Admissions Process
Clear, calm, and supportive from the very first conversation
Getting help can feel overwhelming — but starting treatment with Open Minds Rehab is simple, transparent, and designed to help you feel supported at every step.
We offer honest, accessible care in a comfortable, homely environment, and we’re here to guide you through the process with clarity and compassion.
Step 1: A Confidential Conversation
Everything begins with a private, pressure‑free conversation with a member of our team — usually an experienced addiction counsellor with personal experience of addiction and recovery.
We’ll talk about:
- what’s been happening
- what you’re struggling with
- whether detox may be required
- what kind of support you’re looking for
- how soon you may need to come in
This call is simply about understanding your situation and helping you decide whether we’re the right fit.
There is no obligation to proceed.
Step 2: Choosing Your Admission Date
If you’d like to move forward, we’ll offer you the next available admission date — often within a few days.
We’ll explain:
- what to bring
- what to expect on arrival
- how detox works (if needed)
- your private en‑suite room
- our phone and visiting policy
- how the first 72 hours feel
This helps you feel prepared and reassured before anything is confirmed.
Step 3: Securing Your Place (£1,000 Deposit)
- To confirm your admission and reserve your room, we take a £1,000 deposit. Once the deposit is paid, your place is fully secured and we’ll schedule your detox nurse assessment (if required)
This deposit allows us to begin essential pre‑admission work, including:
- preparing your room
- arranging your medication review
- planning your arrival safely and appropriately
We’ll then send:
- your Pre‑Admission Agreement
- your packing list
- medication guidance
- directions to the house
- your admission time
Everything is kept simple and transparent.
Step 4: Pre‑Admission Clinical Assessment (After Deposit)
Once your place is secured, we’ll arrange your clinical assessment with our detox nurse.
This assessment ensures:
- your treatment plan is safe
- detox (if needed) is planned correctly
- any risks or medical needs are identified
- we’re fully prepared for your arrival
This step happens after the deposit because it involves clinical time, preparation, and planning specific to your admission.
Step 5: Arrival & Welcome
When you arrive, you’ll be welcomed into our comfortable, homely house and shown to your private en‑suite room.
You’ll have time to:
- settle in
- unpack
- meet the team
- have a warm drink
- breathe
We’ll complete a gentle arrival check‑in to ensure you’re safe, comfortable, and ready to begin.
If detox is required, you’ll be reviewed by our team and supported throughout the process.
Step 6: Beginning Your Programme
Your first full day includes:
- a gentle orientation
- meeting the group
- understanding your daily routine
- being introduced to the counsellors
- beginning therapeutic work at a pace that feels safe
From here, you’ll follow a structured, evidence‑based programme that blends therapy, routine, emotional regulation, and real‑world skills.
Step 7: Family Contact & Support
Where appropriate, we offer families:
- updates (with consent)
- guidance
- boundaries support
- communication planning
- involvement in aftercare
Families often feel lost — we help them feel supported too.
Step 8: Planning for Life After Treatment
Before you leave, we’ll create a personalised aftercare plan that includes:
- weekly aftercare groups
- relapse‑prevention strategies
- emotional regulation tools
- routines and structure
- support networks
- ongoing therapy options
- practical life skills
Our goal is simple:
to prepare you for real‑world recovery that lasts.
Why Our Admissions Process Works
- simple and transparent
- grounded in safety
- delivered by people with lived experience
- aligned with our purpose: real recovery, not luxury
- helps you feel calm and informed from the start
Ready to Begin?
If you’re thinking about treatment — for yourself or someone you love — we’re here to help you take the next step with clarity and compassion.
You’re not alone – we’re here for you too
Whether you’re a parent, partner, sibling, or friend, you deserve clarity, support, and a safe place to talk.
Our team understands recovery personally and professionally — and we’re here to walk alongside you.
What families Tell Us
“I finally understand what’s been happening. I wish I’d known this years ago.”
“I felt heard for the first time.”
“Knowing the team had lived experience made me feel safe.”
“I stopped blaming myself.”
Our Phone & Visiting Policy
To protect your loved one’s focus and emotional stability:
- No phone calls during the first week
- After week one: supervised 10‑minute calls each evening
- Visiting is available by arrangement after the initial settling‑in period
This structure helps your loved one settle, regulate, and engage fully in treatment.
When you’re Worried about someone you love.
You may be noticing:
- changes in behaviour
- secrecy or withdrawal
- mood swings
- financial issues
- physical symptoms
- emotional instability
- eating changes
- substance use increasing
- a sense that “something isn’t right”
Trust your instincts.
You don’t need proof to reach out — just concern.
We’ll help you understand what’s happening and what to do next.
If your loved one isn’t ready for Treatment
This is incredibly common… We can help you:
- communicate in a way that reduces defensiveness
- set boundaries that protect your wellbeing
- avoid enabling behaviours
- stay connected without being pulled into chaos
- prepare for when they are ready
You don’t have to wait for a crisis to get support.
Find out more by registering for our online Family Freedom™ course