Outpatient Drug Treatment:
Breaking Free from Addiction

Find out how outpatient drug treatment offers flexible, accessible, and comprehensive care for people with drug abuse while maintaining their daily responsibilities.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of Contents

Overview of Outpatient Drug Treatment

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a severe condition affecting countless individuals and their families. Deciding to seek treatment can be difficult, as people who suffer from substance use disorder may feel shame and social stigma.

However, outpatient drug treatment programs offer continuity of care, flexibility, and a comprehensive treatment approach. This helps address the psychological, social, and behavioral aspects of addiction and recovery.

At Skyline Recovery Center (SRC), our California-based outpatient drug treatment program allows patients to perform their daily responsibilities while focusing on their recovery. This flexibility makes it a vital and convenient option for many individuals and their loved ones.

We ensure patients have access to accessible, cost-effective, and evidence-based treatment methods to promote long-term recovery.
outpatient drug treatment

Understanding Outpatient Drug Treatment

Outpatient drug treatment is a type of rehabilitation program for SUD that allows patients to receive treatment for their addiction. It is a program that ensures patients have the luxury of living at home and maintaining their daily work, school, and family commitments during healing.

These programs cater to the behavioral, physical, social, and psychological aspects of treatment and long-lasting recovery.

Outpatient Drug Treatment Programs: Treatment Modalities

Outpatient drug treatment requires a variety of treatment modalities that depend on the diverse needs of each individual. Our treatment modalities are carefully crafted to provide comprehensive care, support recovery, and prevent relapse.
Here are some of the treatment modalities we may utilize in our outpatient drug treatment program:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is an evidence-based treatment method that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors related to drug abuse. Through CBT, patients understand their feelings and develop effective coping strategies to help maintain sobriety.
Here are some of the standard components of CBT for outpatient drug treatment:
  • Assessment and identification of specific problems related to substance use. 
  • Setting achievable goals, such as reducing substance abuse and avoiding triggers.
  • Helping patients examine and recognize the circumstances contributing to drug abuse.
  • Cognitive restructuring techniques to challenge distorted thoughts.
  • Gradual exposure to triggers in a controlled environment to reduce their power and effect over time.
  • Skill-building exercises like deep breathing, muscle relaxation, and mindfulness to manage stress without resorting to substance use.
CBT is one of the most researched and validated forms of therapy for substance use disorders. Numerous studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing substance use and maintaining sobriety.1

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical behavior therapy is an effective treatment modality used in outpatient drug treatment programs. This is especially true for patients with co-occurring mental health disorders such as borderline personality disorder, depression, and anxiety.
DBT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices to help individuals manage their emotions and develop healthy coping mechanisms. It helps reduce impulsive behaviors and teaches skills for stress tolerance.
The typical components of DBT include:
  • Individual therapy with DBT-trained specialists.
  • Group therapy and a supportive environment where patients can learn DBT skills with their peers.
  • Focusing on the application of skills learned in individual and group therapy in real-time situations.
  • Focusing on improving relationships, which includes learning to assert needs, set boundaries, and manage conflicts effectively.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Medication-assisted treatment combines the use of medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to treat substance use disorders. MAT is mainly used for opioid and alcohol dependence, but it can also be effective for other drug use disorders.
At Skyline Recovery Center, we use medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, naltrexone, disulfiram, and acamprosate. These medications help reduce cravings, manage withdrawal symptoms, and block the euphoric effects of substances.2
The benefits of MAT include:
  • Supporting sustained recovery
  • Improving retention in treatment 
  • Preventing relapse
  • Lowering the risk of an overdose
  • Enhancing the quality of life and building a more functional and balanced lifestyle
Research has consistently shown that individuals receiving MAT are more likely to achieve and maintain sobriety compared to those who receive only counseling or behavioral therapies.3

Group Therapy

Group therapy involves regular meetings where people struggling with substance use disorders come together to share their experiences, support each other, and work toward recovery.
At Skyline Recovery Center, our group therapy sessions are done under the guidance of a trained therapist or counselor. It focuses on discussing personal issues and providing information about addiction, recovery, and coping strategies.4
We help patients understand that they are not alone. This can reduce feelings of isolation and shame, along with the fact that there are other people they can rely on for emotional support and encouragement.
Group therapy can also create a structure that helps patients stay accountable for their recovery goals. Knowing they have to report their progress to the group can motivate them to stay on track.

Family Therapy

At Skyline Recovery Center, our family therapy session is designed to involve the family in the recovery process and address the personal dynamics that may contribute to drug abuse.
Family therapy focuses on improving communication, resolving conflicts, and fostering a supportive environment that promotes long-term recovery.
Some objectives of family therapy include:
  • Developing healthier communication patterns 
  • Addressing unresolved conflicts contributing to drug abuse 
  • Teaching problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills 
  • Encouraging mutual support, unity, and understanding among family members
  • Helping family members understand the recovery process and their role in it
  • Identifying patterns of codependency
During family therapy at SRC, family members are educated on how best to resolve conflicts, avoid triggers, and create a conducive environment for long-term recovery.

How Does SRC Personalize Outpatient Drug Treatment?

To choose the best treatment modality for a patient, SRC considers an individualized and holistic approach to cater to each patient’s needs and goals.
Personalized treatment plans are created based on thorough initial assessments. A holistic approach addresses co-occurring disorders through mindfulness, meditation, emotional regulation, and stress management.
Our approach promotes sustained recovery by addressing the mind, body, and spirit. This ensures comprehensive and effective care.

Types of Outpatient Drug Treatment Programs

Outpatient drug treatment programs come in various forms, each designed to meet different needs and levels of care required by people seeking recovery from drug use disorders.
Here are some common types of outpatient drug treatment programs:5

Standard Outpatient Program (SOP)

SOP treatment involves scheduled therapy sessions and group counseling. Sessions are held a few times a week for a few hours.

This outpatient drug treatment program is suitable for individuals with less severe addictions or those transitioning from more intensive care. A SOP primarily focuses on relapse prevention, coping strategies, and education.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

An IOP is more intensive than a standard outpatient program and offers a higher level of care. IOP sessions are held several times weekly, usually three to four hours per session.

This program is for patients who require more support but do not need 24-hour supervision. It focuses on structured therapy, group counseling, and skills training and knowledge.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

A PHP is a highly intensive outpatient drug treatment, and it is sometimes referred to as day treatment. Unlike a SOP or IOP, a PHP is held five to seven days a week for several hours daily.

It is suitable for individuals with severe addictions or those needing intensive care while living at home. A PHP entails medical monitoring, comprehensive therapy, and psychiatric services.

Continuing Care Programs

Also known as aftercare, these programs provide ongoing support after the completion of more intensive treatment. Patients are advised to make regular but less frequent meetings, often weekly or bi-weekly, to monitor their progress.
Aftercare ensures long-term support and relapse prevention through continuous therapy, support groups, and regular check-ins.

Holistic Outpatient Program

This outpatient drug treatment program integrates traditional therapies with complementary, holistic approaches. It combines counseling with alternative therapies such as yoga, meditation, acupuncture, and art therapy to address the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.

The frequency of these sessions is usually based on the individual’s treatment plan.

What Are the Benefits of Outpatient Drug Treatment?

Outpatient drug treatment offers numerous benefits, which is why it is a good option for many people seeking recovery from drug use disorders.
Below are some of the benefits of outpatient drug treatment:

Flexibility

Outpatient drug treatment allows patients to maintain their daily responsibilities, such as work, school, and family commitments while still receiving treatment.
Treatment sessions are also customized and scheduled around personal commitments, making integrating the treatment program into a daily routine easier.

Real-World Application

Outpatient drug treatment helps patients apply the skills and strategies they learn in therapy directly to their everyday environments. They learn how to handle real-life triggers and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Support Systems

Through family involvement in therapy, a patient’s family learns how to support their loved one and provide a strong support network at home.
Also, group therapy during treatment creates a support group, fostering a sense of community, togetherness, and shared experience.

Comprehensive Care

Although outpatient drug treatment is in a 24-hour care service, it still involves a comprehensive care program that combines therapies addressing mental, physical, and emotional health.
It also provides medical care, psychiatric support, and various forms of counseling. This happens in a coordinated and comprehensive manner.

Continuity of Care

At Skyline Recovery Center, we offer our clients ongoing support through continuing care programs and regular therapy sessions. This helps to sustain recovery and facilitates a smoother transition from intensive treatment to independent living.

Individualized Plans

One of the benefits of outpatient drug treatment includes individualized treatment plans. SRC creates plans to meet the specific needs and circumstances of each client. We also leave room to make adjustments based on the individual’s progress and changing needs.

Cost-Effectiveness

Outpatient programs are generally more affordable than inpatient programs, reducing the financial burden on individuals and families. It is also often covered by insurance, making it a viable option for low-income individuals.

outpatient drug treatment

SRC: Your Partner in Outpatient Drug Treatment Recovery

At Skyline Recovery Center, we aim to make our patients the best versions of themselves. As a leading provider of outpatient drug treatment in Los Angeles, we provide comprehensive care for people with substance use and mental health disorders.

Our Outpatient Services

Our outpatient programs help our clients’ learn and hone the ability to achieve substance use and mental health recovery, maintain wellness, and improve their overall quality of life.
This includes:
  • Stabilization
  • Recovery support
  • Life skills building
  • Psychoeducation
  • Individual and group psychotherapy support
  • Reintegration
  • Peer support
  • Relapse prevention planning
  • Long-term sobriety and stabilized mental health 
With outpatient drug treatment, you can enjoy your treatment and recovery without any disruption to your daily routine.

Our Commitment to Providing a Supportive Environment

At Skyline Recovery Center, we prioritize nurturing an environment where individuals feel empowered and understood. Our experienced team doesn’t just treat the symptoms – we cultivate comprehensive healing of the mind, body, and spirit.
We address the full spectrum of addiction as well as any co-occurring mental health conditions through comprehensive, tailored, and evidence-based care.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Healing

SRC does not just use any treatment method for patients – each method is specific to every client. We have holistic plans that give each client an experience of their own. We understand that proper recovery entails recovery of the mind, body, and spirit, so we practice mindfulness and meditation.

Healing Starts Here — the Sky’s the Limit

Withdrawing from drug use can be challenging, especially when you have other daily activities. Our Outpatient drug treatment program is crafted to incorporate therapies and holistic approaches to healing.
SRC treats drug use disorders while addressing co-occurring mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.

Start Your Outpatient Drug Treatment With Us

If you are in recovery from drug use, we can provide the needed support and care through our outpatient drug treatment program. At Skyline Recovery Center, we provide care without disrupting your daily activities and commitment.

Take a bold step and start your outpatient drug treatment with us today. Let’s meet your ever-evolving needs and bring you closer to long-term recovery. We have professionals who help you achieve total transformation.