Programa Victoria

Programa Victoria is a private residential addiction treatment center in Marbella, Spain. Founded in 1984 by clinical psychologist Dr. Bernardo Ruiz Victoria, it operates as a therapeutic retreat rather than a traditional closed hospital. The center treats individuals overcoming dependencies on alcohol, cocaine, and other addictive behaviors.

Key Achievements and Statistics

The program reports a 67% long-term success rate. This figure comes from follow-up studies conducted 5 to 8 years after treatment. Success means maintained abstinence or a return to non-problematic consumption levels. Since opening over 40 years ago, the center has treated more than 1,000 patients.

In 2026, Programa Victoria received the Best Addiction Therapeutic Retreat award from GHP News Digital at the Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals Awards. Dr. Bernardo Ruiz Victoria leads the clinical team with 42 years of experience. He earned his psychology degree from the Autonomous University of Madrid.

Addiction Treatment Methodology

The center uses a three-phase approach designed for those with professional or personal time constraints. Treatment begins with a reception stage – medical and psychological evaluations that shape a tailored plan. These initial sessions can happen in person or via video consultation.

The core of the program is a 10-day intensive residential retreat. Groups are limited to eight people to ensure focused attention. Patients work with an exclusive methodology based on several psychological frameworks:

• Functional Analysis of Addictive Behavior (ABC) to understand triggers and dependency mechanisms
• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to restructure thoughts that lead to substance use
• Psychoeducation and relaxation techniques involving visualization and positive thinking
• Relapse prevention tools to help patients identify and manage risk situations

After the retreat, patients enter a reintegration phase. This helps them return to their usual environment with a concrete action plan.

Long-Term Recovery and Family Support

Recovery continues through professional follow-up lasting at least one year. This phase includes individual sessions, family counseling, and group workshops with former participants. Sessions can take place in person or through digital platforms like WhatsApp and video calls.

Family involvement is central to the long-term strategy. The clinical team gives families specific guidelines to support the patient's new habits. These focus on several key areas:

• Spotting early relapse signals without causing confrontation
• Avoiding codependency and overprotective behaviors
• Creating a home environment that supports sustained sobriety
• Consulting with therapists during the one-year follow-up period

This structured support helps solidify the changes made during the intensive retreat.

International Patient Services

The therapeutic team provides care in English and Spanish. This multilingual support serves patients traveling from across Europe and Latin America. Residential stays take place in 4-star or 5-star spa hotels in Marbella. These settings protect patient privacy while offering a calm environment away from the city center.

For Spanish-speaking patients, the center offers program versions in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. Online consultations and follow-up sessions are available globally, so patients can reach the clinical team from anywhere.