What is Outpatient Rehab?

Nov 14, 2019

Originally Posted On: https://www.rightsteprehabhouston.com/rehab-blog/what-is-outpatient-rehab/

What is outpatient rehab? Outpatient addiction treatment in Houston, TX, is an option if you have substance abuse, but your other obligations keep you from committing to treatment 24/7. You can remain in your home environment or continue working while receiving the same level of treatment from your therapist.

Outpatient rehab allows you to participate in one-on-one therapy, group therapy, holistic treatment, detox, and aftercare. Your treatment specialist can monitor your progress to ensure that you have a successful recovery. Outpatient rehab is appropriate if you do not require supervision while completing the program.

Are You a Candidate for Outpatient Rehab?

What is outpatient rehab? It is a form of therapy that is appropriate if you can successfully recover while still living at home. Not everyone who has an addiction has the self-control or will power to stay away from alcohol or drugs while in rehab.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), there are four elements that make outpatient rehab work and help you understand, what is outpatient rehab, including:

Making good choices
A safe and stable environment
Finding purpose
A support network

Below we will explore each element in greater detail.

Element 1: Making Good Choices

While it is self-evident that you are in rehab due to poor choices, it does not mean that you not capable of making good choices. If you can abstain from substances and make healthy choices, your treatment program will be successful.

Element 2: Safe and Stable Environment

Poor home life is what contributes to substance abuse. Consequently, your home life must either be healthy or improve for long-term recovery. Going back into a negative or chaotic environment can lead to a quick relapse.

Element 3: Finding Purpose

Sitting on the couch all day or taking an extended leave of absence as you recover will lead to idleness and boredom – two things that can trigger a relapse. Now is the time to find purpose. You can find purpose at home, at work, or out in the community. Get connected with a charity, find a hobby, or start exercising.

Element 4: A Support Network

You may have to politely say goodbye to bad influences or people whose presence may trigger your addiction. Instead, surround yourself with positive influences and a network of people who can keep you accountable. Limit time spent with overly negative people, other addicts (who are not in recovery), or those who do not understand what you are trying to accomplish. Join a support group, rally your friends & family, and meet with your counselor as prescribed.

If you meet all the criteria outlined above, then you are a candidate for outpatient rehab. The key is to take an assessment of your condition. Get feedback from others and request a professional assessment from a treatment specialist. By taking an honest addiction inventory, you will not waste your time with the wrong type of treatment.