There are two main types of rehab programs: inpatient or residential treatment and outpatient treatment. However, some facilities combine the two by using intensive outpatient treatment. If your doctor has recommended you for the last one, you’re probably wondering how different that is from the other two options. Here’s a look at what the programs entail, so you can prepare for what’s ahead.
What is Residential Treatment?
Residential treatment programs use an intensive approach to treating patients. That’s why patients who’ve already gone through the treatment before and have relapsed have better success with residential treatment the second or third time around. However, residential treatment is costly and restrictive. The lack of freedom and flexibility isn’t ideal for many patients. That’s where IOP comes in.
What is Intensive Outpatient Treatment?
You already know that outpatient treatment provides patients with the flexibility to come and go for their sessions. If you have a job or responsibilities at home that you can’t quit, outpatient care allows you to receive treatment and still go on with your life. That’s especially true with a convenient option like an online IOP program. You can learn from your sessions—even from the comfort of your own home—and then be ready to see to your work or family right after. Now, while you’re going through an outpatient program, your doctor will be using an intensive approach for your treatment. That’s how intensive outpatient treatment happens. By combining the intensive approach of inpatient treatment with the flexibility of outpatient care, you get the intensive outpatient program.
Is this the Right Approach for Me?
If you require flexibility with your treatment and want a lower-cost option, the IOP program works for you. Many also see residential treatment as a way of putting their lives on hold. Some of them stay in the treatment for weeks, or even months at a time, depending on how far gone the addiction is. If you can’t afford to be gone that long from your job or family responsibilities, but you still need treatment, an outpatient program seems like the best option for you.
What Can I Expect from the Treatment?
You can expect a closer and higher level of care for the patient when you enter an intensive outpatient program. However, the same basic methods still apply. You’ll still undergo group therapy and one-on-one counseling.
- Group therapy. One of the best benefits of group therapy is the way it allows you to improve your communication skills. You get better at articulating your thoughts and emotions. That will help you as you move forward. Since addiction often leads to social withdrawal, being in a group therapy makes it possible for you to regain those skills. You learn to socialize again. Being part of a group also prevents you from feeling that you’re alone. If you’re lucky, you can meet people with whom you’ll form attachments and even a bond, giving you a solid support system.
Individual therapy. This aids mental and emotional recovery and healing, which are often the core reasons for any addiction. Solo sessions allow you and your counselor to work on issues to prevent future relapse.
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