Originally Posted by Eddiebuckle

Inpatient is the way to go if you can afford it. It's true that it will take him away from the family, that is part of the point. Nothing changes if nothing changes, and for those with a serious addiction issue outpatient is like trying to apply a part time solution to a full time problem... with predictable results.

That said, the success or failure of whatever path he chooses depends on his ability to bring and apply three things without reservation: honesty, openess, and willingness. If he brings those and holds nothing back, either option is sufficent - inpatient is just easier to keep at it and get the desired result.