IOP

What is an IOP?

An Intensive Outpatient Program, or IOP, is a level of care for people struggling with substance abuse, addiction and/or mental health issues. Unlike a residential/rehab program, an IOP meets 3-5 days a week for a minimum of 9 hours each week. Most IOP programs are 8-12 weeks in duration.

With this structure, program participants can get the help they need, while also working at a job, spending time with family, and participating in other aspects of their lives. This is often most appropriate for those transitioning in or out of inpatient residential treatment. In other situations, IOP as an alternative to residential treatment altogether.

Most of the time spent in IOP is in group therapy and educational groups. Sometimes an IOP will provide individual therapy, family therapy, case management, and/or medication management. An IOP may be designed to treat substance abuse disorders, mental health challenges, or both.

Intensive Outpatient treatment is the recommended level of care for individuals with mild-to-moderate symptoms who can manage their own schedules along with family, school and/or employment obligations. Generally, IOP’s are not recommended as the first point of treatment for those with severe addictions or persistent, co-occurring disorders. Prior to completion of a full-time program, these cases are referred to a residential level of care since they require more comprehensive treatment and 24-hour supervision.