Who Qualifies for Outpatient?

December 20, 2022
who qualifies for outpatient rehab

Addiction treatment consists of a combination of proven therapies, from medical detox and residential inpatient treatment to outpatient rehab and relapse prevention. An addiction counselor tailors your treatment plan using detailed assessments throughout each phase. Outpatient treatment can reinforce your sobriety after a relapse or while you manage a busy schedule. 

Inpatient vs Outpatient Treatment

Addiction treatment generally falls into two major categories: inpatient and outpatient. Each level of care focuses on rehabilitation outcomes but offers a different setting and features. Inpatient treatment is an intensive live-in program provided in a stable environment.

In contrast, outpatient treatment involves regular appointments with a counselor but has more freedom built in. This way, you can continue to work or attend school. While the settings may differ, each form of treatment incorporates a framework of individual or group psychotherapy that addresses both addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions. 

Who Qualifies for Outpatient Rehab?

You might choose outpatient rehab for many reasons, though it’s not always the starting point for those with severe addictions. It’s best for people who have completed an inpatient program, are willing to attend regular appointments, have a moderate substance use disorder and have an encouraging community. 

You Have a Strong Support System

Outpatient treatment doesn’t offer 24/7 supervision, so a stable living environment is essential. A supportive community and work environment can help you focus on recovery and your personal goals. These are people you trust and know are emotionally safe, accepting and available and will encourage you to follow your program.

Before attending a recovery program, it’s a good idea to review your community to ensure it is a source of support. These can include your friends and family, neighbors, people from your church or other organization you attend, a mentor or others. 

You’ve Completed a Detox Program

Outpatient treatment is best when you’ve completed a detox or inpatient program and are medically and psychologically stable. Substance withdrawal requires close medical supervision, which can’t be done through an outpatient program. Additionally, addiction often occurs along with other mental health disorders or illnesses that need treatment.

Once you’ve completed these steps, you can transfer to an outpatient program for continuing care and recovery growth. These appointments can help you build relapse-prevention skills and reinforce your sobriety or get you back on track if you’ve had a recent relapse. 

You Need Flexible Treatment 

You may need treatment or sobriety reinforcement but also have commitments and responsibilities. Outpatient treatment can be a helpful way to keep up with your job, school, parenting or other requirements while you get well.

Many programs offer evening appointments that work with your schedule. You can access licensed expert addiction counselors, either in-person or online via virtual meetings and get the help you need. 

Outpatient Care at Cumberland Heights in Clarksville, Tennessee

Addiction recovery is possible. Whether you need to get back on track or reinforce sobriety around your schedule, outpatient care is a treatment that meets you where you are. At Cumberland Heights Outpatient Recovery Center in Clarksville, you can support your recovery goals with assessments, individual therapy, group therapy and telehealth appointments. Get in touch today to learn more about our programs.