What is the admission process?
What is the environment like and who are the staff?
What does the programme involve?
Who will help me throughout my treatment at Smarmore Clinic?
Is there always a doctor on duty?
How long will I be at Smarmore Clinic?
Can my family visit or call? Can I receive mail?
What happens at the end of my treatment?
Q: What is the admission process?
A: The admission process involves a preliminarly discussion with one our admissions staff by telephone. After that we will request medical information from you (via your GP) and we will establish how your treatment will be funded. If you need to speak to one of our doctors, this may be arranged in person, by telephone or by a video link. Once an admission is agreed we will help you to book your travel, and arrange a time and date of arrival. We will also send your more detailed information to prepare you for your time in treatment with us.
Q: What is the environment like and who are the staff?
A: The environement 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 very friendly and highly trained individuals, with varied backgrounds, who understand the issues and the problems that you are bringing with you into treatment. Your recovery, your safety and your well-being are their highest priorities.
Q: What does the programme involve?
A: Our treatment is a combination of 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 – and of course wholesome meals and plenty of high quality sleep!
Q: What is the average day like?
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.
Q: Who will help me throughout my treatment at Smarmore Clinic?
A: On the day you are admitted, you will be assigned a focal therapist who will conduct regular one-to-one sessions with you throughout your stay. From the moment you arrive our nursing staff are always on hand 24/7 to look after your well-being. You may also meet with a consultant psychiatrist or medical doctor , depending on your daily needs.
Q: Is there always a doctor on duty?
A: We have nursing staff on site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our doctors are on-site daily and on-call 24/7.
Q: How long will I be in treatment?
A: We recommend at least 6 weeks. However, we accept patients for a minimum of two weeks depending on their medical condition. Some patients require longer in treatment, and their needs can be assessed, and their treatment plan modified as they progress through treatment.
Q: How do I arrange payment?
A: We require the first 2 weeks payment as a non-refundable deposit on the first day of treatment, or prior to admission by bank transfer or credit card payment. Following this, the fee payer will be invoiced once every 2 weeks for the duration of their stay.
Q: What clothes should I bring?
A: Once you have committed to treatment, you will be sent a pack of useful 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 fine for the gym, but not for your therapy and medical appointments. Revealing or distracting clothing is not allowed.
Q: Can my family visit or call? Can I receive mail?
A: In the first 7 days, we discourage too much contact with family and friends because we prefer our patients to fully immerse themselves in the programme and we have found that distractions can impede progress. Following this initial period, we welcome visitors on a Sunday. You may receive mail and small packages; due to the need to maintain a drug and alcohol-free environement, these will always be searched prior to handing them over.
Q: Can I smoke?
A: If you are already a smoker, then you may smoke in designated areas outdoors. We discourage smoking and we instead encourage you to give-up tobacco during your time in treatment with us. Those who wish to pursue this option may do so during their stay in treatment.
Q: What happens at the end of my treatment?
A: You will be involved in preparing your own aftercare plan, including links with local 12 step groups such as AA and NA. The immediate aftermath of treatment, and your return home is a crucial period in your recovery, and in avoiding relapse. We provide aftercare groups at locations in Ireland and Scotland and we also offer tele-therapy via video-conferencing in you need to continue therapy sessions on an outpatient baiss.