When you think of addiction recovery, you most likely picture a prolonged stay in a rehabilitation center or hospital. However, it is not always necessary to undergo inpatient recovery. Outpatient drug rehab is possible with people who are struggling with a mild to moderate addiction or a mental health issue that contributes to substance abuse.
So, how does outpatient rehab work, and can it help you or something you love? We’re here to explain.
Outpatient vs. Inpatient Rehabilitation
With an inpatient program, you reside in a rehab facility or hospital for a period of time. Treatment can last anywhere from 28-90 days depending on the severity of your addiction. Inpatient treatment is generally recommended for a serious substance abuse problem or after a medically assisted detox.
Outpatient drug and alcohol rehab means you continue to live at home while receiving therapy. You go to the center for regular sessions, but you can leave after each one. That means you can be with your family and continue to go to school or work.
How Does Outpatient Rehab Work?
While you won’t be residing in a rehab facility, the therapy can be just as effective. Treatment usually starts with an in-depth assessment based on the American Society of Addiction Medicine Criteria. This helps determine the type of outpatient rehab you need.
Six dimensions of ASAM assessment:
- Dimension 1 – Assess your past and present experiences with abuse and withdrawal
- Dimension 2 – Assess your medical history and current health
- Dimension 3 – Assess your thoughts, emotions, and mental health issues
- Dimension 4 – Assess your readiness to change
- Dimension 5 – Assess your potential for relapse or continued abuse
- Dimension 6 – Assess your living situation, as well as those you interact with frequently
Once these six dimensions have been explored, your therapy team can develop a plan to fit your needs. Your outpatient treatment will generally include individual sessions, group therapy, and family counseling. You might also participate in a 12-step program, which can lead you through the recovery process.
Types of Outpatient Rehab
There are actually a few different models when it comes to outpatient treatment.
- Day Program
With day programs you attend meeting 5-7 days a week for a set amount of hours each day. While at the outpatient drug rehab center you will undergo therapy, group counseling, biofeedback, and other therapeutic activities such as art or music therapy.
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
At the outset of the IOP program mental health, you will embark on an intensive treatment and therapy plan. You must meet hit measurable milestones to show the progress you’ve made. Once you’ve achieved these milestones you can start to ease up on the number and length of sessions.
- Continuing Care
Continuing care groups are designed to keep you on track once you are no longer undergoing intensive therapy. These groups can include organizations like Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous.
Recover From Your Addiction. Recover Your Life.
It is possible to free yourself from an addiction to alcohol or drugs. The road is not easy, but there is a path to recovery. If you’re asking how does outpatient rehab work, you may be ready to take that first step.
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