Which Level of Addiction Treatment Is Right for You?

If you’ve made the courageous decision to seek addiction treatment, you are to be congratulated on reaching an important life milestone.  But, you are likely to have many questions about the different addiction treatment levels that are available.  

To choose the best program, you must consider the severity of your substance use and the presence of any co-occurring mental health disorders.  Also, the amount of time you can commit to being away from work or home for several weeks is a factor in determining the best level of treatment.    

Different Addiction Treatment Levels

The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) describes 5 categories of addiction treatment.  Each category varies in intensity.  Once you understand the categories, you can determine which of the types of addiction treatment is most appropriate for you.  Or, you can have a counselor, physician, or addiction specialist advise you.

Here are some things to know about the different addiction treatment levels:

Level 0.5 – Early Intervention Services

Early intervention is for people who are at risk of developing SUD or who have symptoms of SUD but do not meet the diagnostic criteria for addiction.  This level of treatment focuses on addressing the risk factors for substance use such as:

• Lack of parental support or supervision
• Dysfunctional relationships
• Aggressive behavior
• Easy availability of substances

This program aims to prevent individuals from developing a life-altering substance use disorder.

Level 1 – Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient treatment is the addiction treatment level for people with mild substance use problems who need to maintain their obligations to work, school, and family.  It is the lowest level in terms of intensity and is a flexible, affordable program.  Patients meet with treatment professionals regularly for evaluation and follow-up.  Most outpatient programs require about nine hours of treatment weekly.  

Level 2 – Intensive Outpatient / Partial Hospitalization

These programs are highly structured and are best suited for patients with substance use problems along with co-occurring disorders.  

• Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) – Require 9 to 20 hours per week.  Meetings are available during the day, evening, or weekend.  This allows patients to attend school, continue working, and manage other responsibilities.
• Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) – PHPs are the most intensive of the outpatient programs.  They require at least 20 hours per week of counseling, family therapy, and psychoeducation.  Frequent meetings with therapists and medical staff are integrated into the treatment plan.

IOPs and PHPs offer more resources than those provided by other outpatient services.  

Level 3 – Inpatient or Residential Programs

Inpatient/residential programs offer more stability than outpatient programs.  Patients remain at the facility for around-the-clock treatment and supervision.  Programs like these are best suited for people who have functional impairments caused by substance abuse.  

An inpatient program provides protection against outside influences that trigger substance abuse.  Programs can be customized to meet the needs of each patient so that they receive the right level of care.

Level 4 – Medically Managed Intensive Inpatient Programs

At this level of addiction treatment, patients are monitored by medical and clinical professionals.  The program provides medical detox and medication-assisted treatment (MAT).  Co-occurring disorders are treated and patients are monitored daily by a physician.

What Is Continuum of Care in Addiction Treatment Levels?

You have probably come across the term “continuum of care” in your search for addiction treatment.  What does it mean and how does it relate to your treatment?  Continuum of care refers to the progress of your treatment process. During treatment, your needs change.  The program can adapt to meet these changes.  

For example, you started treatment at Level 1.  Although you stopped using the substance, you may still have mental health issues or are still in withdrawal.  If so, you can step down to the appropriate level.  It’s not unusual to step down from Level 4 to Level 1 (outpatient) treatment.

Trust Design for Change Recovery for the Highest-Quality in Addiction Treatment Levels

Based on what you now know about addiction treatment levels, who do you trust to provide these services?  An accredited program that offers comprehensive, evidence-based treatment methodologies is your best option.  

You will find everything you need in effective addiction treatment at Design for Change Recovery.  Our compassionate, skilled professionals make sure you get the highest level of treatment available today.   When you leave our program, you will be ready to face life with an improved sense of confidence and motivation.

Depending on your preferences and requirements, we can customize a program just for you.  Our facility provides a comforting, secure environment where you can leave daily stress behind and focus on healing.    

We offer intervention services, outpatient and inpatient programs, and a multifaceted treatment approach that adapts to the individual needs of each client.   

Now that you’ve decided to seek treatment, contact our Lancaster, CA facility today to learn more about our programs.  It is our goal to help you achieve sobriety so that you can live an enjoyable life.

Sources: 

• ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ – DSM-5 Criteria for Substance Use Disorders: Recommendations and Rationale
• asamcontinuum.org/ – What Are the ASAM Levels of Care?