Find the Right Help for Non-Intensive Outpatient Treatment for Substance Abuse

Making the decision to stop the use of substances may be one of the best things you have ever done for yourself. Though, for many, there may be a number of steps involved to ensure that recovery is a success. Relapse has proven be a real and daunting issue that most will be faced with after rehabilitation. Whatever your path to recovery entails; detoxification, inpatient treatment, residential treatment, intensive outpatient treatment (IOP) etc., it is often imperative that non-intensive outpatient treatment (N-IOP) is a part of your ongoing relapse prevention plan.

The road to recovery can begin in many places, some may require more intensive interventions while others benefit from less intensive services. If substances have caused distress in your life, though you do not experience physical withdrawal symptoms when you abstain from use, a non-intensive outpatient approach could be a wonderful place to start. N-IOP can assist you in restoring your health and support your decision to abstain from substances for good. With the help of a knowledgeable licensed clinical addiction specialist, an outpatient treatment approach can be successful, without the need for more intensive programs that may interfere with daily life.

Non-Intensive Outpatient Program: What is it?

An outpatient program can either offer “intensive” or “non-intensive” care. According to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA), intensive care programs require patients to spend a variable number of hours, ranging from nine to 72 hours a week, participating in some form of treatment. In contrast, an N-IOP requires clients to participate in therapy for less than nine hours per week.

An inpatient program can include cost almost double those compared to a non-intensive outpatient program. The latter may be a more economical option, and therefore preferable, for people for whom this level of care is appropriate. This type of setting can also be beneficial for those able to continue with their employment or education during treatment. Having a strong support system can also influence the efficacy of N-IOP.

N-IOP: Is it the right option?

When choosing the appropriate type of treatment it is important to receive a thorough assessment from a licensed professional. N-IOP may be an appropriate option if you have completed a detox program and wish to continue receiving professional assistance to prevent relapse. It is also a wonderful next step to facilitate the transition from an intensive treatment program, such as inpatient treatment, residential treatment or intensive outpatient treatment (IOP) Addiction is a chronic and pervasive disorder, ongoing treatment is often necessary to ensure success.

N-IOP is also extremely effective for those that also experience symptoms of depression, anxiety and other mood/anxiety disorders. Recovery is possible, you deserve to feel better and to live the life you choose not one chosen by your addiction, N-IOP can help.

The Challenge: Finding the Right Help

You have decided to begin your road to recovery. In order to not to continue along this path, getting the right help from the right N-IOP treatment provider is important. You may be wondering where to start or what type of professional to seek out. To begin your search, look for a qualified Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS).

A LCAS is a professional with a master’s degree that has completed a clinical internship from an accredited college or university. In North Carolina, they are professionals who satisfy the requirements of the North Carolina Substance Abuse Professional Practice Board. According to the NCSAPPB, the scope of their practice “consists of the Twelve Core Functions, including:

  1. Screening
  2. Intake
  3. Orientation
  4. Assessment
  5. Treatment planning
  6. Counseling
  7. Case management
  8. Crisis intervention
  9. Client education
  10. Report and record keeping
  11. Consultation with other professionals in regard to client treatment and services
  12. Referral to reduce the conditions that place individuals at risk of developing addictive disorder or disease with co-occurring disorders, and treatment for addictive disorder or disease.

Carolina Counseling Services: Find Your LCAS

In North Carolina, finding a professional licensed clinical addiction specialist is easy. All you need to do is to visit the website or call Carolina Counseling Services – Fayetteville, NC. Check the profiles of the therapists to begin your search and connect with a qualified professional. For your convenience “LCAS” will be written next to their name so that you may begin to connect with your therapist and know that they have successfully met the standards set by NCSAPPB.

Carolina Counseling Services has independently contracted therapists who can help. You and your therapist can explore your history and unique needs to begin your recovery. Don’t wait to start living the life you deserve, call and make your first appointment.

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