One often wonders what the difference is between Outpatient and Inpatient Treatment. What difference will it make if you choose outpatient instead of inpatient treatment? Plus, is either treatment suitable for you?

First things first, if you’re looking to take a step towards curbing an addiction, either treatment is for you. Yet, if the nature of your addiction is not as serious, you can consider outpatient treatment. Also, if your family and friends form a support system for you, then outpatient treatment could work.

This treatment is a necessary step towards a sober and meaningful life. It’s the plunge that any individual willing to improve the quality of their life would take. Below are a few answers to the questions that you may want answered.

What Is Outpatient Treatment?

This type of treatment, as the name suggests, usually has the patient visiting a treatment facility from home. During certain days of the week, the patient is required to show up at the facility for treatment. Sometimes, the patient may be required to attend several sessions in a day, for the entire week.

The sessions can be held in clinics, hospitals or even an office. During such sessions, the participant is taught by the counsellor several things. From the impact of substance abuse and how to prevent a relapse to learning new development skills.

Of course, the sessions are often led by a certified professional counsellor. Hence, one can rest easy knowing that he/she or their loved one is in safe hands. The counsellor can also recommend the participant to join a self-help group.

How Does the Treatment Work?

During the initial stage, you’ll have to draw up a treatment plan with the help of a staff member. To make an effective treatment plan, the staff member will have to ask you a series of questions.

After the plan has been drafted, you’ll be briefed on the rules and shortly after, tested for drugs. This is necessary to ensure that you remain detached from the influence of drugs during the treatment. Hence, the reason most people opt to detox before they start the program.

You’ll then be briefed on your schedule of attendance, goals and thereafter, given take-away assignments. You, as the participant, will have to work with either/or a therapist, counsellor, or addiction expert. Of course, you’ll also be referred to others that provide services such as acupuncture and chiropractic services.

If you are serious about recovering fully, please make sure that you attend sessions as required.

What Types of Outpatient Treatment Can One Choose From?

There are at least three types of treatment to consider. They include:

Standard Outpatient Programs (OPs): This type of treatment will only require you to attend at least twice a week. In some sessions, you will have counselling with your therapist. In others, you’ll be in group therapy.

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs): This is a more intense type of treatment. Participants are required to meet for as little as 9 hours a week or as more as 20 hours a week. This program, also known as an IOP, is often considered for participants that may have a serious addiction.

Partial Outpatient Program (POPs): Also known as partial hospitalization programs, this type of program is very intense. Sessions run for at least 3-8 hours a day, seven days a week. The participant is expected to go through family therapy, group therapy and individual therapy.

Of course, he/she will also be given medication and have to participate in recreational activities. This program is effective for very serious cases that, if ignored, may lead to hospitalization.

Who is the Treatment Appropriate For?

This treatment is appropriate for those that have a dependable means of transportation. This is because that participant will have to travel back and forth from home to the treatment center. It’s also suitable if you have a good support system and do not have serious withdrawal symptoms.

For those with severe cases, it would be better to consider inpatient treatment. Inpatient treatment offers and provides treatment 24- hours, seven days a week. You can always seek professional advice if you are unsure of what decision to make.

Is Treatment Effective?

The effectiveness of the program is also dependent on the commitment of the participant. By ensuring that you attend every session and completing the assignments, you can start to recover.

Also, the types of therapies offered in the program increase its effectiveness. Below are some of the types of therapies offered:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): During this therapy, you learn how to identify and cope with the triggers that may lead to a relapse.

Contingency Management (CM): This therapy rewards good behavior. Hence, it reinforces and encourages good behavior.

Motivational Enhancement Therapy: During this type of therapy, the counsellor helps you identify top motivations. These motivations are what will keep you from relapsing. According to the American Addiction Centers, this therapy is ideal for those addicted to Marijuana.

Family Therapy: This therapy involves the patient as well as family members.

The Matrix Model: A combination of different approaches, this one helps those addicted to stimulants.

What Are the Benefits of the Treatment?

There are several advantages of going for outpatient treatment. Here are some of the benefits.

Affordable

This treatment is more affordable as compared to inpatient treatment. This is mostly because you use less of their amenities, facilities and services. So, if you are looking for an effective but affordable treatment, this is for you.

Ability to Remain with Family and Friends

For most people that seek treatment, family and friends are a huge part of the process. Their support means a lot to them. Hence,  this allows participants to remain with them.

Flexible

As compared to inpatient treatment, this particular treatment is more flexible. This is because it allows you to leave the premises daily after the end of a session. This gives you more time to attend to your other responsibilities.