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Inpatient Vs Outpatient Rehab For Substance Use Disorder

When it comes to treatment options for substance use disorders, inpatient and outpatient rehab are the two most recommended levels of care after medical detox. They each have different benefits, and discussing your unique circumstances with an addiction expert or counselor can help you decide which option is best for where you are on your recovery journey. 

Difference Between Inpatient And Outpatient Treatment

Inpatient and outpatient treatment are both excellent options for healing from substance use disorders. The main difference between them is that inpatient or residential rehabs offer 24-hour care and housing, and there is usually a minimum 30-day commitment. Outpatient treatment programs are less intensive, allowing clients to live at home or sober living while attending several hours of therapy a few times a week. 

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Difference Between Inpatient And Outpatient Treatment

Inpatient and outpatient treatment are both excellent options for healing from substance use disorders. The main difference between them is that inpatient or residential rehabs offer 24-hour care and housing, and there is usually a minimum 30-day commitment. Outpatient treatment programs are less intensive, allowing clients to live at home or sober living while attending several hours of therapy a few times a week. 

Inpatient Treatment & Rehab

Inpatient rehab is an ideal choice for anyone who can benefit from intensive support to help them recover from a substance use disorder and any co-occurring mental health disorders. Many residential treatment centers also offer medical detox, which is the perfect first step to help you get through the withdrawal process safely. Once your condition is stable, you’ll be able to attend therapy and begin healing on an emotional and psychological level. 

Inpatient treatment programs offer a discreet, healing environment with 24-hour care from a dedicated team of professional clinicians, therapists, and addiction experts. Inpatient rehab is a good choice for people who may be triggered by living at home, are struggling with PTSD, and or have a history of severe substance use or relapse.

Outpatient Treatment & Rehab

There are several levels of outpatient treatment available, ranging from more structured programs that meet daily to programs that meet 1-3 times a week. Many people begin with residential care and then progress through the different levels of outpatient care to help them transition into a full-time schedule of work or school while living at home. 

Partial Hospitalization (PHP)

Partial Hospitalization is the most structured level of outpatient care, with a schedule of several hours of therapy a day, including individual and group therapy sessions, skill building, and 12-step groups. 

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

During the intensive outpatient program, clients are able to resume a regular schedule of work or study, while attending therapy several times a week. 

Outpatient (OP)

Outpatient care provides 1-2 therapy sessions each week for up to three months. Outpatient programs are ideal for people who have a busy schedule and are thriving on their recovery journeys. 

Get Inpatient Or Outpatient Drug And Alcohol Treatment At Magnified Health Systems

At Magnified Health Systems, your healing is our passion. Each member of our team has direct experience with trauma, substance abuse, and mental health diagnoses, which gives them greater empathy for and understanding of what you may be going through. We offer a continuum of care beginning with medical detox, inpatient treatment, and several outpatient treatment programs.

We believe in your ability to make a change and all of us at Magnified Health Systems are here to help you live your best life. Whether you require ongoing support and guidance or are just getting started, we make it easy for you to make progress on your healing journey – contact us today. 

Should You Choose Inpatient Rehab Or Outpatient Rehab?

Inpatient rehab is ideal if you are struggling with substance use, require medically supervised detox, and can benefit from 24/hour care. Some people begin with outpatient rehab programs and then realize they need more support and switch to a residential program. If you need help deciding, reach out to an addiction expert or therapist to discuss your situation.

Can I Go To Inpatient Rehab and Keep My Job?

Inpatient rehab is ideal if you are struggling with substance use, require medically supervised detox, and can benefit from 24/hour care. Some people begin with outpatient rehab programs and then realize they need more support and switch to a residential program. If you need help deciding, reach out to an addiction expert or therapist to discuss your situation.

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Medical Advice Disclaimer

Magnified Health Systems aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.

Picture of This content is verified and moderated by Dr. Brendan Bickley

This content is verified and moderated by Dr. Brendan Bickley

Dr. Bickley graduated from U.C. Irvine with honors: Phi Beta Kappa, Golden Key International Honor Society, Cum Laude. He has been featured on national radio and print media. He is also a frequent lecturer at National Conferences. He holds an A.S. degree in Drug & Alcohol Studies, and two B.A. degrees in Criminology & Psychology, and masters and doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology. He is a licensed California Drug & Alcohol Counselor Level II, a licensed Clinical Supervisor and is certified in treating Eating Disorders.

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