Start with the support a person needs. A clinical assessment helps determine the appropriate intensity of care; a preferred destination or room cannot make that decision.
Care while living at home
Outpatient treatment involves scheduled visits for therapy, medication support or both. More intensive outpatient and day programs provide a coordinated schedule while the person lives outside the facility.
Care with an overnight stay
Residential programs provide treatment in a setting where people stay overnight. Intensive inpatient care provides medically directed, round-the-clock services and may manage withdrawal. Providers sometimes use these labels differently, so ask about their actual medical capabilities.
Questions that clarify the difference
- Who is available overnight?
- Which medical needs can be managed on site?
- What happens if hospital care is required?
- How will care continue after discharge?
Source: NIAAA — types of alcohol treatment. This overview uses alcohol treatment as its reference; planning for other conditions requires an appropriate clinical assessment.