Inova Comprehensive Addiction Treatment Services (CATS) Outpatient Program
The Inova Comprehensive Addiction Treatment Services (CATS) program offers specialized, evidence-based care for adults struggling with substance use disorders. Located at the Inova Behavioral Health – Merrifield Center in Fairfax, VA, the outpatient CATS program provides a crucial resource for individuals seeking recovery while maintaining their daily responsibilities. This facility focuses on holistic, patient-centered treatment designed to support long-term wellness.
Treatment Philosophy and Approach
Inova CATS utilizes a comprehensive approach that recognizes the unique journey of each patient. Since 1982, Inova has been committed to providing cutting-edge treatment, employing evidence-based practices tailored to individual needs. The outpatient services include structured group programs, individual counseling, and educational components aimed at building essential coping skills and supporting sustained recovery.
The core of the program involves collaborative treatment planning with a multidisciplinary team. This ensures that care addresses not only the addiction itself but also related issues such as anxiety management, boundary setting, and understanding addiction’s effects on the brain. The goal is to empower patients to direct their recovery through personalized goal setting and intensive support.
Program Offerings
The CATS Outpatient Program, located at 8221 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive in Fairfax, provides a range of services from less intensive support to structured group programs, including the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). This flexibility allows individuals to seamlessly transition through different levels of care as they progress in their recovery journey.
Key components of the outpatient services include:
- Detailed intake assessment and medical evaluation.
- Group therapy covering essential topics like coping mechanisms and relapse prevention.
- Individual counseling sessions.
- Patient and family education.
- Discharge planning to facilitate transition to the next level of care.
Contact and Location Information
The CATS Outpatient services are hosted at the Inova Behavioral Health – Merrifield Center, a dedicated facility providing the full spectrum of CATS outpatient care. For appointments and general inquiries regarding the outpatient services, Inova offers a dedicated phone line, and text reminders are also available to support patient engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What types of substance use disorders does CATS Outpatient treat?
The program treats a wide range of adult substance use disorders, utilizing evidence-based methods and holistic care principles to address chemical dependency and related mental health issues.
Is the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) offered at the Merrifield location?
Yes, the CATS at Inova Behavioral Health Services – Outpatient – Merrifield Center offers the full range of Inova’s CATS outpatient services, which includes the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP).
How can I schedule an appointment for the CATS Outpatient Program?
To schedule an appointment for Outpatient CATS, individuals should call the dedicated appointment line. Text reminders are also available by texting INOVABH to 622622.
Does the program incorporate family education?
Yes, the program includes patient and family education as part of its comprehensive treatment model to ensure a supportive environment for long-term recovery.




