Is an Intensive Outpatient Program Right for You?

Categories: Articles, Therapy by Sandy Baker
Is an Intensive Outpatient Program Right for You?

Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) are a type of addiction and mental health treatment that may benefit those who do not need detox or 24-hour care in a treatment center. IOPs enable a person to live at home while still receiving professional care numerous times a week. Though more intense than outpatient care, IOPs allow a person to continue to go to school or work or meet other responsibilities while getting treatment for substance use disorder.

IOPs can also be used as a part of a continuum of care, meaning that a person may receive detox and inpatient treatment and then move to an IOP after they move back home. Typically, this type of program works best when the home environment is supportive and drug-free.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) notes that those who enroll in an IOP will have a prearranged schedule of services, which could include:

  • One-on-one counseling
  • Group therapy sessions
  • Family psychoeducation
  • Case management care

Typically, those within the program will spend at least nine hours each week in treatment for substance use disorder, though this type and level of care can be altered to better fit the individual needs of the patient.

Our IOP program in Lubbock, TX, provides our clients with at least 15 hours of recovery programs each week at our drug and alcohol treatment center. Many of these programs are available in the evening.

The Benefits of an Intensive Outpatient Program

Take into consideration how well an IOP could work to fit your specific needs. Though an IOP is not right for anyone who needs detox or acute care, it provides a number of benefits for those who are the right fit: 

  • Flexibility in treatment. IOPs allow you to get care while maintaining your other responsibilities and living at home. Typically, program options include day and evening sessions.
  • High-quality treatment. IOPs provide access to all of the best types of treatment and care. You will get to engage in all of the programs our facility offers that fit your care needs. 
  • Continuity of care. An IOP allows you to move more easily from residential treatment back into your daily life. Having support during the transition may help you avoid relapse, high stress levels, and other complications.
  • Help for real-world problems. Because you’re fully engaged in our normal routine while also attending your IOP, you’ll get help in handling real-world stress and challenges. When you struggle with high stress at work, for example, you can address that in therapy sessions.
  • Confidence boost. An IOP after residential treatment is one of the most effective ways to step back into life while still having recovery support. That can give you confidence that you can manage all aspects of life without the need for drugs and alcohol.

But Is IOP Right for You?

One of the most important decisions you must make when getting care for addiction is which type and level of care best suits your needs. These are factors that influence success in addiction recovery. To know if IOP is the right fit for your needs, consider the following:

  • Do you have a stable place to live with a supportive family or friend group? Is your home drug- and alcohol-free?
  • Have your doctors recommended detox as a first step? If so, residential treatment is probably the best treatment path.
  • Do you want help learning coping strategies, gaining peer support, and getting family counseling while maintaining your work responsibilities? An IOP works well for these goals.
  • Are you able and willing to commit to care on a consistent basis? IOP does not work if you do not come in for care.
  • Do you have mental health disorders like depression or anxiety? If so, you may benefit from an IOP after you complete residential treatment. 

Here’s the good news. You don’t have to make a decision just yet about the type or level of care you need. Instead, reach out to The Ranch at Dove Tree now, discuss your specific needs with our admission team, and set up some time to talk to us. Our assessment will help you determine which treatment program will work for you.