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Outpatient Addiction Treatment

With outpatient care, you can live at home and still get the addiction treatment you need. Outpatient treatment can be a good option if you’ve finished a higher level of care or need assistance with mild symptoms.

Note: This website is for information only. We can help you understand options and prep for conversations with licensed providers, but we don’t diagnose, treat, or guarantee outcomes.

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Who Outpatient May Help

Outpatient care can be the right fit for you, if:

  • You’ve completed inpatient, PHP, or IOP and need further care
  • You have mild substance use concerns and a strong support system
  • You’re looking for therapy options that fit around your daily routine
  • You want skills training and relapse prevention in a flexible format

About Outpatient Treatment

When you attend an outpatient program, you usually receive treatment once a week. Outpatient care is viewed as the most accessible level of support, typically involving individual counseling and group therapy sessions with relapse prevention. Outpatient treatment is best for individuals who can manage their day-to-day lives.

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What to Expect Each Week

  • Weekly/bi-weekly therapy sessions
  • Group therapy
  • Relapse prevention
  • Medication management (if applicable)

Therapies You May See

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy for unhealthy thought patterns
  • Dialectical behavior therapy to regulate emotions
  • Motivational interviewing to increase motivation
  • Trauma-informed counseling to process trauma healthily
  • Family or couples therapy for stronger support networks
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Medication Management

Some outpatient programs provide medication support for alcohol, opioid, or mental health treatment. This ranges from medication management to MAT or MOUD programs. Ask your facility what options they can offer.

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Co-Occurring or Dual Diagnosis Care

Outpatient care may include integrated treatment for mental health and substance use together, though people with severe needs often start at a higher level of care.

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Aftercare and Step-Down

After completing more intensive treatment, many people continue with outpatient care. Aftercare can include:

Insurance and Costs

What’s covered depends on your plan, your network, and your medical needs. Programs can check your benefits, but the final decision is your insurer’s. If you need it, ask about self-pay or payment plans.

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How to Choose an Outpatient Program

  • Check for a state license and accreditation
  • Ask who’s on staff, medically and psychiatrically
  • Look into their safety policies and detox support
  • Confirm how aftercare planning works, and what insurance covers

Ultimately, you’re looking for somewhere safe, properly accredited, and equipped to support you long after treatment ends. Take the time to ask questions and compare a few options before you decide.

FAQs

What is Outpatient Addiction Treatment?

Outpatient treatment allows you to receive therapy and support for addiction. You can continue to live at home while receiving care.

You can stay in an outpatient program for several weeks to months. This will depend on how you are progressing in your journey.

Yes, you can continue to work, go to school, or take care of family while in outpatient treatment.

Outpatient will require fewer hours per week than IOP or PHP.

You can continue to attend outpatient therapy for years to come. Many patients will continue with peer support as well.

In Crisis? Get Immediate Help

If you’re in danger or thinking about hurting yourself, call 911 or your local emergency number. In the US, you can also call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Other numbers that can help: