Outpatient treatment offers an alternative for those who might not be able to attend inpatient treatment or for those who have already completed inpatient treatment and are looking for continued support. Outpatient is a great option for those who have a strong support system in place and are able to balance their treatment with daily responsibilities such as work or school. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, an outpatient treatment center near you may help. Outpatient can help teach you skills to manage triggers, cope with cravings, and maintain sobriety. Don’t wait. Seek help and start your journey toward recovery today.

What Is Outpatient Treatment?

Outpatient treatment is a form of addiction treatment that allows individuals to attend therapy and counseling sessions at a designated addiction treatment center while continuing to live at home and maintain their daily responsibilities. Aspects of outpatient include:

• Individual, group, and family therapy – This can occur several times per week at designated times or on a more flexible schedule
• Medication management – This may include medications to manage withdrawal symptoms or prevent relapse
• Relapse prevention planning – Developing a plan for managing triggers and preventing relapse
• Continued support – Ongoing support through recovery, including 12-step meetings or support groups
• Holistic therapies such as yoga and art therapy – To supplement traditional therapy and address all aspects of health

Outpatient treatment is typically less intensive than residential treatment, as individuals are not living at the treatment center and may only attend therapy a few times per week. However, there are varying levels of outpatient treatment, ranging from intensive programs with multiple sessions per week to less intensive programs that may only meet once a week.

Types of Outpatient Treatment Programs

Outpatient treatment programs can vary in structure and intensity. Some common types of outpatient treatment include:

• Partial hospitalization programs – These intensive programs meet multiple times per week and may include group therapy, individual therapy, and medical management
• Intensive outpatient programs – These programs meet a few times per week and may include therapy, medication management, and support groups
• Standard outpatient programs – These programs meet weekly for individual or group therapy sessions

No matter the level of intensity, all outpatient treatment programs should include a personalized approach to address individual needs and challenges in recovery. Outpatient treatment can be a step down from residential treatment, or it can serve as the primary form of treatment for those who are not able to attend residential treatment. It can also serve as ongoing support for those who have completed residential treatment.

Do I Need Outpatient Treatment?

Outpatient treatment may be a good option for those who have a strong support system in place, such as a stable home environment and reliable transportation to and from treatment. It may also be a good option for those who have already completed residential treatment and are looking for continued support. Some questions to ask yourself:

• Do I have a stable living situation and support system?
• Am I able to balance treatment with my daily responsibilities, such as work or school?
• Do I have a solid plan for managing triggers and preventing relapse?
• Do I have resources such as insurance or financial support to attend outpatient treatment?

If you are unsure if outpatient treatment is the right option for you, seek guidance from a medical professional or addiction specialist.

Seek Out Outpatient Care Today

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, don’t wait to seek help. Outpatient treatment can provide the support and guidance needed for lasting recovery. Contact a treatment facility today to learn more about your options for outpatient care.