
Outpatient rehab programs offer addiction treatment services on an outpatient or ambulatory basis. Unlike inpatient rehab, individuals are not required to stay at the treatment facility for the duration of their care. So long as patients stay sober, attend their scheduled therapy sessions, and abide by the treatment center’s rules, they can continue treatment on an outpatient basis.
Outpatient addiction treatment offers all the perks of residential treatment, but on a basis that gives patients more freedom and flexibility. With that being said, outpatient rehab isn’t for everyone. There are five specific types of people who can benefit from an outpatient rehab program in New Jersey.
People Who Have Attended Inpatient Treatment and Want Ongoing Care
The first type of person who can benefit from outpatient rehab is someone who has already attended a higher level of care (like inpatient or PHP) but feels as though they need further care and support to stay sober.
A continuum of care is recommended for most people who struggle with substance abuse. The idea is that the more independent and prepared a person becomes, the less treatment and supervision they need. And, since making the transition from inpatient rehab back into the real world can be difficult, outpatient programs serve to bridge that gap and make the transition easier.
People who go to outpatient after finishing residential treatment may be less likely to relapse and more likely to utilize the recovery-based resources that are available to them.
People Who Cannot Take FMLA or Time Away From Work to Go to Rehab
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) grants up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave to eligible employees. But, what if someone isn’t an eligible employee? Or, what if they can’t keep up with their bills after taking a couple of weeks off of work? Unfortunately, this is the reality for many Americans. They simply cannot afford to spend too much time away from their job without sacrificing their career, falling behind on rent, or letting bills go to collections.
The good news is outpatient rehab programs in New Jersey are specifically tailored to address the needs of individuals who cannot take time off of work. Outpatient rehab is flexible, so people can schedule therapy sessions around their work hours. It is also affordable and covered by insurance, so it doesn’t do too much damage to the bank account.
Outpatient rehab enables members of the working class to obtain the help they need without stepping away from their careers.
Single Parents or Caregivers Who Cannot Take Time Away From Their Children
Another type of person who can benefit from outpatient rehab is someone who is unable to take time away from their kids to go to a residential program.
Parenthood is a major commitment. And, when a person has young children who rely on them for their vitality, that child has to come first. This is why so many parents, specifically single parents, forego addiction treatment–they don’t have anyone else to reliably care for their kids.
Fortunately, outpatient drug and alcohol treatment programs offer rehabilitation on a flexible and non-demanding schedule so parents can get the help they need. Many outpatient programs even offer family therapy, so older children can come and benefit from the therapeutic services offered, as well.
Full-Time or Part-Time Students Who Are Struggling With Addiction
Students have busy schedules. Between classes, tests, studying, and social events, there is little time left for other things. However, struggling with addiction during college can completely destroy the college experience. It can cost students their scholarships, their friendships, and even their lives.
An outpatient rehab is a great option for both full-time and part-time students who need to get their substance abuse under control without missing any classes or exams. Students can schedule nighttime outpatient groups or early morning groups depending on their class schedule. Outpatient treatment can help addicted college students get back on track so they can succeed in their degrees.
People With Mild Substance Use Disorder (SUD)
Although inpatient rehab is generally recommended, addiction does exist on a scale that is diagnosable as mild, moderate, or severe substance use disorder (SUD). Only a doctor or psychiatrist can make this diagnosis, but those who are diagnosed with mild SUD make up the last type of person who can benefit from outpatient rehab.
People with mild SUD may be addicted, but not to the extent of other people. These individuals may still be able to function without their substance, but the substance still plays a huge role in their life. Since outpatient is less intensive than inpatient and gives more freedom to the individual, this level of care is also suitable for people with mild SUD.
Find Out if Outpatient Rehab is Right For You
Figuring out which level of care you need for a complete recovery can be challenging–especially if you are still stuck in the grips of addiction. You may even be tempted to choose outpatient just because you think you are taking the “easy way out.” In the end, the best way to decide what treatment program is right for you is to speak with an addiction specialist.
Here at New Jersey Addiction Interventions, our addiction experts are here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Give us a call today to get started on your recovery journey.
Medically Reviewed: August 20, 2021
All of the information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional.