Reviewed byZhanar Tulegenova, MDPsychiatrist and psychotherapist, experience 18 years · updated 8 Nov 2026
Key facts
- Who provides care
- a psychotherapist, an addiction doctor (narcologist), and, if needed, a psychiatrist and a family psychologist
- Where
- online by video call, or on an outpatient basis at the clinic in Khromtau
- Duration
- 6 to 12 months: weekly at first, then every 2–4 weeks
- Anonymity
- confidential, with no entry in the state dispensary registry, protected by medical confidentiality
- When it is urgent
- a relapse into a drinking binge, overdose, psychosis, or suicidal thoughts — call 103 or 112
- Outcome
- maintained sobriety and a return to work, studies, and family life
What you should know
Definition. Post-rehab aftercare is a stage of comprehensive addiction treatment that begins after inpatient or outpatient rehab has been completed. Its goal is to help a person carry the skills they have acquired into everyday life, notice the threat of relapse in time, and get help before any use occurs. In international practice, this stage is called continuing care and is considered an essential part of treating chronic diseases.
The first 3–6 months after discharge are the period of highest relapse risk: the person returns to a familiar environment and faces stress, old acquaintances, and everyday and financial difficulties. Regular contact with a specialist during this time increases the chances of staying sober. Aftercare following rehab in Khromtau at Narcology 24 is provided by a psychotherapist and an addiction doctor; the format and frequency of sessions are chosen individually, and most sessions can be held online.
Who Needs Aftercare Most
- the person has recently been discharged from an inpatient unit or rehab center
- in the past, there have been relapses soon after the end of treatment
- risk factors remain at home or at work: stress, people who use
- there is co-occurring depression, anxiety, sleep problems, or PTSD
- the person is returning to work or studies after a long break
- the family is unsure how to behave after their loved one comes home
- the person lives far from the clinic and needs support online
If two or three points apply, it is worth seeing a doctor. Phone advice is free and confidential. If life is at risk, call 103 or 112.
Why the Post-Rehab Stage Matters
At a rehab center, a person is in a protected environment: there is no access to the substance, there is a daily routine, and there is everyday support from specialists and the group. After discharge, these conditions disappear, and the skills practiced at the center have to be applied in real life. Without support, many people become overwhelmed: accumulated debts, conflicts, and the need to find a job. It is at this point that the risk of returning to the old way of coping is especially high.
The WHO considers addiction a chronic disease that requires long-term follow-up, similar to diabetes or hypertension. Research shows that continued contact with specialists after the main course is associated with better outcomes. Aftercare also makes it possible to notice and treat co-occurring mental health disorders in time, which often emerge in the first months of sobriety.
How Aftercare Works
Step 1 — a session before discharge or in the first days after it, in person or online: discussing the plan for returning home, the risks, and goals. Step 2 — regular sessions with a psychotherapist: once a week for the first 1–3 months, then every 2–4 weeks. Step 3 — periodic consultations with an addiction doctor or psychiatrist to monitor the person's condition and relapse prevention medication. Step 4 — family sessions. Step 5 — a gradual completion of the program with a plan for the future.
Limitations. Aftercare does not replace emergency care. A relapse with marked intoxication or withdrawal requires a home visit by an addiction doctor or hospitalization. An examination and lab tests cannot be done online, so an in-person appointment is required if health deteriorates. If seizures, delirium, signs of overdose, or suicidal thoughts appear, call 103 or 112 and do not stay alone.
How we help
Maintenance psychotherapy
Regular sessions help work through difficult situations, track early signs of relapse, and reinforce CBT and relapse prevention skills. The psychotherapist helps build a daily routine, find new interests, and rebuild relationships. If needed, the frequency of sessions is temporarily increased. The online format means sessions need not be missed even with a busy work schedule.
Medical monitoring and relapse prevention medication
The addiction doctor periodically assesses the person's well-being, sleep, mood, and cravings and, when indicated, prescribes or adjusts relapse prevention medication. A psychiatrist monitors treatment of co-occurring depression and anxiety disorders. By agreement with the patient, tests for psychoactive substances or alcohol are carried out, which helps maintain trust within the family.
Social adaptation
Specialists help plan a return to work or studies, deal with financial issues, and build a new social circle. High-risk situations are discussed: corporate events, holidays, and business trips. Participation in mutual support groups, including those following the 12-step program, is recommended so that the person has a circle of sober support.
Work with the family
A person's return after rehab changes the life of the family. Joint sessions help agree on rules, rebuild trust, and avoid excessive control and blame. Loved ones receive guidance on how to respond to early relapse signals and when to seek help. Consultations for relatives can be held online.
Myths and facts
MythAfter rehab, treatment is over
FactAddiction is a chronic condition, and completing the main course does not mean the risk has disappeared. Aftercare helps consolidate the results in the first months, when the likelihood of relapse is highest.
MythAftercare is only for those who have relapsed
FactSupport is more effective as prevention than as a reaction to relapse. Regular sessions make it possible to spot a threat in advance — changes in sleep, mood, or attitude toward sobriety — and prevent use.
MythOnline support is a formality
FactRegular online sessions with a psychotherapist are a fully valid form of help when the person's condition is stable. They are convenient, make it possible to keep up the frequency of sessions, and require no travel. If the condition worsens, an in-person appointment is scheduled.
How a home visit works
- Call or message usThe dispatcher answers 24/7 and in 3–5 minutes checks the person's condition, age, how long the drinking or use has lasted, chronic conditions and the address. No surname needed.
- The doctor sets offAn addiction doctor or psychiatrist comes with equipment and medication. Travel time depends on the district — usually within an hour. If inpatient care or an ambulance is needed, we'll say so straight away.
- Examination and treatmentBlood pressure, pulse, oxygen saturation, blood sugar if needed and a neurological check. Then an IV drip or other treatment as indicated, 1–3 hours.
- A plan for the next daysAdvice for the family on what to do overnight and tomorrow, phone follow-up and a repeat visit if needed.
- Further treatmentCoding, psychotherapy, rehab or psychiatric follow-up — once the acute state has passed and the person is ready.
Prices in Khromtau
| Rehab programme consultation | 9 500 ₸ |
| Outpatient programme (one month) | 120 000 ₸ |
| Residential rehab (one month) | 320 000 ₸ |
| Phone advice | free |
The final cost is agreed before treatment starts. Prices are in tenge and do not constitute a public offer.
Where to get help
In khromtau you can get help at home, at one of our two branches (105 Lenina St., Khromtau, 121 Abaya St., office 11, Khromtau) or online if you need a consultation rather than a procedure. The dispatcher answers 24/7 and will tell you straight away which option is safest.
Confidential and private
Information about your request, diagnosis and treatment is protected by medical confidentiality under the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System”. We do not share it with employers, schools, the police or neighbours; the only exceptions are those expressly set by law. A first name is enough to call us, and paid confidential treatment does not mean a registry entry.
Questions and answers
How long does aftercare last?
The recommended length is 6 to 12 months. For the first 1–3 months, sessions take place weekly, then every 2–4 weeks. Aftercare may last longer if there are co-occurring disorders or repeated relapses in the past. The decision to finish is made jointly.
Can I receive aftercare if I went through rehab at another center?
Yes. Narcology 24 specialists review your discharge summaries and recommendations, assess your current condition, and draw up a support plan. It is important to provide information about the treatment you received and the medications prescribed, as well as about any relapses.
What should I do if a relapse happens during aftercare?
Tell your psychotherapist or doctor as soon as possible. Depending on your condition, a home visit by an addiction doctor, short-term detox, or more frequent sessions may be needed. The relapse is analyzed without judgment, and the prevention plan is adjusted.
Is the online format suitable?
Yes, for most patients in a stable condition, online aftercare is a convenient and effective format. An in-person appointment is needed for an examination, lab tests, adjustment of medication, and if your well-being worsens or there are signs of a threatened relapse.
Does the family need to take part?
Family participation is not mandatory but is desirable. Joint sessions help rebuild trust and develop shared rules. Loved ones can also receive individual consultations to cope with anxiety and avoid slipping back into excessive control.
Is anonymity preserved?
Yes. Aftercare is provided on a paid, anonymous basis, with no entry in the state dispensary registry. The information is protected by medical confidentiality under the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System” and is disclosed only in cases provided for by law.
Where do doctors visit in Khromtau and where are the branches?
Home visits cover all city districts and nearby settlements, 24/7. Appointments at two branches: 105 Lenina St., Khromtau and 121 Abaya St., office 11, Khromtau. Phone in Khromtau: +7 (700) 309-30-65.
Sources and methodology
This page was prepared by the Narcology 24 medical editorial team based on:
- International Classification of Diseases ICD-10 and ICD-11, World Health Organization
- Clinical diagnosis and treatment protocols of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan
- Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System”
- NICE (UK) guidelines on alcohol and drug misuse and mental health conditions
- WHO recommendations on the treatment of substance use disorders
This information is for reference only and does not replace a consultation with a specialist. Editorial policy
