How we select clinics

Inclusion criteria

• The clinic is located in Switzerland and operates under cantonal health authority licensing.
• Physicians and/or psychiatrists lead treatment, not only counsellors.
• Therapeutic methods are documented and evidence-based.
• The clinic can manage medical withdrawal safely, or has a clear referral pathway for it.
• Discretion and data protection practices are strong.
• Aftercare or relapse-prevention planning is structured.

The legal basis we check

• Doctors who practise under their own professional responsibility need a licence from the canton where they work (Fedlex: Medical Professions Act).
• In the canton of Zurich, a medical institution run by a company needs a cantonal operating licence, suitable facilities, the necessary staff and a medically responsible manager licensed in Zurich (Canton of Zurich, 2024).
• A hospital can bill Swiss compulsory health insurance for inpatient care only if it is on its canton's hospital list (Fedlex: KVG).

How profiles are compiled

Profiles are based on clinics' public information, reputable press coverage and direct communication where available. We review every profile at least twice a year. We update a profile when its programmes change.

Categories

• Ultra-luxury clinics offer one-client or small boutique programmes.
• Premium private clinics provide hospital-level psychiatric care in a private setting.
• Clinical specialists focus on a specific field such as alcohol treatment or burnout.

Independence

Commercial relationships do not determine whether a clinic is listed or how it is described. Clinics cannot pay to be included or to change their editorial profile.