Addiction recovery is a journey, and the right treatment approach can make all the difference. While some individuals need 24/7 care in a residential rehab, others benefit from a flexible and structured outpatient program that allows them to continue their work, school, and family responsibilities while receiving professional support.
At Lionheart Behavioral Health, we provide comprehensive outpatient services through our Addiction Treatment Program, Outpatient Program, Day Treatment Program, and Night Treatment Program. Whether you’re struggling with cocaine, opioids, alcohol, or other substances, our Drug Treatment Program and Cocaine Treatment Program offer personalized, evidence-based care to help you build a strong foundation for long-term recovery.
This guide explores everything you need to know about outpatient addiction treatment, including what to expect, different levels of care, and how to determine if outpatient treatment is the right choice for you.
What Is an Outpatient Program (OP)?
An Outpatient Program (OP) is a structured, flexible addiction treatment option that allows individuals to receive therapy, medical care, and support while living at home. Unlike inpatient rehab, where individuals stay at a treatment facility full-time, outpatient care provides treatment during the day or evening, allowing patients to maintain their daily routines.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Outpatient Treatment?
Outpatient programs work best for individuals who:
- Have a mild to moderate substance use disorder and do not require 24/7 medical supervision.
- Have completed detox or inpatient rehab but need continued support.
- Have a stable living environment free from drugs and alcohol.
- Are motivated to attend regular therapy and group counseling.
- Have a strong support system at home or in the community.
For those with severe addiction or a history of relapse, a higher level of care such as inpatient rehab or a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) may be recommended.
What to Expect in an Outpatient Program
At Lionheart Behavioral Health, our outpatient programs offer structured, evidence-based treatment to help individuals recover from addiction. Here’s what you can expect when enrolling in an Outpatient Program, Day Treatment Program, or Night Treatment Program:
1. Comprehensive Assessment and Personalized Treatment Plan
Before starting outpatient treatment, every client undergoes a thorough assessment to determine:
- The severity of their addiction.
- Any co-occurring mental health disorders (such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD).
- Their treatment goals and needs.
Based on this assessment, our team creates a personalized treatment plan tailored to each individual’s recovery journey.
2. Individual Therapy Sessions
One-on-one therapy with a licensed addiction counselor is a cornerstone of outpatient treatment. These sessions focus on:
- Identifying and addressing underlying triggers for substance use.
- Developing healthier coping strategies to manage cravings and stress.
- Setting personal and recovery goals to maintain long-term sobriety.
Therapies commonly used in outpatient programs include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps clients recognize and change negative thought patterns related to addiction.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Focuses on emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and mindfulness.
- Motivational Interviewing (MI) – Encourages individuals to build motivation for change and long-term recovery.
3. Group Therapy and Peer Support
Group therapy is an essential component of outpatient addiction treatment because it helps clients:
- Connect with others in recovery who understand their struggles.
- Share experiences and offer mutual support.
- Practice social skills, communication, and accountability.
Group therapy sessions cover topics such as:
- Relapse prevention strategies.
- Healthy coping mechanisms.
- Stress and anger management.
- Building self-confidence and self-worth in recovery.
Participating in 12-step programs like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is also encouraged as a valuable supplement to outpatient treatment.
4. Relapse Prevention Training
One of the most important aspects of outpatient treatment is teaching individuals how to prevent relapse. Our relapse prevention training helps clients:
- Identify personal triggers and learn how to manage them.
- Develop healthy coping skills to replace substance use.
- Create an emergency plan if cravings become overwhelming.
- Build a long-term recovery strategy that includes ongoing therapy and peer support.
Studies show that individuals who engage in relapse prevention planning are significantly more likely to maintain sobriety over the long term.
5. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Certain Addictions
For individuals recovering from opioid or alcohol addiction, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) may be integrated into their outpatient plan.
- Buprenorphine (Suboxone) – Helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms for opioid addiction.
- Naltrexone (Vivitrol) – Helps prevent relapse for alcohol and opioid addiction.
- Disulfiram (Antabuse) – Causes adverse reactions to alcohol, discouraging relapse.
MAT is always combined with therapy to provide a well-rounded approach to addiction treatment.
Levels of Outpatient Treatment at Lionheart Behavioral Health
At Lionheart Behavioral Health, we offer multiple levels of outpatient care based on each individual’s needs:
1. Standard Outpatient Program (OP)
- One to three therapy sessions per week.
- Best for individuals who do not require daily treatment but still need structured support.
- Flexible scheduling for those balancing work, school, or family life.
2. Day Treatment Program (PHP – Partial Hospitalization Program)
- Intensive therapy five to six days per week, lasting several hours per day.
- Ideal for those who need a higher level of care without residential treatment.
- Provides medical support, therapy, and structured daily routines.
3. Night Treatment Program
- Evening therapy sessions for individuals who work or attend school during the day.
- Focuses on relapse prevention, mental health, and peer support.
- Allows individuals to stay connected to treatment while managing other responsibilities.
Whether you need weekly outpatient sessions or an intensive day treatment plan, Lionheart Behavioral Health offers flexible care options to meet your recovery needs.
Benefits of Outpatient Addiction Treatment
- Flexible Scheduling – Allows individuals to continue work, school, and family responsibilities.
- Cost-Effective – Less expensive than inpatient rehab while still providing high-quality care.
- Personalized Treatment Plans – Tailored to each client’s unique recovery needs.
- Access to Family Support – Clients can remain connected to their loved ones during treatment.
- Long-Term Success – Outpatient treatment equips individuals with the skills needed for lifelong recovery.
For many, outpatient treatment serves as an essential step in maintaining sobriety while adjusting to a new, healthier lifestyle.
Start Your Recovery with Lionheart Behavioral Health
At Lionheart Behavioral Health, we are committed to helping individuals achieve lasting recovery through compassionate, evidence-based care. Whether you’re seeking an Outpatient Program, Day Treatment Program, or Night Treatment Program, we are here to support you.
Call us today at (774) 228-4112 to learn more about our Addiction Treatment Program, Cocaine Treatment Program, and Drug Treatment Program. Start your journey to lasting recovery today – We’re here to help!
FAQ on Outpatient Program
What is an outpatient program for addiction treatment?
An outpatient program (OP) is a structured addiction treatment option that allows individuals to receive therapy, counseling, and support while living at home. It provides flexibility for those who need treatment but also have work, school, or family responsibilities.
How does an outpatient program differ from inpatient rehab?
In an outpatient program, individuals receive treatment during scheduled sessions but continue living at home, whereas inpatient rehab requires individuals to stay at a facility full-time for intensive care.
What types of therapy are included in an outpatient program?
Outpatient programs include individual therapy, group counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), family therapy, and relapse prevention training.
Who is a good candidate for outpatient addiction treatment?
Outpatient treatment is ideal for individuals who:
- Have mild to moderate substance use disorders.
- Have completed detox or inpatient rehab but need ongoing support.
- Have a stable living environment.
- Are committed to attending regular therapy and support sessions.
What are the benefits of outpatient treatment?
Outpatient programs provide:
- Flexible scheduling to continue work, school, or family responsibilities.
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual.
- Cost-effective care compared to inpatient rehab.
- Access to therapy and peer support while living at home.
