Written by:

Medically Reviewed by:

Dr Mateen Durrani – MBBS, DPM, MSc, BCPsych

Last Updated:

February 17th, 2025

Buprenorphine Rehab

What is buprenorphine rehab?

Buprenorphine rehab is a structured treatment designed to help individuals overcome dependency on buprenorphine, an opioid medication often used to manage withdrawal from opioids. This type of rehab focuses on gently transitioning individuals from reliance on buprenorphine to a life free of opioids. Through a combination of medical support, therapy and aftercare, it addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction, ensuring the individual feels supported throughout the process.

Why would someone want buprenorphine rehab?

It’s understandable that the idea of buprenorphine rehab might seem confusing. After all, buprenorphine itself is often used as a treatment. But when you break it down, the need becomes clear.

For many, buprenorphine rehab is the final step in phasing out opioids from their life. A person may have once struggled with opioid addiction and been prescribed buprenorphine as a safer alternative. While this can be an essential lifeline during recovery, it can also leave people reliant on the drug to ward off withdrawal symptoms.

Although buprenorphine is less dangerous than street opioids, this reliance can hold individuals back from achieving complete independence from opioids. Buprenorphine rehab provides the tools and guidance needed to make that final transition.

Do I need buprenorphine rehab?

It can be difficult to know when the right time for buprenorphine rehab has arrived. For many, the drug represents a crutch, a lifeline that got them through their most challenging moments with opioids. But there comes a time to let go, and recognising this moment can be the start of something truly transformative.

If you find yourself relying on buprenorphine to function or questioning whether you could manage without it, now might be the time to explore your options. Answer the following questions honestly. If the majority of your answers are ‘yes’, it could be an indication that you’re ready to embrace life without opioids and transition to a healthier future.

Do you feel unable to reduce or stop taking buprenorphine on your own?
Are you taking buprenorphine in higher doses or more frequently than prescribed?
Do you experience withdrawal symptoms if you try to stop?
Has your reliance on buprenorphine started to affect your relationships or daily responsibilities?
Do you worry about what life would be like without it?
Have you continued using buprenorphine despite experiencing negative side effects or health issues?

What is buprenorphine rehab like?

The idea of rehab often carries a sense of stigma, with some associating it with punishment or failure. But in reality, rehab is a place of healing, growth and empowerment. Here’s what you can expect from a buprenorphine rehab programme, broken into four key stages:

Initial assessment

This is where everything begins. During the assessment, medical professionals take the time to understand your unique history with buprenorphine and opioids. This isn’t about judgment; it’s about building a tailored plan that suits your needs and ensures you feel supported every step of the way.

Detox

Detox is the process of safely removing buprenorphine from your system, typically under medical observation. Withdrawal symptoms can be challenging, but with professional care, they’re manageable. The focus is on making you as comfortable as possible while your body adjusts.

Therapy

Therapy is central to your recovery. Through various approaches, you’ll uncover the reasons behind your opioid use, learn strategies to cope with triggers and build confidence in managing life without buprenorphine.

Aftercare

Recovery doesn’t end when you leave rehab. Aftercare ensures you have ongoing support, whether through counselling, support groups or check-ins, so you feel secure as you navigate life beyond rehab.

How therapy in buprenorphine rehab can help transform your life

Therapy plays a pivotal role in buprenorphine rehab, offering a space to explore the underlying causes of addiction and build resilience for the future. Many people worry that without buprenorphine, they might relapse or struggle to manage cravings. Therapy equips you with the tools to face these challenges head-on. Below, we explain how different therapies work and why they’re so effective in helping you regain control over your life.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

CBT is a practical, solution-focused therapy that helps you identify and change unhelpful thought patterns. For those in buprenorphine rehab, CBT can be particularly useful in tackling negative beliefs around dependency. It also addresses co-occurring issues such as anxiety or body dysmorphia, helping you build healthier ways of thinking and responding to triggers.

Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT)

DBT focuses on managing intense emotions and improving relationships. If you’ve struggled with feelings of guilt, shame or anger related to your opioid use, DBT can help you navigate these emotions. It also teaches skills like mindfulness, which can be a powerful tool in resisting cravings and staying grounded.

Group therapy

Sharing your experiences with others who understand can be incredibly validating. Group therapy provides a supportive environment where you can gain insights, share coping strategies and feel less alone in your journey. It fosters a sense of community, reminding you that recovery is not something you have to face by yourself.

One-to-one therapy

This is your space to talk openly about anything on your mind. Whether it’s exploring the reasons behind your opioid use, addressing fears about the future or simply sharing how you’re feeling, one-to-one therapy offers a safe and confidential setting to work through personal challenges.

Holistic therapies like art therapy, yoga and meditation

A core element of therapy is centred around rediscovering joy, purpose and balance. Holistic therapies like art therapy allow you to express emotions in a creative and non-verbal way. Yoga and meditation, on the other hand, focus on reconnecting the mind and body, reducing stress and improving overall well-being.

Each of these therapies plays a unique role in your journey, helping you not only break free from buprenorphine but also rebuild a fulfilling, opioid-free life.

Ready to take the next step?

If you or someone you care about is struggling with buprenorphine addiction, we’re here to help. At Liberty House, we understand how challenging this journey can be, but with the right support, recovery is always possible. Reach out to us today, and let’s take the next step together.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the challenges faced by long-term buprenorphine users in rehab?

Long-term buprenorphine users may face intense withdrawal symptoms, psychological dependency and difficulty letting go of the drug as a coping tool. Rehab addresses these challenges with tailored support, medical care and therapies to ease the transition.

What role does behavioural therapy play in buprenorphine rehab?

Behavioural therapy helps individuals identify and change harmful thought patterns related to their addiction. It equips them with coping strategies, emotional regulation tools and techniques to handle triggers, fostering a healthier mindset and preventing relapse.

How does buprenorphine rehab address the risk of relapse after the treatment ends?

Rehab includes aftercare planning, such as follow-up counselling, support groups and coping strategies. These ensure individuals remain supported and equipped to manage cravings, triggers and stressors, reducing the risk of relapse after treatment.

How much does buprenorphine rehab cost?

The cost of buprenorphine rehab varies based on the programme’s length, the type of therapies offered and the facility. Contacting Liberty House directly can provide specific details and help find a plan that suits your needs.