurring mental health condition?

    Yes, and it’s essential to find a clinic that understands this. Many people in recovery also live with conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD or ADHD. A good rehab will provide integrated care or work closely with mental health specialists to ensure you’re supported holistically.

  • What types of therapy are commonly offered in rehab?

    Common therapies include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), group therapy, trauma-informed care, family therapy, mindfulness, and mutual aid (like 12-step or SMART Recovery). The best clinics tailor their programme to meet each person’s needs, rather than offering a one-size-fits-all model.

  • Do rehabs support neurodivergent clients (those with ADHD, autism, etc.)?

    Some do, but many still don’t. That’s why we’re building the UK’s first ADHD-Friendly Rehab filter. We ask every clinic whether they provide neurodiversity-aware care, accept clients on ADHD medication, and offer staff training in inclusive support. If that matters to you, we’ll help you find it.

Admissions Process

  • How quickly can I get into rehab?

    It depends on the clinic. Some offer same-day or next-day admission if a space is available, especially for urgent detox. Others may have waitlists ranging from a few days to several weeks. We list typical admission times where possible, but always recommend calling ahead to confirm.

  • Do I need a referral from a doctor to go to rehab?

    No, not for private rehab. You can self-refer directly to most clinics. However, if you’re seeking NHS or local authority funding, you’ll usually need to go through your GP or local drug and alcohol team first.

  • Can I bring my phone, laptop, or other personal items?

    Policies vary by clinic. Some allow personal devices throughout treatment, while others restrict use during detox or limit screen time to help clients focus. We always recommend asking directly, and packing with flexibility in mind.

  • What happens if I leave treatment early?

    You have the right to leave at any time. If you leave early, staff should talk with you about risks, safety planning, and next steps. Leaving doesn’t mean failure, and it doesn’t end your recovery journey. We’ll help you figure out what comes next, if that happens.

Aftercare and Recovery Support

  • What happens after I complete rehab?

    Rehab is just the beginning, and what happens after you leave is just as important. Most centres offer some form of aftercare, such as group check-ins, 1:1 therapy or online support. You may also choose to join mutual aid groups like SMART, AA/NA, or recovery communities local to you.

  • How do I avoid relapse after treatment?

    REMEMBER: Relapse isn’t a failure, it’s actually something that many people face. Ongoing connection, routine, honest reflection and support are absolutely key during this part of recovery. We recommend creating a relapse prevention plan before you leave treatment and staying connected with peers or professionals who understand what you’re going through.

  •  Does Open Recovery offer ongoing recovery support?

    Not directly (yet). But we have published a full Recovery Guide series, covering topics like life after rehab, relapse prevention and finding the right kind of support for you. You deserve help long after discharge, and we’re building resources to make that easier.