What is Outpatient Alcohol Rehab Like in South Carolina?

Medically Verified: 2/1/24

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All of the information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional.

Alcoholism is a progressive and chronic condition that must be treated professionally. When it comes to treatment for alcoholism, individuals have many options to consider. The two main types of alcohol rehab are inpatient and outpatient programs. While inpatient programs require patients to reside at the facility throughout treatment, outpatient allows individuals to attend treatment during the day and return home at night. Because of this, individuals with work, school, or family obligations may opt for outpatient treatment rather than inpatient.

Outpatient alcohol rehab utilizes the same evidence-based treatment modalities as inpatient rehab, however, there is more responsibility and accountability placed on the patient. In other words, individuals who attend outpatient rehab must be self-motivated and focused on recovery. This means that individuals with severe cases of substance use disorder or people with untreated co-occurring disorders should consider attending an inpatient program before entering outpatient treatment.

Who Should Attend Outpatient Alcohol Treatment?

Outpatient treatment is intended for individuals who can remain self-sufficient in their recovery process. This means that individuals who require monitoring and supervision to prevent relapse should attend inpatient rehab before transitioning into outpatient treatment.

Outpatient rehab is best suited for individuals who:

• Are physically and psychologically stable
• Do not require intensive addiction and mental health treatment
• Have a stable home environment or sober living housing program to attend
• Can fully dedicate their energy to recovering from alcoholism
• Require a flexible treatment schedule to continue working, attending school, or taking care of family

Outpatient rehab is best utilized as a part of a continuum of care, where the individual attends inpatient treatment before transitioning to outpatient rehab. However, individuals who fit the above criteria may find success in outpatient rehab as a standalone treatment.

People with co-occurring disorders may attend outpatient rehab if their mental health condition is stabilized and managed enough to warrant outpatient treatment. However, people currently facing a mental health crisis should attend inpatient treatment where they can be properly monitored and supported.

Types of Outpatient Treatment Programs for Alcoholism

There are three different types of outpatient rehab programs for alcoholism offered in South Carolina. These include day programs, intensive outpatient programs, and continuing care programs. The type of outpatient alcohol rehab an individual will attend depends on their specific needs and what the facility they attend offers.

Day Programs

Outpatient day treatment is the most intensive form of outpatient care offered for alcoholism. Individuals who need more intensive care but cannot commit to an inpatient program should attend a day program. During day treatment, patients can expect to attend 5 to 7 sessions per week, depending on their specific needs and schedule. Also, dependent on the patient’s alcoholism recovery needs, they may attend full- or half-day sessions.

The treatment sessions an individual will attend may include the following during an outpatient day program:

• Medically-assisted detox
• Individual counseling
• Group therapy
• Support groups (12-step or mental health)
• Family therapy
• Addiction education groups
• Life skills groups

The length of a day program depends on the individual’s severity of alcoholism. Some people may complete a day program within a few weeks, while others may spend up to 6 months. Individuals may opt to continue their recovery process by attending an intensive outpatient program, a continuing care program, or a sober living housing program.

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)

Intensive outpatient programs are best suited for individuals with mild substance abuse issues. Additionally, IOPs are best suited for people who are continuing to attend work or school. Intensive outpatient programs work with the individual’s schedule, as they can either attend day sessions or night sessions. At the start of an IOP, treatment sessions will be more frequent. As the individual progresses in their recovery and begins to meet milestones, the sessions will decrease in frequency.

Because IOPs are less intensive, individuals need to have a stable support system and a healthy home to return to. For individuals without a stable home, it is recommended to attend a sober living housing program. This will provide the patient with the sober support they need to remain sober and complete their alcoholism recovery program.

Continuing Care Programs

Continuing care programs are meant to be used as a step-down program for people who have completed more intensive treatment programs previously. For example, an individual who completes a day program may decide to enroll in a continuing care program to further their foundation of alcoholism recovery. Continuing care groups typically meet once a week in a group setting for patients to discuss their recovery. These groups may be specific to the substance of abuse, mental health issues, and even trauma-informed care.

Benefits of Outpatient Alcohol Rehab in South Carolina

While inpatient treatment is considered to be more effective, there are many benefits of outpatient rehab to consider. Outpatient alcohol treatment is beneficial for individuals who can keep themselves accountable, need to continue working or caring for children, and have mild issues with alcoholism and mental health.

The benefits of outpatient alcohol treatment in South Carolina include:

• More affordable than inpatient treatment
• The flexibility to attend school, work, and care for family members while receiving treatment for alcoholism
• Normal daily routines rather than living in a clinical setting
• Access to a support system
• Ability to see family members and friends after attending treatment sessions
• Ability to practice the recovery maintenance techniques outside of treatment

Get Connected With a South Carolina Alcohol Rehab Program Today

If you or a loved one suffer from an alcohol use disorder, it’s time to consider attending professional treatment. Committing to an inpatient program can be scary and some individuals may not have the ability to stop working or caring for children while they attend treatment. If this is something you relate to, outpatient treatment may be right for you.

Contact us today for more information on how to get connected with a South Carolina alcohol rehab program.