Our approach to therapy is simple: we treat people with care and respect, and we meet them with compassion — not judgment. Recovery takes time and support. That’s what we’re here for.
Our three-month programme gives you the space and structure to heal, rebuild, and figure out what life can look like without substances. The setting helps too. Our peaceful surroundings offer the kind of calm most people haven’t felt in a long time.
You’ll be supported by a team of professionals who take the time to get to know you. Each person’s experience is different, so we don’t follow a one-size-fits-all model. Your treatment plan is built around your needs, using a mix of proven therapies and practical tools to help you move forward in a real, lasting way.
Addiction affects every part of life — not just physically, but emotionally and mentally too. We understand that recovery isn’t just about stopping the substance.
Most people come in with other things they’re carrying too, things like anxiety, low mood, or emotional stress. That’s common, and you’re not alone in it. We’ve got a team that includes psychologists and psychiatrists, and they’re here to help you work through whatever else might be going on beneath the surface.
We also take care of your physical wellbeing. Addiction can leave your body feeling run down or out of balance. While you’re here, you’ll eat well, spend time outside, move your body, and start getting your strength back — gently, at your own pace.
If spiritual support is something you’re open to, we offer that too. Some people find strength in the 12-step approach, and we make space for that in a way that fits you. If that part doesn’t feel right for you, that’s okay. It’s your journey, and we’ll meet you where you are.
Everyone’s care here is a little different. We’ll talk with you about what kind of support you need, and then build a plan around that.
Some of what we offer:
- A psychiatric assessment, if it’s needed
- Regular check-ins with our nursing staff to keep an eye on your wellbeing
- Help with medication, managed safely by our medical team
- Access to doctors and other specialists
- One-on-one counselling, using practical approaches like trauma support, CBT or person-centred therapy — whichever feels most useful to you
Life skills groups, where you can learn everyday tools to help you feel more steady and capable - Group sessions that give you space to talk about what’s on your mind — things like setting goals, dealing with emotions, or just making sense of where you are.
It’s not about ticking boxes. It’s about giving you the kind of support that actually helps — and adjusting things along the way if we need to.
When someone’s struggling, the people close to them feel it too. That’s why we involve families where we can. We offer family therapy sessions, either in person or online, and give families the chance to learn more about addiction and recovery. The 12-step work includes personal reflection and writing exercises, guided by your counsellor at a pace that makes sense for you.
Not all therapy happens in a chair. You’ll also have the chance to take part in other activities that help you reconnect with life in meaningful ways.
- Walks in nature and time for quiet reflection along the river
- Group service projects that support local people, animals, and communities
- Team-building exercises to help build confidence and connection
- In-house NA meetings to stay connected with others on the same path
Before you finish your time with us, we’ll help you put together a simple aftercare plan. This might include referrals to professionals in your area, support groups, or recovery communities to help you stay on track. You won’t be sent home to figure things out on your own — we’ll make sure there’s a plan in place that feels manageable and supportive.
If you’re thinking about reaching out, we’re here. You don’t have to know exactly what you need — we can figure it out together. You can call us on +27 87 250 2843 or email us at booking@whiteriverrecovery.co.za to find out more.
Committed to your long-term success
Through constructive and developmental activities, our experienced counsellors establish trust, provide structured sober-living experiences, and equip clients with practical tools for long-term recovery.
With a multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and professional nurses, we offer a truly comprehensive approach to recovery. Many of our senior team members have walked their own path of recovery and share their experiences to guide and inspire others.
Individual sessions under the guidance of multi-disciplinary team.
A professional psychiatric evaluation is conducted, when necessary, by a highly qualified professor of psychiatry.
Our on-site nurses conduct routine medical checks, monitoring vital signs such as blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Referrals to specialists are made as needed.
All medication is administered and monitored by our professional nursing staff, including the safe dispensation of basic over-the-counter medications.
We provide on-site consultations with a general practitioner, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists. Referrals to additional specialists are made when required.
We use approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), the Person-Centred Approach, and Trauma Debriefing.
Coping skills and strategies to overcome life challenges and become more resilient
Includes vulnerability groups, goal-setting groups, positive reinforcement groups, as well as CBT- and DBT-based sessions.
Family therapy sessions are scheduled on-site or via Zoom/video call as part of the process.
Lectures and written work/individual counselling
Hiking trails in surrounding forest areas, hikes along the White River and reflection times at the river banks.
Clients visit local communities, engaging in meaningful interactions and giving back to disadvantaged and disabled children and animals.
Lectures and written work/individual counselling
Clients are required to attend one weekly support group meeting, hosted in-house
Each client is guided through the development of a personalised aftercare plan, with referrals to various support structures.