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Taking the first step toward sobriety requires courage and dedication. When residential rehab isn’t a practical option due to financial constraints or work and family responsibilities, outpatient rehab offers a comprehensive solution that combines flexibility with intensive treatment.
Below, we look at what outpatient rehab is, the types of outpatient programs available, and how FHE supports patients after the treatment program is completed.
What Is Outpatient Rehab?
Outpatient rehab offers individualized treatment that fits patients’ schedules, providing a viable solution for those unable to completely disconnect from their daily responsibilities. FHE brings a personalized, flexible approach that fits patients’ needs and unique situations.
Definition and Purpose
Outpatient rehab offers comprehensive treatment for addiction or mental illness. Patients attend counseling sessions and participate in therapeutic activities daily, but they spend the rest of their time in their home environments. This makes it a viable option for those who need intensive treatment with accommodation for work or family obligations.
FHE provides tailored outpatient programs to address common conditions, including:
- Substance use disorders, including alcohol addiction and dependencies on opioids, stimulants and prescription medications
- Co-occurring mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder
- Behavioral or “process” addictions such as gambling and other compulsive behaviors
Additionally, FHE meets the needs of specialized populations, including first responders, military veterans, and others exposed to trauma-related stress. It also offers men- and women-specific programming. With a holistic, patient-centered care model, it helps individuals address the root causes of their struggles, set goals, and develop the skills they need for lasting recovery.
Comparison to Residential Rehab
Like residential rehab, outpatient rehab features intensive treatment with medical interventions, regular one-on-one and group counseling sessions, and therapeutic activities. However, it has some key differences that make it a better fit for certain patients. These include:
- Cost. The cost of residential rehab includes housing, meals, and 24-hour care and monitoring, resulting in higher fees. By contrast, outpatient rehab is generally more affordable, as patients only pay for therapy sessions and treatments.
- Intensity. Residential rehab features round-the-clock care in a structured, highly controlled environment, making it the more intensive option. It’s ideal for patients with severe addiction or co-occurring mental health disorders who need an environment where they can focus solely on recovery. Outpatient treatment lets patients maintain their daily routines and is often suitable for those with stable home environments and mild to moderate addiction or mental health issues.
- Living arrangements. Patients in residential rehab live in a campus-style facility with semiprivate rooms and communal living spaces. On the other hand, patients in outpatient rehab live at home or in another supportive environment.
Types of Outpatient Programs
FHE offers a variety of outpatient programs to meet the needs of those seeking flexible, high-quality care. These programs offer varying levels of support and intensity, giving individuals the right treatment for their needs.
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)
PHP is the most intensive outpatient solution. This type of program combines elements of inpatient and outpatient care, offering comprehensive daytime support while letting patients return home at night. Oftentimes, it incorporates evidence-based therapies such as neuro-rehabilitation services. It also includes close medical monitoring and specialized therapies, making it a good option for those with more severe mental health or substance use conditions.
While patients in PHP sleep at home, their treatment is their primary focus. This program typically includes around 30 hours per week of treatment.
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)
IOP serves as a step down from PHP. It’s designed for those who need frequent support but don’t require constant supervision. Rather than spending the entire day attending therapy, individuals receive treatment about 15 hours per week. Their sessions include a mix of individual counseling, group sessions, and holistic therapies, making this option appropriate for those with moderate substance use or co-occurring disorders.
Standard Outpatient Treatment
Standard outpatient treatment features the least intensive level of care and is designed for those who need support while managing work, school and family responsibilities. Patients typically attend weekly sessions, which include therapy, counseling, and skills development. This level of care offers a high degree of flexibility and is often suitable for someone managing mild substance use or mental health issues.
Specialized Programs
Along with PHP, IOP and standard outpatient treatment formats, patients at FHE have access to specialized programming that addresses specific needs and challenges. These programs include:
- Restore Mental Health Program: This program is for individuals with a primary mental health disorder, such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, or depression. It includes traditional talk therapy, peer support groups, mental health education, and medication, when appropriate.
- Empower! Women’s Program: This program addresses issues such as trauma, depression, and addictive disorders that stem from experiences such as domestic violence, sexual abuse and other traumas that disproportionately affect women.
- Shatterproof FHE Health First Responders Program: This program features evidence-based therapies, peer support groups, medical support, and wellness programming to address PTSD and other mental health disorders first responders face.
- Compass Program: This program targets the specific needs and challenges men face on their journey towards recovery from substance use disorders and mental illness.
Factors That Affect Treatment Duration
Because outpatient care is tailored to the needs of the patient, numerous variables influence how long rehab lasts. When establishing an individual’s treatment plan, FHE considers factors such as the severity of the individual’s condition and external factors that may impact their recovery.
Condition and Treatment Plan
The complexity and severity of mental health or substance use disorder play a significant role in how long outpatient treatment is. Additionally, those with dual diagnoses, such as a substance use disorder combined with depression or anxiety, may need a longer and more complex treatment approach.
At FHE Health, every patient receives a tailored treatment plan based on their unique challenges and recovery goals. As they progress through their treatment, their plan is adapted to ensure it continues to address their needs.
Patient Commitment and Progress
A patient’s commitment is a key factor in determining treatment duration. Attending all scheduled sessions, fully participating in group work and homework, and committing to applying new skills to real-world situations often help the individual progress through their treatment more efficiently.
External and Personal Factors
A strong support system can accelerate progress, while constant exposure to triggers prolongs the recovery process. Additionally, financial variables, such as the extent of insurance coverage for outpatient rehab, can influence how long outpatient therapy takes.
Typical Timelines for Recovery
At FHE, recovery times are tailored to the patient’s needs, ensuring each individual receives the support they need for lasting success. Some general timelines for outpatient rehab include:
Short-Term Programs
Short-term programs are designed for those with mild conditions or who are transitioning from residential care. This format focuses on addressing immediate goals, stabilizing the individual, and helping them build foundational coping skills. These programs typically last two months or less.
Medium-Term Programs
Medium-term programs, which generally include PHP and IOP, are ideal for those managing moderate mental health or substance use disorders. They offer a balance of group and individual therapy, skill-building activities and relapse prevention strategies. Patients are typically in these programs for 3 to 6 months.
Long-Term Programs
Long-term programs focus on comprehensive recovery, addressing the root causes of substance use or mental illness. This format often includes medical support, traditional therapy and specialized services such as neuroscience-based treatments. It typically lasts six months or longer, depending on the individual’s needs and progress.
Maintaining Progress After Outpatient Rehab
While the end of an outpatient treatment program signifies a major accomplishment, recovery doesn’t end there. FHE features a variety of aftercare programs to provide ongoing support.
After completing outpatient treatment, individuals have access to resources such as:
- Life skills supports
- Retreats
- Regional events
- Regular check-ins
- Recreational events
- A local weekly dinner meeting
- Social media connections
Ongoing Support and Accountability
Maintaining recovery requires ongoing support and accountability. At FHE, patients benefit from professional guidance that helps them stay on track, and they’re encouraged to participate in alumni programs and support groups. Patients can also track their progress through mental health screenings, which help them recognize areas that need improvement.
Making the decision to seek outpatient treatment requires courage. At FHE, we commit to our patients’ success by providing tailored programming that empowers individuals to overcome challenges, build resilience and achieve long-term recovery. Contact us today for more information on our outpatient treatment options.
