Can Anyone Seek Outpatient Treatment in Florida?

Anyone struggling with substance abuse can seek outpatient treatment in Florida. However, outpatient rehab is not right for everyone. There are certain important factors that need to be considered to help determine if outpatient instead of inpatient addiction treatment is right for you.

Prior to admission, the medical team at the treatment center conducts a thorough physical and psychological evaluation. This helps them to determine the level of addiction and if your substance abuse is linked to mental disorders. They will also assess your personal circumstances to decide if you’re a good fit for an outpatient program. In some cases, an individual can only be effectively treated in an inpatient or residential setting where they can get access to 24-hour medical care.

What is Outpatient Treatment?

Outpatient addiction treatment is a substance abuse program that does not require you to live at the facility. The three types of programs are traditional outpatient, intensive outpatient program (IOP), and partial-hospitalization program (PHP).

Those who make good candidates for outpatient treatment usually have a mild to moderate addiction, to begin with, or already went through medically-supervised detox at a residential rehab. These programs typically last for about 30-90 days but could be longer depending on your needs. They are similar and as effective as inpatient programs. The main difference is you get to return home at the end of the day.

6 Factors to Consider When Seeking Outpatient Treatment

The following important factors should be considered when deciding if outpatient rehab if right for you. However, there are other factors not mentioned here.

  • Your level of addiction
  • Co-occurring disorders
  • The need to keep your job
  • Your commitment to recovery
  • Your ability to pay for treatment
  • Strong support network

Your Level of Addiction

Addiction ranges in levels of severity. It can be mild, moderate, or severe depending on the type of substance involved, how long you abused it, and the frequency and amount used. People with mild to moderate addiction may be treated at an outpatient program, especially if they have a low risk of relapse or do not need round-the-clock medical supervision.

Co-occurring disorders

Severe addiction stems from frequent and long-term use of drugs or alcohol. It may also co-occur with underlying disorders such as an eating disorder or serious mental illness, e.g., depression or anxiety. Individuals with unstable mental disorders seeking to recover usually require inpatient treatment. Based on your psychological evaluation, you may or may not be recommended to an outpatient program.

The Need to Keep Your Job

Professionals and those needing to maintain employment are not usually willing or able to undergo residential treatment. Issues of privacy and work schedule clashing with treatment schedules may also deter them. Other patients may have additional commitments such as caring for family members or attending school. Outpatient treatment is suitable for them in these circumstances.

Your Commitment to recovery

Addiction is considered by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) as a brain disorder that needs treatment like other chronic diseases. The habit is marked by compulsive seeking and use of the substance and an inability to control or quit use. Therefore, to qualify for outpatient treatment, you need to demonstrate that you are committed to ending addiction and are able to manage substance use triggers on your own.

Your Ability to Pay for Treatment

Substance abuse treatment is comprehensive. It involves detoxification, behavioral therapy, and supplemental programs that can cost thousands of dollars. Even though it is in your best interest to get treatment, insurance providers typically don’t cover residential care. Unless you can afford to pay out-of-pocket, an outpatient program may be the only alternative.

Strong Support System

If you have a mild addiction and a supportive network of family and friends, you could be eligible for outpatient addiction treatment. Studies show that those with a strong support system tend to have a greater chance of recovering and a lower risk of relapse. This is one reason why family and couples therapy are typically included in the treatment plan to allow loved ones to be there for you during recovery.

Call for admission to our flexible outpatient program

If you or a loved one are looking for a treatment facility in the Maples or Fort Myers area, in South West Florida, our doors are open to you. We offer outpatient and residential treatment to suit the needs of our clients. Our medical and mental health professionals will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine which program is right for you. We offer detox, behavioral therapy, family therapy, and holistic therapies to help you overcome addiction and stay sober. Give us a call today at 844-639-8371 for more information.

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