Addiction affects people differently, and the path to sobriety is different for every individual. That’s why addiction treatment facilities adopt multiple treatment methods to suit every patient’s needs.
An outpatient treatment plan is one of the most common options in major addiction treatment centers.
The program focuses on therapies that target individuals and the people within their networks. It provides the support and training a patient needs without confining them in a facility. This post gives greater insights into outpatient treatment. Let’s dive in.
What is outpatient treatment?
Drug abuse treatment centers use outpatient treatment to help patients with substance use disorders. This is especially patients with mild or moderate addiction. The program arranges the treatment sessions based on the patient’s schedule.
The difference between outpatient treatment and the other methods is that patients don’t have to live in the addiction treatment facility throughout the sessions. Instead, they can live with their families and continue with their everyday lives as long as they attend therapy sessions.
What are the types of outpatient treatment?
Outpatient treatment programs are not the same. They differ in intensity, frequency, and structure, depending on every patient’s needs. The primary categories of the program include partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and continuing care programs.
A partial hospitalization program requires significant commitment. That’s because the schedules call for up to seven sessions weekly. After completing a session, the patient can go to their residence. However, the commitment and frequency of the sessions might limit individuals the opportunity to handle other responsibilities.
Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) provide assessable milestones that patients work to achieve throughout the program. The more milestones a patient achieves, the less time they spend in outpatient therapy. The program is a perfect solution for patients with a strong desire to overcome addiction. The meetings might be similar to day programs, but the session’s duration is shorter and less frequent.
Continuing care programs provide patients with the support and structure to remain sober while engaging in their daily activities. There are multiple types of continuing care programs.
However, addiction treatment facilities may tailor them to match different gender and age groups.
What happens in outpatient treatment?
Like inpatient treatment, outpatient centers’ treatment services vary depending on the program. The services are similar for outpatient and inpatient treatments, but they differ in frequency, intensity, and duration.
For instance, outpatient treatment provides detox services to safely help patients process drugs out of their bodies. The treatment can also include pharmacological tools and medication as part of the comprehensive treatment plan.
Cognitive-behavioural therapy is a significant part of the treatment program. It involves exploring the connection between thoughts and behaviours and how they work to enhance addiction patterns. In addition, addiction treatment facilities address coping strategies and relapse prevention during these sessions.
Contingency management (evidence-based therapy) reinforces the patient anytime they show positive behavioural change. Intensive family systemic therapy includes the whole family unit and focuses on improving communication and the entire family’s functioning. Outpatient treatment also includes motivational interviewing and individual-centred and non-judgmental therapy. It helps patients make better decisions and minimize uncertainty about treatment and recovery.
What are the benefits of outpatient treatment?
One of the most significant things about outpatient care is fitting a patient’s schedule. Unlike inpatient programs, where patients should be available 24/7, patients have substantial control over outpatient rehab.
Patients concerned about their privacy can reap the benefits of outpatient treatment programs. Outpatient programs take place in a one-on-one setting, where the patient works with either a trained psychiatrist, clinical psychologist, social worker, counsellor, or therapist. Therefore, other people might not know that the patient is attending the program unless they need to know.
Inpatient treatment programs often occur in a group setting, which might not be ideal for recovery. On the other hand, outpatient programs tailor their treatment plans to suit every patient’s needs. Therefore, they get the individualized attention they deserve to set up for a successful recovery. Further, outpatient treatment programs are affordable. Patients don’t have to incur the huge costs of inpatient treatment. Plus, some insurance programs may be willing to cater to outpatient rehab programs.
What are the disadvantages of outpatient treatment?
Besides the many benefits, outpatient treatment fails to provide 24/7 supervision. The patient doesn’t have a professional to help them every time. Even when they genuinely want to get clean, patients can find it challenging. They might slip since they have access to social life and friends who might be bad influences.
Outpatient care also limits the patient from talking to a therapist whenever need be. If they have a troubled night, they might have to wait until the next meeting to get help. Further, with outpatient care, individuals miss the chance to develop bonds with people experiencing the same problem.
Who is the right candidate for outpatient treatment?
It is crucial to remember that no two patients struggling with addiction are the same. For example, some patients might work well with inpatient treatment, while others work well with outpatient rehab programs.
Outpatient care is ideal for patients with mild and moderate addiction. These patients know they need help but have not hit rock bottom. The outpatient program can help them address the problem before it worsens.
Patients with a great support system at home or around them can also benefit from the less restrictive environment of an outpatient program. It is important to ensure that the family is aware of the causes of addiction and shows commitment to providing the accountability the patient needs.
Outpatient care can also work well with patients who learn best by practicing new skills. The therapy allows them to practice what they learn, such as avoiding triggers and managing cravings, without using drugs. In addition, the approach appeals to hands-on learners who prefer practical suggestions to manage sobriety.
Outpatient treatment also favours busy professionals worried about the impacts of taking a break to attend inpatient treatment. The program is flexible enough to suit their needs. They can attend the sessions at night or during weekends, meaning they can work full-time while staying on top of their recovery. It also helps them protect their privacy because no one will know they struggle with substance abuse.
The bottom line
Outpatient treatment allows patients to exercise their freedom without compromising the support and guidance for their successful recovery. It is ideal for learning new skills and techniques to overcome substance use while still fulfilling various roles as a provider, worker, and family member.
Further, the treatment might be the final step to a full recovery with the right support and willingness to move forward.
Get in touch today with one of our addiction specialists who will be able to help.
