Brooke Mueller has checked into a long-term rehab facility with a goal to "maintain her sobriety."

The troubled ex-wife of actor Charlie Sheen had said earlier this week that she did not want to leave her two children and go to an in-patient facility.

But the 34-year-old has now recognised that she needs serious and sustained help and has gone to get the treatment she desperately needs.

"After further reflection and consideration, Brooke has decided to remove herself from the media spotlight and has entered a long-term in-patient treatment centre where she can focus on her recovery without distraction," her spokesman Steve Honig said.

"She has already arrived at the facility and out of respect for her privacy; no further information will be released about her treatment.

"Brooke's goal is to maintain her sobriety and she believes this is the best option to reach that goal."

Steve added that Brooke will be retaining custody of her two-year-old twin boys Bob and Max who will "remain in the their home and familiar surroundings and be under the care of their longtime nanny."

"Charlie and Brooke's parents fully support her decision and everyone recognises the importance of maintaining the children's normal routine."

Brooke had completed a 45-day rehab program back in July to work on her drug and alcohol abuse problems.

But she was arrested for assault and possession of cocaine with the intent to supply earlier this month in Aspen and is due in court next week to answer to the charges.