Should I go to rehab?

If the substances you consume, or your behaviour or attitude is getting you into trouble or having a negative impact on your life, Holina Rehab may be an important option for you to consider. Not only will we provide you with the tools that you need, but we will also give you access to customized levels of treatment that will enable you to literally reinvent your life.

What addictions do you treat?

We treat the disease of addiction, which incorporates all substance dependencies, including alcohol, cocaine, crack, crystal meth, ketamine, heroin, methadone, Subutex, morphine, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, psychedelics, ecstasy, solvents, and legal (prescribed) medication addictions, as well as other process and behavior addictions such as sex, love, gaming, gambling, internet or technologies, shopping, food, exercise and co-dependency. We believe that addiction is a disease of the mind, from which we can recover, one day at a time.

Are you a residential rehab or can I just drop by?

We are a residential rehab experience, with a minimum of one month commitment. People are not permitted to come by and visit or look around unless an appointment has been made. This is to protect the privacy and the space for our residents and to keep them safe. We are not a day care facility or outpatient service. We only serve those people looking for a fully immersive experience.

How long do people stay?

Our minimum commitment is 4 weeks. Even considering that it’s possible to overcome an addiction with any long-lasting effect for any shorter period is simply unrealistic, and likely unethical. Whilst our minimum commitment is 4 weeks, many, probably most of our residents stay 6 to 8 weeks and some up to 12 weeks (the full program length).

Can my family visit me whilst I’m in treatment?

We will discourage this until after week 9. Whilst it may be nice to think that your family are supportive and want to encourage you, it’s a huge distraction from treatment for the individual, and our collective observations (in other facilities) are that in over 66% of these visits it leads to disruption, early self-discharge, and often relapse. That said, please know we’re a treatment centre driven by your success and we do know that your success is significantly improved when family members are engaged in their loved one’s recovery. So if you would like to organise either a zoom call with your family and your primary therapist, or an actual family visit on site, we would encourage this towards the end of your treatment experience.

Can I bring my laptop? Do I keep my phone?

We appreciate that you will be away from your loved ones for fairly long periods of time and that connection to them is important. Sometimes work or business calls are important to you. We will always find ways to help you facilitate these relationships. We have super-fast internet, and all the bedrooms have Smart TVs running YouTube and Netflix etc. It is our policy that in today’s modern world, our residents need to find recovery with their smart devices to hand. We are against hiding technology from our residents as it’s a useful tool to support our recovery as well as our lifestyles. Therefore, unless you specifically require a digital detox, you can use your phone, pad and laptop in your room outside of the scheduled structure and groups, meaning that you can use your devices before morning activities, after the daily groups, and even in between the scheduled program (for instance, lunchtime) should you choose to.

Yes you may. Whilst we’d love to encourage you to quit whilst youre with us, we acknowledge that many people still smoke So you may smoke on the balcony of your room, or in the dedicated smoking sala in the lounge area.

What’s the weather like?

Koh Phangan is a warm climate all year round. It is typically in the low to mid 30s*c / low 90s*f during the day, and at night it rarely goes under 23*c / mid 70s*f Sometimes it rains, usually for up to 30 minutes, which serves at cooling down the air. Occasionally it may rain for longer periods (typically in October or November), though this doesn’t interfere with treatment particularly.

Pack as if you were coming on holiday to a tropical paradise island in Thailand – which, of course you are. Summer style clothing is recommended (light shirts, T-shirts, shorts, comfortable shoes, sneakers, flip flops / sandals, etc, light, breathable clothing and swimwear for the pool and the beaches. Most of us wear underwear, shorts, T-shirts / Tank Tops / Vests, sneakers, sandals & tongs / flip flops. Active wear for workouts and other fitness activities including swimming, sports shoes, and light wear for yoga. We do physical activities almost every day, so bring a few pairs to allow for laundry times.

What should I not pack then?

Kindly do not bring the following: Alcohol or drugs: It might seem self-explanatory, but some clients may try to sneak in a last-minute hit, fix, pill, can, bottle, etc. Your bags and belongings will be searched when you arrive at Holina. Alcohol or drug paraphernalia: This includes anything that advertises or glorifies the use of alcohol or drugs. This should also include items that display support for criminal acts including terrorism, sex, gambling, or other negatively perceived notions that could upset other residents. Weapons: There is absolutely no need to bring any knives or weapons with you to Thailand or to treatment. They will be confiscated and destroyed. Toiletries that contain alcohol: Leave any alcohol-based products at home, such as certain mouthwashes, nail polish remover, perfumes, and aerosols.

Can you cater to all dietary requirements?

We have 2 main Chef’s (supported by 2 other Thai chefs) – a Meat focused one and a Vegan Chef. You can advise us of any of your specific dietary needs and we can manage them. We’re used to having people with all types of needs. Nothing unusual there.

How much does rehab cost?

Our prices are all inclusive and dependent upon the style of room you choose – shared, single occupancy or private plunge pool villa. You can view our prices here

Any other hidden costs?

We don’t have any hidden costs, though there are some costs that should be aware of. We pay for any psychiatric assessments and other mental health professional visits. We ask you to pay for anything non detox or mental health related, including your medications. We also ask that you have travel or medical insurance in place before you come to us. This is really for any non-detox or psychiatric related problems, like if you fall over and break your arm, or some other uncalculated trip to accident and emergency. We don’t pay for your flights to and from Koh Samui Airport (USM), but we do cover the cost of getting you from the airport to Holina and we will pay for your return to the airport unless you check out against clinical advice. Typically, our clients spend between US$50 and $75 per month on personal items, such as snacks, sodas, cigarettes, some toiletries, etc, but it’s not necessary to spend any more. Even gift buying on this island is relatively cheap compared to the rest of the world.

Do I need a Visa or any vaccines?

At this time, residents of most countries around the world are able to come into Thailand and achieve a visa upon entry. We will advise you on this process. It’s very straight forwards. If you extend your treatment and need a lon ger visa then we will take care of this for you, and in most instances we will pay for all your visa extensions too. Currently, there are no requirements for any vaccines to come into Thailand. This includes COVID vaccines or any other historical vaccines previously required. So please don’t worry about this, unless you specifically want to be extra vaccinated.

✓ Licensed by Thai Ministry of Health · Residential Rehab #84-03-00294

Heroin Addiction Treatment in Thailand

Medically supervised residential rehab on the island of Koh Phangan. Evidence-based treatment, on-site medical detox, and a healing environment designed for lasting recovery.

Submit Your Enquiry Learn About Our Programme

Licensed Facility
Medical Detox Available
Koh Phangan, Thailand
30–90 Day Programmes

Understanding Heroin Addiction

What is Heroin Addiction?

Heroin is a potent opioid derived from morphine that binds to the brain’s opioid receptors, producing intense euphoria followed by profound sedation. Physical dependency develops rapidly — often within weeks of regular use — with withdrawal symptoms beginning within hours of the last dose and lasting days without medical support.

At Holina Rehab, we treat heroin and opioid dependency as the serious medical condition it is. Our medically supervised detox uses approved opioid tapering protocols to manage withdrawal safely, followed by an intensive therapeutic programme addressing the psychological, emotional, and behavioural drivers of opioid use.

With on-site medical oversight, evidence-based therapies including CBT and 12-step integration, trauma-informed care, and structured aftercare, we provide the complete continuum of care that lasting recovery from heroin requires.

Clinical fact — Heroin

According to the UNODC World Drug Report 2023, an estimated 61 million people used opioids globally in 2021. The WHO recognises opioid use disorder as a chronic, relapsing brain condition for which medically supervised residential treatment produces significantly better outcomes than unassisted withdrawal attempts.

Clinical treatment session at Holina Rehab Thailand

Holina Rehab — Koh Phangan, Thailand

Recognising the Problem

Signs of Heroin Addiction

Many individuals and families are uncertain whether use has crossed into addiction. These clinical indicators can help you recognise when professional support is needed.

Severe Withdrawal Symptoms

Nausea, sweating, muscle cramps, insomnia, and extreme anxiety beginning within hours of the last dose.

Intense Cravings

Overwhelming urges to use that override all other priorities and decision-making.

Escalating Tolerance

Needing increasing amounts to achieve the same effect, with diminishing pleasure over time.

Financial Crisis

Spending escalating amounts to fund the addiction, often leading to debt or criminal behaviour.

Physical Deterioration

Dramatic weight loss, poor hygiene, and health complications including infection risk.

Social Isolation

Withdrawal from family, friends, and responsibilities in favour of obtaining and using.

Loss of Control

Inability to stop or reduce use despite repeated genuine attempts.

Continued Use Despite Harm

Persisting despite serious health, legal, or relationship consequences.

Neglecting Responsibilities

Work, family, and financial obligations increasingly abandoned.

Talk to Our Team

Our Programme

How We Treat Heroin Addiction at Holina Rehab

Assessment

Comprehensive clinical and psychological evaluation. Individual treatment plan from day one.

Medical Detox

Doctor-supervised withdrawal management with medication to ensure safety and comfort.

Primary Care

CBT, DBT, group therapy, trauma work, holistic treatments and daily structure.

Aftercare

Relapse prevention plan, continuing care referrals, and alumni community support.

Holina Rehab facility from above, Koh Phangan Thailand

Evidence-Based. Individually Tailored.

Opioid-Assisted Medical Detox
Our on-site physician manages heroin withdrawal using approved opioid tapering protocols — including methadone or buprenorphine support where appropriate — minimising acute physical distress and preventing complications.
Dual Treatment for Trauma and Opioid Dependency
Heroin use is frequently rooted in unresolved trauma or chronic pain. Our dual treatment model addresses both the addiction and its underlying emotional drivers simultaneously.
12-Step and CBT-Based Relapse Prevention
Peer support through the 12-step model, combined with individual CBT and group therapy, builds the accountability structure and practical tools that sustain long-term opioid recovery.

Why Choose Holina

A Different Kind of Recovery

Licensed Medical Facility

Holina Rehab is fully licensed by the Thai Ministry of Public Health and operates under international addiction treatment standards. Our on-site physician, nursing staff, and experienced addiction therapists provide 24-hour clinical oversight throughout your programme.

Medical detoxification, dual treatment for addiction and behavioural health, and evidence-based therapy are delivered within a single integrated residential setting — no referrals, no gaps in care.

The Koh Phangan Recovery Environment

The tropical island setting — sea air, natural surroundings, and distance from daily life — creates conditions for the psychological reset that recovery requires. Koh Phangan is home to one of Asia’s largest healing communities.

Clients benefit from private beach access, swimming pools, on-site gym, a nutritious restaurant, and a range of holistic therapies that complement the clinical programme.

Clinical Authority

Our Clinical Team

Treatment at Holina Rehab is led by qualified medical professionals and experienced addiction therapists. Every client is under active clinical supervision throughout their programme.

Dr. Natalie Lindemann

Clinical Director

Doctorate in Forensic Psychology, Alliant International University. Leads the clinical team, overseeing individualised treatment plans and ensuring trauma-informed, evidence-based care across all programmes.

Adrian Solomon

Counselling Psychologist

BA, Honours and MSc in Psychological Counselling. Research focus on shame and self-esteem in international populations. Experience across private practice and clinical rehabilitation settings.

William Morgan

Aquatic Tuning & Mindfulness Therapist

Creator of Aquatic Tuning — a water-based therapeutic method developed over 35 years to support recovery from addiction, depression, and anxiety through sensory awareness and nervous system regulation.

Marc Rower

Trauma Therapist

Integrates 12-step recovery with trauma-focused psychotherapy. Works to uncover root causes of addictive behaviour, build internal resources, and support authentic recovery and lasting relapse prevention.

Licensed by the Thai Ministry of Public Health · Residential Rehab Licence #84-03-00294 · International Addiction Treatment Standards

Ready to Begin Your Recovery?

Our admissions team responds the same day — seven days a week, in full confidence.

+66 (0) 82 113 0657 or scroll down to submit your enquiry ↓

Learn about our Opiate & Opioid Detox programme →

"Just left Holina after almost 8 weeks of healing, The experience was amazing, I decided to enroll my self and do the work to find my self again. The healing center gave me a wide range of tools and the perfect setup to get back on my path. The staff and facilities gave me a feeling of security, comfort and support more then I can imagine. I would recommend Holina to all people suffering from loss of spirit and lack of a healthy mindsets. I want to thank the staff and clients I met there for the growing and caring experience that I received. With out them I would still feel lost and alone."

"Ian was absolutely game changing in helping our family with an intervention, without which we were in an endless spiral of pain and suffering. Since Ian's intervention we have managed to get the family member into a stable situation. Which all started from Ian's knowledge, experience and genuine care. Highly recommend."

"I have spent about 15 years in the madness my addiction was rampant from the first time I picked up a drink and I honestly believe I have been in and out of the 12 step rooms for two years and the last three years alone I've been through four treatment centres. My addiction progressed to the point where nearly every time I used, I was risking my life. My last relapse was the one that finally broke through my denial and my reservations that I could drink and use like “normal” people. It was horrific. I ended up in hospital after nearly dying. And lying there, I had a moment where everything suddenly became very clear. For years I told myself I was only hurting me. That my addiction was my problem. And blamed everyone around me especially the people that loved me the most. But lying in that hospital bed, I thought about my parents, about the fear they must have lived with every time the phone rang late at night and that every time I used my dad would sneak into my bedroom and sleep next to my bed to see if I was going to make it through the night. It was utter chaos for them and me. And I realised I couldn't keep doing this. Not to myself, and not to the people who loved me the most. About 8 months ago I got out of long term treatment in SA and I learnt so much there about myself and the fellowship and how to work and live the steps everyday and I created a life for myself. It was a very militant treatment centre when it came to the 12 steps, and for someone like me it felt very fear-driven. I learned something important through that experience, recovery isn't one-size-fits-all. What I have learnt here is what works for one person might not work for another. And when I came here, something felt different. This place didn't just focus on stopping the addiction, it focused on healing the whole person. The mind, the body, the emotions, the spirit. The holistic approach that we do alongside the 12 steps is incredible. I'll be honest, some of that stuff confused me at first and some of it I was a bit skeptical about but I tried it, it works, and slowly things started to change. Instead of living in fear and shame, I started learning something completely new for me, compassion. For myself and for others. And that shift changed everything, because recovery stopped being about trying not to die and started becoming about learning how to live. This program has done something incredible. I showed up, I faced myself honestly, and I chose a different path. Recovery isn't easy. But neither is addiction. And I chose life today and this is definitely the easier softer way. If someone like me, after 15 years of addiction, countless attempts, and more mistakes than I can count, can write this today with hope, then there is hope for every single person who decides to go to Holina, it's life changing. Addiction nearly ended my life. Recovery gave me a chance to start living it. And that's something I will never take for granted again. I can't thank the staff at Holina enough and I will be forever grateful."

"I love this place! I come back every year for a refresh on their excellent sober living program. I leave with a reinforced recovery each time. Stunning surroundings, caring staff and excellent program. What's not to like! I will return next year, yet again, to reinvigorate my recovery."

"Ive just finished three months of treatment at Holina and can honestly say it was the best choice of my life. I came to Holina I had no hope and was deep in addiction and from the first day ive been given the time and support and love and all the tools I need to carry on living a sober life, the facilities are amazing and the destination of the facility is beautiful, the staff really do make the place so good, the love care and patience from everyone there as well as the knowledge massively helped me. I cannot recommend this place enough to anyone who is struggling and doesnt feel like they have any hope, Holina helped me restore hope and gave me back my life and it can to you."

"I arrived at Holina in January 2026 feeling like a lost soul, struggling with substance and alcohol addiction. At the time, I truly believed I had no hope of getting sober. A friend who had been there before recommended it, so I reached out, and from the very beginning, the process was smooth and reassuring. They explained everything clearly, and the support from the staff and the entire facility was exceptional, truly 5-star. My experience there genuinely changed my life. The holistic approach was incredible and helped me unlock a new part of myself, allowing me to work through trauma and personal challenges from the inside out. I'm deeply grateful to everyone at Holina, the therapists, the support staff, and everyone involved in my recovery journey. Every person there played a part in helping me get clean and rebuild my life. The quality of care, the environment, and the overall experience exceeded everything I found elsewhere in Thailand, especially considering the price. I would highly recommend Holina to anyone who is considering taking that step toward a new way of life. I can't thank them enough for the role they played in helping me recover. The support and services I received have kept me clean to this day and helped restore my sense of self. Holina will always hold a special place in my heart."

"This was amazing and I did not want to go so I stayed for more than 100 days! It was really worth it."

"Yossi, Ian and the rest of the team at Holina are outstanding. Exceptional facilities and care that will truly get you back to yourself. I am so grateful I chose this location to get my life back on track. I would highly recommend Holina to anyone looking for a life changing experience in a beautiful paradise."

"I have continued my 12 step recovery journey and worked through trauma at Holina. This is a world class treatment centre, the team are incredibly caring and professional, experts in their field. Offering a truly holistic experience with recovery at its core - in a stunning location which promotes healing and allows a safe space to work through feelings while being supported along the journey. The clinical team, along with therapists, nutritional teams and support staff work tirelessly to ensure recovery is possible. I have seen miracles happen here - 100% recommend to anyone who wants Recovery from addiction and healing from trauma."

"I'd first like to start saying how bad my life was before I found Holina, I was on the verge of losing my life due to my drug addiction. This is no exaggeration, I came to Holina a broken man, had nowhere else to turn to, me and my family had exhausted every possible help to try get me back to the person they knew I was. I finally came to Holina, and from the first day I arrived I had nothing but full professional support around me, not only did they meet me at the airport and reassure me the whole way there, I was welcomed by smiles which made me feel at ease from the beginning. I originally booked 4 weeks at Holina but as the weeks went by and the progression started to show the only option was for me to extend with Holina. I was not going to leave when the professionals working with me on a daily basis were the first thing in my life that had shown me my life was worth every single moment I can get from it, which I had never felt before. Every single group session and one to one session I had at Holina was nothing but professional, even down to the support staff that work everyday and the staff that take us on activities throughout the week and on a Saturday. I could never thank Holina enough for the help I have received and cannot wait to return to see them again a clean sober man and share my experience with others, if you're also looking for help with addiction then please don't wait any longer to contact them, it will save your life like it has mine. Thank you, Benjamin Field"

"I had an incredible experience here at Holina, really feel my time here was truly transformative. All staff from front of house to management were so caring understanding and supportive. The scenery, surroundings, rooms, group spaces meetings, restaurants, gym all 5*. The program they deliver and can also tailor to meet our needs was thorough, intense and very rewarding. I will carry so much from my stay on to the new chapter of my life. Thank you Holina."

"Holina Rehab was truly a life-changing experience for me. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed and safe, surrounded by such a peaceful and beautiful environment. The staff didn't just do their jobs - they really cared, listened, and supported me through every step. What I loved most was the sense of family and community; I never felt alone in my journey. The therapies and group sessions gave me tools I'll carry for the rest of my life. If there's one thing I found challenging, it was that facing myself and my emotions wasn't always easy - but the team made sure I was never without support. I left feeling stronger, hopeful, and deeply grateful for the experience."

"After a period of residential care, I never dreamt that l would be gifted with the re-birth and clearer understanding of myself that I do today. The community, the staff, the (variety) therapies, the restaurant, the accommodation and the facilities are outstanding. I experienced a number of varying therapies bespoke to my individual requirements. Through this, I am equipped with tools and practices to approach my life - positively, thoughtfully and most importantly - JUST FOR TODAY! I am eternally grateful to all at Holina!"

"I visited Holina after seeking recommendation from my former counsellor and couldn’t have wished for a better experience. Trauma and addictions are dealt with in a truly holistic manner - not only dealing with addictions, but also help to identify underlying causes, plus crucially for me, effective sustainable methods for dealing with the triggers that had led to addictive behaviours. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Holina"

"Luxurious surroundings, the very best A+ care, and a varied and interesting programme. Cannot recommend highly enough. Changed my life for the better in every way imaginable."

"I was looking for a holistic and mainly somatic approach to treat my addiction due to trauma. And this is exactly what I found at Holina, Thailand. A tailored variety of treatments in one on one settings or in different group settings also fun activities like Muay Thai Boxing (pls note that I’m a female in my 60‘s and never have done such sport, but it became one of my weekly highlights). My recovery went better than I ever thought would be possible. I can’t praise staff and therapists highly enough (and I encountered quite a few in my life!). An unexpected bonus/help came through the connections within the group. Initially it was daunting being amongst a group of other clients but it’s much more about „our similarities than our differences“. Age, gender, cultural background etc is rather unimportant when in recovery and when fun becomes a daily occurrence as well!"

"I have been to many rehabs! Since coming to Holina, I have been sober and, miraculously, my obsession with alcohol has been lifted. Holina's holistic approach worked not only well for me, but for many of the friends I made when I first went there. I cannot sing its praises enough. All the staff, from the director and head therapist/counsellor down to the cleaners and maintenance staff were kind and compassionate and made me feel safe and cared for."

"I want to thank all of the staff at Holina for their care and support during one of the toughest journeys of my life. Through group work, individual counseling with my trauma therapist, and one-on-one sessions with so many talented holistic providers, they helped me heal in ways I never thought possible. My treatment plan and day-to-day at Holina was individualized and tailored to my needs. No canned, one-size-fits-all approach. My biggest breakthrough came through water therapy with my instructor, Siobhan. It was intensely intimate, and I learned to develop trust and heal in warm water under her gentle guidance. Letting go and allowing myself to be supported was one of the hardest yet most healing experiences of my life. The inner peace I felt after those sessions is indescribable. It was the first time in a long time that I truly felt safe in my body and because of that I also experienced a spiritual awakening. Somatic work, massages and breathwork were all part of the program. I took advantage of the gym, yoga, qigong and Muay Thai too. We met with a monk every week and spent Saturday nights immersed in a sound bowl healing session. There is just too much to list. Holina wasn't just about therapy-it was about learning to live again in the present moment. Each week, we took trips to incredible places, like the elephant sanctuary, where I got to witness the beauty of these gentle giants up close, and a different breathtaking beach every weekend. A much needed reminder of the beauty in the world. The peaceful environment at Holina made healing easier. My room overlooked the beach. Waking up to the sound of the waves reminded me that healing is a process-just like the tides, it ebbs and flows. My room became a beautiful retreat where I could process, rest, and simply breathe and connect with inner myself. The entire staff, from my case manager Tanya to the amazing nurses, were always there when I needed support. The kitchen staff, some of the kindest people I've ever met, made sure every meal was delicious, nourishing and comforting. The front desk and housekeeping staff took such good care of my room and needs. They made me feel like I was the only guest. And the grounds were immaculate thanks to the grounds crew. I can't forget that excursions with AK were always a fun time. He always took such good care of us and made sure we had fun. Beyond the therapy and structure, Holina gave me something just as valuable, a sense of community. I built friendships that I know will last a lifetime. We supported each other through the hard days, celebrated the small wins, and bonded over activities like kayaking at the beach or hanging out at the pool. Leaving Holina after two months, I am not the same person I was when I arrived, and I am so grateful for that. Today, I am proudly four months into my recovery journey and participating in Holina's aftercare program. The journey of healing from my past will be lifelong, but for the first time, I feel ready. I can see the sun shine again. And for that, I am not only grateful to Holina-but also to myself for getting on the plane. Another important factor in my decision-making was that Holina staff have lived experience which I found to be imperative in selecting the right place for my healing journey and I wholeheartedly recommend Holina."

"I came to Holina from Leeds UK where I live. Upon arrival I was welcomed with opened arms. I was made to feel very safe and comfortable in the most magnificent surroundings. And by the staff who i believe saved my life due to their constant support and round the clock care. The treatment and therapy was tailored to my exact needs and I enjoyed the program tremendously. The accommodation was brilliant and the food on offer was excellent. Most importantly I felt I was in the right place to express my issues with trauma and addiction problems. I came in a broken man. And I left fixed. I will take the tools they gave me and use them in my recovery for the rest of my life. This place will forever hold a special place in my heart. And I cannot express just how grateful I am to have spent three months there. If your looking for a rehabilitation centre that offers more then just a chance to get your life back on track then look no further. Holina saved my life. Thank god for this experience of a life time. All the best to all the team. Love you guys forever."