Support Team for Addiction Recovery Treatment [START] Clinic | Center for Healthy Aging and Wellness

Outpatient treatment is a type of addiction care that lets people live at home while getting help during the week. It is less intense than residential treatment, and it allows patients to stay close to family and friends and keep their normal routines. That makes it a good option for students, people with jobs and those who care for family members, because they can continue handling school, work and home responsibilities while still getting the support they need.

Outpatient treatment for substance use disorders is a good choice when you need support but also want to keep up with everyday life. With outpatient care, you can live at home and still go to work or school, take care of family and keep your regular routine while attending therapy, counseling or support sessions several times a week. 

It is also more affordable than full residential treatment, and it gives you access to trained professionals, group or individual therapy and other services to help you build healthy habits and stay sober.

That depends on your needs and the type of support you require. Some people may only need a week, while others may continue for months or even years. Most outpatient programs ask patients to attend sessions two to five days a week. Programs that require several visits per week usually last three to nine months, while continuing care can go on as long as needed, since recovery is an ongoing process. 

Session lengths can vary, but they usually last between 30 and 60 minutes. Patients are often given exercises or activities to complete at home between sessions. Doing this work on your own time is important because it helps you stay on track and reach the recovery goals you set with your therapists.

Talking with your healthcare team is the best way to know if outpatient care is right for you. It is usually a good option for people with mild to moderate addiction who can manage their daily routines, control cravings between sessions and take medications on their own. Outpatient care also requires reliable transportation to appointments and a safe, stable living environment. If someone lacks a strong support system or lives in an unsafe situation, they may need a more intensive program. Overall, outpatient treatment works best for people who are committed to their recovery and can stay focused on their goals.