Alternatives to inpatient rehab
If you’re researching rehab and its alternatives, you’re already taking an important first step. Seeking help for addiction isn’t easy, and many people feel anxious about what treatment might involve.
Rehab doesn’t always mean a 28-day hospital stay. Depending on your circumstances, more flexible treatment options may be a better fit.
This article outlines the full range of alternatives to inpatient rehab, from residential therapy to community support and online programmes.
Why inpatient rehab isn’t right for everyone
For some people, inpatient hospital care is the right choice, but it’s not appropriate for everyone.
There are many reasons why alternatives to inpatient rehab may be a better fit, including:
- Cost: Inpatient rehab is typically the most expensive option
- Time: Spending 28 days in hospital may not be practical for everyone
- Work: It may not be possible to take four weeks away from work
- Childcare and family responsibilities: Caring commitments can make an extended stay away from home difficult to commit to
- Stigma: Some people may feel that there is shame associated with inpatient rehab
- Severity of addiction: Not everyone requires the level of support provided by inpatient rehab
What are the alternatives to inpatient rehab?
Alternatives to inpatient rehab can be delivered in different ways, including residential (non-hospital), outpatient treatment, digital and online services, medication-based support and community or peer support.
Some people benefit from a single type of treatment, while others combine several different approaches to meet their individual needs.
Residential treatment — without a hospital stay
What it is: A community-based alternative to inpatient hospital care. Therapy-led residential addiction services are designed to provide structured, compassionate support in comfortable, non-clinical environments. They combine evidence-based therapies with a structured, daily routine, offering a recovery-focused setting without the feel of a hospital.
Who it’s for: This treatment is suitable for people who do not need a medical detox or ongoing physical care but who would benefit from time away from their usual home environment. It can also be an affordable alternative to inpatient hospital treatment.
Digital and online support programmes
What it is: Online treatment programmes that allow you to access support from wherever works best and feels comfortable for you – whether that’s at home, or in a quiet, private space that suits your routine.
Who it’s for: People who value flexibility and privacy. With no need to travel to sessions, you can save time and money while fitting appointments around work, family, or other commitments. You can still access evidence-based care delivered by experienced clinicians.
Priory offers two online programmes:
Peer support and community-based groups
What it is: Community-based support that is widely available and often free to access. Examples include Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), SMART Recovery, and Gamblers Anonymous for behavioural addictions.
Who it’s for: Anyone seeking support for addictions. Peer support offers lived experience, community and ongoing accountability, all of which can play an important role in recovery.
According to addiction research, peer support is most effective when used alongside professional treatment. Depending on your needs, you may find it helpful to combine peer support with other treatment options.
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
What it is: MAT is an evidence-based approach, recommended by NICE. It combines approved medications, such as methadone, buprenorphine (including Suboxone) or naltrexone, combined with therapy and support to treat addiction.
Who it’s for: MAT is typically used for people with opioid and alcohol dependency.
Priory’s MAT programme, Reset 7/10, provides 24-hour medical monitoring in a carefully controlled environment over seven or 10 days. Plans start from £6,540. If you’re interested in accessing MAT through the NHS, speak to your GP about a referral.
Outpatient and day care options
What it is: Outpatient therapy is one-to-one therapy sessions delivered either online or face-to-face. Day care programmes offer more structured support while allowing you to return home each day, combining elements of inpatient treatment with more flexibility.
Who it’s for: Those who would benefit from structured support without staying overnight. This may include those looking to address early signs of addictive behaviour, as well as people continuing their recovery progress after a more intensive programme. These options offer flexibility to access support in a way that fits around your life.
Outpatient therapy at Priory is delivered through our Anchor 1:1 programme, where expert addiction therapists tailor therapy to suit your needs, providing a safe and confidential space to talk.
Foundations 16 is Priory’s flexible day care programme, providing access to medical detox, a supportive space for stabilisation and risk reduction, group therapy and 12 months of aftercare.
How to choose the right option
The best option for you will depend on your personal needs and preferences. The table below will help you compare the options.
Still not sure? Considering the following questions may help to guide you towards the best addiction treatment to meet your needs.
Do you need a medically supervised detox?
If so, inpatient rehab or MAT are the most suitable treatment options for you.
How much time can you take away from daily life?
Residential treatment, MAT and inpatient options require staying away from home for 7 days or more. If you cannot take this much time away from daily life then peer support or community-based groups, digital and online support programmes, outpatient therapy and day care may be the most appropriate options for you.
What is your budget?
Lower cost options include peer support or community-based groups, which are typically free of charge, as well as digital support programmes. For example, Recovery 360 starts from £1,012 for a three-month programme.
Priory’s residential treatment - Flourish - costs £315 per night stayt, while Elevate 12,our online support programme, costs £4,128.
Our inpatient detox programme, Reset 7/10, starts from £6,540. Foundations 16, which combines inpatient detox and day care, costs £10,260.
One-to-one therapy sessions cost £124. The length of support varies from person to person and will be agreed in discussion with your clinical team.
Would a community group help alongside formal treatment?
Support from professionals and peers who understand what you’re going through can play a meaningful role in your recovery. Community groups can also help you feel connected during formal treatment and continue to provide support afterwards.
For more help and support in deciding what’s right for you, speak to Priory’s clinical team for a free, no-obligation assessment.
