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Addiction is a disease that can be treated in both inpatient and outpatient settings. In either case, the goal is to help you overcome addiction and build a healthy, productive life. There are pros and cons to both inpatient and outpatient treatment. It’s important to weigh the options carefully before deciding.
Inpatient treatment offers more structure and support than outpatient care. Outpatient rehab is less expensive and more flexible. Still, inpatient rehab saves some people money in the long run. This is because it might be the level of care needed to prevent relapses and more treatment down the road, which can add up.
If you’re deciding between inpatient rehab vs outpatient treatment, discuss your needs with a doctor or addiction professional. They will help you choose the treatment that is right for you.
What Is Inpatient Rehab?
When people think of rehab, they often picture an inpatient or residential facility. This is where you go to receive around-the-clock care and treatment for addiction or mental illness.
But what exactly is inpatient rehab?
This level of care is also known as residential treatment. It is a type of treatment where you live at a facility for a certain period, typically 30 days. During your stay, you receive intensive treatment from a team of professionals. This may include doctors, therapists, and counselors.
In some inpatient drug rehabs, you also have access to amenities like a gym, pool, and laundry facilities. Inpatient rehab provides a safe and structured environment. You can focus on recovery without distractions or temptations. It can be an effective treatment if you’ve unsuccessfully tried other methods, such as outpatient therapy or 12-step programs.
How Long Is Residential Addiction Treatment?
Residential addiction treatment typically lasts 30 to 90 days. Some programs may be shorter or longer. The length of treatment depends on a variety of factors, including the:
- Severity of your addiction
- Presence of co-occurring mental health disorders
- History of addiction relapses
- Substance(s) you’re abusing
- Response to treatment
- Outside support system
In general, most people need at least 30 days in treatment to make progress toward recovery. During this time, you’ll take part in a variety of therapies and activities. These are designed to help you overcome addiction and develop healthy coping skills.
After completing residential treatment, many people continue treatment in an outpatient setting. Outpatient programs typically last for several months. They provide ongoing support and guidance. This is helpful as you transition back into your everyday life and responsibilities.
Who Should Go to Inpatient Rehab?
Inpatient treatment for addiction is most often recommended for people who:
- Have been abusing drugs or alcohol for months or years
- Have attempted to quit using drugs or alcohol multiple times without success
- Are struggling with a co-occurring mental health disorder, such as depression or anxiety
Inpatient treatment usually includes a medical detox program with around-the-clock care and supervision. This is important for people dealing with severe withdrawal symptoms or who are at risk of relapse. Inpatient treatment also provides a higher level of structure and support than outpatient care. That’s why it can be an effective option for people who need intensive treatment to overcome their alcohol and drug addictions.
How Much Does Inpatient Treatment Cost?
Inpatient drug rehab can be a costly investment if you don’t have insurance. But it can also be one of the best investments you make. The cost of rehab can range in the thousands of dollars, but it varies depending on the:
- Time spent in treatment
- Facility
- Location
Many insurance companies cover all or a portion of the cost of rehab. Some treatment facilities have financing plans or sliding scales to make it more affordable. The cost of inpatient drug rehab can save you money in the long run. Some people need intensive, structured care where they can focus only on themselves and their recovery. This helps them get sober and lessens their chances of relapse down the road.
What Is Outpatient Rehab?
Outpatient rehab is a type of addiction treatment where you live at home while receiving therapy and counseling at a treatment facility. There are varying levels of outpatient care. Some meet all day while others meet for a few hours a week.
Outpatient rehab can provide an important step in the recovery process. It offers structure and support while allowing you to maintain some independence. Outpatient rehab generally involves regularly meeting with a therapist; attending group therapy sessions; and participating in other activities, like 12-step programs. While outpatient rehab can be effective for some people, it may not be the right choice for everyone. Some people may need the more intensive level of care provided by inpatient rehab to achieve long-term sobriety.
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs)
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) at a drug rehab center offers many of the same benefits as inpatient care, but you return home each night. Some people find that living in a sober living residence instead of at home during a PHP is better for their recovery.
A PHP is often used as a steppingstone between inpatient treatment and traditional outpatient programs. Because you don’t live at the facility, you can gradually transition back into everyday life while still receiving the structure and support to stay sober. A PHP is different from traditional outpatient programs in that it’s more intensive. You receive more hours of care per week than in an outpatient setting.
Partial hospitalization programs usually include a combination of:
- Individual therapy – Focuses on helping you understand and address the underlying causes of addiction
- Group therapy – Provides support and accountability from peers who are also struggling with addiction
- Family therapy – Helps repair damaged relationships and improve communication within the family unit
How Long Is a PHP?
PHP programs typically last between 4 and 12 weeks. Treatment usually runs five days per week for five to seven hours per day. During this time, you’ll participate in individual therapy, group therapy, and other activities designed to help you recover from addiction and build a foundation for long-term sobriety.
Who Should Go to a PHP?
A partial hospitalization program is often recommended for people who have completed residential treatment and are ready to transition back to a less structured environment. There are a few factors that may make a PHP the best option for you:
- PHPs can be very effective in treating co-occurring mental health disorders.
- PHPs provide a higher level of structure and support than outpatient programs.
- PHPs are more affordable than residential treatment.
The decision of whether to enter a PHP or another level of care should be made by you with the help of a qualified professional who understands your needs and can make the best recommendation.
How Much Is a Partial Hospitalization Program?
The cost of a PHP varies depending on several factors, including:
- Length of the treatment program
- Type of treatment received
- Location of the program
In general, partial hospitalization programs are less expensive than inpatient treatment programs. This is because PHPs provide a more intensive level of care than traditional outpatient care, but they don’t require 24-hour supervision. PHPs can offer a cost-effective option for people who need more support than what outpatient care can provide.
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs)
An intensive outpatient program (IOP) provides structured counseling and therapy sessions while you live at home and continue working, going to school, or tending to family responsibilities. IOPs are typically used for people who have completed residential treatment programs or PHPs and are ready to transition back into their everyday lives.
Sessions may include:
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Psychoeducation
- Skill-building activities
In an IOP you typically attend individual therapy once a week—more or less often, as needed. Group therapy will fill the rest of your treatment schedule.
How Long Is an IOP?
The length of an IOP varies depending on your needs, but most programs last 8 to12 weeks. IOPs usually involve three to five hours of scheduled programming per day, three to five days per week.Â
After completing an IOP, some people choose to continue receiving treatment through a less intensive program. This could be a non-intensive outpatient program or support groups and individual therapy.
Who Should Go to an IOP?
Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) provide a high level of care for people struggling with addiction. While they’re not as intensive as inpatient programs or PHPs, they are more intense than traditional outpatient care.
People who benefit most from an IOP have typically completed an inpatient detoxification or rehabilitation program and need additional support to maintain their sobriety. IOPs can also be effective if you’re struggling with addiction but can’t commit to an inpatient program because of work or family obligations. People who participate in an IOP typically have a strong support system in place, including family and friends.
How Much Does Intensive Outpatient Cost?
There is no simple answer when it comes to the cost of an intensive outpatient program. Treatment costs can vary depending on the:
- Specific program
- Length of the program
- Level of care
IOPs tend to be more affordable than inpatient programs because you’re able to continue working and living at home while receiving treatment. If you have limited insurance coverage or no coverage, there are several options that can help with the cost of treatment. Many programs offer sliding-scale fees based on income. Some also accept private insurance.
Outpatient Programs (OPs)
Outpatient programs are less intensive than inpatient or residential programs, but they can still be very effective in helping people maintain sobriety. Here’s a look at what you can expect from an outpatient addiction treatment program.
Outpatient addiction treatment programs typically meet for one to three hours each week. During these sessions, you participate in group and individual therapy sessions, as well as educational classes on topics related to addiction and recovery. You may have assignments to work on between sessions. These may include journaling, reading recovery literature, and attending support group meetings.
Outpatient programs are often structured around the 12-step model of recovery, though not always. Some programs incorporate elements of other popular recovery models, like the stages-of-change model or the harm-reduction model. No matter what approach is used, the goal of outpatient treatment is to help you develop the skills they need to stay sober and live a healthy life.
Outpatient treatment allows you to continue working or going to school while receiving treatment. Outpatient treatment is also less expensive than inpatient treatment. This may make it a good option for people already in recovery who don’t require a higher level of care.
How Long Is an Outpatient Program?
The length of an outpatient program can vary depending on your needs. Some programs last for weeks, while others continue for several months. In general, most outpatient programs last for at least three months. This allows time for you to receive treatment and work on strengthening new coping skills.
It’s important to note that there is no set time frame for structured addiction treatment. Some people need longer to achieve their goals, while others benefit from shorter programs. The key is to find a program that meets your needs and provides the level of support you require.
Who Should Go to an Outpatient Program?
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, it can be difficult to decide which type of treatment program is right for you. There are several factors to consider, including:
- How severe your addiction is
- Whether you have any underlying mental health disorders
- Your overall health and well-being
In general, outpatient programs are best suited for those who have strong support systems in place and who are committed to abstinence.
Partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs may be more appropriate for those who require more intensive treatment, such as people who have co-occurring disorders or who have relapsed after previous treatment. Ultimately, the decision about which type of program is right for you should be made together with a qualified addiction specialist.
How Much Does an Outpatient Program Cost?
The cost of an outpatient program that meets one to three hours per week varies depending on several factors. Many outpatient programs are covered by insurance, but there may be some out-of-pocket costs depending on the coverage. In general, outpatient programs are less expensive than inpatient programs, but they may not be as effective for people with more severe addiction problems. The best way to determine the cost of an outpatient program is to contact the program directly.
Inpatient vs Outpatient Treatment: Pros and Cons
Addiction is a serious disease that requires professional treatment to overcome. There are two main types of treatment available: inpatient and outpatient. Both have their pros and cons, and the right type of treatment for you depends on your individual situation.
Inpatient Treatment
Inpatient treatment means you live at a treatment facility. This provides a safe, structured environment where you can focus on your recovery without distractions or temptation. Inpatient treatment also offers 24-hour access to care and support, which can be vital for people who are struggling with severe addiction. This allows you to focus solely on your recovery without having to worry about outside distractions or triggers.
Residential treatment can be expensive for people without insurance. In addition, some people need the flexibility of outpatient treatment, which allows you to live at home and continue with your normal routine while receiving treatment.
Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient treatment typically consists of weekly meetings with a therapist or counselor, along with regular attendance at group meetings such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. Outpatient treatment can be less expensive than inpatient treatment, and it may be more convenient for people who have work or family obligations.
But outpatient treatment requires a great deal of motivation and discipline, as there are no set rules or structure to follow. This can make outpatient rehab more difficult for some people, who may benefit from the structure of inpatient treatment.
When ti comes to inpatient rehab vs outpatient rehab, the right type of treatment for you will depend on your individual circumstances and needs. If you’re struggling with a severe addiction, inpatient treatment may be the best option. If you have strong support from family and friends, outpatient treatment may be more feasible. Before making the decision, speak with a professional who can assess your specific situation and make recommendations.
Do I Need Inpatient or Outpatient Treatment?
Choosing inpatient rehab vs outpatient treatment for addiction can be a difficult decision. It’s important to consider many factors, such as:
- The severity of your addiction
- Your financial situation
- Your support system
- Whether you have any other obligations (like work or school)
Talk to a trusted medical professional who can recommend the best treatment for your individual needs.
Whichever route you choose, know that there is hope for recovery and that you are not alone on this journey. If you’d like to talk through available treatment options, call us for a free, confidential consultation.
How Much Does Drug Rehab Cost?
The cost of drug rehab varies depending on the type of treatment you receive and the length of time you stay in treatment. In general, outpatient programs are less expensive than inpatient programs because you live at home while you receive treatment. However, outpatient programs may not be as effective as inpatient programs if you have a severe addiction. The cost of inpatient drug rehab also varies depending on the type of facility you choose. Luxury drug rehabs tend to be more expensive than standard drug rehabs, but they also offer a higher level of care.
Does Insurance Cover Drug Rehab?
The short answer is yes, insurance does cover drug rehab in most cases. There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to coverage:
- Every insurance plan is different, so it’s important to check with your specific provider to see what services are included in your policy.
- Even if your insurance does cover drug rehab, there may be some out-of-pocket costs depending on the type of treatment you receive and the length of time you stay in treatment.
If you need help navigating your insurance coverage, contact us, or click here to get started verifying your insurance with Footprints to Recovery.
Looking for Help?
Addiction is a complex disease that can wreak havoc on every area of your life. If you are struggling with addiction, it may feel like there’s nowhere to turn, but help is always available. Footprints to Recovery is a comprehensive addiction treatment center that offers a wide range of services to meet your unique needs. We offer medically supervised detoxification, individual and group therapy, medication-assisted treatment, inpatient rehab, outpatient treatment, and much more. Our goal is to help you find lasting recovery from addiction. Contact us today to learn more about our program and how we can help you build a better life in recovery.
Questions about treatment options?
Our admissions team is available 24/7 to listen to your story and help you get started with the next steps.
