Checking into a rehab centre can be a scary experience, especially for those who have never attended one before. Many individuals are scared of the unknown and are unsure of what to expect from treatment, while some of these people may not understand how they will overcome their addiction. Aside from these fears, one of the most misunderstood concerns is the privacy at the therapy sessions that take place throughout treatment. Due to the crucial importance of therapy at rehab, it is important for an individual to have a basic understanding of the common therapies and how their privacy is protected during each session.
Privacy during One on One Therapy
One on one therapy, also referred to as individual therapy, is included in nearly all rehabilitation programmes. The therapy involves the individual meeting with a specialised addiction therapist or counsellor (from here on we will use only therapist) on a regular basis to discuss their story of addiction. During the session, the therapist will be taking notes on what the individual is talking about with the overall intention of understanding why they began to use drugs or drink alcohol and how they became addicted. Through these un-judgmental notes, the therapist will help to address the root cause of addiction and will furthermore help the individual to begin to deal with future life situations in a positive sober way. A one on one therapy session will include only the individual and the therapist, no one else, unless specified and agreed upon by both persons. It is a safe place in which no information will leave the room and all notes will be completely private from others in and outside the centre.
Privacy during Group Therapy
Group therapy at a rehabilitation centre is similar to one on one therapy, except that other individuals who are undergoing treatment at the centre will be in the session as well. The therapy will be moderated by an experienced therapist who will listen, take notes, and be there to assist any of the persons in the room. There are many benefits to group therapy; however, it is the opportunity to share stories, experiences, and advice that makes it so beneficial to overcoming an addiction. For many individuals, group therapy is the first time that they have spoken openly about their addiction and the consequences that it had on them. This time is often very healing for the individual, making it a favorite for many. Privacy in group therapy is just as important as in one on one therapy; therefore, anything that gets discussed during the session is not allowed to leave the room.
Privacy at AA/NA
Depending on the type of rehab centre, individuals may be encourages to participate in 12 step meetings, NA, or AA. These can be very beneficial as they allow everyone to open up about their own experience, as well as, listen to others while offering support and advice. The 12 step model of treatment takes every effort to ensure privacy and anonymity as well as a group understanding that everything discussed in the meeting stays within the group. Although realistically this cannot be guaranteed, the issues of privacy are nearly always met. This is because others who are involved in the meeting are also discussing their own struggles with addiction; therefore, they desire the same respect of privacy and confidentiality as everyone else in the room.
Overall Privacy While Speaking to Professionals
Those undergoing treatment may have concerns of their overall privacy while opening up to professionals; such as doctors, therapists, and counselors at the centre. It is important for a person to understand that they can rely on complete confidentiality to be maintained while speaking with one of these professionals and furthermore, it is bound by their oaths they made when taking up their profession. To create an atmosphere of trust and healing, as well as, to keep in accordance with various regulations, any test results, content of therapy sessions, medical checkups, and any other information is kept private.
It must be noted that an individual may choose to sign releases for certain people to be allowed to see their information. Additionally, some rehabs will discuss an individual’s progress with a specialised team in order to treat the person as best as they possibly can. Again, this information will not get discussed outside of the rehabilitation centre. Exceptions may be made if an individual threatens to hurt themselves or others, or if a court gives an order to disclose information.
The Cabin Chiang Mai offers those struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol a personalised treatment programme to meet each and every individual need. The centre is in a quiet and comfortable environment which offers serenity and privacy one needs to heal from an addiction. Contact The Cabin Chiang Mai today to get started.
