An outpatient program can be effective when a client is trying to balance their day-to-day schedule with the fact that they need professional help to overcome their struggle with a substance use disorder (SUD). Not all clients struggling with addiction need inpatient care. If someone has access to a safe home environment and a strong support network, they could be ideal candidates for outpatient rehab.
Going to school, participating in work meetings, and even showing up at family events are possible when a client is admitted into an outpatient addiction treatment program. However, inpatient care still offers the best chance of successful addiction recovery. Looking for an outpatient program in Los Angeles, California? Contact Silicon Beach Tx today by calling [Direct] or reaching out to our team online.
What Is an Outpatient Treatment Program?
The difference between outpatient and inpatient treatment programs is summed up in their names. Outpatient programs treat clients who are allowed outside of the rehab facility, while inpatient programs require clients to stay in the rehab facility throughout the treatment period.
An outpatient treatment program provides more flexibility and freedom to clients, although it is not as safe and secure as an inpatient one. Clients can maintain their relationships, responsibilities, and routines—as long as they make time for addiction treatment sessions. This flexibility is especially important if the client is currently going to school, working for an employer that’s not likely to authorize time off for addiction treatment, or taking care of family members at home.
Outpatient SUD treatment sessions may consist of psychotherapy in one-on-one, group, and family settings, as well as recreational activities and skill-building workshops. Some clients may also be provided with medication-assisted treatment (MAT). There are several types of outpatient addiction treatment programs:
- Partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) – These are highly structured outpatient treatment programs designed to actively treat addiction for several hours a day, typically every weekday. Only inpatient programs can provide a higher level of care than PHPs. However, many ideal candidates for PHPs reside in sober living homes (SLHs) instead of their family homes. A typical day in a PHP may involve one-on-one psychotherapy sessions, group counseling, and skill-building workshops.
- Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) – Like PHPs, these outpatient treatment programs allow patients to continue their day-to-day activities while receiving intensive care for SUDs. IOPs are recommended when a client can’t meet the financial requirements of inpatient care but still needs intensive treatment or when a client is transitioning from a residential rehab program into a life of sobriety. Some IOPs even offer a nighttime schedule so participants can go to school or work during the daytime.
- Typical outpatient addiction treatment programs – In most cases, clients will receive recommendations for SUD treatment after being assessed by a rehab facility’s staff. The best outpatient treatment programs should monitor the client’s progress and adjust their rehab program’s components and length accordingly. In general, outpatient addiction treatment can last anywhere from three months to a year.
How Does Outpatient Treatment Work?
While the primary goal of any SUD treatment program is to help clients overcome addiction, outpatient programs also strive to make the addiction recovery path flexible and convenient for clients to stay on. Some experts say outpatient SUD treatment is not as effective as inpatient options. Still, the truth is that the length of the programs impacts their effectiveness, along with the rehab aftercare services connected to them.
In general, outpatient treatment for addiction works like outpatient treatment for any other mental health disorder. Clients get assessed, admitted into a treatment program, and work out a schedule with the staff. They come for treatment sessions when scheduled and go home afterward. Some outpatient programs may also require clients to participate in 12-step programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). After an outpatient rehab program ends, clients should seek out support groups or join alumni programs to get as much support as possible while living a sober life.
When Should You Consider an Outpatient Program for Addiction?
If you or someone you care about is struggling with addiction, you should consider an outpatient program for addiction. However, it may be best to follow the recommendation from the rehab facility team that assesses your case. Sometimes, inpatient care is not only ideal but also necessary.
An outpatient program for addiction is ideal for someone who is:
- In the early stages of a SUD
- Not in need of 24-hour medical care and supervision
- Not severely dependent on addictive substances
- Part of a safe and secure household that provides them with support
- Studying or working
- Taking care of family members at home
- Transitioning back into normal day-to-day living after time in inpatient care
Learn More About Silicon Beach Tx’s Outpatient Treatment Programs
If you’re searching for an outpatient treatment program in Los Angeles, California, contact Silicon Beach Tx today. Call [Direct] or reach out to our team online.
