If you have plans to attend outpatient treatment for substance abuse, you may have a lot of questions about what is to come next. On the other hand, the providers you will be working with also have questions for you.

These are some of the questions you will be asked about your experience and your health before you begin treatment. Treatment will help you significantly, but it all begins with honesty. These are some of the questions a provider may ask to determine what kind of treatment is right for you.

How Long Have You Been Using Substances?

This is one of the first questions you will be asked. Your provider needs to know how long you have been using substances and which ones you have been using. If you have only been using for a short time, outpatient may be the right choice. The provider wants to ensure that you are in the right place.

How Much of a Substance Do You Typically Use?

Not only does your provider need to know which substances you use, but they also need to know how much of each substance you typically use. You may also be asked if you use substances together. This will help a provider understand the severity of your addiction and whether or not outpatient treatment is right for you.

Do You Have a Job?

If you have a job, your provider will want to know how it may be affected by your addiction and treatment. They will also want to know if you have support at work to help you through this difficult time. Having a job is a good reason to consider outpatient therapy.

Do You Have a Place to Live?

Similarly, your provider will want to know if you have a stable place to live. If you do not have a place to live, they may be able to help you find one that is going to be safe while you are attending treatment.

Do You Have Other Medical or Mental Health Issues?

Your provider will want to know if you have any other medical or mental health issues. This is important because it can help them understand how to best treat your addiction. It is also important because some substances can interact negatively with other medications you may be taking.

Discuss Your Outpatient Treatment Goals

After your provider has asked you these questions, they will want to know what your outpatient treatment goals are.

For more information about outpatient substance abuse programs, contact a local doctor.