Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about addiction treatment and recovery in Canada
How do I find the right treatment center?
Consider your needs: Do you need detox? Inpatient or outpatient? Are you close to home important? Use our search tool to filter by province and treatment type, then contact a few centers to ask about their programs, costs, and wait times.
Is treatment covered by provincial health insurance?
Many publicly funded treatment centers are covered by provincial health plans. Private rehab centers typically are not, but may accept extended health insurance. Always call the center directly to confirm coverage options.
What is the difference between inpatient and outpatient treatment?
Inpatient (residential) treatment means you live at the facility during treatment — typically 28 to 90 days. Outpatient treatment allows you to live at home while attending sessions several times per week. The right choice depends on the severity of addiction and your personal circumstances.
How long does addiction treatment take?
Treatment duration varies. Medical detox may take 3-7 days. Short-term residential programs run 28-30 days. Long-term residential can be 60-90+ days. Outpatient programs may continue for months. Recovery is often a lifelong process.
Can I get help for a family member?
Yes. Many treatment centers offer family programs and can advise you on how to help a loved one. You can also call our helpline at +1-877-254-3348 for guidance on supporting someone who needs treatment.
What if someone is in immediate danger?
Call 911 immediately for medical emergencies. For mental health crises, call the Canadian Crisis Helpline at 1-833-456-4566, available 24/7.
How do I know if a treatment center is legitimate?
Look for centers that are licensed by the provincial government, have accreditations from recognized bodies, and have verifiable contact information. Our directory lists all known centers but we encourage you to verify directly with the center.
What substances can be treated?
Treatment centers in Canada typically treat alcohol, opioids (including heroin and fentanyl), cocaine, methamphetamine, cannabis, prescription drug dependency, and co-occurring mental health disorders. Browse our substances section for more specific information.
Is addiction treatment confidential?
Yes. Healthcare providers in Canada are bound by privacy legislation. Your information cannot be shared without your consent, with exceptions for safety emergencies.
What is Recovery Begins? Are you a treatment center?
No — Recovery Begins is a directory service. We list and help people find addiction treatment centers across Canada. We do not provide treatment ourselves and do not receive commissions from listings.