Screening & Assessment in Addiction Cases

Assesment involves asking targeted questions to determine if a more comprehensive evaluation for a specific problem or disorder is needed.

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Assessment is a comprehensive process to determine the severity of addiction and develop a personalised treatment plan. From the first contact, whether via phone call or email, a qualified professional is assigned to the case and books a time to speak with the involved parties. The case begins by gathering information and setting general directions, which are fine-tuned later during therapy, outpatient services, or simply through life advice. This initial assessment can also lead to admission into rehab, secondary care, or a sober living environment. It considers many important factors related to the individual’s life circumstances and is a step to start moving in a better direction.

The professional assessment process includes a thorough evaluation of the individual’s physical and mental health, substance use history, and any co-occurring mental health or social conditions that may be relevant to treatment and care. More than 50% of our clients have underlying mental health issues that must be addressed concurrently with their addiction treatment. By identifying these issues early, we can develop an integrated treatment plan that addresses both addiction and mental health, improving the chances of successful, long-term recovery.

This process is conducted with strict confidentiality, ensuring that all information is handled with the utmost care and respect. The patient-therapist relationship is built on trust and confidence, providing a safe space for clients to share their thoughts, emotions, experiences and challenges without the fear or retributions. Our therapists simply act as sounding boards, having encountered a wide range of issues and are solely dedicated to helping those in need. We provide a non-judgmental, supportive environment where clients can openly discuss their experiences and challenges starting at the assesment.

Whether your substance use developed quickly or over time, this self-assessment can help you understand your situation. Remember, addiction is a medical condition that requires treatment. If you’re unsure about the next steps, take our self-test.

Assessment

A private clinical assessment clarifies risks, co-occurring concerns, and immediate next steps. We gather history, current symptoms, medications, and family input to match the right level of care. If admission is appropriate, we help you plan timelines and documentation so things move quickly. Learn how assessments work and what to expect on the day.

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Withdrawal is managed under medical oversight to reduce risks and improve comfort. Nursing support is available 24/7, with medication protocols tailored to clinical need. Detox prepares patients for therapeutic work—sleep, nutrition, and stabilisation come first. See what to bring, typical timelines, and how we coordinate pre-authorisation.

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The first 21–42 days focus on routine, safety, and daily therapy. Patients engage in individual and group sessions, psycho-education, and family contact where appropriate, supported by a multidisciplinary team. Primary care builds early momentum for change and prepares the plan for the next stage.

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Secondary care deepens the work on patterns, triggers, and trauma in a calmer setting. With structured days, therapeutic groups, and coached routines, patients practise skills that hold at home. Families are updated and involved appropriately. Explore typical lengths of stay and why secondary care improves long-term outcomes.

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For step-down care or when residential treatment isn’t possible, outpatient combines evening groups, one-to-one therapy, and accountability. The focus is integrating recovery into daily life—work, study, and family responsibilities—while maintaining structure and support.

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Sober living provides a structured, supportive home environment with curfews, chores, coached routines, and ongoing therapy. It bridges the gap between inpatient treatment and independent living, reinforcing accountability and community while returning to work or study.

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Patients learn how to spot risk early and respond fast—managing triggers, cravings, and high-risk situations. We build practical routines, communication plans, and support networks, with clear steps families can take too. See typical tools and how they’re practised before discharge.

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Continuing care sustains progress after discharge: scheduled check-ins, group support, individual sessions where needed, and a plan for setbacks. We coordinate with families and community resources to keep recovery anchored in daily life.

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Why Families Choose Changes

Experienced clinicians, trauma-informed care, and outcomes that hold at home.

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Changes Addiction Rehab professional memberships and accreditations

Changes Addiction Rehab is licensed by the South African Department of Social Development (Practice No. 0470000537861) and the Department of Health, and is a registered detox facility and practice with the Board of Healthcare Funders. Our treatment programme is led by counsellors registered with the HPCSA, working alongside a multidisciplinary team of medical professionals under a unified practice. We are proud, standing members of the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC), the Occupational Therapy Association of South Africa, the South African Council for Social Service Professions, the South African Medical Association, the South African Nursing Council and the South African Society of Psychiatrists. Changes Addiction Rehab has been in continuous professional operation since 2007, when it was founded by Sheryl Rahme, who has worked in the addiction treatment field since 1984. Our core clinical team brings over 100 years of combined professional addiction recovery experience.