What Types of People Can Benefit from Outpatient Treatment?
A National Institute on Drug Abuse study found that 90% of people who require drug rehab do not get the help they need. In many instances, the idea of going to a facility for inpatient treatment can prevent people from starting their recovery. For those who have a substance use disorder but who do not want or cannot take part in inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment can be an excellent alternative.
What Is Outpatient Treatment?
An outpatient treatment program is a rehab option for substance abuse and mental health that does not require you to live at the rehab facility. Instead, it allows people to live at home or at another safe location while undergoing treatment for alcohol or drug abuse. Outpatient rehab programs allow you to continue working or going to school while getting help for addiction.
Outpatient treatment requires that you visit the treatment facility for a certain number of hours a day, a few days a week. Some outpatient programs offer weekend and evening sessions to make treatment more convenient for those who work all day.
Different outpatient programs can vary in intensity. There are intensive outpatient programs that might require many hours a day for group therapy, individual therapy sessions, family therapy, and more.
The location of outpatient treatment programs can also vary. Some take place at treatment facilities, while others can occur at mental health facilities, residential facilities, office settings, or community health facilities.
As with inpatient treatment, outpatient rehab takes into consideration a patient’s individual needs when putting together the right treatment options.
Types of Outpatient Treatment Programs
There are a few different types of outpatient rehab programs available. The one most suitable will depend on the severity of the addiction and your own personal needs.
Partial Hospitalization Programs
Partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) are day programs that give you access to medical and clinical support staff who can help with complex mental health concerns as well as addiction. It can be a good option for people who need structure but who do not want to take part in residential treatment.
A PHP usually offers up to 20 hours of intensive sessions a week while allowing you to return home or to a sober living facility at night.
Intensive Outpatient Programs
Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) also offer access to structured support and are best suited for people who do not need much medical assistance. During an IOP, you may attend anywhere from 9 to 20 hours of treatment sessions weekly.
IOPs generally offer the kind of intensive therapy sessions you may expect from an inpatient program but allow you to return home each night.
Standard Outpatient Programs
Standard outpatient programs (OPs) focus on helping you change the patterns of behavior that led to substance abuse. OPs offer minimal medical services, and they usually require about nine hours of treatment each week.
OPs are best suited for people who have already gone through inpatient treatment or for those who do not have severe addictions but need support.
Florida Model
The Florida model offers both inpatient and outpatient rehab. This program allows you to live in supervised residential housing that is separate from the treatment center.
Benefits of Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient rehab offers a few benefits that can make a difference for people going through addiction.
Maintaining Employment
Not everyone can afford to take 30 days off work, which is the typical length of inpatient treatment. If you have work responsibilities, you can still get the treatment you need by turning to outpatient rehab.
The greater flexibility that outpatient treatment offers can also help people who have children or other dependents.
Affordability
Outpatient drug treatment is more affordable than inpatient care. For people who cannot get insurance to cover rehab or for those who have limited insurance coverage, this can be the best option.
Offers Real-World Practice
Outpatient addiction treatment programs allow you to put into use the techniques you learn from treatment providers during your therapy sessions. This can help you build confidence in your own recovery process.
Outpatient Treatment Therapies
When undergoing outpatient drug rehab, you will have access to different types of therapies.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that strives to change unhelpful behavior by modifying negative thoughts. You can learn to identify triggers as well as apply coping skills to manage those triggers. By learning new coping mechanisms, you can avoid relapsing.
Contingency Management
Contingency management focuses on positive reinforcement. It encourages small rewards for healthy behavior, like attending treatment sessions or remaining sober.
Motivational Enhancement Therapy
Motivational enhancement therapy sessions help you find your motivation for staying sober, which can help you overcome any mixed feelings you may have about the process. It is a type of therapy that can help you learn positive coping skills, giving you confidence in your ability to make behavioral changes.
Matrix Model
The Matrix Model offers education about substance use disorders while encouraging participation in self-help meetings. It also offers education on relapse prevention and support through access to support groups.
Family Behavior Therapy
This type of therapy involves family members or significant others. It allows them to express themselves and work through some of the challenges of loving someone with an addiction.
12-Step Facilitation Therapy
For this type of therapy, you have access to support groups and group counseling sessions. This allows you to build a support network while also participating in 12-step program meetings.
Turn to Outpatient Addiction Treatment
Addiction treatment is a commitment. It requires effort and time from you, but it offers the reward of getting sober. If you cannot take part in inpatient treatment because of financial or personal issues, you may want to consider outpatient drug rehab. An outpatient rehab program can provide the support and structure you need while still allowing you to work or take care of your family.
If you want to start your journey toward recovery, reach out to Quit Alcohol. Contact us today to find the right treatment center for you.
