What is outpatient detox? Outpatient detox (also called ambulatory detox) is a medical procedure designed to safely detox patients from drugs and alcohol without a hospital admission. Patients addicted to opiate prescription medications such as Oxycontin, Vicodin, Loratab, and others, as well as those addicted to illegal opiates such as heroin, may especially benefit from outpatient detox. In the last several years, the FDA has approved the use of medications such as Suboxone and Subutex (Buprenorphine) to assist in the withdrawal from opiates. These new treatments have greatly advanced the ability to detox in an outpatient setting.     How do I know if outpatient detox is for me? To determine the appropriateness of outpatient detox, call us for an assessment. This involves talking to a counselor and nurse to gather medical and social history. Not everyone is appropriate for outpatient detox and some individuals may require a hospital facility. Determining factors are the quantity of drug or alcohol one is using, for how long, and in what combinations. Pre-existing medical conditions are also relevant in this determination.     What is the procedure for outpatient detox, and how long does it last? Generally, outpatient detox is a three-day process during which patients report at 9 a.m. and return home after 4 to 6 hours of treatment. In general, the length of treatment is less on each successive day. The exact medication protocol for outpatient detox is determined by the physician based on the results of the medical assessment. Each day, patients come in and receive medication to assist with detox. Symptoms and vital signs are then closely monitored by the nurse while patients relax in a quiet, comfortable atmosphere. At some point in the process, patients generally feel well enough to begin attending therapy groups during the days they are here for outpatient detox.     Residential Treatment Program Counselor Cynthia A. Cashman, M.Ed., M.S., LPC, NCC- is a licensed professional and nationally certified counselor who is currently working towards Licensed Addiction Counselor and LAC supervision status. She works with individuals six years old and up, couples, families and groups. Her areas of interest are trauma stabilization and dual diagnosis.  Cynthia received master's degrees in Education and Counseling from Loyola University in New Orleans. She is a member of Chi Sigma Iota, counseling honor society; and Alpha Sigma Nu, education honor society. She is a provider for the Allen Group EAP and the Louisiana State Board of Nursing. Cynthia conducts chemical dependency assessments for the First Parish Court of Jefferson and maintains a private practice.       How bad will I feel? Every individual differs, though detox does generally involve some level of physical discomfort. However, physical discomfort is minimized through careful monitoring by qualified staff.     Treatment requirements It is the philosophy of Addiction Recovery Resources, as well as the treatment standard, that recovery is best accomplished through medicine as well as talk therapy. Each patient going through outpatient detox is required to demonstrate they have registered in some kind of recovery program, either at Addiction Recovery Resources or some other agency. Family members are encouraged to participate in educational experiences and the family program .     How much does outpatient detox cost? Although most insurances do not cover the cost at this time, most do cover a significant portion of the cost of subsequent therapy programs. You may speak with the Intake Coordinator to determine specific costs of outpatient detox and other programs.     How do I set up an assessment? An assessment to determine appropriateness of outpatient detox is free and can be set up by calling Addiction Recovery Resources and asking for the Intake Coordinator.