Outpatient addiction treatment centers may use a variety of methods to treat alcoholism and drug abuse. Patients in outpatient programs are able to live at home and go to the treatment center at appointed times and days to receive help. Sessions may be held either during the daytime or in the evenings. They typically last around four to six weeks, with sessions three to five days per week. This can be a good option for individuals who only have a minor addiction problem and have a job. This way, they can go to a rehab program without missing work.

Outpatient addiction programs vary a lot in the types of treatment they offer. Some of the most common services that this option can provide are support groups, 12-step programs, talk therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. The goal is to teach the addict how to change their lifestyle, avoid triggers and resist cravings, and ultimately to abstain from drugs and alcohol. Some of these addiction treatment programs are also more intensive than others. Some are a lot like residential rehab programs with a wide offering of services, but others are much more limited in depth.

Outpatient treatment centers are only for certain people. Most addicts would prefer to choose outpatient rehab because it is the fastest and easiest method. However, it is only effective for a very small percentage of people suffering from alcoholism and drug addictions. Most addicts need long-term residential rehab treatment to successfully recover.

Individuals who are good candidates for outpatient treatment only have a recent history of addiction and/or minor addiction problems. This means that they should be able to go without alcohol or drugs for at least a couple of days when they want to. They should be very motivated towards recovery and have a supportive network of family and friends.