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When you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, itโs important to choose the right treatment program for you.ย
There are two primary types of addiction treatment programs: inpatient and outpatient. During inpatient rehab, clients are required to stay at the treatment facility in supervised housing for the duration of their care. However, in outpatient rehab, clients have more flexibility. They can live at home or in sober living while attending treatment on an ambulatory basis.
Outpatient treatment programs involve a few scheduled treatment sessions, usually 2-5 times per week depending on the intensity of the program. These programs are affordable, flexible, and accommodating to people with busy schedules.ย
Unfortunately, outpatient rehab is not right for everyone. In this article, weโll explore the goals of outpatient programs and who should attend this level of care.ย
If you or a loved one need immediate assistance, please contact our admissions team at Moving Mountains Recovery today.
Goals of Outpatient Rehab
The goals of outpatient rehab programs focus on helping individuals recover from substance use disorders while maintaining their daily responsibilities. Some key objectives include:
- Help clients achieve and maintain sobriety by providing therapy, support, and coping strategies
- Teach clients how to manage stress, cravings, and triggers without using substances
- Address underlying mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or PTSD using therapy and medication management
- Strengthen support systems and encourage participation in support groups
- Help clients prevent relapse with thorough relapse prevention planning
- Aid in the reintegration of daily life as individuals transition back into work, school, and personal responsibilities while maintaining their recovery
Who Should Choose Outpatient Rehab?
Outpatient rehab is a great treatment option for individuals who need help with substance use disorder but also want to maintain their daily responsibilities. Unlike inpatient rehab, which requires a residential stay, outpatient programs provide structured care while allowing clients to live at home. This level of care is best suited for people in specific situations, such as:
Those Who Have Already Detoxed or Completed a Higher Level of Care
Outpatient rehab is ideal for individuals who have already gone through detox or completed a partial hospitalization program (PHP) or residential rehab. Since outpatient care does not offer 24/7 supervision, it works best for people who are physically stable and ready to continue treatment while transitioning back into everyday life.
Clients With Family or Caregiving Obligations
For individuals who are parents, caregivers, or responsible for loved ones, inpatient rehab may not be a realistic option. Outpatient treatment, however, allows clients to attend therapy while still being present for their children, elderly parents, or other family members who rely on them. Flexible scheduling makes it easier to balance recovery with personal responsibilities.
Individuals With Mild to Moderate Substance Use Disorders (SUD)
While inpatient programs are best suited for people with severe SUDs, those with mild to moderate substance use disorders may not require inpatient rehab but still benefit from structured support. Outpatient addiction treatment programs provide therapy, relapse prevention strategies, and coping skills to help individuals manage cravings and triggers while maintaining their daily routines.
People Who Canโt Take Time Away From School or Work
For many, taking a leave of absence from work or school isnโt an option. Outpatient rehab provides the flexibility to attend therapy sessions in the evenings or on weekends, allowing individuals to continue their education or career while receiving the care they need. This makes it an excellent choice for students, working professionals, and those who need to maintain financial stability.
Those Who are Highly Motivated in Recovery
Because outpatient rehab requires self-discipline and commitment, it works best for individuals who are motivated to stay sober and actively participate in their treatment plan. People who are ready to make lasting changes and engage in therapy often thrive in this setting.
People With a Strong Support System at Home
Outpatient rehab is most effective when individuals have supportive family members, friends, or sober peers who encourage their recovery. Having a stable and substance-free environment at home can significantly impact long-term success, especially when the treatment program doesnโt involve 24-hour care and support.
Find out if Outpatient Rehab is Right for You
Outpatient rehab provides continued counseling, relapse prevention, and accountability to help maintain sobriety over time, but it isnโt right for everyone. The best way to figure out which level of care is best for you is to get a substance abuse assessment.
At Moving Mountains Recovery, our trusted admissions counselors can assess your needs, verify your insurance, and help you decide on the right treatment program. Not only that, but we offer three levels of outpatient care: the partial care (PC) program, intensive outpatient program (IOP), and standard outpatient program (OP), so you can find the right level of care for your situation.
To learn more about our treatment programs or get started with a confidential, risk-free assessment, please contact us today!