Types of Outpatient Opioid Treatment

There are two main types of outpatient opioid treatment programs: intensive and outpatient. Intensive outpatient programs require two or more visits a week to the treatment facility. Outpatient addiction treatment programs may consist of counseling sessions and therapy. Therapy sessions are used to help patients adjust their attitudes and better manage their thoughts so they don’t fall back into using opioids. Many rehab centers also offer several types of talk therapy.

Intensive outpatient opioid treatment programs, or PHPs, offer intense therapy for a number of weeks or months, after which they may progress to standard outpatient counseling. Intensive outpatient programs differ in their duration and organization. Some are designed to provide a full interdisciplinary team of providers to help patients overcome their addiction. However, they may offer minimal medical support and may link patients to more intensive services.

Outpatient treatment programs are similar to inpatient programs but are often more flexible and less expensive. Outpatient treatment often involves home visits, so that the patient does not have to spend money on transportation to and from treatment. Many outpatient programs also offer supportive housing. Psychological therapy is a common focus in both types of programs. Psychotherapists use cognitive-behavioral methods to teach patients how to change unhealthy behaviors and develop alternative coping mechanisms.

Types of Outpatient Opioid Treatment Programs

Intensive family systemic therapy, which includes the whole family, also focuses on the family and their interactions. This model aims to change the way the family functions and communicates, enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment program. Community reinforcement approach plus vouchers combines counseling with positive activities. Outpatient treatment programs may also encourage patients to participate in 12-Step groups. In addition, these outpatient programs can offer peer support groups to help patients develop healthier relationships with others and develop coping skills.

Another type of outpatient opioid treatment program is Narcotics Anonymous. Narcotics Anonymous is widely available and led by licensed therapists. In addition to a group format, patients may also participate in ongoing pain management programs co-managed by addiction specialists with training in pain management. For more information on outpatient treatment, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration or visit a local rehabilitation center.

Private health insurance may cover outpatient treatment. If your private health insurance doesn’t cover the costs of treatment, you can try a public insurance program. Medicaid and Medicare both require coverage of mental health and substance abuse services. For the first step, find out whether you can get coverage. If not, check with your insurance company first. You’ll need to present proof of insurance. Otherwise, you’ll have to pay out of pocket.

Many OTPs offer medication for treating addiction to opioids. However, only six percent offer the three FDA-approved medications to treat opioid use disorder. Some patients may require a combination of these medications. To help manage the opioid epidemic, it is important to find a treatment facility that offers both. You can even get telehealth services. You should also make sure you choose a facility that is certified by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.