Alcohol abuse and addiction can impact every aspect of a person’s life. Living with untreated drug and alcohol addiction or substance use disorder (SUD) can harm a person’s health. It can damage relationships, worsen mental health symptoms, and impair daily functioning.
Living with alcohol use disorder (AUD) can make it impossible to have healthy relationships or a healthy, fulfilling lifestyle. Most people with AUD require intensive treatment programs and plenty of support to get sober and prevent relapse.
Addiction recovery is not a one-size-fits-all process. People have a wide range of needs throughout the recovery process. There are many types of treatment programs and levels of care to meet people’s different needs.
This article will explore outpatient alcohol treatment programs. You will learn:
- What outpatient treatment entails
- What therapies outpatient drug rehab and alcohol treatment programs offer
- What to expect during an outpatient treatment program
- How to determine if outpatient treatment is right for you
- Where to find inpatient and outpatient programs
If you or someone you love struggles with alcohol abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists to explore our programs or schedule an intake into our treatment center. Take the first step of your recovery journey by reaching out today.
What is Outpatient Treatment?
Outpatient alcohol rehab programs are a type of treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD). Unlike inpatient treatment programs, outpatient programs allow people to receive high-quality care while continuing to live at home.
There are several types of outpatient treatment programs, including:
- Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs)
- Partial hospitalization programs (PHPs)
Outpatient programs may occur in treatment facilities, community centers, clinics, or other settings.
Programs vary, depending on the type of treatment and people’s needs. People may spend several hours each day in treatment or attend treatment sessions one to three times per week.
Outpatient alcohol rehab programs are best suited for people with a stable home environment and an adequate support network. Some people attend outpatient programs after completing inpatient care. Others begin their recovery journey in an outpatient program.
Outpatient Alcohol Rehab: Exploring the Therapies
Many outpatient alcohol rehab programs offer both medical and behavioral health interventions. Outpatient programs may provide medications, medical treatment, and other physical health care as needed.
Outpatient rehab programs may offer several behavioral therapies. Here is an overview of some common therapeutic interventions.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a therapeutic approach that helps people identify and correct destructive thoughts and behaviors. CBT teaches that people can “unlearn” learned behaviors, including substance abuse.
Motivational interviewing (MI)
Motivational interviewing focuses on accepting people’s current thoughts and attitudes about sobriety. Instead of trying to help people recognize their substance abuse issues, therapists guide people to discover their own problems. Then, the therapist supports their client’s work to find solutions that align with their values.
The Matrix Model
The Matrix Model explores a person’s feelings, behaviors, relationships, and other aspects of life. It can help people identify how these contribute to substance abuse and create a daily structure that supports long-term sobriety.
Contingency management
Contingency management offers rewards for meeting recovery milestones. For instance, people may receive small gifts (movie tickets, gift cards, etc.) for a clean drug screening.
Support groups
Community is one of the most critical aspects of outpatient rehab programs. Groups of people in recovery work with a therapist to learn new skills, process feelings, and share experiences. Support groups may include 12-step meetings or group therapy.
Family therapy
Family support can be beneficial to those in recovery. Family therapy sessions may occur during treatment and during aftercare. Participating in family therapy ensures all family members have the same knowledge and skills. This can help family members navigate and support their loved one’s recovery.
Is Outpatient Rehab Right For Me?
It is crucial to have the right level of care to meet your needs in recovery. Before starting a treatment program, a medical professional or addiction specialist will assess your needs and recommend a level of care.
Generally, outpatient rehab programs are a good option for people who:
- Have completed a more intensive level of treatment
- Have adequate community support
- Live in a safe, substance-free environment
- Do not have active withdrawal symptoms
- Do not require inpatient care to avoid relapse
- Do not require round-the-clock care for a medical or mental health condition
Outpatient programs offer a balance of flexibility and high-quality treatment. If you believe you may benefit from the support of an outpatient alcohol rehab program, contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists to learn more.
Find an Outpatient Rehab for Alcoholism
If you or someone you love struggle with alcohol abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists to explore our comprehensive treatment programs. You may also ask questions, verify your insurance, or schedule an intake appointment.
