Quick answer: Rehab in Pretoria is available through private inpatient and outpatient centres, through free state-funded treatment arranged by a Gauteng Social Development social worker, and through COSUP, a free community programme funded by the City of Tshwane for people who use drugs. If you have medical aid, up to 21 days of inpatient treatment a year is covered.
Last reviewed: October 2026.
What rehab options are there in Pretoria?
| Option | Cost | How to get in |
|---|---|---|
| Private inpatient rehab | Medical aid, or typically R15,000 – R90,000 per month | Contact the centre directly |
| Private outpatient programme | Roughly R1,500 – R6,000 per week | Contact the centre directly |
| State-funded inpatient treatment | Free | Assessment by a social worker; call 0800 22 88 27 |
| COSUP community sites | Free | Visit a COSUP site in Tshwane |
| SANCA and other non-profits | Lower cost | Contact the organisation’s Pretoria office |
What is COSUP in Tshwane?
COSUP stands for the Community Oriented Substance Use Programme. It is funded by the City of Tshwane and run by the University of Pretoria’s Department of Family Medicine. Its community sites offer counselling, connection to health care and opioid substitution therapy, such as methadone, for people who are dependent on heroin or nyaope. COSUP is a community health service, not a residential rehab, so people live at home while they get help. Sites change over time, so confirm the nearest one with the City of Tshwane or the University of Pretoria before you go.
How do I get into a private rehab in Pretoria?
- Make contact. Phone the centre, or contact Rehab Bridge and we will connect you to centres that fit your situation.
- Complete the pre-admission assessment with the centre’s clinical team.
- Arrange payment. Get medical aid pre-authorisation or a written quote.
- Agree on an admission date. If detox is needed, it comes first.
How do I apply for free rehab in Pretoria?
- Call the Gauteng Anti-Substance Abuse helpline on 0800 22 88 27, or go to your nearest Department of Social Development office.
- A social worker assesses the person’s substance use and circumstances.
- The social worker recommends outpatient, community-based or inpatient treatment.
- If inpatient treatment is needed, the social worker arranges placement at a state-run or subsidised centre.
Does medical aid cover rehab in Pretoria?
Yes. Alcohol and drug dependence is a Prescribed Minimum Benefit, so every medical scheme must cover up to 21 days of inpatient rehabilitation a year on every plan. You normally need pre-authorisation and a facility in your scheme’s network. See how the 21-day rehab benefit works and our medical aid cover page.
Should I choose a rehab in Pretoria or in Johannesburg?
Look at both. The two cities are less than an hour apart, so a Johannesburg centre is still close enough for family sessions, and Johannesburg has a wider choice of programmes. Choose the programme that fits the person first and the location second. See rehab in Johannesburg and how to choose a rehab centre.
Frequently asked questions
How much does rehab cost in Pretoria?
Private inpatient rehab typically costs R15,000 to R90,000 per month and outpatient programmes roughly R1,500 to R6,000 per week. State-funded treatment and COSUP are free.
Is there free rehab in Pretoria?
Yes. State-funded treatment is free and is arranged by a social worker through the Gauteng helpline on 0800 22 88 27. COSUP’s community sites in Tshwane are also free.
Where can I get help for nyaope addiction in Pretoria?
COSUP offers free counselling and opioid substitution therapy at community sites in Tshwane. State-funded and private rehab centres also treat nyaope dependence, usually starting with a medical detox.
Can I apply for rehab for a family member in Pretoria?
Yes. Parents and caregivers can apply through the Gauteng helpline. An adult must agree to treatment unless a court orders it.
How Rehab Bridge can help
Rehab Bridge is not a rehab centre. We listen to your situation, explain your options and connect you to rehab centres in Gauteng and Cape Town that fit your needs, budget and medical aid. Contact us, send us a WhatsApp or email info@rehabbridge.co.za.
This article is general information, not medical advice. In an emergency, call 112 from a cellphone or 10177 for an ambulance.