Background Image

Outpatient Programs & Rehab Centers

Outpatient rehab for drug and alcohol misuse gives individuals the flexibility to attend treatment while continuing to live at home or in a sober living facility. Outpatient rehab may be a good option for individuals who have responsibilities that can't be put on hold for an extended period, such as attending school or work or caring for family members.(1)
Call 888-341-7785
Helpline Information

What Is Outpatient Rehab?

Outpatient rehab programs provide drug and alcohol misuse treatment at a program site, but patients live at home or in a sober living facility. Outpatient rehab programs can take place in several places, such as:1

  • Health clinics.
  • Community mental health clinics.
  • Counselor’s offices.
  • Hospital clinics.
  • Local health department offices.
  • Residential programs with outpatient clinics.

Outpatient rehab programs often meet in the evenings and on weekends, which allows patients to tend to responsibilities at home, school, or work.

Some of the services that PHPs may include are group and one-on-one therapy.

What to Expect in an Outpatient Rehab Program

Outpatient drug rehab programs vary. However, patients can expect a combination of therapies and other services, including:4

  • Behavioral counseling and therapy.
  • Evaluation and treatment for co-occurring disorders (e.g., anxiety, depression).
  • Substance use monitoring.
  • Case and clinical management.
  • Long-term continuing care focused on relapse prevention.

Do I Need a Higher Level of Care?

While outpatient rehab may be beneficial for some individuals, is not the right choice for everyone. Some individuals may benefit from receiving a higher level of care in an inpatient setting before entering outpatient rehab. Inpatient drug and alcohol addiction rehabs provide care and supervision around the clock for patients who live on the premises for the duration of the program.

health insurance forms with money and calculator

Paying for An Outpatient Treatment Program

It is important to consider the cost of the program you are looking into. In many cases, outpatient rehab programs are less expensive than inpatient rehab programs. However, cost still plays an important role in choosing a program.

Under the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA), insurance companies are required to provide substance misuse treatment services to the same extent that they do medical and surgical services.5

Choosing an Outpatient Rehab

As you search for the best rehab program for you, several factors can be helpful to keep in mind, such as:6

  • The type of care offered at the facility.
  • The location.
  • Its accreditation.
  • Whether the facility uses evidence-based practices.
  • Whether the facility offers medication.
  • Whether the facility includes family members in the treatment process.
  • Specialized services, if needed (e.g., services geared toward certain populations like veterans).
  • Your insurance coverage.

Finding the right treatment program can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. If you need help, American Addiction Centers (AAC) is available 24/7 to provide information, resources, and support when you contact AAC at . It’s confidential and free, and there is no obligation to enter an outpatient rehab program. You can also easily verify your insurance online and determine the right option for you or use our rehab directory to find a treatment center.