Outpatient treatment is an alternative form of addiction treatment that is offered across the United States. This type of treatment allows individuals to retain the majority of their daily routines, allowing for continued employment, maintenance of home care and other obligations . For some, outpatient addiction treatment is the best option, as not everyone can put all other aspects of their life on hold to treat substance addiction at an inpatient facility.
Addiction is a very complex and serious hurdle to overcome. There is not just one treatment method that works for every client struggling with drugs or alcohol. Many know they want to end their chemical dependency for good, but most have no idea how to begin. It is important to recognize all the of variables that are involved when ensuring successful recovery. For these reasons, inpatient treatment centers are recommended for the vast majority of clients. In some situations, however, a patient may believe they can achieve recovery at home with minimal assistance, in which case outpatient treatment is an option for a form of support.
One of the primary reasons clients choose to enter inpatient treatment is because a component of recovery involves the removal of addiction “triggers”, or the people, places, and things that stimulate the desire to use the drug. Physically leaving home and checking into a rehabilitation center gives the client the opportunity to focus on their issues behind the drug abuse and to start building a healthier life for themselves. This method has a higher recovery success rate, but may not be right for everyone. Alternatively, choosing an outpatient program will consist of seeing a therapist and possibly attending groups, but not living at the facility.