Main Differences In Outpatient And Intensive Outpatient Programs For Drug Addiction

If you or a loved one requires drug addiction treatment, it’s important to know the difference between outpatient therapy and intensive outpatient programs. While both can provide support, the right choice will always depend on the needs of the patient. 

Outpatient therapy is a treatment program that is designed to be part-time while fitting with the personal and professional schedule of the individual. Instead of gaining addiction treatment at an addiction treatment center, support is provided while patients continue to live at home. However, they may be required to visit a treatment facility at certain points. 

The aim of this type of therapy is to help people recover from drug addiction while also preventing a relapse. However, sometimes outpatient programs do not provide the necessary support to achieve this goal. In cases like this, an intensive outpatient program for drug addiction is recommended instead. 

The Differences Between Outpatient and Intensive Outpatient Program For Drug Addiction 

As mentioned, outpatient therapy is designed to provide part-time support to patients while will fit the requirements of a busy schedule and a continuous personal or professional life. 

In contrast, intensive outpatient programs will provide additional support but they’ll also require more time and attention from the patient. As such, a program like this can act as a balance between inpatient and outpatient programs for drug treatment or even alcohol treatment. 

What Is Included In An Outpatient Program? 

A typical outpatient program will only require a few hours of sessions throughout the week. This can include both individual and group counseling. These are ideal for those who do still want the support of the right group around them but feel confident enough to return or continue with their daily lives. 

As mentioned, this is often viewed as a step down from inpatient support and can be the next step after patients complete the full detoxification process at a treatment facility. Full outpatient programs can also be customized to ensure that they meet individual needs. 

What Is Included In Intensive Outpatient Programs? 

Intensive outpatient programs do not require patients to stay in an addiction treatment center or even remain in a facility for 24 hours. However, they may require as much as ten hours at a facility per week. 

Despite this, patients can still continue with their personal lives and professional commitments. The reason for this is that these treatment sessions will often be scheduled early in the morning or late in the evening. 

Intensive outpatient treatment is often based on psychotherapy, viewed as key to a successful recovery. Through individual as well as group therapy sessions for drug rehab, patients will learn the right relapse prevention skills. 

These sessions are also designed to support individuals with mental health issues that could be a side impact of their addiction. 

Intensive outpatient programs will also include alcoholics anonymous and narcotics anonymous for alcohol treatment and drug treatment respectively. These 12-step groups have consistently been viewed as essential for a successful recovery that reduces the risk of relapse. 

While more demanding, intensive outpatient programs can still be formulated to match the individual needs and requirements of specific patients to ensure they get the full support they need. 

Who Are These Solutions Suited For?

Whether or not a patient requires outpatient or intensive outpatient therapy for drug treatment will depend on the severity of their addiction. Those with severe addiction may not require the 24/7 monitoring that drug rehab inpatient programs provide.

However, they could still need extra support. If that’s the case, then an intensive outpatient program will often be the recommended course of action. 

In contrast, some people will only be experiencing a mild addiction or will be seen as less likely to relapse. If that’s the case, then they could still benefit from outpatient therapy to keep them on the right road to a successful recovery. 

Usually, a patient will be recommended outpatient, inpatient, or intensive outpatient treatment based on the results of an intake assessment. A professional will complete a thorough evaluation to determine the ideal option based on individual needs that will lead to lasting sobriety. 

We hope this helps you understand the main differences between outpatient and intensive outpatient programs for patients who require drug rehab. The right choice will depend on the specific needs of you or your loved ones. 

It is important to select the best possibility for your recovery to prevent the chance of relapse and ensure that you are successful in rebuilding your life through drug treatment after an addiction.

The Components of Behavioral Therapy for Addiction Explained

Behavioral therapy is one of the ways you can tackle the symptoms of addiction. This therapeutic intervention is designed to repair the negative thought processes that can happen as a result of addiction. Many treatment centers use behavioral therapy as a treatment for addiction to offer the best chances of sustaining sobriety.

So, does behavioral therapy work? What are the components of behavioral therapy for addiction? Take a look at everything you need to know.

What is Behavioral Therapy?

Behavioral therapy is a talking therapy that helps you to change your perspective. Changing your perspective will lead to changing the way you think and behave. It works on the basis that negative thoughts can trap you in a vicious cycle.

This type of therapy can focus on things that have happened in your past, as well as things that are happening currently. It aims to increase positive thoughts and improve your state of mind.

How Does It Work?

Behavioral therapy works by disrupting negative thought patterns. It teaches patients to respond to stress in a different way and learn new ways of thinking. The aim is to empower you to live a healthier life.

When you feel in control of your thoughts, you can make a choice. You can choose to not accept negative thoughts and build yourself up instead. Negative thoughts can lead to mental health conditions like anxiety and depression which in turn can lead to addiction.

CBT allows you to confront those thoughts and feelings and turn them around. When you’re less likely to think negatively, you’re less likely to try and find comfort in an addiction.

What Happens in Behavioral Therapy?

Your specialist will work with you to identify negative thought patterns and beliefs. This will determine the specific areas to work on during your addiction treatment. Behavioral therapy will help you to focus on more positive beliefs so you can eradicate the beliefs that have led you to addiction thus far.

Negative thought patterns are sometimes linked to coping mechanisms that no longer work. Many addicts try coping mechanisms to stay functional in everyday life. If these methods haven’t worked, behavioral therapy can help you to adopt new ones.

The Benefits of Behavioral Therapy

One of the best things about behavioral therapy is it’s flexible and can be adapted to each patient. It is a highly effective treatment, whether it’s done within a group setting or on an individual basis. This therapy is evidence based and the benefits are extensive.

For example, this treatment can benefit someone who has struggled to beat addiction with medicine alone. Behavioral therapy is also a short therapy course in comparison to many others. It’s also not something you receive solely from your clinic.

Although group and one-to-one sessions at a treatment center are often the best source of help, you can also read CBT books at home and study the therapy online. CBT offers a practical solution to a difficult problem and gives you methods you can use in your life long after your treatment has finished.

What to Consider Before Joining Behavioral Therapy

It’s important to remember that you’ll need to fully commit to the process of adjusting your thinking. You can discuss this further with a therapist at your clinic. You’ll also need to do work in between sessions. You’ll be given something similar to homework each time you meet with your therapist.

This type of therapy will make you confront situations and emotions that you may find upsetting. You’ll need to be willing to face the emotions and issues that often lead you to your addiction and that can often feel uncomfortable for a while. CBT will focus entirely on you and your thought patterns so if you’re hoping to mend relationships through your sobriety, you may need additional support.

Contact Us

At Robert Alexander Center for Recovery, we offer many different detox treatment services that can give you what you need to start your recovery. From residential inpatient to intensive outpatient or partial hospitalization, we have something to suit all needs. Our team of professional staff are ready to offer you support where you need it and provide you with the tools for sustainable recovery.

Drug and alcohol addiction can destroy your life and the lives of those around you. We want to make sure you get that life back on track by providing everything from medication to therapy. If you’d like to talk more about the programs we offer, contact us for more information.

6 Benefits Of Outpatient Therapy In Addiction Treatment Center

Patients who explore addiction, alcohol treatment, or drug treatment have different pathways that they can take on their road to recovery. This includes both inpatient treatment as well as outpatient treatment. 

In-patient rehab provides support within a facility and can last anywhere between 28 days to six months depending on the requirements for addiction treatment of the individual. 

In contrast, outpatient rehab is far less restrictive. It can be provided by a patient visiting a local treatment center on a weekly basis or through other external options. In this article, we’ll discuss and explore some of the key benefits of outpatient therapy for those who require drug rehab or alcohol rehab. 

A Versatile Solution 

People often assume that outpatient therapy is only suited for those with mild addiction. While it can be useful for people experiencing this type of issue, it can also be suitable as part of a long-term treatment program. 

As such, this is a versatile treatment option that can provide different benefits and support for people who are experiencing various levels of drug or alcohol addiction. As such, this means that outpatient treatment may last several months or over a year. 

Again, this depends on the requirement of the patient. There are also different levels of outpatient therapy including intensive outpatient support. 

Provides Patients With The Chance To Acclimatize

As part of a treatment plan for a severe addiction or long-term problem, outpatient therapy can help patients acclimatize back into their life and their typical routine. Through in-patient therapy, individuals gain support at an addiction treatment center. 

This provides advanced options. However, it takes place in a controlled environment. As such, patients are removed from the stresses and triggers that led to them needing addiction treatment in the first place. As such, it’s important that patients also receive support once they return to their normal life. 

Gaining Addiction Treatment While Around Friends And Family 

As mentioned, outpatient therapy can be completed while the patient is living in the comfort of their home. This means that they will be around friends and family members as well as other key people in their social group. 

This is important as research shows that building and maintaining healthy relationships is key to successful drug rehab and alcohol rehab. Patients can work on their therapy goals while remaining close to family and friends who will always be there for support. 

Flexible To Schedules 

Once patients leave an addiction treatment center, they often have the desire to return to their normal lives and typical routine. They may wish to return to work or spend time with their family and complete activities such as picking their children up from school. 

Outpatient therapy schedules are completely flexible to the needs of the patient and designed to fit into a traditional routine. For instance, meetings can be conducted at night or early in the morning. As such, patients can continue to gain the support they require without disrupting their schedules. 

Provides Patients With Access To Recovery Groups 

Inpatient therapy is often focused on detoxification. Outpatient therapy can be used to ensure that patients gain access to recovery groups that meet their needs. 

For drug rehab, this can include Narcotics Anonymous and for alcohol rehab, this will include Alcoholics Anonymous. Research shows strong evidence that these 12 steps groups are key to helping addicts remain sober after they complete a detoxification process. Some patients also find these groups helpful once they have finished a full outpatient program. 

A Practical Alternative To In-Patient Treatment 

In-patient therapy for addiction treatment won’t be a suitable option for a lot of people. Some individuals will resist taking a break from their schedules, personal or professional life for a stay in an in-patient facility to get the treatment they need. Others will find that in-patient support is beyond their price limits. 

Typically inpatient programs will always cost more than outpatient alcohol or drug rehab. As such, outpatient therapy can offer a practical solution that is accessible to people with a range of financial and personal requirements. It’s also important to be aware that many people with a drug or alcohol addiction will not require the facilities that an inpatient addiction treatment center provides. 
We hope this helps you understand some of the key benefits of outpatient therapy for patients. This can be a suitable option for those who require drug or alcohol treatment. It provides a more flexible solution compared to inpatient therapy while still providing the support patients need to beat their addiction and improve their well-being.

What Rehab Treatment Plan Is Best For Heroin Addiction

Heroin addiction is one of the most dangerous forms of substance abuse and is responsible for over 13,000 drug overdose deaths each year. This signals one-fifth of all opioid-related deaths and highlights the need to seek drug rehab before the worst happens.

Sadly, heroin is an immensely addictive drug. So, whether looking at addiction treatment options for yourself or a loved one, it’s vital that the right program is selected. Here at the Robert Alexander Center for Recovery, our experts can discuss all possible pathways in detail. However, this quick guide can provide a better understanding of what to expect.

Heroin addiction: finding a personalized plan

No two people who suffer from heroin addiction are the same. Therefore, it is important to understand the individual as well as the illness. The Robert Alexander Center for Recovery understands that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment for drug addiction and subsequently focuses on creating unique plans built with long-term success and sustained sobriety in mind.

The lack of a personalized approach is why there is an 85% chance of an individual relapsing after their treatment. Our caring and compassionate experts can help reduce those risks by learning about the individual’s background before using tailored services through each stage of the journey from detoxification to aftercare.

Heroin addiction drug rehab options

Here at the Robert Alexander Center for Recovery, we can take various approaches to drug rehab for heroin addiction to patients in Kentucky and beyond. This includes 30-day plans, 90-day plans, and family therapy programs. One of the biggest decisions, however, revolves around finding the right type of care. The personalized solutions that we offer include;

  • Residential inpatient care where you stay at the rehab center in Kentucky.
  • Partial hospitalization where you remain at home but visit the center up to 7 days per week.
  • Intensive outpatient that includes up to 30 hours at the drug rehab center per week.
  • Outpatient programs that have scheduled therapy sessions, but not as frequently.

Which patient program works best?

Each program can be tailored to your needs. In serious cases of long-term heroin addiction, a patient may require residential patient care to complete the detoxification and rehab. Given the dangers of opioids, particularly heroin, it is an option that many will consider.

However, most people would prefer to visit the rehab center through outpatient programs tanks to the following features;

  • It allows them to maintain their job, family life, and other daily commitments.
  • They can avoid having to explain a long-term absence to colleagues or friends.
  • The transition from heroin abuse to sober living becomes smoother.
  • The treatment costs will be lower as there are no accommodation fees.
  • You still see the same experts like counselors, psychiatrists, and more.

Ultimately the most important factor is to find a drug rehab for heroin addiction program that fits the person’s schedule and continues to deliver the world-class support that they need for sustained results. The ongoing aftercare can continue for as long as it’s required. Working with a dedicated team who work with patients to identify the best treatment plans is essential.

Heroin addiction rehab elements

Whichever treatment program is selected, most patients find that multiple services are required as a part of their program. Firstly, it will be necessary to complete an accurate diagnosis, particularly as co-existing mental health issues could be present. A detoxification stage will form an essential first step on the road to recovery. Following this, patients may undergo any combination of the following treatment plans;

  • Medication treatments – In many cases, medications may be needed to help control the withdrawal symptoms during detoxification and keep the patient in a physically and mentally stable place.
  • Counseling – Up to 80% of heroin addicts misuse prescription pills before turning to this drug. Therapy provides an opportunity to get to the root of the addiction before tackling the problem head-on.
  • Group therapy – Group sessions enable patients to build a strong support network in a controlled setting while encouraging individuals to speak and listen through a range of activities.
  • Mental health treatment – From individual therapy to medication prescriptions for coexisting mental health issues, this can be another key feature to reduce the risk of relapses and improve the patient’s quality of life.
  • Continued support – Staying sober is the ultimate goal and our experts help you take the next steps in style. This includes sober house living for inpatient alumni as well as ongoing counseling for outpatients alumni.

The right program features will give you the best chance of beating heroin abuse for life.

Is Drug Addiction Rehab Really Different For Different Genders?

Adult Children To A Drug Rehab in Kentucky

Drug addiction is a severe problem that affects people of all genders. However, it is essential to note that men and women may experience drug addiction rehab differently. Therefore, to provide the best possible treatment for drug addicts, it is necessary to understand how gender can impact the rehab process.

How Addiction Differs In Genders

It is important to note that men and women may experience drug addiction differently. For example, men are more likely to become addicted to drugs in the first place. 

This is due to a variety of factors, including biology and socialization. Conversely, women are more likely to develop an addiction after starting to use drugs for medical reasons.

It is also worth noting that men and women abuse different drugs. Men are more likely to abuse alcohol and illegal drugs, while women are more likely to abuse prescription drugs. This difference is due, in part, to gender norms and expectations. 

Men are expected to be tough and independent, while women are expected to be nurturing and caregiving. As a result, men are more likely to turn to drugs to cope with stress, while women are more likely to use drugs to numb their pain.

How Detoxification Differs In Genders

When an individual is addicted to drugs, their body becomes dependent on the substance. This means that when they try to quit, their body will go through withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal can be difficult and uncomfortable, so detoxification is often the first step in drug rehab.

Detoxification differs for men and women because of how our bodies process drugs. Women generally have a higher percentage of body fat than men, which means that they tend to retain drugs for longer. This can make withdrawal symptoms last longer and be more severe. Additionally, women are more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression during detoxification, making the process even more difficult.

Because of these differences, detoxification must be done in a specifically geared setting for both genders. This ensures that everyone has the best chance for a successful recovery.

How Drug Rehab Differs In Genders

When you think about drug addiction and rehab, you might not automatically think that there would be a difference in how effective treatment is for men and women. However, research has shown that there are some key ways in which gender can affect both the causes of addiction, as well as the way individuals respond to treatment.

How Drug Rehab Differs For Men

When it comes to drug rehab, men often face different challenges. This is due to several factors, including biology and social pressure. Men are also more likely to engage in risky behavior when under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This can lead to dangerous consequences, such as accidents or overdoses.

In terms of treatment, men often respond differently to traditional methods such as therapy and counseling. They may be more likely to benefit from activities geared towards competition and physical activity. In addition, they may require a higher level of structure and support to stay on track with their recovery goals.

How Drug Rehab Differs For Women

Women experience drug addiction differently than men, and as a result, their rehab process will also be different. Women are more likely than men to develop addictions to cope with stress or trauma. They are also more likely than men to relapse after treatment due to emotional triggers.

Therapy for women in drug rehab often focuses on trauma and addiction as interconnected issues. In addition, group therapy is often essential for women, as it allows them to share their experiences and receive support from others who understand what they are going through.

Intensive Outpatient Programs For Genders In Addiction Recovery

Many addiction treatment centers offer different programs for men and women to provide the best possible care. Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) are one such example. IOPs are designed to provide a higher level of care than outpatient programs while still allowing patients to live at home and continue daily.

IOPs for men often focus on anger management and stress relief issues. They may also include group therapy, individual counseling, and other activities.

IOPs for women often focus on trauma and emotional issues. They may also include groups focusing on self-esteem, healthy relationships, and assertiveness training. In addition, women in IOPs often benefit from individual counseling and family therapy.

Ultimately, both men and women can benefit from drug rehab. However, it is essential to understand how gender can impact addiction and the treatment process. By taking into account the unique needs of each gender, treatment centers can provide more effective care that leads to lasting recovery.

PTSD & Drug Addiction: 5 Early Signs Not To Ignore

Trauma Informed Therapy for Drug Addiction Robert Alexander Center

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that’s sometimes experienced by those who have seen or lived through a traumatic event. While it’s normal to experience anxiety, fear and other symptoms following a traumatic event, if these symptoms don’t dissipate, they could end up creating more problems.

Such persistent and ongoing symptoms could harm a person’s quality of life. The impact can be severe enough to drive the individual to use drugs to self-medicate in an attempt to numb or cope with their symptoms and feelings. Left unchecked, this drug abuse can lead to full-blown addiction that would require rehab treatment.

Some of the common symptoms of PTSD include:

  • Re-living the event – The individual relieves the traumatic event through flashbacks, nightmares, etc.
  • Avoidance – This happens when an individual goes to great lengths to avoid anything or anyone who reminds them of the traumatic event.
  • Reactivity – In some cases, individuals with PTSD show negative changes in their emotional or physical reactions e.g. becoming tense or edgy with frequent bursts of anger or becoming jumpy.
  • Cognitive and mood symptoms – This refers to negative changes in their mood or thinking. The person may have negative thoughts about the world, others or themselves or they may experience intense feelings of shame or guilt.

Signs of PTSD Drug Abuse

Experiencing a traumatic event is terrifying in itself but having to relive it every so often can make life unbearable. This is why many of those struggling with PTSD seek relief from drugs. Seek professional help if you notice your loved one showing these 5 signs:

  1. Changes in their personal appearance. When people use drugs, their focus often shifts to getting the next hit and they may neglect personal care, grooming or hygiene.
  2. Taking unusual risks that are out of character. To obtain drugs, your loved one may start taking risks such as stealing. They may also become secretive and withdrawn.
  3. Pushing away loved ones and acting out. They may do this to keep their loved ones from finding out about their drug use.
  4. Neglecting, ignoring or losing interest in activities that they previously enjoyed. The focus on getting the next high crowds out everything else, and the person may neglect their hobbies, schoolwork or job.
  5. Showing withdrawal symptoms. Those with PTSD and using drugs often show withdrawal symptoms including nausea, anxiety, depression, trouble sleeping, irritability, etc. when they don’t take their drug of choice.

We Can Help

If you suspect that your loved one is struggling with PTSD and has turned to drugs to cope, the best thing you can do is to seek help for them from a reputable treatment facility such as the Robert Alexander Center for recovery in Kentucky. We have a professional and experienced team of addiction specialists who will guide your loved one through detoxification, before admitting them to a treatment program such as our intensive outpatient treatment or the outpatient care program. Contact us today. We’ll be glad to help.