Getting help with your addiction is a big step. Fortunately, it’s one you don’t have to take alone. Today, many people are turning to virtual outpatient addiction treatment. Virtual care can offer flexibility, convenience, and personalized care from the comforts of your home. The Department of Health & Human Services says virtual addiction treatment can offer benefits including increased privacy, reduced stigma, and continuity of care. If you’re experiencing opioid use disorder (OUD), virtual treatment may be available.
Virtual treatment is designed for people who prefer to get professional support online. Instead of going to a clinic, members get treatment on virtual platforms. You’ll still receive expert care. This may include medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) like Suboxone. Instead of going to a clinic, though, you can take it at home or wherever you feel comfortable.
If you’re not sure whether virtual treatment is right for you, it can help to learn about some of the benefits offered by this treatment approach.
5 reasons to consider virtual outpatient addiction treatment near you
- Flexibility — One of the best things about virtual treatment is how flexible it is. In traditional programs, you may have to drive to a clinic at a set time. But with virtual care, you can choose appointments that fit your schedule. There could be a lot of different things that limit your availability. You might work during the day or take care of kids. In these situations, virtual programs can give you more options. You can find the time that works best for you without disrupting your daily life. Many programs offer early morning, evening, and even weekend appointments, so you don’t have to pause your life to get the care you need. Virtual programs are also flexible if things change. If you get a new job or move to a different place, you can still attend your sessions online. This flexibility can help you stay on track with your recovery and build the future you want.
- Access — With virtual treatment, you don’t need to live near a clinic or rehab center to get the help you need. If you live somewhere that doesn’t have many treatment options, virtual care lets you connect with experts online. You can access the same level of care without traveling long distances. All you need is a device like a phone, tablet, or computer and a reliable internet connection. This makes it much easier for people who don’t have transportation or live far away to get help. If you’re not sure if a virtual provider serves your area, you can contact them to find out more.
- Privacy — Privacy is often important for people looking for addiction treatment. Virtual programs let you get help in a private and secure way without needing to visit a clinic or be seen by others. Your sessions will all happen online — you can talk to your counselor or doctor from the comfort of your own home. Good programs follow strict rules to protect your privacy. With these rules, your personal information can stay safe and confidential.
- Personalization — Everyone’s path to recovery is different. Good treatment programs, virtual and in-person alike, understand this. They create care plans that fit the specific needs of each member. Instead of using the same plan for everyone, you’ll get one that’s personalized for you. Your care plan might include group therapy, medication, life-goal support, and more. Life-goal guidance and support may take many forms. For example, it might mean finding stable housing or applying for a new job. Virtual treatment takes personalization to the next level by enabling you to receive care in whatever environment is ideal for you. Whether you feel most comfortable attending group therapy in a coffee shop or the privacy of your living room, you can get the support you need wherever you are.
- Comfort — One of the best things about virtual outpatient treatment is how comfortable it can be. You don’t have to travel, sit in waiting rooms, or find transportation. Instead, you can join your sessions from wherever you feel relaxed, like your living room or bedroom. Being in a familiar space can help you focus on your recovery. Many people feel more comfortable opening up about their struggles when they’re at home. Virtual care makes it easier to get the help you need without the stress of going to a clinic.
Benefits of in-person outpatient treatment for addiction near you
While virtual care has many strengths, in-person treatment can be a viable option as well. Some potential benefits of choosing in-person care include:
- Face-to-face connection — Meeting with people in person can make you feel more connected. In addiction treatment, this might include meeting face-to-face with specialists and support groups. Some people find it easier to open up during in-person sessions.
- Structured environment — In-person programs typically offer regular routines and schedules. This can be helpful if you need structure to stay on track.
- Immediate access — Some in-person treatment centers provide rapid access to on-site treatment. You may be able to get medical care, counseling, and group therapy right away in person. This may make it easier to get help when you need it. Need urgent treatment for withdrawal or overdose symptoms? Virtual care may not be appropriate for situations like acute overdose, complicated withdrawal, or suicidal ideation. Instead, you may need to seek in-person treatment at an urgent care center or hospital emergency room.
Choosing between virtual and in-person care depends on your needs, preferences, and lifestyle. Some people even combine both options for a hybrid approach. For example, you might start with in-person care and switch to virtual once you feel more stable.
What to look for in an outpatient addiction treatment center near you
Finding the right outpatient treatment center is an important step toward recovery. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a program:
- Comprehensive services — Look for a center that offers more than just medication. The best programs combine MOUD, group therapy, and life-goal support.
- Qualified staff — Make sure the center has staff who are licensed in their fields. These staff might include counselors, medical providers, and other support specialists.
- Insurance acceptance — Check that the program accepts your insurance. Most reputable providers accept a wide range of insurance plans. Ask about self-pay options if you don’t have insurance.
- Flexible scheduling — Recovery should fit into your life, not disrupt it. Find a program that offers flexible appointment times. Make sure they have evening and weekend availability if needed.
- Positive reviews — Positive reviews and testimonials are usually a good sign. They show that a treatment provider delivers positive outcomes. When looking into a provider, read online reviews. Ask others who have been through the program about their experiences. Find out whether other people felt comfortable and supported during their recovery journey. A supportive and welcoming environment is key to success.
Get comprehensive virtual or in-person opioid addiction treatment at Groups
Virtual outpatient addiction treatment offers many benefits. However, it may not be right for everyone. If you have severe symptoms or need supervision, you may benefit more from inpatient care. For people who want flexibility and convenience, virtual programs may be best.
Whether you’re looking for virtual or in-person support, Groups is here to help. We offer comprehensive virtual and in-person treatment to help you on your recovery journey. Our care includes access to Suboxone, therapy, life-goal assistance, and a supportive community. We understand that recovery is a personal journey, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Give our Recovery Support Specialists a call today to find out whether Groups is right for you or to begin your recovery. If Groups doesn’t offer treatment in your state, you can locate other treatment options here.
