Addiction rehabilitation: choosing a program in Almaty

Reviewed by: Assel Omarova, MD, psychiatrist and addiction specialist · updated 6 Nov 2026

Key facts

Who provides care

a narcologist does the assessment and selection; a psychotherapist provides support before and after the program

Format

online consultations to choose a program; the program itself is residential, day or outpatient

Duration

selection takes 1–2 consultations; programs usually last 1 to 6 months depending on severity

Confidentiality

consultations without registration in the state registry; the center's confidentiality terms are discussed in advance

When it's an emergency

overdose, severe withdrawal, seizures, psychosis — call 103 or 112, then hospital care

Outcome

a well-founded choice of program, a preparation plan and support after it ends

What you should know

When a family decides that rehab is needed, a chaotic search usually begins: dozens of websites, promises of “100% results,” unclear prices. We offer a different path. You message us on WhatsApp, and a narcologist joins a video call with you or the patient and assesses which substance is involved, for how long, whether there is severe withdrawal, co-occurring mental health conditions, criminal records, debts and how motivated the person is. As a result, you get clear criteria: which type of program is needed, what to look for in the contract and which questions to ask the center.

For Almaty residents, choosing a format often comes down to practical matters: whether the person can go away for several months, who will look after the children, how to combine treatment with work. Sometimes a center outside the city — in the foothills or near Talgar — is better; sometimes an outpatient program with online sessions and in-person meetings is the right fit. Psychiatry Online does not sell “a place in a center”; instead, it helps choose the option that suits your loved one specifically and supports them after discharge.

When to Consider Addiction Rehabilitation

• outpatient treatment and coding have not helped the person stay sober for long
• the addiction has lasted for years and has destroyed their work, relationships and finances
• in their usual environment, the person constantly encounters drinking or drug use
• after inpatient detox, a next step is needed so the person doesn't relapse right away
• there is a combined addiction: alcohol together with drugs or gambling
• the person themselves says they want to “get away and start over” but doesn't know where to go
• the family is exhausted and can no longer keep the home safe

If heavy drinking has lasted more than two or three days, or there is shaking, vomiting, blood-pressure spikes or insomnia, you need a doctor rather than stopping alone. An online consultation is free and helps assess the risks before a visit. For seizures, confusion or hallucinations call 103 or 112.

Why Rehabilitation Is Needed After Detox

Detox relieves acute intoxication and withdrawal, but it does not change the habits, thinking and environment that sustained the addiction. International guidelines view addiction treatment as a continuous process: medical stabilization should be followed by psychosocial rehabilitation. It is at this stage that a person learns to live without the substance — to cope with stress, rebuild relationships, and plan their day and their future.

Programs differ in their approach. Residential centers provide separation from the usual environment and a structured daily routine, day programs allow people to sleep at home, and outpatient programs combine group and individual sessions with everyday life. Many use cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational counseling, group work and the principles of mutual support programs. It is important that medical specialists work in the program and that co-occurring disorders can be treated.

How we help

Myths and facts

How an online appointment works

1. Message or callWrite on WhatsApp or call — our coordinator replies within minutes, day or night. You don't have to give your surname.
2. Doctor and timeWe match you with a psychiatrist, addiction specialist or psychotherapist and agree on a time — often the same day.
3. Video consultationA secure 50–60 minute video call: the doctor takes a detailed history and uses standardised scales if needed.
4. Treatment planYou receive a clear summary, recommendations and a plan: what we do online and what needs an in-person visit or home call.
5. Follow-upOnline follow-up sessions, messenger contact with your doctor, and treatment adjustments until you get a stable result.

Prices in Almaty

The final cost is agreed before treatment starts. Prices are in tenge and do not constitute a public offer.

Where to get help

You can book in Almaty online or at one of two branches: 129 Kurmangazy St., office 8, Almaty, 110 Bogenbay batyra St., office 15, Almaty. Our coordinator replies on WhatsApp within minutes at any time, and a doctor usually connects by video the same day; home visits are available too — all city districts and nearby settlements.

Confidential and private

An online appointment in Almaty is first of all about privacy: no clinic visit, no waiting room. A private room and headphones are enough. Data is stored in a secure system with restricted access and does not enter any state registry without legal grounds.

Questions and answers