What is residential PTSD treatment and who is it for?

Residential PTSD treatment means living at the centre for the duration of your programme, with therapy, medical care and client support available on site rather than booked as separate appointments. Our residential PTSD treatment programme in Thailand suits you if: outpatient therapy has not held, your symptoms make daily life difficult to manage, the people and places around you keep you in a heightened emotional state. A minimum of 8 weeks is recommended, so that trauma work can be paced carefully rather than rushed.

The Dawn PTSD Treatment in Thailand

Our Tailored Pathways to Trauma Resilience and Recovery

The only CARF accredited centre in Asia

Extensive scientific research shows that at the root of all mental health issues, substance use disorders and maladaptive behaviours, there is a complex interplay of factors that includes emotional trauma. Adverse life experiences often play a crucial role, yet many individuals may not be aware of their impact, especially when the trauma stems from Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs).

30% of mental health disorders are associated with ACEs.
80% of individuals with PTSD are diagnosed with at least one additional mental health disorder.
40% of individuals with substance use disorders also struggle with PTSD.*

To address these co-occurring disorders, we employ a trauma-informed, person-centred approach to treatment here at The Dawn. This approach targets both the immediate problems and the deeper needs for healing. We believe that only by focusing on the underlying causes of addiction and mental health challenges, can clients achieve long-term recovery and significantly reduce the risk of relapse.

*Sources: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), National Institute of Mental Health, and National Institute on Drug Abuse

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR TRAUMA AND PTSD TREATMENT IN THAILAND

Understanding Trauma and its Impact

Big T Trauma and PTSD

Big T Trauma are traumatic events that are clearly identifiable and potentially life-threatening, encompassing experiences such as war, catastrophic accidents, serious illnesses like cancer, or severe personal assaults such as robbery and sexual violence. The severity and immediacy of these traumas make them extremely impactful to the emotions, often leading to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Understanding PTSD

PTSD is usually characterised by 3 symptoms:

Intense and distressing memories or dreams related to the traumatic event
Mental and physical discomfort when reminded of the trauma
Avoidance of situations, people, or places that might trigger painful memories

Such emotional turmoil can lead to significant changes in one’s mental state, profoundly impacting your relationships, work, and other aspects of daily life.

Small T Trauma

Small T Traumas involve non-life-threatening yet emotionally distressing events such as job loss, divorce, as well as Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) like bullying and emotional neglect. If overlooked and these experiences persist or accumulate, they can result in Complex Trauma, severely impairing an individual’s functioning and coping mechanisms.

Complex Trauma

Complex Trauma develops from prolonged exposure to Small T Traumas, which are emotionally painful events that accumulate over time. This type of trauma can significantly disrupt emotional regulation, compromise a sense of safety, and create substantial challenges in personal relationships and overall functioning. In some cases, depending on the severity and duration of the trauma, it may lead to the development of PTSD.

Understanding the Risks of Premature Trauma Therapy

Embarking on Trauma Therapy without proper groundwork can lead to significant risks, such as retraumatisation and increased anxiety. Many clients underestimate the emotional toll of revisiting traumatic events and might feel prepared to face these memories before they are genuinely ready. Therefore, careful preparation is essential to make certain that when you confront your traumatic experiences, you are resilient and sufficiently supported.

A Phased Approach Through Our Treatment Roadmap

At our PTSD treatment in Thailand, our methodically designed Treatment Roadmap is geared to mitigate these risks. Prior to your arrival at The Dawn, we start crafting a customised plan tailored to your specific needs. This meticulous preparation continues through your initial Stabilisation Phase, during which we focus on establishing emotional and physical safety over the first 4-5 weeks. This Stabilisation Phase is critical as it ensures you are stable and poised to effectively engage in deeper therapeutic processes that address the trauma at the root of your addiction and mental health issues.

Addressing Underlying Issues: The Dawn's Trauma and PTSD Programme

Committing to a minimum of 8 weeks in this phase is crucial. This duration allows for the careful unfolding of therapeutic interventions to reduce the risk of overwhelming our clients as they delve deeper into their trauma, and ensures a stable transition back into their everyday lives once treatment is completed. Our programme is made up of 3 main elements that complement each other – group work, individual work, and somatic work:

Trauma-Focused Group Work

Our group sessions provide a supportive environment where you can engage in various forms of trauma-focused therapies:

Psychoeducation Groups – Gain insights and strategies for managing trauma effectively.
Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT) – Learn techniques to reframe and manage traumatic memories.
Narrative Therapy – Reshape your personal recovery story through guided sessions.
Family Therapy – Integrate family support into the healing process, subject to client consent.

Trauma-Focused Individual Therapy

Our one-on-one sessions provide a safe and confidential place where you work with your Primary Therapist with whom you have built trust and bonded with since your Pre-arrival Phase.

Individual Therapy – These sessions extend the modalities explored in Group Therapy and allow for deeper personal exploration and confidentiality. This approach is ideal for those who have trauma that may be too sensitive or complex to share in a group environment such as sexual abuse.
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) – A proven therapy to reduce the emotional distress associated with trauma and enhance coping mechanisms.
Exposure Therapy – Methodically reduces fear and avoidance behaviours related to trauma by creating a safe environment to expose you to your fears.

Trauma-Focused Somatic Work

Our Somatic Work incorporates various mind-body techniques to enhance trauma recovery, including:

Trauma Releasing Exercises (TRE) – Techniques designed to help the body release stress and restore a sense of calm.
Polyvagal Therapy – Explores techniques like controlled breathing and social interaction exercises, polyvagal therapy helps you effectively reduce anxiety and enhance emotional stability.
Wellness Programme – Includes yoga and meditation that is scientifically proven to reduce stress hormones, improve mental clarity and promote overall wellness.

At our trauma and PTSD treatment centre in Thailand, we prioritise creating a secure and compassionate environment that supports your recovery. Our goal is to restore well-being and self-esteem, enabling you to heal from traumatic events and actively re-engage in life’s activities.

90%

programme completion
rate

88%

reporting significant improvements in their quality of life

96%

of our alumni would recommend
The Dawn

INSIGHTS FROM THE DAWN'S TRAUMA AND PTSD EXPERT

At The Dawn, our team comprises highly skilled and compassionate professionals who are dedicated to your recovery journey. Here, we share insights from our expert that underline the philosophy and efficacy of our residential PTSD treatment in Thailand:

Trauma doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all solution. Each client’s path to recovery is unique, which is why our treatment plans are highly personalised. We utilise a combination of evidence-based therapies to comprehensively address all aspects of trauma, its interplay with addiction, and ongoing mental health challenges. Among these therapies, we include EMDR, a proven treatment in helping clients reduce the emotional distress associated with traumatic experiences.
Paolo Veneracion, (CRC, ICAP I, CSAT III)
Masters in Mental Health and Trauma Counselling

Speak to Our Experts

Reviews of Our Trauma and PTSD Treatment Programme in Thailand

Hear from our alumni about their experience of trauma and PTSD treatment in Thailand. These narratives not only inspire but also illuminate the practical aspects of our trauma programme, offering you a glimpse of what to expect in your own rehab experience.

Trauma Recovery Retreat Frequently Asked Questions

Residential PTSD treatment means living at the centre for the duration of your programme, with therapy, medical care and client support available on site rather than booked as separate appointments. Our residential PTSD treatment programme in Thailand suits you if:

outpatient therapy has not held,
your symptoms make daily life difficult to manage,
the people and places around you keep you in a heightened emotional state.

A minimum of 8 weeks is recommended, so that trauma work can be paced carefully rather than rushed.

Trauma and PTSD Treatment Reviews

     
 
 
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   Amit (lehri) bansal 
 30 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. **5/5 Stars — One of the Best Investments of My Life**

I went to The Dawn with absolutely no idea what an addiction rehab would be like or what to expect. It turned out to be far better and more effective than I could have ever imagined.

**Pre-Admissions**
Daryl and Marcus gave me a detailed walkthrough of what to expect and asked all the right questions, which gave me immense confidence right from the start. While there are millions of businesses out there just to make money, fields like medicine, teaching, and addiction recovery are beyond that.

* **Support & Non-Doctor Staff (5.5/5):** Absolutely incredible. They aren't just handling logistics; they act like family or close friends. They take care of everything and are always there if you need to talk, share, or ask for help. Special shoutouts to Merry and AJ Abdullah!
* **Therapists (5/5):** Fortunate to work with Ken and Jayvee, who are both amazing. Jayvee helped me understand key concepts one-on-one and gave me practical solutions for my thoughts and struggles. Ken's psychoeducational group sessions blew my mind—he truly knows this field inside and out. Raymond was also fantastic, incredibly patient, and knowledgeable.
* **Facilities (4/5):** Above average. Luxury is subjective (what one person calls amazing, another might not), but I found it comfortable and solid.
* **Food (3.5/5):** Good, but room for minor tweaks.

**The Standout Highlight: Peer Support**
What I didn't see coming was how powerful the peer community would be. Seeing people struggling with similar challenges—substance, behavioral, trauma, and mental health—supporting each other created an immediate sense of family. That comfort and shared understanding was the absolute highlight of my stay.

**One Area for Improvement**
For clients dealing with process/tech addictions (online gambling, crypto trading, social media, shopping, or adult content), there needs to be tighter device control. Paying $20k–$25k a month, I’d expect them to either block problematic websites on client devices (similar to restricting alcohol/substances) or provide managed devices pre-loaded only with essential apps like WhatsApp, email, and music.

**Final Verdict**
An amazing place that genuinely cares. They even let me stay two extra days free of charge because I mistakenly booked the wrong return flight—proof that it’s not just about the money for them.

Huge thanks to Ken, Jayvee, Raymond, AJ Abdullah, Jack, Merry, and the entire support team!
  
 
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   Joe Bryan 
 124 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +13
I can say without a shadow of a doubt that selling my car to fund my time at The Dawn was the absolute best decision of my entire life.

Healing is rarely ever supposed to be comfortable. In a community setting like this, you will run into every type of personality that exists in the outside world, often in its most extreme form. Other clients will complain, and the process will feel incredibly challenging at times. But there is a profound, undeniable healing that happens through authentic connection. Here, I learned to get used to discomfort, to finally speak aloud the things heavily tied to guilt, shame, anxiety, and fear. I learned that it is okay to say the wrong thing, and that true growth happens when you allow yourself to drop the mask and be seen.

The staff and doctors here are elite professionals who intimately understand the mechanics of trauma:

Robert, my focus therapist, is genuinely the best therapist I have ever had in my entire life.

Helen, the clinical director, proved to be not only an exceptionally skilled practitioner in the healing process during our brief talks, but also an avid, inspiring leader.

The entire staff, from the nurses to the support team, is incredibly polite, compassionate, and professional. In two months, I did not encounter a single person who showed attitude or didn't want to be here.

I chose the Viva package (off-site residence) for two months, though due to renovations, I spent the first six weeks on-site. While the Viva accommodations are perfectly good enough to get the job done, staying on-site is incredibly useful because it gives you immediate access to professional help, nurses, and medications at odd hours of the night. Furthermore, being on-site allowed me to utilize the amenities, like the gym and the piano, for an extra two hours a day, which is surprisingly worth it.

Every single aspect of the programming is intentionally tailored toward mental health and nervous system regulation. The activities, including TRE (Trauma Releasing Exercises), sound healing, massage, yoga, and Muay Thai kickboxing, are purposeful. Even the food is scientifically part of the narrative. Having studied nutrition for mood stability myself, I immediately noticed the intentional inclusion of beets, pumpkin seeds, and dried apricots. Furthermore, when the intense "cycle" of processing trauma triggered massive cravings for carbohydrates and chocolate, I was incredibly grateful that the dining room always had cookies and snacks on hand, and that the store had plenty of treats to help.

If you are considering coming here for trauma, I HIGHLY recommend booking 56 days over 28. That extension grants you access to the specialized trauma group. You absolutely need those first 28 days in the regular groups just to stabilize, understand the process, and learn how the community works before diving into the deepest layers of your past.  I thought I learned everything I needed until I entered the second group, and I couldn't believe how much deeper the path of connection and acceptance could go.

It may not feel comfortable every day, but please trust that this place knows exactly what they are doing. I am leaving with a sense of groundedness I didn't think was possible, and I cannot wait to see where life takes me from here.

— Joseph
  
 
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   Sipim Sornbanlang 
 133 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had the opportunity to visit The Dawn for the first time and learn more about its rehabilitation program—a place where people come to heal, reflect, and recover from various traumatic experiences.

What struck me most was the atmosphere. Nestled among the natural beauty of Chiang Mai, The Dawn feels more like a sanctuary than a treatment center. Peaceful, serene, and thoughtfully designed, it offers an environment where anyone seeking recovery can truly focus on finding their path toward healing and renewal.
  
 
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   Tom Lichfield 
 201 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing place, specialising in trauma. 11 times in treatment, this has been the best place at treating a range of MH conditions, as well as behavioural disorders. The staff were amazing, the rooms more than comfortable, and we worked hard and i was never bored. EMDR with Alan was a revelation, and i finally feel I’ve started treating the root rather than a symptom, of 30 years of pain. Thank you to you all.
  
 
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   Kim Kuzak 
 211 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I chose the Dawn after much research looking for rehabs that offered more than the 12 step approach which simply had not worked for me... I chose the Dawn because it offered help with trauma recovery and mental health in general, and because there was a Buddhist approach as well as the 12 steps. I needed more, and this place seemed to have it. As well, the cost was far less than rehabs in Canada; the final deciding factor was my phone interview with Helen- she got it. She was entirely present, compassionate and wise.  I felt safe.

I spent 2 months at the Dawn from April - May 2025. The short version is that the experience was life-changing.

Not only did I get excellent daily care that included body, mind/emotions and spirit, but I finally started working on the trauma I had held all my life. The food was amazing! The locale was beautiful, the gym was awesome and the weekly Thai massages were the best I've ever had. The counsellors and staff were all absolutely professional, knowledgeable, skillfull, present and compassionate.

After years of mental health treatments here in Canada and having been to two rehabs before, at the Dawn I got the best mental health and addiction care I have ever had. I am 65 years old, so I'd been struggling with trauma, depression and addiction for a long long time.

Not only that, but there is an aftercare program that is for life! I meet with a therapist run group once a week ( they are offered 2X a week to accommodate different time zones) and I meet with other clients in WhatsAp any time I need to.

I really can't say enough about the Dawn.
  
 
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   Kazi Ozlala 
 215 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +12
I arrived at The Dawn after a severe mental breakdown. I was unable to regulate my emotions and had developed very unhealthy coping mechanisms over the years. Although I had struggled with my mental health for a long time, I had never truly accepted it or reached out for help before.
If you are looking for a compassionate and professional mental health and trauma recovery rehab, I cannot recommend The Dawn highly enough.
Before coming to The Dawn, I spent a lot of time researching treatment centres around the world. From my very first contact, the administration team at The Dawn were exceptional. Daryl handled my enquiry from the beginning and made what was an incredibly overwhelming situation feel manageable. He was kind, patient, and supportive, guiding me through the process and helping me feel confident that I was making the right decision.
When I arrived at The Dawn, I was extremely overwhelmed. I was a bag of nerves and found it very difficult to communicate with anyone. I was introduced to my therapist, Rob, whose calm and caring nature helped me open up and talk honestly for the first time in my life. He took the time to truly understand me before putting together a treatment plan for my recovery. One thing that makes The Dawn so special is that every programme is tailored to each individual client.
Once I was stabilised, Rob began EMDR therapy with me, which helped me regulate my emotions and start to rebalance my nervous system. Rob has truly been a guardian angel to me and I will always be grateful for his patience, support, and belief in me.
The entire support team also helped me through some of the darkest moments of my life. AJ and Jack were incredibly supportive throughout my stay, and I will always be thankful for the time and care they gave me.
When I arrived, I also had a very unhealthy relationship with food and believed I was the world’s fussiest eater. After working with Tara, the nutritionist, I was able to face my food anxieties and start trying things I had never imagined eating before. The food at The Dawn was exceptional — fresh, delicious, and varied every day.
Nissa, the holistic coach, has one of the most compassionate and understanding approaches I have ever encountered. She gently encouraged me while always respecting my limits and helping me reconnect with my body.
The medical team at The Dawn were also incredibly caring, especially Nan. They never forced medication and always discussed options with me first, which made me feel respected and safe.
The support team also organised some amazing excursions and experiences that I will never forget for the rest of my life.
I will be leaving The Dawn a completely different person from the one who arrived. I had lost my sense of identity, but here I have found it again. My life has changed in ways I never thought possible.
If you are reading this while struggling and wondering whether to reach out for help, I was in exactly that position not long ago. Coming to The Dawn was one of the best decisions I have ever made.
Thank you, Helen, for creating such an incredible place. The Dawn has truly changed my life, and I will always be grateful to you and the amazing team you have built.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Oliver P 
 252 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Coming to The Dawn for 90 days was the first time I felt truly safe enough to face my trauma rather than just manage the symptoms. The structure, consistency, and depth of the work allowed me to slow down and understand how much my past was shaping my reactions, relationships, and self-worth. What stood out most was that the team didn’t rush me or offer quick fixes—they stayed with me through the difficult parts, helping me build emotional regulation, trust, and healthier coping patterns. By the end of my stay, I didn’t feel “fixed,” but I felt grounded, clearer, and finally equipped with the tools and insight to move forward with my life in a very different way.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Aniket Patel 
 314 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My experience at The Dawn Rehab Centre in Chiang Mai has been nothing short of life-changing. When I arrived, I was struggling deeply with addiction and trauma, unsure of who I was or how to move forward. After completing a 12-week bespoke program, I can genuinely say that I feel like a completely different person;  grounded, empowered, and truly ready to step back into the real world.

A huge part of this transformation is thanks to the incredible people who supported me every step of the way. My focal therapist, Alan Wood, guided me with compassion, insight, and unwavering care. His approach helped me confront the core of my issues and rebuild myself from a place of understanding rather than shame.

I also want to express my gratitude to Helen Wells, the Clinical Director, whose leadership and vision shape the remarkable therapeutic environment at The Dawn. Her presence and expertise were felt throughout the entire program.

The support team was equally extraordinary. I want to thank David, Abdulla, Pang, Jack, Top, Bas, Ping, Nora, Mary, Beam, Mun and Linh each of you played a unique role in my healing. Whether it was a conversation, a smile, or guidance during difficult moments, your kindness made all the difference.

And to the amazing admissions team, Alex Holland, Marcus, Daryl, and everyone else involved, thank you for making the process smooth, reassuring, and filled with genuine care from the very beginning.

The entire staff at The Dawn work together like a family, and during my stay, I truly felt part of that family. The environment, the personalized therapy, the structure, and the warmth of the community created the perfect space for deep healing and growth.

I leave The Dawn with clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose. This journey has changed my life in ways I will forever be grateful for.

Thank you, The Dawn. You gave me my life back.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Sadi 
 360 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Life-Changing Experience — Deep Recovery, Not Just Detox

The Dawn isn’t just a rehab — it’s a place where real transformation happens if you’re willing to do the work. I came in broken, full of shame, and disconnected from myself. What I found here was structure, safety, and a team that truly understands addiction as a disease of the mind, body, and spirit.

Helen, the Clinical Director, runs the program with depth and integrity. She doesn’t sugarcoat things, but her insight and compassion are what make the process real. She has an incredible ability to connect your story to the underlying trauma and patterns that keep you stuck — and to guide you toward real change.

The clinical program is world-class: evidence-based therapy combined with mindfulness, community, and accountability. Group sessions were intense but healing, and the staff genuinely care — they see you as a person, not a problem.

I left The Dawn with a foundation for long-term recovery, not just sobriety. It gave me back a sense of purpose and hope I didn’t think I’d find again.

If you’re serious about recovery, come here with an open heart. The work isn’t easy, but it’s worth it.
  
 
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   Abdulla J 
 429 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Special thanks to the Dawn, iv had a long term addiction problem, and complex trauma, iv tried for a long time to deal with it, and i did not achieve that, but working on myself at The Dawn and taking the step on working on myself and my trauma here made a big change in my life. Thanks to my therapist (Alan) and the whole team, they went over and beyond to help me through my recovery, all my life iv been taking bad decisions, but this decision was the best, acceptance is the key 🙏🏼.
Thanks to all the team, from the support staff, to clinical, medical, admissions. Thank you for this wonderful journey.
Regards,
AJ
  
 
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   Holger Blaschek 
 519 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The Dawn was life-changing. I arrived burned out, numb, and emotionally exhausted. What I found was not just a treatment center, but a place where deep healing happens.

The therapists are exceptional—each brought something unique, and I always felt safe, seen, and genuinely cared for. From trauma therapy and EMDR to mindfulness, fitness, and even laughter-filled moments over great food, the experience was holistic in every sense.

It’s not a quick fix. It’s hard work, but it’s real work. And the entire team—support staff, nurses, housekeeping, even the café crew—were part of my journey. This place gave me the tools, space, and human connection I didn’t know I needed.

If you’re ready to face yourself and heal truly, The Dawn is where you begin.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   jane jones 
 816 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I arrived at the dawn just in time I was suffering from complex PTSD Trauma and anxiety after suffering from domistic abuse
For four decades I had left a long marriage
And was in a paralyzed state when I arrived.
I thank the dawn for helping me to make sense of what how and why my life exsploded
The way it did they have given me the tools to
Return to the UK and rebuild even though I still have a long way to go  .
I thank everybody at the dawn for everything they have done for
me you are amazing people and I will miss you all so much 😘❤️ x x 🙏🌈 Jane catchpole
This is my 2nd time at the dawn, I came back after being on a long journey of discovery since I left in 2021 3years ago, the Dawn gave me a chance to find out what had taken me on such a painful childhood life into the painful Adult life I have endured for so long .
It has been like an archaeological dig of self discovery and the therapists here are magicians 💫trust me .
The whole team from support staff, nurses and everyone who works here are the kindest souls who really care about their clients 100% . My return was to discover more about myself and to go a little further to become the person I was supposed to be and I knew that there is only the Dawn I trust to do this for me , and it feels like coming home 🏠 this is a special place the grounds are so tranquil the plants and wildlife are beautiful, the river to watch change daily I couldn’t get this level of treatment in the uk
And the food is amazing too 😋.
The yoga 🧘 with apple and working out 🏋️ in the very modern gym and all the staff here are great they are so enthusiastic about helping clients to get the best out of themselves and the group activities are great fun .
I truly love the Dawn and will never forget what they have done for me to aid my recovery ❤️‍🩹 and I know I can take all the new skills in my toolbox 🧰as well as new friends.
Thank you 🙏🏻 for everything you do here and more. Jane catchpole🥰xxxxxx ✨✨✨✨
  
 
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   Elaina Massie 
 1728 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The Dawn Rehab literally transformed the direction of my life in extraordinary ways.

I couldn’t understand why no matter how hard I tried to make my life work I seemed to hit roadblocks.

Thanks to my allocated therapist unresolved complex trauma was identified in my first counselling session.

I’m  a mental health practitioner myself and I assumed my lack of success and achievement was due to a lack of effort on my part. This is how insidious trauma is on our internal and external model of the world.

Thanks to The Dawn’s entire team my 1 month stay put me on the road to recovery.

3 years later and my life continues to change in positive ways and  has rippled into my professional work with clients needing extra support on their trauma recovery journey.

I highly recommend The Dawn as your first step to finally leaving your painful past behind you.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Sophie Liberty 
 2019 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I partook in a 3 month stay in primary treatment at the Dawn. With outstanding care before arriving, and brilliant aftercare, it’s fair to say that this treatment facility saved my life. I travelled during covid, and received 24 hour support throughout my time in quarantine and even before hand in the UK, way before my flight. After battling the UK mental health system for 7 years, I received the care and therapy I’d always needed. It is concentrated help, with a serene and tropical environment. With a balanced sector in addiction, mental health and trauma, I cannot recommend this place enough. THANK YOU THE DAWN!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Jennifer Henderson 
 2241 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It’s difficult to read the reviews of the Dawn and correlate it with the experience I had. I attended in 2018 looking for mental health care after suffering the loss of my brother and father in quick succession. I had a traumatic childhood with significant emotional abuse which had been compounded by grief and trauma.
The Dawn had its issues - I found the food substandard and the kitchen sanitation poor. Not much was done to accommodate my restricted diet but equally I didn’t make much of an issue of it either - I just ordered things I knew I could eat from the weekly shop. The therapy schedule was intensive and hard going, we were in groups from 7-7 with one day off doing activities a week. I was immediately put on the trauma track but also did work with those in the larger Dawn community who had issues with addiction etc. Having been an inpatient at private hospitals in the U.K. I feel the therapies, especially the group settings that were offered were comparable to those at the Priory in London. Some of the therapeutic staff were not as qualified as they could have been and there were definite safeguarding issues when it came to people being kicked out unfairly when the Dawn realised it was unable to help them with their issues, however for me it provided what I needed and I found the EMDR in particular extremely life changing when it came to coping with my fathers death. I think a lot of the success of my treatment hinged on the patients I found myself there with. We became very close very fast and it was a huge support to feel like I was amongst friends as I was addressing the issues I went there to deal with. Amazing support staff such as David Gale and Jared made the most difference, we became a community of sorts and I got the most benefit from the peer support sessions as opposed to those that were heavily structured or 1 on 1. (This was also my experience in London inpatient facilities where often seeing a psychiatrist was at an additional cost) I am aware that there have been a lot of staff changes since my stay which worries me as it was the staff who really made the difference between it being a helpful experience or not. Management definitely needs to take note of data protection - it wasn’t uncommon to see other people’s charts and documentation lying around offices during 1:1 sessions and they also need to have a much better system to really understand the issues patients are coming to them with. One person sadly died after being treated there the summer I was there and he should never have been accepted by the facility as they weren’t equipped to help him in the condition he was in. Equally they kicked out a very vulnerable lady during my stay with no concern for her wellbeing after she left the facility and was essentially stranded at the airport for the night,  thousands of miles from home which caused huge distress for the rest of us left behind worrying about her and also left us worrying about the prospect of being kicked out ourselves if we were too “difficult”. I know some people for whom the Dawn made the world of difference. I know some who found it no better than what they’d have gained just spending a month away from the stresses of their normal lives and I know some for whom it was outright detrimental. I am aware that Tony Tan no longer works there which is concerning as he was one of the more highly qualified staff members. If they can tighten up the way they run the place and retain qualified staff for longer than they have been so far I can see how they could be considered an option when private mental health and addiction care isn’t available in the U.K. and USA. However, I’d not feel 100% comfortable recommending friends go there the way it is. Approach with caution and ask as many questions as you can about whether they are able to help with your issues before you commit if you are intending on seeking treatment as it’s definitely not a one size fits all facility and while cheaper than equivalent in the U.K., it’s still a large financial investment to make.
  
 
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   Douglas Chapman 
 3004 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The Dawn has an incredible PTSD programme to offer. There is an Inpatient Programme which is very beneficial as in my country,they only have outpatatient programmes.
A major benefit of an inpatient programme is that you have medical and psycological support during the PTSD treatment which is essential for your safety and well being.There is also  EMDR which appears to approach psychological issues in an unusual way. It does not rely on talk therapy or medications. Instead, EMDR uses a patient's own rapid, rhythmic eye movements. These eye movements dampen the power of emotionally charged memories of past traumatic events and desensitize the emotions associated with the traumatic event.The uses of hypnosis in the psychotherapy of PTSD victims involve coupling access to the dissociated traumatic memories with positive restructuring of those memories. Hypnosis can be used to help patients face and bear a traumatic experience by embedding it in a new context, acknowledging helplessness during the event, and yet linking that experience with remoralizing memories as well as positive memories and a positive belief system.

The clinical team as well as the support workers made a huge difference in my rehabatilation as they gave me 100% percent support during this difficut time in my life and i am very greatful for my whole experince during my stay at the dawn.