What is Outpatient Rehab Treatment?

Most programs offered by a rehab centre require a client to live on site for a certain period of time. Outpatient treatment is different.

An outpatient rehab program in Toronto is very similar to an inpatient or traditional, rehab program in Toronto. The client is provided with many of the same services, like therapy and counselling. The main difference is that clients do not board at a treatment centre.

Though clients in an outpatient program retain access to most core services, staying off site does colour the experience in a unique way that might suit some, but not others. 

What are the disadvantages of outpatient care?

Besides the room and the bed, clients lack access to the amenities hosted by the treatment facility. This may include recreational games, like table tennis, a gym or swimming pool, or secluded outdoor grounds. These things can be considered nice-to-haves for a rehab program, though their use is not just as a distraction. Physical exercise, time outside and general enjoyment can make the healing process fuller and quicker. 

The outpatient service also lacks constant surveillance and a dedicated support network. For some, this undermines the very concept of rehabilitation; addiction is called what it is because a person can’t stop doing a certain thing on their own. Without constant oversight, clients are at greater risk to relapse. 

And oversight aside, outpatient programs lack the sense of community that can be felt at a treatment centre. Not just between the staff and clients, but amongst the clients themselves. 

Of course, the outpatient service is not without its benefits.

What are the benefits of outpatient care?

When we discuss the ‘benefits’ of rehab treatment, we’re not talking about what’s easiest or most comfortable; we’re talking about what helps someone overcome their addiction. But because different people respond more positively to different methods of treatment, there’s no single approach that’s best for everyone.

Though some people benefit most from being secluded from the outside world, others are able to make better progress with minimal disruption to their daily life. The outpatient program is beneficial to the latter. 

One of the main benefits of the outpatient program is that it is significantly cheaper than the inpatient program. This because treatment requires less personnel, no room and board, and no maintenance to the treatment centre’s amenities. 

Outpatient programs are also more flexible. Clients are able to arrange appointments and sessions to meet their schedules, rather than adhere to a fixed on site agenda. 

The outpatient program is also a live test for what comes after rehab treatment – avoiding a relapse. Whereas inpatient clients may find it challenging to stay sober after leaving the isolated confines of a treatment centre, outpatient clients are developing a familiarity with becoming and staying sober in their everyday life. For most, this is a greater challenge, but it can also help strengthen the client’s resolve. 

Who is outpatient treatment most suitable for?

Outpatient treatment can be useful for some, but it isn’t for everyone. With less oversight and the absence of continual professional support, outpatient programs are best suited for people who have a strong network of support at home. Whether it’s parents, a partner or close friends, having someone that holds the client accountable is important. 

It’s also crucial that the client be able to function in their daily lives while recovering from their addiction. If withdrawal is having a strong impact, for example, the chances of relapsing are much higher without supervision. But if the client is at a place where they can perform tasks as usual, immersion in social situations may potential help stimulate recovery.