Does CATC treat addictions to substances other than opioids?

CATC is currently focused on treating Opioid Use Disorder. That said, our patients often present addiction to opioids and other substances, i.e., alcohol, cocaine, and methamphetamine. Our expert addiction treatment specialists support them in meeting their personal recovery goals.

How do I get started on a Methadone or Buprenorphine program?

CATC offers same-day intake appointments in all our centres. We recognize that when you are ready to start your recovery journey, we need to be ready to support you. From our location page, select the location that is nearest to you and then either walk-in or call 1-877-937-2282 to start your intake virtually.

What should I expect during an intake appointment?

Our Intake appointments usually range from 60-90 minutes. Our CARE team will capture your medical history, discuss medication options, share information on how the treatment program works, and prepare for your initial assessment with an expert addiction medicine physician. You do not need a referral to start on our programs, walk-ins are welcomed. You will be asked to present your provincial health card to see a physician.

What are the costs of the program?

Our programs are usually delivered at no cost to the patient. In some cases, patients may have to pay for their medications or counseling services that are not covered by their provincial health plans. Our CARE teams will work with you to help determine the best plan to get the costs of your care covered.

How can I ensure that my personal information is kept confidential?

All client information is considered confidential. We will not release your personal health information to anyone without signed consent from you unless it is required by law.

I recently found out I was pregnant and need help; can I use Methadone to help with my withdrawal?

Methadone is a safe and effective way to manage opiate dependency during pregnancy. Treatment with Methadone prevents opioid withdraw, which can be dangerous for your baby. View our resource on Opioid Use Disorder During Pregnancy.

When can I expect to be free of my opioid addiction with treatment?

Addiction is a chronic and relapsing condition. Every patient, depending on their history and recovery goals, will take a unique recovery journey. The ultimate goal of the program is to improve our patient’s quality of life across many dimensions – including ensuring the presence of a home, a job, and a friend for those who have lost so much because of their addiction. Methadone and Buprenorphine/Naloxone (Suboxone®), when taken as prescribed, are safe and effective medications. This decision to taper off these medications should be made with your physician to ensure the best chance of success for you and prevent sudden onset withdrawal. People who are most successful at tapering off treatment, have generally been abstinent from illicit drugs for more than a year and are demonstrating a high level of functional stability, i.e., gainfully employed, presence of positive/supportive social relationships.

How often do I have to come to the treatment centre?

Your visit frequency will change as your stability increases. In early recovery, you will see your doctor 1-2 times a week to get your dose adjusted and you will see your pharmacist daily for the first 2-3 months. As your drug use declines, you will see your physician less – usually 1 time per month and visit your pharmacist 2-4 times per month. CATC offers integrated medical and pharmacy services, so there is no need to visit multiple locations.

When can I get my medications to take at home?

Once you have been on the program for 4-8 weeks you may be eligible for take-home doses. You will start with one dose, and as you gain stability these will increase. There are clinical guidelines that our physicians follow to determine take-home eligibility; physicians also utilize their clinical judgment based on your specific situation.

How often do I have to complete a urine drug screen during treatment?

Frequency of Urine Drug Screens also changes as you become more and more stable. In the first few months of treatment, you will be required to produce a urine sample 1-2 times per week to help the physician understand your use patterns. We also use urine drug screens to ensure that you are taking the medication that is being prescribed, as diversion of prescription medications is common. In some cases, your physician will ask for a random urine drug screen; this practice helps us identify and prevent any unsuspected medication diversion that may be occurring.

If I use drugs while on the program, am I kicked off?

Absolutely not. We recognize drug use and relapses are part of the recovery journey. It is important to remember that using other drugs while on Methadone or Buprenorphine/Naloxone (Suboxone®) can be dangerous. There have been reported deaths because of the combination of Methadone with alcohol, opioids, cocaine, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, and/or tranquilizers. If you have been prescribed or are using other medications, please disclose this to your CATC physician so they can make an informed decision on your treatment.

Do you recommend Methadone or Buprenorphine/Naloxone (Suboxone®)?

The best medication for you is based on many factors and the decision should be made with advice from your physician. Both medications have their pros and cons and there is emerging evidence that medication choice should be influenced by the amount and type of opiates that are being used. In a recent survey of our patients, 67% of those who had tried both medications said Methadone worked best for them. This is consistent with data reported from other countries. Because CATC offers several medication types, you can always transition between medication types to see what works for you. Have a specific question? Please call us at 1-877-937-2282 or email info@canatc.ca.

How to Prepare for Inpatient Addiction Treatment

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The First Step in Addiction Treatment: How to Prepare for Inpatient Care

The First Step in Addiction Treatment: How to Prepare for Inpatient Care

Taking the first step in addiction treatment is one of the most meaningful decisions you can make. For many people, that first step is entering an inpatient treatment program. Knowing how to prepare can make the experience less overwhelming and help you get more out of the process from day one. This guide covers what to expect, what to bring, and how to set yourself up for a successful start to recovery.

The First Step in Addiction Treatment: Why Preparation Matters

Preparation matters because it puts you in the mental and emotional space to actively participate in treatment from day one. Healing isn’t only focused on the physical aspects of your addiction; recovery also means working on your mindset, emotional triggers, and finding better ways to cope. By taking time to prepare ahead of time, you set yourself up for a more successful and purposeful treatment experience!

When you begin preparing for inpatient treatment, you’ll have the opportunity to work alongside professionals at your rehab centre to develop a specific treatment plan that is unique to your individual needs. This plan will outline your goals, the strategies to achieve them, and the therapies most helpful in the recovery process. In collaboration with your treatment team, you’ll identify your unique triggers, challenges, and coping mechanisms and work to ensure the treatment you receive is customized for your unique needs.

It can also help reduce uncertainty and fear. Checking into an inpatient addiction treatment program can be intimidating, but being aware of what will happen, both physically and emotionally, can ease anxiety. . By taking the time, you can walk into rehab with a good attitude and the intention to get the most out of the process.

Steps to Prepare for Inpatient Treatment

Preparing for inpatient treatment is a two-part process that involves logistical and emotional readiness. Here are some important steps to prepare for this transformative experience.

1. Establish a Strong Support System

Forming a solid support system is one of the most important steps to take in preparation for inpatient addiction treatment. You don’t have to go through recovery by yourself. Although your focus will be on your own healing while in treatment, it’s important to realize your family, friends, and support groups will be as much a part of your life as they were before your addiction became a part of the equation.

Research consistently supports the role of social connection in recovery. According to the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, people with strong support networks report lower stress and better outcomes during addiction treatment. You may want to tell them your goals, what you want to accomplish, and how they can support you through recovery. If you have not yet reached out, talk to a support group that addresses your needs. To promote communication and healing throughout recovery, many rehab facilities also offer support groups for both patients and their families.

2. Educate Yourself on the Treatment Process

Another important step is learning what to expect during treatment, including the types of therapies used during inpatient care. Inpatient addiction treatment programs also feature behavioural therapy components, support for co-occurring disorders and wellness activities that support holistic healing beyond just your addiction.

Understanding the different treatment modalities offered at your chosen rehab centre will be very beneficial. This could include cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), group activities, family therapy, trauma-informed care, etc. Learning about these therapies will help you participate actively in your recovery journey.

3. Take Care of School and Work Obligations

Inpatient care usually requires several weeks of intensity away from school or work. Before starting treatment, you’d want to resolve any obligations you might have there. This could include notifying your employer or school that you need medical leave, submitting time-off requests, discussing coverage, etc.

This can be an intimidating process for many, but it’s essential to keep in mind that substance use disorder (SUD) is a medical condition (2), and professional assistance is needed for sustained recovery. Most employers and schools are more understanding than you might think; they will support your choice to focus on your health and recovery. Don’t be afraid to speak up and ask for what you need so you can focus on healing without added stress.

4. Pack the Essentials

When you’re packing for inpatient treatment, bring everything you will want to access during your stay. Most rehab facilities will provide you with a list of items to bring; however, the following are some general items to consider taking with you:

Clothes: Comfortable and suitable for day-to-day activities. Consult the treatment centre about their dress code, since most facilities do have specific rules around what clothing you can wear.
Personal hygiene products: Toothbrush, soap, shampoo, deodorant, etc.
Personal identification and insurance cards: Bring your health card, your identification, and insurance information for smooth admission and billing processes.
Comfort items: A book, journal, or even photos from home may help ease the transition.

Do not bring any valuables or things that have been forbidden by your treatment centre. Typically, you cannot bring in food or drink, electronic cigarettes, aerosols, games, or sporting equipment. Consult with your treatment centre for any restrictions.

What to Bring

• Provincial Health Card

• Medical or prescription insurance card

• 2 week supply of all medications in their original, properly labelled bottle or vial

• If prescribed methadone, please bring one day’s dose.

• Comfortable Clothing (enough for about 7-10 days, as laundry facilities are available)

• Indoor shoes or slippers with rubber soles.

• Sleepwear

• Fitness Gear (shorts, track pants, running shoes, etc.)

• Unopened Toiletries (toothbrush, shampoo, conditioner, shaving cream, etc.)

• Appropriate seasonal outerwear (rain gear, snow boots, coat, etc.)

• Leisure time activities (i.e. books, art & craft supplies, musical instruments, and supplies for journaling and letter

writing

• Spiritual, religious, or ceremonial items

• Reusable water bottle and/or travel mug

• Preloaded portable music player that does not require Wi-Fi or data

• If applicable: an adequate supply of unopen cigarettes or vape pods.

• Payment for incidentals (to be kept in a safe) Suggestion: $500 prepaid credit card

What Not to Bring

• Any materials that depict substance use or addictive behaviors, or that promote discrimination, hate, or

derogatory messaging toward others.

• Laptop, electronics, electronic games of any kind, smart watches

• Electronics with audio or video recording capability.

• Drug paraphernalia

• Weapons

• Valuable or irreplaceable personal items

• Pornography

• Self-pleasuring devices

• Toiletries containing alcohol (i.e. mouthwash, hand sanitizer)

• Cologne, aftershave, or perfume

• Aerosol cans (hairspray, deodorant, etc.)

• Hair dye

• Homemade, unsealed, and/or non-perishable food items.

• Personal vehicle

• Cash

Please note that Trafalgar is a scent-free facility.

5. Trust the Process

Recovery is a long and often bumpy road, with many twists and turns along the way. Trusting the process is one of the most critical things to keep in mind as you prepare for inpatient treatment! Know that recovering from addiction is a lifelong commitment (3) and that healing takes time, with many distractions along the way. There will be hard days (especially during detox), and slips may happen. Be patient with yourself and the process.

Detoxing from drugs or alcohol can be challenging, and withdrawal symptoms can be painful, but your treatment team will be with you every step of the way to monitor and support you. Understanding that this stage is temporary and an essential part of the path to healing. If you are committed to recovery, trusting the process and being patient with yourself will greatly increase your chances of success.

What to Bring to Inpatient Treatment

Knowing what to pack removes one source of anxiety before you arrive. Here is a general guide to what to bring to inpatient treatment.

Clothing and personal items to pack include comfortable, casual clothing for around 7 to 10 days, comfortable shoes suitable for both indoor and outdoor activities, personal toiletries such as shampoo, toothbrush, and deodorant (no alcohol-based products), a small amount of cash for any incidentals, and any prescribed medications in their original pharmacy packaging with a list of dosages.

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID, your provincial health card, any insurance information, and emergency contact details for at least two people.

Leave at home: alcohol or substances of any kind, medications not disclosed to the treatment team, valuables and expensive jewellery, and electronic devices unless the facility specifically permits them. Your intake team will confirm the full list of what’s permitted before your arrival date.

What to Expect in Your First Days

The first few days of inpatient treatment can feel unfamiliar, and that’s completely normal. Here is what you can generally expect.

On your first day, the care team will welcome you and help you settle into your accommodations. The team will complete a clinical assessment to help build your individualized treatment plan. If medically supervised detox is part of your program, the medical team will begin it under their care.

In the days that follow, you’ll begin participating in the structured daily schedule, which typically includes individual therapy, group sessions, and wellness activities. You’ll start to get to know your care team and the other people in the program. Most people describe the first few days as more manageable than they expected.

If you feel anxious, uncertain, or emotional in the early days, that’s a normal part of the process. Your care team is there to support you through it. You don’t have to have it all figured out before you arrive.

How Does the Addiction Treatment Process Work?

The treatment process includes a complete assessment of your personal and family medical history, addiction history, mental health conditions, and potential co-occurring disorders (such as anxiety, depression, or trauma). From this assessment, we develop a plan of care tailored to your goals and the most effective options to support your recovery.

Typically, this includes a combination of therapy modalities, counseling, one-on-one and group sessions, and recovery activities that promote healing and self-awareness. You’ll likely take part in daily therapy sessions, which might include individual therapy with a licensed therapist as well as group therapy with other patients. Our rehab centers also provide family support programs, art therapy, and mindfulness practices, among many more, to help facilitate emotional healing.

The duration of inpatient addiction treatment can differ, with the majority ranging from 30 to 90 days (4). Your treatment duration will be based on your unique needs, progress, and addiction severity. Remember that overcoming addiction is not an instant process; it takes time, effort, and commitment—but it’s worth it!

The goal of inpatient treatment is to bring you emotional and physical stability. This typically involves withdrawal management, where you’ll receive guidance on navigating withdrawal symptoms as your body gets used to living without the substance you’ve used. Your treatment team will assess your health and well-being during the process of a medically supervised detox and modify your treatment plan as necessary.

Choose CATC for Inpatient Addiction Rehab

Preparing to enter inpatient treatment is a vital step on the road to recovery, and selecting the right treatment center may be just as important. Canadian Addiction Treatment Centres (CATC) understands the struggle to break free from addiction. We help guide you through your recovery journey with open-minded care and effective and verified solutions at our different addiction rehab centres in Ontario.

We provide inpatient drug and alcohol rehab programs tailor-made for recovery and healing. With licensed therapists, medical professionals, and compassionate staff behind you, we will create a treatment plan that fits your goals and needs. You’re not alone—we offer a variety of addiction treatment programs, from detox and withdrawal management to behavioral therapy and relapse prevention.

If you or someone you care about is ready to begin their recovery journey, call CATC today. We are here to answer any questions and help you prepare for the next part of your life. You don’t have to do this alone—recovery is possible, and we can help.

Speak with our intake team today to start your recovery.

Information on this page is for informational purposes only, and does not replace personalized medical advice. You should never make any decisions about your health without consulting a healthcare professional, especially when related to substance use or mental health. To speak to a qualified member of our team for personalized advice, you can contact us here.