When it comes to professional addiction treatment, there are many different types of programs to choose from. The types of addiction recovery programs fall under two categories: inpatient and outpatient treatment. Inpatient addiction treatment is suitable for individuals with moderate to severe substance use disorders. They require the patient to take time off of work, school, and their daily lives to attend treatment full-time.
However, many individuals struggling with addiction have to continue working to pay bills or take care of their families. These people may not have the ability to commit to an inpatient addiction treatment program. In these cases, outpatient addiction treatment is the way to go. Outpatient addiction treatment programs in New Jersey work around the patient’s schedule, allowing them to continue to hold jobs, attend school, and take care of their children.
When it comes to outpatient rehab, there are a couple of different programs to consider. The most common forms of outpatient treatment are intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) and outpatient programs (OPs). Understanding the difference between IOP and OP can help individuals determine which substance abuse treatment program is right for them.
Types of Outpatient Addiction Treatment
Every recovering addict has a different story, a unique background, and individual challenges to overcome. Because of this, there are a few different types of outpatient programs. Each type of program will vary in levels of care, structure, and time.
The main types of outpatient addiction treatment include:
Partial hospitalization programs offer more flexibility than inpatient treatment, however, they still require a lot of commitment. These programs are good for individuals who do not have to work, but would still like to return home at night after attending treatment sessions throughout the day. Intensive outpatient programs and traditional outpatient programs are recommended for individuals who require a little more flexibility in their schedules.
With that being said, the type of program an individual needs will be determined by an assessment of their history of substance abuse, mental health, and overall health. If an individual struggles with severe addiction and co-occurring disorders, it is recommended that they attend an inpatient treatment program before beginning outpatient treatment.
What is an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)?
Intensive outpatient programs are considered to be less flexible than traditional outpatient programs. IOPs require patients to commit more of their time and energy to their recovery. As a result, most individuals with moderate substance use disorders choose an IOP over an OP.
Intensive outpatient programs in New Jersey typically meet 3 to 4 days a week for several per day. The length of time that an individual will attend an IOP depends on their personal needs. However, most individuals spend 3-6 months in an IOP.[1]
Intensive outpatient programs use evidence-based addiction treatment modalities to help their patients recover. Some of the therapies used during an IOP in New Jersey include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Traditional talk therapy
- Family behavior therapy (FBT)
- Support groups
- Addiction education
- Skill development group counseling
IOP is best suited for people who need intensive treatment for addiction but require a flexible schedule. Because IOPs use the same treatment techniques as inpatient treatment, they are suitable for individuals with mild, moderate, or severe addictions.
The Benefits of IOPs
IOP offers a balance of intensive therapy and flexible scheduling that is appealing to many.
The benefits of intensive outpatient programs include:
- Access to evidence-based addiction therapies
- Intensive treatment with flexible scheduling
- The ability to work, attend school, or take care of children while attending treatment
- Lower cost than inpatient treatment
- Access to family and friends during addiction treatment
What is an Outpatient Program (OP)?
Outpatient rehab programs offer less intensive treatment and more flexibility than IOPs. Outpatient programs are not recommended for individuals with moderate to severe addictions or co-occurring mental health conditions–unless they have already attended a higher level of care. OPs are used as part of a continuum of care. People generally attend OP after completing partial care or IOP.
OPs in New Jersey typically meet 1 to 3 days a week for 1 to 3 hours per day. While the frequency of OP sessions is less than IOPs, the length of the programs is usually the same. Individuals who attend an OP in New Jersey should expect to commit to a 90-day program. Outpatient programs offer the same forms of therapy, however, these programs place an emphasis on group counseling. While IOPs focus more on individual therapy, OPs spend more time providing group therapy, addiction education, and skill development.
Individuals who attend an outpatient program must be highly motivated to recover. This is because OPs are considered to be a “relaxed” form of addiction treatment. While other programs offer more supervision and direction, outpatient programs expect the patients to be self-motivated in their recovery.
The Benefits of OPs
Outpatient programs are beneficial for individuals who have already completed a partial care program or IOP. Also, individuals with mild substance abuse issues will benefit from the processes of outpatient treatment.
Other benefits of outpatient rehab include:
- Providing a sense of normalcy in the patient’s life
- Ability to maintain a full-time job
- Time for attending school or caring for children
- Lower cost than inpatient treatment and IOP
- Less intensive treatment for individuals with mild addictions
- Plenty of group counseling that provides an opportunity to improve interpersonal skills
Find Out if Our Outpatient Treatment Program in New Jersey is Right For YOu
Whether you are looking to attend an IOP or an OP in New Jersey, you have come to the right place. New Jersey Behavioral Health Center offers all forms of outpatient rehab for individuals who need addiction treatment with a flexible schedule.
New Jersey Behavioral Health Center is an addiction treatment program aimed at changing the lives of individuals struggling with transitioning back to a healthy lifestyle after battling their addiction to substances. We provide them with the motivation necessary to persevere through challenging situations and explore their passion for life.
Contact us today to begin your recovery journey.
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