Brian JonesLife can throw us some curveballs, and sometimes we find ourselves caught in a downward spiral. Whether it’s substance abuse, gambling, or any other form of addiction, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the top-rated treatment centers in Edmonton, each offering unique approaches and specialized care to address your specific needs.
How much do treatment centers charge in Edmonton?
Addiction treatment at publicly funded facilities in Edmonton is free for all residents. However, if you opt for private treatment centers, the average cost is $12,500. The final price can vary depending on the specific services, program length, and level of care provided.
How We Chose
1. Poundmaker’s Lodge Treatment Centres
| Title | Info |
|---|---|
| WEBSITE | http://www.poundmakerslodge.ca/ |
| ADDRESS | Box 34007, Kingsway Mall Post Office, Edmonton, AB T5G 3G4, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | +1 780-458-1884 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Friday - 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM |
Poundmaker’s Lodge Treatment Centres’s longstanding presence since 1973 speaks volumes about their commitment to helping individuals overcome addiction. It’s the first addiction treatment center for Indigenous people in Canada.
We’re big fans of how they’ve integrated traditional Indigenous ceremonies like smudging and sweat lodges with more conventional methods such as group therapy and 12-step programs.
It’s a blend that feels both respectful and effective, especially in their 42-day Adult Residential Treatment Program.
But what really caught our attention was their specialized 90-day Young Adult Program. With this, they’ve added wilderness excursions and cultural camps that help young adults build essential life skills.
Now, it’s worth noting that their program is free for all Alberta residents. But there is a treatment service charge of $305 per day for out-of-province clients participating in the 42-day program, and an additional $350 per day for those who need detox.
We also like how their tele-mental health services ensure that ongoing care is accessible, which is crucial for long-term recovery.
Pros
- Accessible care for Alberta residents
- Tele-mental health services
- Long-standing reputation
- Specialized programs
- Holistic approach
Cons
- A few reports of poor customer service
Teaches valuable cultural lessons
“I was talking about being grateful this morning for the first time in a while. I thought of my time in poundmakers. I need to say thankyou for all of your work. So many staff members cared about me. I think that’s what I needed. And I appreciate you for that. I’m not a perfect person but when I find help and people that work so hard for me I owe it to say thankyou and it’s not hard to say. You guys really care and I don’t want to be forward but I’m light skinned. I wasn’t treated any differently. But I tried to respect the difference and I love learning about the creator. It’s a beautiful way of life. Something I wish I could have and maybe one day I will . Respectfully. I hope you will get the recognition you deserve. You are a stand up and humble community that helps others. And anyone that needs it despite the fact that others don’t help you. You deserve this world and you’re so humble but I know who is strong here. And my faith is with you. Thankyou for loving me.”
B.S Britney Spectacular, Google Review
Transforms lives through a supportive 90-day program
“I just graduated the 90 day program here on Dec 23rd, 2020. I have been to treatment many times, but this Treatment Center was the first one I willingly went to and it has already changed my life. I didn’t grow up in the aboriginal culture, but I felt so accepted here. I finally created a connection to my spirituality. The staff and counselors here are amazing! They are so understanding and make being there better. There definitely can be some drama, mainly between the girls, but while I was there I saw it transition from cliques, gossip, stealing from one another to such an amazing and strong tribe of brothers and sisters. I will be forever grateful to Poundmakers and will miss it there very much! I can’t wait until I can go back in three months for a 2 week follow up!”
Brittany Krpan, Google Review
2. Our House Addiction Recovery Centre
| Title | Info |
|---|---|
| WEBSITE | https://ourhouseedmonton.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 22210 Stony Plain Rd, Edmonton, AB T5S 2C3, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | +1 780-474-8945 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Friday - 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM |
Our House Addiction Recovery Centre, exclusively serving men, truly left a mark on us. Their history alone speaks volumes – founded way back in 1894; they’ve clearly dedicated themselves to helping people overcome addiction.
One aspect that truly impressed us was their year-long program. It’s rare to find such a long-term commitment to recovery, and it shows just how serious they are about giving residents the tools they need for lasting change.
We also love that they integrate residents into the 12-step program. They have multiple meetings a week that are designed to help participants connect with others who share similar experiences about their challenges and struggles with regard to addiction.
And since generous grant funding covers the cost of all their treatment services, clients of Our House Addiction Recovery Centre do not need to pay.
However, they do have a waitlist, so it’s best to reach out early if you or someone you know is considering their services.
For those who feel inspired by the work being done here, donations can easily be made through their website, which is a nice touch for those looking to give back.
Pros
- 12-Step community integration
- Long-standing reputation
- Easy donation process
- No cost for treatment
- Year-long program
Cons
- Access might be delayed due to waitlist
- Limited to male clients
Educates participants about potential pitfalls in recovery
“I was in our house for two months and learned so many tools from the awesome counselors there..unfortunately in the early month of Jan 2024 i returned to the house after a visit at home with my family and my pee test came back positive for drugs..I was shocked to say the least because i knew that i did not relapse..eventually i was sent home and wracked my brain trying to figure out how this happened!..it turned out that the blueberry poppy seed bagel that i ate for lunch was the reason..I was crushed because i didn’t realize that could happen!..anyway i’m just here to help someone else maybe who wasn’t aware that this was possible..I’m trying my best to prevent a relapse and hoping to get back into our house..so anyway that was my experience and i hope this helps anyone who wasn’t aware that poppyseed could actually affect the pee test.”
Justin, Google Review
Offers both group modules and one-on-one counseling
“Staff invested 100% (nobody there just for a paycheck) . I Graduated the program and what I got was way more than I expected. I gained a solid foundation for sobriety & recovery. Group modules as well as 1 on 1 counseling not to mention 59 other men who are healing as well. Accepting you as one of our own from day 1. You get out what you put in to your program 100%. Today what I received has been priceless. staff of 2018 to 2020 THANK YOU FOR GIVING MY LIFE BACK!”
Kramer, Google Review
3. Henwood Treatment Centre
| Title | Info |
|---|---|
| WEBSITE | https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/findhealth/Service.aspx |
| ADDRESS | 18750 18 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5Y 6C1, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | +1 780-422-9069 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Friday - 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM |
We’ve spent a good amount of time looking into addiction treatment centers in Edmonton, and one place that really caught our eye is Henwood.
What impressed us most was their focus on treating both substance use and mental health. This is important for us since these issues are often intertwined.
We also talked to a few people who’d been through their 19-day program, and they had nothing but good things to say. They especially liked the gender-specific groups, which made them feel more comfortable opening up.
One thing we really appreciated is that Henwood is part of Alberta Health Services. That means the programs are fully covered for Alberta residents with healthcare – a huge weight off your shoulders when you’re already dealing with so much.
Now, their business hours are a bit limited, 8 am to 4 pm. But don’t worry, they have a 24-hour service line, so you can always reach someone if you need help.
Pros
- Covered by Alberta Health Care
- Comprehensive approach
- Gender-specific groups
- 24-Hour service line
- Intensive program
Cons
- A few reports of rude customer service
Helps participants discover new interests and self-care
“Life changing. First time ever in a treatment facility was skeptical before but truthfully, I miss it everyday. It was def out of my comfort zone at first but when accepted the help, what I walked out with was priceless. Interest I never knew I had or that I newly acquired when I started to care about me and the associations…family that I have also gained(counselors, peers, NA) will always be forever close to my heart. Some days I think maybe I have had bumps in the road or relapses just to justify going back. Life was lonely and isolated before covid and Henwood and now I always feel a solitude knowing there’s another place I can call home.”
David Dunkley, Google Review
Guides participants in creating a post-treatment plan
“Been here 2 times in a 2 year time span, I am 100 percent sober now. The place is gorgeous with beautiful scenery and very caring counselors. They give you the tools to cope with addiction and how to create a plan for when you leave. Very happy with them, if I ever relapse again ( I won’t) I’d be going here for sure.”
Tyler Austin, Google Review
4. Savera Medical Centre
| Title | Info |
|---|---|
| WEBSITE | http://saveramedicalcentre.ca/ |
| ADDRESS | 6730 75 Street NW 2ND FLOOR, Edmonton, AB T6E 6T9, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | +1 780-761-6767 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Friday - 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Saturday to Sunday - 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM |
Savera Medical Centre in Edmonton has really made a name for itself, especially for those dealing with opioid, alcohol, and other substance abuse. Their services also cover psychiatric conditions like depression and anxiety.
What sets them apart is their culturally tailored approach, particularly for the South Asian community, which has been heavily impacted by the opioid crisis. Their multilingual staff offers services in Punjabi, Hindi, Urdu, and more. This ensures language isn’t a barrier to care.
What impressed us most is their holistic approach – offering not just medical treatment, but also counseling, support groups, and personalized care plans. They even collaborate with local pharmacies, making treatment seamless.
Booking an appointment is a breeze through their website, and they accept various insurances, including Alberta Blue Cross.
Pros
- Convenient appointment booking
- Comprehensive services
- Culturally tailored care
- Insurance accessibility
- Holistic approach
Cons
- A few reports of unprofessional staff
Manages withdrawal symptoms with surprising effectiveness
“This is a clinic that saves lives. The team are empathetic but not enabling. They are experts in the field of addiction and dependency and they truly care about their patients. If only physicians and emergency rooms in Edmonton would give patients the information for this clinic when they are needing help (some do but not all). My son was terrified of withdrawals and we are both pleasantly surprised at how effectively those are managed. For those seeking help but worried about being sick, please contact this clinic. You will be amazed at how “normal” you feel so quickly. There is a long healing journey ahead however for the first time in years I am hopeful. I am seeing my son laughing, participating and happy for the first time in 3 years. We are both extremely grateful that we found this clinic. The pharmacy staff are also wonderful and very accommodating. “Thank you” just seems not enough but we both thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”
Delia Colquhoun, Google Review
Restores confidence and optimism in patients
“I LOVE THEM SO MUCH!! I struggle to find words that express my love and gratitude for the Savera Medical Centre. I wish I could give them a 300 star rating. The wonderful, kind, compassionate staff at the Savera Medical Centre saved me from my depression, anxiety and addictions. As a result of my interaction with them, I have been given my life back went from suicidal to hopeful, confident, optimistic and SO happy with life in general. My family and friends are truly amazed by how much the Savera staff helped me. Deciding to see them has been one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life. If you are considering seeking help, I strongly encourage you to reach out to them. I would recommend the Savera Medical Centre EXTREMELY highly.”
Blane, Google Review
5. The McDougall House Association
| Title | Info |
|---|---|
| WEBSITE | https://www.mcdougallhouse.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 11050 108 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5H 3A9, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | +1 780-426-1409 |
The McDougall House Association is a gem for women who are looking for a supportive environment to continue their recovery journey.
When we looked into it, what really stood out was the way they’ve created a space that feels safe and comfortable. It’s far from the institutional vibe you might expect.
As a “second stage” residential facility, McDougall House is perfect for women who’ve already completed an initial treatment program and need a structured yet homely setting to keep moving forward.
We really appreciate their focus on women’s specific needs, offering a secure environment that’s both physically and emotionally supportive.
Their trauma-informed, evidence-based approach is solid. They provide personalized treatment plans that include group and individual counseling, workshops, and strategies to prevent relapse.
For Alberta residents, the fact that there’s no fee to attend is a big plus. They even cover food and linens, leaving clients to just handle their personal expenses.
Pros
- Trauma-informed & evidence-based approach
- No fee for Alberta residents
- Gender-specific focus
- Basic needs covered
Cons
- Women-only focus
Offers honest and supportive guidance during recovery
“I was at McDougall House in 1998 ( thank you Lori) .At first I wasn’t doing so well and the caring staff called me into their office and warned me;”you have one toe in the door of relapse”.I argued with them , but I’m sure they were right! I stayed here for five months then was transferred to Ponoka substance abuse centre.I have done amazingly well since then .Thankyou to all staff for caring and allowing me to have this opportunity. You all saved my life and I am forever grateful. I Recommend McDougall House and Ponoka because the staff really care.Wonderful place! I miss you ; “Maria Spinelli “.Thank-you!”
Ann Taylor, Google Review
Provides a life-changing experience for women in recovery
“Attending McDougall House is the absolute best decision I have made. It is a wonderful place for women in recovery to heal and grow. The staff is supportive and non judgmental and the program is extremely helpful and relevant to recovery. Being at McDougall House has helped me grow into the sober, confident woman that I am today and I will be forever grateful for the time I have spent here.”
Kaylee C, Google Review
