When searching for rehab programs for alcohol addiction, it’s important for patients to find options that seem tailor-made for their needs. The first detail that must be decided when looking at programs is whether a patient will benefit from an outpatient treatment program. If this is a question you’re trying to resolve on the path to treatment, take a look at the pros and cons of intensive outpatient alcohol treatment.
The Pros of Receiving Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient rehab programs for alcohol addiction are often more accessible and realistic for people seeking care and support. As a result, many people can expect positive outcomes from this option. Here’s a look at the pros of outpatient treatment for alcohol:
- Cost: Outpatient care is typically drastically less expensive than inpatient care. In fact, outpatient care often costs a fraction of what inpatient care costs simply because the “room and board” aspect is not a factor.
- Less Disruptive: Checking into an inpatient facility requires a person to detach from everything that is familiar in their life. Making a commitment to inpatient care typically means walking away from obligations like school and work. This isn’t necessary with an outpatient program.
- Multiple Levels of Care in One Program: Outpatient alcohol recovery programs are comprehensive and flexible because they are designed to provide the full spectrum of support needed.
A reliable home life can be a big predictor of success for patients enrolled in outpatient care. Of course, that means that residential treatment may be recommended if a person seeking treatment does not have a stable and supportive home environment. In addition to being supportive, a patient’s home environment should be free of drugs, alcohol and other temptations that could lead to relapse.
The Cons of Receiving Outpatient Treatment
While the case for outpatient care is compelling, this option may not be appropriate and optimal for everyone. Severe cases of addiction may require intensive inpatient care. Take a look at the potential cons of outpatient care:
- Family Involvement Is Required: A family is generally required to serve as the support system in an outpatient situation.
- Lacks Medical Detox: While outpatient care provides a variety of treatments, detox is not a part of this strategy.
- No 24-Hour Supervision: Patients remain generally autonomous and unsupervised when in outpatient care.
Inpatient treatment is often preferable in extreme cases. However, it should be noted that outpatient programs offer many of the same experiences and benefits as inpatient programs. In fact, patients can often look forward to up to 12 hours of intensive therapy per week while completing a non-residential program.
Final Thoughts on Choosing an Outpatient Alcohol Treatment Program
Ultimately, the goal is to pick a realistic program that provides patients with the best possible chance for a positive outcome. A person committed to their recovery from alcohol addiction can benefit greatly from a dynamic, intensive outpatient program that blends one-on-one and group therapies. “Peer group therapy brings the benefits of group therapy and individualized treatment together in a more personalized approach,” according to AOIN Health, an evidence-based recovery center offering holistic-focused treatments aimed at providing total healing and long-term recovery in patient lives.