Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) Practice Exam

During the initial treatment phase, how many therapeutic contact hours per week does the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) require for intensive outpatient treatment participants?

1. Three hours

2. Five hours

3. Seven hours

4. Nine hours

The correct answer is: Nine hours

In the context of intensive outpatient treatment as defined by the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), the requirement for therapeutic contact hours is nine hours per week. This standard is designed to ensure that participants receive sufficient support and intervention during the initial treatment phase, as individuals in intensive outpatient programs often require more structured support than those in less intensive settings. The nine-hour requirement facilitates a comprehensive approach to therapeutic interventions, allowing for a mix of individual therapy, group sessions, and other support activities that are essential for effective treatment of substance use disorders. By setting this standard, ASAM aims to enhance the treatment outcome by enabling participants to engage meaningfully with therapeutic resources and foster connections within a supportive environment. The other options suggest fewer hours, which would not align with the ASAM's emphasis on providing adequate treatment intensity to support recovery. The nine-hour per week guideline reflects the goal of creating a foundation for lasting change and addressing the complexities of addiction effectively.