Frequently Asked Questions

A: The admission process involves a preliminary discussion with one of our admission staff by telephone. After that, we may request medical information from you (via your GP). If you need to speak to a doctor, this may be arranged in person, by telephone or on site. Once admission is agreed upon, we offer help with collection to and from airports, bus or train stations. We will also send your more detailed information to prepare you for your time in treatment with us. 

A: The environment is peaceful and comfortable. Smarmore Castle is a professional, medically managed clinic, but it also feels like a traditional countryside house or hotel. The clinic is set within 14 acres of beautiful countryside. We believe this kind of environment is conducive to recovery. Our staff are amicable and highly trained individuals with varied backgrounds who understand the issues and problems you are bringing with you to treatment. Your recovery, your safety and your well-being are their highest priorities.

A: Our treatment combines medical and psycho-social interventions and therapies. Our primary therapeutic model is the 12-Step model. However, this is offered in conjunction with cognitive behavioural therapy and other therapies on a one-to-one and group basis. The treatment programme also incorporates exercise, complementary therapies, and other activities – wholesome meals and plenty of high-quality sleep!

A: In the early days while you are recovering from your initial detox, you will be resting, but as soon as you are physically able, you will find that the days and evenings are filled up with lectures, meetings, group therapy, individual therapy, activities, meals, as well as medical and nursing appointments. But there will also be time to relax, reflect and take a walk outdoors.

A: On the day you are admitted, you will be assigned a focal therapist to conduct regular one-to-one sessions with you throughout your stay. Our nursing staff are always on hand 24/7 to look after your well-being from the moment you arrive. Depending on your daily needs, you may also meet with a consultant psychiatrist or medical doctor.

A: We have nursing staff on-site 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our doctors are on-site daily and on-call 24/7.

A: The minimum period of treatment offered is 28 days. However, we accept patients for a minimum of two weeks, depending on their medical condition. Some patients require more extended treatment, and their treatment plans are modified as they progress through treatment.

A: Our admissions team will guide you through the payment processes, whether you are enquiring as a self-funding individual or whether you intend to pay via private health insurance or the HSE.

A: Once you have committed to treatment, you will receive a pack of helpful information telling you what to bring and what to expect on your first day. In general, the dress code is smart-casual. Tracksuits and trainers are acceptable for the gym but not for your therapy and medical appointments. Revealing or distracting clothing is not allowed.

A:This is being reviewed at present, but family visitation has not yet been reintroduced.

A: There are designated outdoor smoking/vaping areas at the Clinic.

A: Your return home is an important stage in your recovery. You will be involved in preparing your aftercare plan, including links with local 12-step groups such as AA and NA. Aftercare takes place via zoom and on-site at Smarmore Castle presently.

A: To give our patients the best chance at achieving long-term sobriety, we advise that detox be followed by intensive psychological therapy. There are three stages to our detox process: clinical assessment, stabilisation and entry into treatment. Once your needs have been assessed and our medical team know what type of treatment you require, they will work to stabilise your condition and ease the symptoms of withdrawal. Once detox is complete, your treatment can begin. We don’t believe that leaving before receiving therapy for addiction is in the best interest of our patients.

A: At Smarmore we provide a medically managed detox, which means that, if necessary, patients will be prescribed medication to manage withdrawal and help them cope with any symptoms. The doses are closely monitored and will be reduced over time until  we are satisfied that the patient has fully detoxed.

A: Smarmore Castle accepts funding for alcohol and drug rehab from HSE Ireland and we have a number of bed spaces available to HSE funded patients who are referred from HSE Addiction Services. If you wish to access HSE funded treatment at Smarmore Castle we will first take you through a pre-admission assessment in order to ensure we are the clinic best suited to your needs. Once your funding has been confirmed by the HSE, we will let you know when a place will become available. While we do not currently offer payment plans, our fees may also qualify for an income tax rebate.

A: Yes, we accept self-referrals from the patient, family members, employers, or other relevant professionals.

A: Our bedrooms can accommodate between two to four people. Each of our single-sex rooms includes an en-suite to ensure privacy and dignity.

A: We treat a range of addictions, including alcoholism, drugs, prescription drugs, compulsive gambling and dual diagnosis. Dual diagnosis is a co-existing mental health like depression, anxiety or trauma.

A: Smarmore Castle offers Inpatient treatment only. For outpatient treatment please contact CATCH Recovery

A: You may receive mail and packages via post while in treatment.  In order to maintain a substance fee environment, all packages are inspected in front of patients on receipt. Flower deliveries are discouraged while in treatment.