Outpatient care for addiction and mental health refers to a wide range of therapeutic services designed to help people struggling with substance use disorders or mental health challenges.[1] Outpatient care includes various approaches, such as therapy sessions, group counseling, educational workshops, and medication management, all aimed at promoting recovery and overall wellness.
This level of care is generally recommended for those who require ongoing support but do not need constant supervision or medical attention.[2] Outpatient programs can be less intensive and provide more flexibility than extended care or intensive treatment options. They often serve as a crucial step-down program for those transitioning from a treatment facility or as an entry point for those who recognize their need for professional guidance.
Through structured outpatient programs, patients have access to individualized treatment plans, evidence-based therapies, and specialized care from experienced professionals. Individuals can build the skills and self-awareness necessary to achieve and sustain their long-term recovery goals by engaging in a collaborative process with clinicians and peers facing similar challenges.
How (and Why) Outpatient Treatment Works at MARC
Outpatient treatment plays a crucial role in providing comprehensive care for patients recovering from substance use disorders and dual diagnosis issues at Maryland Addiction Recovery Center (MARC.) Our facility offers a range of outpatient services for patients stepping down from MARC extended care, PHP or IOP treatment tailored to meet the unique needs of each person, with a focus on long-term recovery and holistic wellness.
Outpatient treatment at MARC functions through a combination of individual therapy sessions, group counseling, educational workshops, and unique programming. This multidisciplinary approach addresses the physical, emotional, and social aspects of addiction, fostering a well-rounded recovery process.
At MARC, we understand that the journey to recovery can be filled with challenges, and our outpatient treatment programs are designed to support those who have already been struggling in their recovery process. With a focus on treating all adults, MARC is committed to providing specialized care that addresses the unique needs of each person.
Our outpatient services are an organic extension of our higher levels of care and cater to those who require continued support while managing their daily responsibilities. By fostering a safe and inclusive environment, MARC helps clients develop healthy coping mechanisms and build the resilience necessary to overcome the obstacles they face in their recovery journey.
By addressing the underlying causes of addiction and equipping clients with healthy coping mechanisms, MARC empowers individuals to achieve and sustain long-term sobriety.
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The Efficacy of Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient treatment has proven to be an effective approach to addressing substance use disorders and promoting long-term recovery. Research has identified several factors that contribute to successful outcomes in outpatient care, highlighting the importance of a comprehensive and individualized treatment approach:[3]
Participation in self-help groups during treatment and the establishment of clear treatment goals are primary predictors of successful outcomes. These elements foster a supportive environment, promote self-reflection, and enhance motivation for change.
Secondary predictors involve connecting clients with additional resources, such as linking them to a primary care provider (PCP) to ensure their basic needs are met and further support their recovery efforts.
Moreover, attending six or more self-help group sessions during treatment has been shown to improve outcomes, emphasizing the significance of consistent engagement in the recovery process.
Outpatient treatment plays a vital role within the full spectrum of care for substance use disorders. While it can serve as an entry point for some who are recognizing their need for professional guidance, it is also a critical component as a step-down program for those transitioning from more intensive treatment settings. As part of a comprehensive approach to addiction recovery, outpatient care ensures that clients receive the support they need to sustain their progress and maintain long-term sobriety.
What Our MARC Outpatient Alumni Are Saying
I am very fortunate and grateful I was able to be a patient at MARC for 9 months. It was a challenging program but it has helped me tremendously find footing in my early recovery. I have had multiple bouts of sobriety in the past but relapsed, I now feel very confident moving forward after experiencing the therapy I received at MARC. I would recommend this treatment facility to anybody who is willing to step outside of their comfort zone or has a window of willingness to change. It’s not an easy program to complete and I was challenged periodically but the professionals that I encountered pushed me to do the work on myself that was necessary. My family is just as grateful and that is a blessing.
MIKE H.
Recovering Patient
Without MARC, I would not have much of a life right now. Yes, this place is an addiction treatment center, and surely does intensive therapy for addiction and mental illness. But the residence/community living treatment program also teaches you invaluable life skills such as cleanliness, organization, work ethic, budgeting, communication, and interpersonal skills. Though some of these times for me were extremely difficult, and I hated being in treatment some of the time, I’m grateful to MARC for giving me a shot at an actual life. They don’t do the work for you, but they push you, and it’s up to you if you use the guidance/push to actually move forward.
THOMAS F.
Recovering Patient
I cannot recommend MARC enough. From the moment I arrived, I knew I was in the right place. The staff is incredibly caring and dedicated to helping patients overcome addiction. The treatment programs are top-notch and tailored to meet each individual's needs. The facility itself is clean, comfortable, and conducive to healing. I am grateful for the time I spent here and will forever be in debt to the staff for saving my life. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, this is the place to go. Five stars!
CASEY
Recovering Patient
Maryland addiction recovery center absolutely saved my life. Multiple times. I have been through several rehab facilities, and MARC was the only treatment center that showed a genuine care for my well-being. They continued to follow up with me afterwards, and 5 years after going through their program, they are still reaching out and extending their hand. I would highly recommend anyone to go through any of their programs.
DAVE D.
Recovering Patient
Marc’s therapeutic approach, mixed with AA/NA fellowships has saved my life ten times over. I came to Marc broken and scared. I had no idea how to live without the use of substances. Marc gives you the resources, and a community of people that show you, you can live a life beyond your wildest dreams. They offer a family program that allows you to improve on family dynamics, individual therapy, group therapy, rides to meetings, and a plethora of other services. It’s also important to note that even after completing Marc they still support me and my family. They genuinely care about their patients and I am forever grateful for the impact Marc continues to have on my life.
AUGUST J.
Recovering Patient
MARC’s Modalities for Outpatient Treatment
MARC employs a variety of evidence-based modalities in our outpatient treatment programs to address the unique needs of each client and foster long-term recovery
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps patients identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors, promoting the development of healthy coping mechanisms.
At MARC, we recognize that each person’s recovery journey is unique. To provide personalized care, we conduct a comprehensive assessment to determine the most suitable level of care for every patient. Our experienced team considers factors such as substance use severity, co-occurring mental health conditions, physical health, previous treatment experiences, living situations, support systems, and personal goals for recovery.
We collaborate to create a tailored treatment plan, which may involve intensive outpatient programs, extended care, or sober living options. As you progress through treatment, we continually assess your needs and adjust your plan accordingly. Our flexible approach ensures optimal support at every stage of your recovery, setting you up for long-term success.
Outpatient treatment allows people to attend therapy and support sessions while continuing to live at home, whereas inpatient treatment requires a residential stay at a facility with 24/7 supervision. Outpatient care is often more flexible, enabling you to manage daily responsibilities alongside your recovery.
The frequency of outpatient treatment sessions varies depending on your individual needs and treatment plan, typically ranging from a few times a week to several times a month. Your treatment team will customize the schedule based on your progress and goals.
Typically, outpatient treatment is designed to be flexible, allowing you to continue working or attending school while receiving care. This flexibility helps you integrate recovery into your daily life without interrupting your professional or academic responsibilities.
Outpatient treatment offers the advantage of maintaining daily routines and responsibilities while receiving therapy and support. It provides flexibility in scheduling and allows you to apply recovery skills in real-life situations, which can enhance the overall effectiveness of the treatment.
To determine if outpatient treatment is suitable, a healthcare professional will conduct an assessment to evaluate the severity of your addiction and your specific needs. They will consider factors such as your support system, daily responsibilities, and the level of care required to tailor the treatment approach to your situation.
[3] Baird, A., Cheng, Y., & Xia, Y. (2023). Determinants of outpatient substance use disorder treatment length-of-stay and completion: the case of a treatment program in the southeast U.S. Scientific Reports, 13(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-41350-8 on August 6, 2024
