A Transformative Journey at The Grange Treatment Center, South Africa

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The Power of Long-Term Addiction Recovery

My name is Diaan Bisogno, and I have been a psychologist for almost 30 years. Over the course of my career, I have worked in various settings, including NGOs, employee wellness programs, higher education, government institutions, private hospitals, and private practice. Most recently, I have been part of The Grange Treatment Centre in South Africa for the past three years, and it has been a truly transformative experience.

Why Short-Term Addiction Treatment Falls Short

Before joining The Grange, I worked in a South African dual-diagnosis private hospital specializing in addiction treatment. There, we had only three weeks—including detox—to help individuals transition from active addiction to recovery. Unfortunately, most medical aid providers in South Africa only cover a maximum of three weeks of treatment. This time frame felt incredibly short, and I often questioned how effective such a brief intervention could be—especially with minimal aftercare support beyond Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA).

Diaan

The Grange’s Holistic and Effective Approach to Addiction Recovery

When I joined The Grange Treatment Centre, I was introduced to a more comprehensive and structured approach to long-term addiction recovery. Our program is built on the foundation of the 12-step recovery process, combined with evidence-based therapeutic modalities such as:

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
  • Schema Therapy
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Trauma-Informed Care

This holistic approach ensures that our clients not only detox from substances but also address the underlying emotional, psychological, and behavioral patterns that contribute to addiction. Our six-week residential program provides the necessary time and tools for profound transformation.

Visible Changes: The Power of Six Weeks

One of the most rewarding aspects of working at The Grange is witnessing the physical, emotional, and spiritual transformation of our clients. The difference between their arrival and departure is remarkable—many arrive feeling hopeless and broken, yet they leave with renewed confidence, strength, and clarity.

Of course, not everyone succeeds on their first attempt. Addiction recovery is a journey, and relapse is sometimes part of the process. However, the success stories far outweigh the challenges, reinforcing my passion for this work.

The Strength of Our Multi-Disciplinary Team

What truly sets The Grange Treatment Centre apart is our dedicated and multi-faceted team. From household staff to nursing professionals, recovery assistants, administrative personnel, and clinical specialists, every member plays a crucial role in supporting our clients through their recovery journey.

A Client’s Inspiring Story of Recovery

There are many clients who have left a lasting impression on me, but one, in particular, stands out. Due to confidentiality, I cannot share his name, but his story is one of true resilience.

When he arrived, he was highly motivated but burdened with deep shame over the damage his addiction had caused—particularly to his mother and girlfriend. Throughout his treatment, he faced several ups and downs but ultimately embraced the 12-step principles and admitted that he was powerless over his addiction.

Just days before his discharge, we arranged a family session with his girlfriend. She shared that she was not yet ready for him to return home. I will never forget the look on his face—devastation mixed with determination. Despite this setback, he committed to staying in long-term recovery, knowing that sobriety was his only way forward.

A Year Later: A Testament to Recovery

A year after his treatment, he returned to The Grange—not as a client, but as an inspiration. He had remained sober for an entire year and had rekindled his relationship with his girlfriend. Seeing him speak to our current clients, sharing his journey and success, filled me with pride, humility, and deep gratitude.

His story is a powerful reminder of why we do what we do at The Grange Treatment Centre. Recovery is possible, and with the right support, dedication, and structured treatment, individuals can reclaim their lives and build meaningful futures.

Why Choose The Grange Treatment Centre?

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, The Grange Treatment Centre in South Africa offers a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to long-term recovery. Our structured six-week residential program provides the essential tools for lasting transformation.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you or your loved one take the first step toward a life free from addiction.

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