Finding the Right Outpatient Treatment Center for Your Needs

Read on as we explore the ins and outs of outpatient treatment centers and how they can help you on your journey to recovery.

Table of Contents

What Is an Outpatient Treatment Center?

In the year 2020, 37 million Americans were suffering from substance abuse.1  Out of that number, more than 100,000 people lost their lives due to drug abuse in 2021.2  Outpatient treatment centers are one solution in the fight against substance abuse and addiction.

Outpatient Treatment Centers

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Outpatient Treatment Centers: What Do They Offer?

Outpatient treatment centers offer a wide range of services, including medical and psychiatric care, addiction treatment, and rehabilitation services. They use a variety of treatment techniques to help people, such as individual and group therapy, medication management, and behavioral therapies. The best outpatient treatment centers will create personalized recovery plans, tailored to the unique needs and circumstances of each individual.

Flexibility in Recovery

Patients at outpatient treatment centers are not required to stay overnight or for extended periods. As a result, they can continue with their daily activities and responsibilities while still receiving the care they need.

Inpatient vs Outpatient Treatment Centers: What’s the Difference?

Inpatient and outpatient treatment centers both help people who are struggling with addiction and mental health issues. However, there are significant differences between the two.

The main difference between outpatient and inpatient treatment centers is that inpatient centers provide 24-hour care and supervision. On the other hand, outpatient centers allow patients to come and go as needed. This type of treatment is ideal for individuals who have responsibilities, such as work or family, that they cannot neglect.

Levels of Care: Intensive Outpatient vs. Outpatient Treatment

Inpatient centers provide a more intensive level of care and are ideal for those with severe addiction or mental health issues that pose an immediate safety concern. On the other hand, outpatient treatment centers are a great option for people who need help but cannot commit to long-term inpatient care.

If you or a loved one are struggling with substance use disorder (SUD), it’s important to weigh your options and consider which treatment plan best fits your needs.

Types of Outpatient Treatment Programs

Outpatient treatment centers typically provide the following three treatment options to empower patients to reclaim their lives:

Below, we will look at some common questions you may have about outpatient treatment centers.

Are Treatments at Outpatient Treatment Centers Flexible?

Yes, outpatient treatment centers are designed to be flexible. They can offer services on an individual basis and also provide support groups to help more people in their recovery process. Keep reading to learn how to find a treatment program that will work with your schedule.

Who Can Benefit Most From an Outpatient Treatment Program?

An outpatient treatment program can be a beneficial option for individuals who are unable to commit to an inpatient program. Those who may benefit most from an outpatient treatment program include people who:

  • Have mild to moderate addiction or mental health issues
  • Have a supportive home environment
  • Cannot take time off work or school
  • Have completed an inpatient program
  • Are motivated to make a change

How Long Do Treatment Programs Last?

The length of an outpatient treatment program depends on individual circumstances. In general, programs usually last between one to three months, but some can last a year or longer. The type of treatment and the severity of the addiction will also determine how long the program runs.

What Treatment Methods Do Outpatient Centers Use?

Outpatient treatment centers use a variety of treatment methods to help individuals work toward lasting recovery from substance abuse, addiction, and mental health issues. We will look at the most common treatment options you can expect an outpatient treatment center to provide.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Attending CBT in outpatient treatment centers is like talking to a really smart friend who can help you feel better. During CBT, the therapist helps the client identify any negative thoughts or behaviors that might be causing problems in their life. Then, they work together to come up with new, healthier ways of thinking and behaving.3

Once underlying unhealthy thoughts are addressed, the client is empowered to make healthier choices and stay away from drugs or alcohol. CBT therapists also teach their clients skills to help them stay on track and feel good about themselves.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT is a type of therapy that helps people learn how to control their emotions and thoughts. It teaches them how to deal with difficult situations and feelings, and how to have better relationships with others. It also teaches people how to avoid returning to unhealthy and harmful habits.

Group Therapy

Group therapy is a powerful tool for individuals in recovery. It provides a space for individuals to share their experiences with others in a supportive environment and learn from each other. It also provides a platform for individuals to build connections and gain insight into how others cope with similar issues.

Family Therapy

Family therapy involves family members talking to a therapist together. It is an important tool because it helps everyone in the family to understand each other and work together to solve problems that might be affecting one family member’s addiction.

It helps family members learn how to talk to each other in positive ways, solve problems, and make rules that help keep everyone in the family healthy and happy. This way, the person struggling with addiction can feel supported and make changes to get better.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

MAT involves using FDA-approved medications in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies.4   Medications can help reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings when a person stops using a substance. They can make it easier for people to overcome addictions.

With MAT, individuals have a greater chance of achieving long-term recovery. However, it is important to note that MAT is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Treatment must be tailored to meet the individual’s specific needs.

Overcoming Addiction: One Step at a Time

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or mental health issues, it’s important to find professional guidance. We understand it can be difficult to know where to turn for help. At Alternative Options, we will meet you wherever you are in your journey to recovery. Our team of experts provides personalized care to empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives.

Our outpatient treatment programs use a range of evidence-based therapies to help individuals heal from addiction. What sets us apart at Alternative Options is our commitment to treating each person as an individual, rather than a diagnosis or label.

Receive the Care You Need and Deserve

Our team of professionals work through the underlying emotional, psychological, and social factors that contribute to addiction. We understand that recovery is a journey; our experts are here to support you every step of the way.

Don’t let addiction or mental health issues control your life any longer. Reach out to Alternative Options today and take the first step on your journey to healing and recovery.