The Pros and Cons of Outpatient and Residential Drug Treatment in Los Angeles

1. The first step toward recovering from drugs is to realize you need help to beat the addiction. The next big step is deciding whether you should opt for outpatient or residential drug treatment in Los Angeles. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. Outpatient Drug Treatment Outpatient drug treatment in Los Angeles enables you to come and go to and from your treatment. You have to complete a certain number of counseling sessions that last a specific amount of time before the program is completed. The pros of outpatient treatment are:  Outpatient treatment enables you to continue your daily activities, such as caring for your children and work. Counseling sessions tend to be offered at times you can attend. You are able to start making changes in your life immediately. Outpatient is an affordable treatment method because insurance companies tend to cover it. Outpatient programs include family sessions in order to strengthen your support system by giving them an understanding of what you’re dealing with.     The cons of outpatient drug treatment include the risk of being exposed to triggers and influences in your life because you are still engaging in your regular activities, easy access to drugs, daily life distractions, not much time spent with others in recovery in order to create a stronger support system, and limited counselor access.

2. Residential Drug Treatment Residential drug treatment , also known as “inpatient” treatment, requires a long-term stay. The typical length is 28 days, but it can vary based on the diagnosis, situation, and whether there is insurance coverage to pay for the stay. The pros include:  24-hour supervision by trained therapists and staff. There is plenty of assistance at all times. The level of care of residential drug treatment in Los Angeles is intensive in order to beat the addiction. Those that have battled addiction in the past tend to be good candidates for this level of care. The distractions of daily life and its worries aren’t present while focusing on recovery. You are part of a community that consists of other residents that are also overcoming addiction. You are in a residential setting where more time is provided to you each day through group and individual counseling. Other treatment exercises may be necessary.     The cons include the inability to come and go as you please; the structured environment determines what time you do certain activities, like eating; you will need to arrange for child care during treatment; you will need to take leave from your job; and your insurance company may only cover outpatient costs for drug treatment in Los Angeles and not inpatient. Which Drug Treatment in Los Angeles Is Right for You? It is very important to weigh the pros and cons of outpatient and Residential drug treatment in Los Angeles so you can decide which is going to help you most. It also depends on which is more feasible for you. By choosing the right solution, you can beat the addiction and move on with your life drug-free.