Rehab that understands your brain

ADHD rehab for long-term recovery

ADHD can make addiction harder to treat but with the right structure, support, and care, recovery is absolutely possible.

Take a self-assessment or speak to someone now, with no pressure to commit.

A close-up of a client’s fidgeting hands. They’re in a counselling session where they’ll discuss both their ADHD and their substance use, and how those two affect each other.

Trauma-informed ADHD treatment

ADHD-safe stimulant withdrawal

Structured routine that supports focus

CBT for emotional regulation

Expert-led dual diagnosis care

24/7 inpatient therapeutic support

App-based aftercare and check-ins

Proven success with ADHD clients

The image shows a young woman sitting on a maroon couch, leaning forward with her elbows on her knees and her face partially buried in her hands.
Real recovery for complex attention needs

How ADHD rehab works

People with ADHD are around 50% more likely to experience drug or alcohol addiction, especially when their condition is undiagnosed or unsupported. As highlighted by the AADPA, ADHD and substance use often feed into one another, creating a cycle of impulsivity, risk, and emotional overwhelm that’s hard to break without specialist care.

That’s why our ADHD rehab program treats both issues at once. From diagnosis and medication to CBT and structured routine, our programs are built to improve emotional regulation and help you build a sustainable recovery plan. We support clients with:

  • Therapeutic routines designed to improve regulation and focus
  • Clinical ADHD screening, diagnosis, and medication oversight
  • Recovery tools for impulsivity, emotional stress, and executive dysfunction

We’ll call it when it suits you, with no pressure to commit

What’s included in our ADHD rehab

A program built for focus, structure and safety

Our approach combines medical, therapeutic, and behavioural support to help clients struggling with ADHD and addiction stay engaged, stabilised, and on track — even when recovery feels overwhelming.

  • Daily routines that support consistency and predictability
  • Medication review, counselling and group sessions
  • Neurodivergent-aware care with staff trained in trauma and ADHD
  • Sensory-aware settings and simple, repetitive therapeutic tools
  • Relapse prevention tools designed for impulsivity and stress
  • Ongoing support through Hader@Home and other digital aftercare options
Help for more than just ADHD

Support for co-occurring mental health issues

ADHD often overlaps with other conditions. We offer integrated care for complex cases, with treatment that targets addiction and mental health together.

PTSD

Evidence-based care for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and addiction. We help people stabilise, reprocess trauma, and build a safer, more connected life.

Schizophrenia

Rehab for schizophrenia requires specialised, integrated care. We treat psychotic symptoms, stabilise mental health, and help people manage addiction together.

Personality disorders

Borderline personality disorder and addiction often go hand in hand. Both can be overwhelming, but with the right treatment, recovery is possible. You do not have to face it alone.

OCD

Obsessive-compulsive disorder and substance use can reinforce each other in ways that make everyday life feel unmanageable. But recovery is possible with the right kind of care.

Domestic Violence

Supportive, trauma-informed addiction rehab for people affected by intimate partner violence (IPV), past or present.

Depression

We support people experiencing depression and addiction with evidence-based, compassionate treatment. Our inpatient program offers integrated support for mental health, substance use, and the stressors behind both.

Bipolar

Bipolar disorder is complex, especially when addiction is also in the picture. Our inpatient rehab program supports people with bipolar disorder using proven treatment options that address both.

Anxiety

Rehab for substance abuse and anxiety treatment

Anger Management

Uncontrolled anger and substance use often go hand in hand. We help clients understand the root of their behaviour, rebuild control, and recover for good.

ADHD

ADHD can make addiction harder to treat but with the right structure, support, and care, recovery is absolutely possible.

Understanding ADHD and addiction

What ADHD looks like in rehab

ADHD is more than distractibility. In a rehab setting, it often presents as emotional volatility, impulsive decisions, or difficulty with routine, all of which can heighten relapse risk.

What is ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person pays attention, manages impulses, and processes emotions. It often goes undiagnosed until adulthood, especially when masked by substance use or misinterpreted as behavioural issues. In rehab, untreated ADHD can interfere with engagement, regulation, and recovery planning.

How ADHD interacts with addiction

People with ADHD are significantly more likely to develop substance use disorders. Many turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to manage hyperactivity, restlessness, or emotional pain. But this self-medication cycle often worsens symptoms over time and increases the risk of relapse, particularly without a structured treatment approach tailored to both conditions.

  • Substance use may feel like relief but deepens executive dysfunction
  • ADHD clients may have trouble recognising or avoiding relapse cues
  • Shame from both conditions can stop people from seeking help

Common challenges in ADHD rehab

Standard rehab programs may not meet the needs of clients with ADHD. Clients can struggle to stay engaged without structured routines, sensory-aware spaces, or therapeutic approaches that accommodate neurodivergence. This leads to frustration, early disengagement, or relapse if the core challenges aren’t addressed with tailored care.

  • Disruption of daily structure can make therapy difficult to access
  • Motivation may fluctuate due to delayed reward processing
  • Sensory overload can interfere with focus and participation

Why ADHD clients need tailored care

For clients with ADHD, effective rehab requires a multimodal approach. This means combining medication and behavioural support within a structured, trauma-informed setting. Programs must be adaptive to the emotional, sensory, and cognitive realities of ADHD, especially when stimulant detox and withdrawal, executive dysfunction, or emotional reactivity are involved.

  • Long assessments may need to be broken into smaller segments
  • Sensory-friendly environments support better engagement
  • ADHD clients benefit from frequent reinforcement and breaks

Signs someone with ADHD may need rehab

Substance use can spiral quickly for people with ADHD, particularly when they feel unsupported or misunderstood. If someone is cycling through short-term solutions, unable to stabilise, or at risk of harm, a structured inpatient rehab program can offer the intensive, integrated care they need to move forward.

  • Repeated relapses or escalating substance misuse
  • Dangerous impulsivity or emotional breakdowns
  • Inability to function at work, school or home
CONFIDENTIAL SELF-ASSESSMENT TOOL

Worried about your drinking or drug use?

This short, confidential quiz takes less than two minutes and can help you make sense of what’s going on. Choose the category that feels most relevant to you — whether it’s alcohol, drugs, or a mix of concerns — and we’ll guide you through a few simple yes/no questions.

At the end, we’ll let you know if your answers suggest it might be time to consider rehab, and share safe, confidential options for getting started.

Take the quiz now
How we support ADHD recovery

How we support ADHD recovery

ADHD recovery takes time, structure, and consistency. That’s why we offer a full continuum of treatment options — from medically supervised detox at our Geelong private hospital to inpatient treatment at our private residential home in Essendon (not to mention our intensive outpatient support) — all tailored to neurodivergent needs.

Residential program

Live-in rehab with structured support, therapy, and life skills training in a safe, recovery-focused setting.

Young couple holding hands during a counselling session, seeking support through family and relationship therapy.

Family Program

Education, group support, and counselling to help families understand addiction and support their loved one’s recovery.

Woman participating in a virtual recovery session from home, engaging in structured therapy through the Hader at Home online rehab program

Hader at Home

A fully digital recovery program with daily check-ins, online therapy, and self-guided workbooks for post-rehab care.

Brunette woman smiling and sharing a personal breakthrough during group therapy, celebrating progress in her outpatient recovery journey.

Intensive outpatient program

Structured addiction support with therapy, group sessions, and relapse prevention, designed to fit around daily life.

A male resident chats with his rehab counsellor.

Counselling

Trauma-informed therapy, addiction counselling, and family support available in person or via secure online sessions.

Woman embracing her partner after a heartfelt intervention at home, offering support and encouragement as he agrees to seek help for addiction.

Interventions

Professional support to help families stage a safe, structured intervention and guide their loved one into treatment.

View from a private luxury residence looking out onto a sandy backyard and beachfront, with loungers and tropical landscaping designed for peaceful, discreet recovery.

Executive rehab

Private, one-on-one treatment in a luxury setting with complete discretion and a personalised recovery schedule.

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DVA rehab

Specialised trauma-informed inpatient care for veterans and first responders, fully funded for eligible DVA clients.

A resident sitting on a couch in a shared space, working on his personal journal as part of his court-ordered rehabilitation.

Court-ordered rehab

Structured inpatient program with detox, therapy, and forensic reporting to meet bail or sentencing requirements.

Man in transitional housing tying his shoelaces as he prepares for a new day of work, rebuilding structure and independence after inpatient rehab.

Transitional housing

Recovery-focused accommodation with therapy, structure, and support to bridge the gap between rehab and independent living.

Supportive group therapy session at a medical detox centre, where diverse clients share their experiences and a psychologist gently encourages a new participant

Hospital detox

24/7 medically supervised detox in a licensed private hospital, including withdrawal support and psychiatric care.

A simple, supportive admissions journey

What to expect when you reach out

Step1

Speak to a real person

You’ll talk to someone who understands ADHD and addiction — no pressure, just answers.

Step2

Get a personalised intake

We’ll ask about your needs and goals, then tailor a plan that fits your situation.

Step3

Begin your ADHD rehab

Your care team will support you from day one with structure, guidance, and compassion.

We’re here whenever you’re ready – book a call or speak to someone now.

Care that’s tailored to your needs

What makes our ADHD rehab unique

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all treatment. Our ADHD rehab combines structured care, clinical expertise, and personal support to help clients with complex neurodiverse needs thrive in recovery.

Designed for neurodivergent clients

Programs are created with ADHD-specific needs in mind, from therapy style to daily routines.

Whole-person dual diagnosis model

We treat ADHD and addiction together, not separately, because that’s how recovery really lasts.

Structure with flexibility

We offer structure without rigidity, adapting care to suit emotional regulation, focus and attention.

Personalised support and planning

Each client receives an individualised recovery plan, including counselling, medication and aftercare.

Our ADHD rehab services

Personalised treatment for every person

We support a diverse mix of clients with ADHD and addiction from all backgrounds and belief systems. Our core programs are flexible, inclusive, and guided by lived experience.

Alcohol rehab

Individualised programs that address the physical, emotional, and behavioural impacts of alcohol dependence.

Drug rehab

Structured, supportive inpatient programs for a range of illicit and prescription drugs.

Emergency rehab

Fast-tracked admission options for people in crisis who need urgent, stabilising care.

Relapse prevention

Practical, real-world strategies to manage triggers, avoid setbacks and maintain long-term recovery.

Safe, accredited care you can trust

Recognised national clinical standards

We are fully accredited under the National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards and governed by the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC).

Real experiences from real people

Hear from clients and families

Everyone’s recovery looks different. These stories and testimonials offer honest insight into the rehab journey from the people who’ve lived it.

Ali Ademi

After years of trauma, addiction, and loss, Ali found the strength to rebuild his life through the support of a compassionate team, a sense of community, and a commitment to long-term healing.

Minh

After 32 years of addiction, Minh Pham found hope, healing, and a new path at The Hader Clinic. His journey is a testament to the power of community, compassion, and courage.

Peter El-Khouri

After multiple relapses, Peter found long-term recovery with Hader. Read how therapy, community and clinical care helped him reclaim his life.

Designed for calm, privacy and clinical care

Where our rehab programs take place

Our programs run across two carefully designed settings. In Geelong, our private hospital offers a quiet, low-stimulus space for medical detox and early stabilisation. In Essendon, our residential rehab centre provides a consistent daily routine with built-in structure, emotional support, and space for regulation. Both environments offer calm, predictable settings where clients can focus, feel safe, and engage in meaningful therapeutic work.

Inpatient Rehabilitation Program and Transitional Housing program

Essendon
150-152 Cooper St, Essendon VIC 3040

Hospital Rehabilitation Centre for 28-Day Withdrawal & Detox Program

Geelong
6-8 Townsend Road,St Albans Park VIC 3219

83%

Clients who complete our 90-day program remain sober at 12 months.

72%

Clients enrol in Hader@Home aftercare or transitional housing to support long-term engagement and reduce relapse risk.

60%

Clients who access structured aftercare are significantly more likely to maintain recovery and avoid relapse.

50%

Half of all people with addiction also have a co-occurring mental health condition, highlighting the need for dual diagnosis support.

Data-backed recovery outcomes

What our ADHD rehab clients can expect

Our results speak for themselves. From structured care to aftercare engagement, our ADHD and addiction rehab programs achieve strong long-term outcomes.

View our sources below:

Ready to talk about ADHD and addiction?

You don’t need to figure it out alone. Our team will listen, answer your questions, and guide you toward the right path.

Take a free online assessment

Take a quick, private quiz to see if rehab could help and explore safe support options.

Book a free chat

 Schedule a confidential call with a specialist at a time that suits you.

Call us now

 Speak to someone immediately for guidance and support.

Get the support you need without financial surprises

Costs and funding options

We make rehab as accessible as possible with flexible pricing, insurance support, and funding help for individuals and families.

Rehab costs

Fees vary by program length and clinical support. Every quote is clear and confirmed before admission.

Explore rehab options

Funding options

We offer a range of funding solutions for rehab and can help you combine options to suit your needs. From superannuation to DVA and private health, we’ll guide you through every step.

Learn more about funding costs
MEET THE TEAM

Meet our team

Our dedicated team brings compassion, clinical expertise, and lived experience to help you recover from drug addiction.

Dr. Yohannes, the resident clinical psychologist at The Hader Clinic’s private hospital.
Photo of Andi Thania
MEET THE TEAM

About The Hader Clinic

For more than 25 years, we’ve supported Australians facing addiction, trauma, and complex mental health needs. Our programs are shaped by evidence, experience, and heart.

Support for yourself or someone else

Rehab for every kind of journey

Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or supporting someone you love, we’ll guide you toward the right program, explain your options, and support you from day one.

Rehab for yourself

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Rehab for a loved one

A couple sits together in a therapist’s office, listening with concern and support
Learn more about ADHD and addiction

Blogs for curious minds and deeper insight

Want to learn more about ADHD, dual diagnosis, or recovery planning? These blogs offer clear, honest insight to help you feel more informed and less alone.

Get the help that fits your needs

Enquire about personalised ADHD treatment

Whether you're seeking care for yourself or supporting someone else, our team will help you take the next step with clarity, respect, and clinical support.

Speak to someone who understands

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Get the clarity you need

Frequently asked questions

How do you screen for ADHD in a rehab setting?

We begin with validated tools like the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and follow with a comprehensive clinical assessment. This helps us distinguish between ADHD symptoms and overlapping effects from trauma or substance use.

Our team understands that many adults with ADHD have gone undiagnosed for years. Screening allows us to create a personalised treatment plan that acknowledges the neurodevelopmental disorder that affects attention, regulation, and impulse control.

  • We assess symptoms of ADHD during intake
  • Clients are evaluated for both mental health and addiction disorders
  • Every program includes targeted strategies to manage their symptoms

Can stimulant medications be used during addiction treatment?

Yes, but they must be used cautiously. ADHD medication is reviewed by our medical team in light of each client’s substance use history, clinical needs, and recovery stage. If stimulant medications are not appropriate, non-stimulant alternatives are considered.

Our goal is to help people with ADHD manage symptoms without triggering relapse. Where safe, long-acting stimulants may be used in a structured environment. We also offer non-medication coping strategies to support clients who are not suitable for pharmacological options.

  • Medication is never started without stabilisation and review
  • Individuals with ADHD may respond well to non-stimulants like atomoxetine
  • Treatment is always tailored to risk level, response, and client goals

What therapy methods work best for people with ADHD?

We use cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and short-format goal-setting sessions. These are proven to support individuals with ADHD who struggle with impulsivity, emotional regulation, and attention.

Effective treatment blends consistency with flexibility. Many people with ADHD may have difficulty engaging with traditional therapy, so we focus on methods that are repetitive, simple, and paced appropriately.

How does Hader tailor rehab for people with executive dysfunction?

Executive dysfunction affects the ability to plan, organise, and follow through on tasks — common challenges for ADHD sufferers. At Hader, our structured environments reduce decision fatigue and support consistent engagement.

Our therapy is modular, flexible, and often reinforced with written aids, coaching, and practical skills. Individuals with ADHD and addiction benefit from approaches that lower pressure, break down expectations, and build confidence.

  • Staff help ADHD clients manage daily routines
  • We use scaffolding strategies to guide participation

Interventions are designed to fit different attention spans

What’s the link between ADHD and addiction?

There is a strong link between ADHD and a substance use disorder. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects impulse control, emotion, and attention. People with ADHD may self-medicate using alcohol, cannabis or stimulants — which can temporarily soothe symptoms, but often lead to dependency.

Studies have shown that individuals with ADHD have a higher risk of developing addiction than those without ADHD. Early treatment is essential because the cycle of addiction and ADHD is self-reinforcing.

  • ADHD can lead to impulsive or risky substance use
  • Addiction can mask symptoms and delay diagnosis of ADHD

Treating both together improves long-term outcomes

I’ve tried therapy before and it didn’t help. Will this be different?

Many individuals with ADHD may have found past therapy frustrating due to long sessions, inconsistent formats, or emotional overwhelm. At Hader, therapy is adapted to meet attention span, processing style, and self-regulation capacity.

We offer short-format CBT, trauma-informed support, and flexible goal-setting. Therapy is delivered in a setting designed to reduce sensory stress and encourage follow-through. Our clients also have access to digital tools and peer support.

  • Sessions are focused, structured, and personalised
  • Therapists understand challenges for ADHD sufferers
  • We support clients to build strategies to manage their symptoms

Can you help someone with ADHD who won’t accept help?

Yes. If a loved one has ADHD and is struggling with addiction and ADHD, our intervention team can help. We support families to understand what the person is experiencing, offer education, and help initiate support pathways.

People with ADHD may have difficulty recognising the extent of their substance use or may fear the loss of routine. With compassionate guidance, clients can be engaged at their own pace.

  • Families are coached on language, timing and follow-up
  • Motivational strategies reduce resistance
  • Early support can reduce the risk of developing addiction

If you're supporting someone who doesn't recognise they need help, you might find our blog on how to convince an addict to go to rehab helpful for starting the conversation.

What if I have ADHD and another mental health condition?

It is common for individuals with ADHD and addiction to also experience other conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD. We offer dual diagnosis care that addresses the mental disorder and addiction at the same time.

Our programs combine clinical therapy, psychiatric support, and lifestyle planning. The result is a treatment plan that reflects the person’s whole experience and helps them improve functioning, wellbeing, and overall quality of life.

  • Treatment is aligned across all diagnoses
  • Support is provided by a multidisciplinary team
  • Programs address both symptoms and treatment goals

If you're curious about how ADHD, addiction, and other mental health conditions are treated together, our article on substance abuse and comorbidity explains why integrated care is so important.