Flexible Treatment Schedules and How They Can Help Clients Recover

Since everyone is unique, struggling with substance use disorder (SUD) looks different for everyone. Recovery is no exception, which is why there are various forms of treatment available.

Many individuals who struggle with addiction have daily life responsibilities that they need to attend to, such as work, school, and family. Such responsibilities can make inpatient treatment inaccessible to many individuals. However, outpatient programs are a lot less restrictive and more flexible regarding clients' schedules. Let's look into how flexible treatment program schedules can help individuals recover. 

Which Treatment Programs Allow for Flexible Schedules?

Several types of addiction recovery treatment programs allow individuals to maintain flexible schedules. Types of this kind of program include: 

• Partial hospitalization program (PHP): Also referred to as "day treatment," these programs provide mental and medical care for clients, but the individual lives at home or in a sober living home while participating in groups throughout the day – usually for about 20-40 hours a week. Clients are provided access to licensed therapists and one-on-one counseling. 

• Intensive outpatient program (IOP): This type of program can require less time per week, depending on the individual. Most clients typically spend up to 20 hours a week in these programs, which are designed similarly to PHPs but usually have less medical and mental care available.

• Outpatient program (OP): This is the most flexible of all treatment programs, allowing clients to choose when they come in for therapy and for how long. Typically, clients spend around nine hours a week in these programs.

What Makes Outpatient Programs More Flexible?

If you or a loved one is looking for a flexible option for SUD treatment, outpatient drug rehab programs are the best route to consider. In an outpatient program, clients can still live at home, which means being around family and friends and continuing to attend to their home responsibilities.

Clients can also still attend work or school because they can choose when they come in for treatment during available periods. Plus for someone concerned about disability leave, outpatient drug rehab can make a work situation more bearable.

What to Expect During an Outpatient Program

The National Institute on Drug Abuse explains that most outpatient drug rehab programs should take place for about 90 days or more to be successful. This, of course, depends on the client's needs. Some individuals may require more or less time.

Since these programs are much more flexible than inpatient programs and take place around one's schedule, they require a lot more personal motivation and time management.

Overall, outpatient programs have the majority of the same treatment modalities as inpatient programs, such as group therapy, individual therapy, relapse prevention education, life skills education, and post-treatment aftercare. However, group therapy plays a much more significant role in outpatient than inpatient programs.  

Outpatient Programs and the Importance of a Routine

Even though everyone's daily life varies, based on multiple factors, including if they are in school or working – or perhaps both – a standard outpatient program does help provide some crucial structure for those in early recovery, especially with other responsibilities and obligations. It's essential to build a sustainable routine in recovery, and outpatient therapy can help. 

OP also allows clients to implement specific coping strategies regarding triggers and other tools in their lives that they learn in sessions. Regular practice of such strategies – including mindfulness, self-care, and relationship-strengthening tools – will allow them to be more effective. 

Outpatient Treatment at The Edge Treatment Center 

At The Edge Treatment Center, we offer PHP, IOP, and OP programs, which are very flexible to fit your individual needs.

In the end, flexible treatment schedules help clients along the road of recovery for a variety of reasons. One of the main reasons is that outpatient treatment programs are less restrictive, which can help people feel more comfortable and open about their recovery.

Outpatient programs also allow clients to continue participating in things they enjoy or responsibilities they can't leave behind to go to treatment. With these more flexible treatment options, clients can continue to explore independent life, further develop life skills, and utilize the support system of their family and friends. Lastly, outpatient programs allow clients to build healthy habits – such as time management, personal motivation, self-care, 

In addition to determining what type of program would work best for you or a loved one, consult your doctor, counselor, or support network for guidance before choosing an outpatient program. It's always important to get others' perspectives when making such important decisions in your life.

If you have any questions about the treatment programs and services we offer at The Edge, do not hesitate to reach out to us to speak to a caring member of our staff. We make it a priority to ensure you have a successful recovery and grow during the process. The Edge Treatment Center is here to provide guidance and support through every step.