There are an estimated 15 million people who suffer from Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in the United States. While the condition is highly treatable, only around 10% of addicts will seek or receive any form of treatment, such as rehab, detox, or outpatient alcohol treatment.
If you or a loved one is suffering from AUD, outpatient alcohol treatment may be one option to begin the journey back to sobriety. Outpatient alcohol treatment is typically recommended for people who are suffering from mild AUD, or otherwise have obligations and responsibilities which prevent them from going into full-time rehab.
What is Outpatient Alcohol Treatment?
Outpatient alcohol treatment programs are designed to help individuals cope with destructive drinking patterns, as well as identify behavioral triggers. A typical Long Island alcohol rehab program for outpatients can meet as often as daily during the first few weeks or months. Gradually, the number of meetings will decrease based on the individual’s progress in recovery.
Outpatient alcohol treatment may allow patients to handle issues at home and at work without sacrificing their time for rehab. Instead, the treatment schedule will be designed to work around the patient’s personal or professional schedule so that there will be no overlap.
Types of Outpatient Alcohol Treatment Programs
There are generally three types of outpatient alcohol treatment that you can find in Long Island, namely intensive outpatient, day treatment, and aftercare group sessions. After consulting with a licensed Long Island alcohol rehab counselor, one type of treatment will be recommended for you. At times, you may start with one type of outpatient treatment then move on to another which better suits your situation.
Intensive Outpatient
Intensive outpatient programs are the most structured and formal type of outpatient alcohol treatment. Patients under this program meet 5-7 times per week. They are also required to take either half-day or full-day programs.
Intensive outpatient programs often involve a strict alcohol detox program, one-on-one counseling, and medication. After each session, the patient may go home and recover in the presence of their loved ones. The length of intensive outpatient programs can range from a few weeks to months depending on the needs of each individual patient.
Day Treatment
Day treatment programs are typically much more flexible than intensive outpatient programs. These also include scheduled meetings throughout the week, although usually not as frequent as intensive outpatient programs. However, many of the same treatments as used, as such medicated detox and one-on-one counseling.
Day treatment is a good option for patients who have a stable home environment and a strong support system.
Aftercare Groups
Aftercare groups are usually for patients who have finished either intensive outpatient or day treatment programs. This type of treatment helps individuals stay sober as well as provide a community that offers solidarity and support. Individuals usually only need to meet once or twice a week.
Benefits of Outpatient Alcohol Treatment
When look at Long Island alcohol rehab options, it is important to choose the best possible treatment. While outpatient alcohol treatment programs are not a substitute for real inpatient treatment, the benefits that they offer have some appeal, they include:
- Affordability, especially if you have no insurance
- Ability to go home each day
- Continuing to work and take care of errands
- Minimal to no disruptions to home and work routines
Is Outpatient Alcohol Treatment Right for Me?
Once you have decided to take the first step and see help, it’s time to see if outpatient alcohol treatment program fits your needs and goals. The best way to start is by listing down what you are looking for in a treatment center.
If you’re not sure where to start, give us a call, that’s what we are here for.
Here are some factors that may help you choose the right outpatient alcohol treatment center for you:
Treatment Methods Offered
Ask which treatment methods or therapies are offered for patients. Are there any treatments that you are not familiar with or you do not feel comfortable with? How do they introduce these methods to patients?
Staff
The rehab facility staff is critical to the success of your treatment. Look for centers with licensed and experienced staff from multiple fields. A reputable center must have physicians, substance abuse care counselors, nurses, nutritionists, and psychiatrists on their staff.
Insurance
An outpatient alcohol treatment program can get expensive depending on how long you need to be in the program. Check whether your insurance covers your program. If not, you can also see whether the facility offers financial assistance for patients.
Finding Outpatient Alcohol Treatment Programs for You
If you or a loved one is struggling with AUD, don’t be afraid to seek help. There are mutual support groups that you can join where you can discuss your experience and learn more about coping with your situation. Al-Anon is one resource worth exploring. If you are looking for advice or guidance about treatment for alcoholism, contact us.
