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Inpatient vs. Outpatient Rehab: What Types of Treatment is Best for You?

Two women discussing inpatient vs. outpatient rehab

If you’re ready to go to rehab for an addiction, one of the first decisions you’ll face is which type of program to pursue. The two most commonly offered options are outpatient and inpatient treatment. Inpatient vs. outpatient rehab—it can be difficult to figure out which is better for your situation. Let’s look at the difference between an inpatient and outpatient rehab program, as well as how you can decide which one is right for your needs.

What Is Inpatient Rehab?

Inpatient rehab is an intensive residential form of treatment, which means clients live on-site at the facility. It usually begins with detox, during which clients are monitored and assisted by medical professionals. Once the physical dependency is broken, the focus is on working through underlying issues and building skills for sobriety. Methods used in residential inpatient rehab include things like individual counseling, group therapy sessions, skill classes, and more. Inpatient treatment typically lasts 30–90 days, depending on the individual’s treatment plan and progress.

Benefits of Inpatient Rehab

Inpatient rehab offers a safe, secure environment to focus on your recovery. You have access to 24/7 medical care and support from qualified staff and peers who understand what you’re going through. The structure of inpatient rehab can help keep you focused on your goals while providing the skills necessary for long-term sobriety.

Inpatient rehab also provides individual and group counseling, educational programs, life skills training, relapse prevention strategies, and more. The combination of these treatments can help you achieve a successful recovery that promotes wellness for years to come.

Who Is Best Suited to Inpatient Treatment?

Inpatient rehab is a thorough, restrictive type of treatment best suited to those who are currently struggling with a strong addiction. If a person needs detox or requires significant help and supervision to quit safely, they’re an ideal candidate for inpatient care. First-time rehab attendees do best with this kind of program.

What Is Outpatient Rehab?

As the name suggests, outpatient rehab is a type of program in which the client does not have to stay at the rehab facility during treatment. Outpatient treatment does not include detox, and it is generally less restrictive than inpatient programs. Clients may live off-site and can typically continue working normally and meeting their usual obligations. Though they’re not at the facility 24/7, outpatient clients are expected to make scheduled visits for things like counseling, support group meetings, etc. The duration of outpatient rehab varies depending on treatment goals and progress.

Benefits of Outpatient Rehab

Outpatient rehab offers numerous benefits to those in recovery. It allows individuals to stay connected to their family and friends, maintain employment, and remain engaged in their daily lives. This type of treatment also helps patients develop the skills they need to successfully manage their addiction without relying on professional help. Additionally, it can be more affordable than inpatient care. Why? Because it often requires fewer visits and a lower cost per session.

Finally, outpatient programs provide ongoing support groups that allow recovering individuals to stay connected with their recovery group beyond the initial treatment period. By keeping these connections strong, individuals are more likely to stay on track with their recovery journey.

Who Is Best Suited to Outpatient Treatment?

Outpatient addiction treatment isn’t strictly supervised and doesn’t include detox. Therefore, it’s best suited to clients who have already gone through detox and require a less intensive level of care. Many clients who choose outpatient treatment have previously completed an inpatient program and simply want to continue their journey with structured support.

Finding the Right Addiction Treatment Program for You

Things like cost, location, and schedule play a role. However, the most important factor in choosing a program should be what you need to succeed. If you have a severe, ongoing addiction, you’d likely benefit most from an inpatient program. Should you have a mild addiction that doesn’t require detox or strict supervision, outpatient treatment may be enough. If you’re still not sure, the addiction specialists at Apex Recovery can help you find the right fit.

Apex Recovery Offers Effective Inpatient and Outpatient Recovery Programs

Can’t decide which is more appropriate for you, inpatient vs. outpatient rehab? At Apex Recovery in San Diego, CA, we’ve helped people from all walks of life achieve sobriety through professionally led inpatient and outpatient treatment. Through our knowledge and experience, we can give you the best recommendation for treatment. If you’re ready to overcome your addiction for good, we’re ready to help you get there. Call us today at 619.458.3435 or contact us online to learn more about your options.

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