Each has its benefits, depending on where someone is in their journey. Making the right choice between these two options can influence not just how recovery begins, but how sustainable and effective it is over time.
Inpatient substance use disorder treatment, also called residential care, is a program where someone stays full-time at a facility to focus on recovery. This type of care gives people a safe place to heal, away from stress, triggers, or unsafe living situations.
Inpatient programs offer full-time support, 24 hours a day, which can be critical in early recovery, especially during the tough moments when someone might otherwise return to substance use.
Having clinical staff available at all times ensures clients feel supported, especially during moments of emotional difficulty.
This level of care works best for people who:
At Longview Recovery, we offer a peaceful setting that supports healing. Our team uses an individualized approach to meet each person’s needs while teaching tools for long-term recovery.
Outpatient substance use disorder treatment offers professional care while allowing people to live at home. It’s a flexible approach that supports recovery without requiring someone to stay overnight in a facility.
People can attend therapy, meet with counselors, and build recovery skills while still going to work, school, or caring for family.
In the conversation around outpatient vs. inpatient SUD treatment, this model offers more independence and works well for those with mild to moderate substance use issues.
Outpatient care is available on several levels. These include:
This level provides the most structure of all outpatient options. Clients will attend treatment for most of the day, several days a week, but still return home at night. A PHP is often used as an immediate step-down from inpatient treatment.
This is the least intensive option for outpatient care. Therapy sessions are typically once or twice a week, offering ongoing support for people in stable recovery.
Each level focuses on therapy, skill-building, relapse prevention, and emotional health. These programs are designed to be flexible and tailored to a person’s progress in recovery.
In some cases, outpatient programs can be just as effective as inpatient care, depending on the severity of the condition and the support system at home.
At Longview Recovery, both inpatient and outpatient care are part of our full continuum of support – always individualized, open-minded, and rooted in long-term recovery.
Deciding between outpatient vs. inpatient SUD treatment is one of the most critical steps in building a strong foundation for recovery. While both paths can lead to positive change, they differ in key ways that may affect your day-to-day experience, level of support, and long-term success.
Below is a more detailed comparison of outpatient vs. inpatient SUD treatment:
Inpatient treatment provides full days scheduled with therapy, medical care, and structured activities.
However, outpatient treatment provides support that ranges from a few hours weekly to several hours daily, depending on the individual program.
Inpatient treatment provides 24/7 access to medical and clinical staff, who help manage withdrawal symptoms, mental health needs, and any emotional crises that may arise.
Outpatient treatments include therapy sessions scheduled during the week. With this structure, support is available to patients during program hours.
Inpatient treatments typically last about 30 to 90 days. However, this varies based on each individual’s progress.
Outpatient treatments, however, may last a few weeks to several months, adjusted based on the individual’s needs.
Other factors – like cost, transportation, emotional readiness, and family involvement – can also influence the decision.
When deciding between outpatient vs. inpatient SUD treatment, it’s important to look at your full situation, not just the level of care itself. The right choice depends on a mix of physical, mental, emotional, and practical needs.
Some factors to consider include:
One of the most essential steps in determining between outpatient vs. inpatient SUD treatment is getting a professional assessment. This helps identify what level of care gives you the best chance at recovery and long-term wellness.
At Longview Recovery, we take this process seriously. Our team looks at the full picture of each individual’s situation – not just their diagnosis. That’s how we recommend the right fit across our full range of services, from detox to inpatient to outpatient support.
In deciding between outpatient vs. inpatient SUD treatment, detox plays a critical role in both settings, but the level of care looks different:
At Longview Recovery, we offer medical and sub-acute detox in a secure, comfortable setting. Our facility supports the physical and mental aspects of withdrawal with around-the-clock care. Clients have access to emotional support, hydration, nutrition, and medication as needed.
Detox is not a cure – it’s a starting point. Once a person is medically stable, they can step into the next phase of care that matches their needs. For some, this may mean staying in inpatient treatment. For others, it may involve transitioning into a PHP or IOP.
Longview Recovery is more than a treatment center; it’s a place where clients receive care that fits who they are and what they need. We support both outpatient vs. inpatient SUD treatment by offering flexible, evidence-based care in a warm, calming, outdoor-inspired setting.
Each client begins with a personalized treatment plan. This includes input from licensed professionals and the clients themselves. We believe recovery works best when people are heard, respected, and included in their process.
Our services for both outpatient vs. inpatient SUD treatment include:
At Longview Recovery, we also emphasize connection with family. Many clients find strength in involving loved ones through education, therapy, or check-ins. This approach helps repair relationships and build a stronger base for recovery.
Whether someone is living at the facility or attending outpatient sessions, they receive the same compassionate attention. While the structure may vary depending on each person’s needs, the goal remains consistent – to support lasting change and overall wellness.
Choosing the right level of care can make all the difference in recovery from substance use disorder. Whether someone needs the structure of inpatient treatment or the flexibility of outpatient care, what matters most is finding a program that fits their unique needs and stage of healing.
The decision between outpatient vs. inpatient SUD treatment isn’t always simple. It involves understanding the severity of substance use, support systems at home, and any co-occurring mental health needs. With the right match, recovery becomes not just possible, but sustainable.
Longview Recovery offers both inpatient and outpatient SUD treatment options at our peaceful locations in Santa Fe and Taos, New Mexico. We take an individualized approach to care, creating customized treatment plans and offering support through every step – from detox to therapy to long-term aftercare.
Our team values flexibility, healthy relationships, life skills, and evidence-based treatment that truly meets people where they are.
If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use, now is the time to reach out. Let us help you explore your options, understand what level of care makes the most sense, and take that next step toward a healthier, more connected future.
