An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) can be very effective for those struggling with drug and alcohol addictions and co-occurring disorders. A good candidate for IOP will be someone who needs more structure and support than a general outpatient treatment program but doesn’t need 24/7 supervision.
Find out if you’re a candidate for IOP and learn the benefits this type of program provides.
What is an Intensive Outpatient Program?
An IOP is a type of rehab program that is ideal for those who have a drug or alcohol addiction. These types of programs offer a wide range of structure and support and typically meet 3 to 5 days per week, for 3 hours per day. IOPs are a step down from a residential treatment program or Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) but more structured than a general outpatient program.
Individuals who participate in an IOP are still able to live at home while receiving treatment during the day at the rehab facility. They are also often able to maintain their jobs and other daily responsibilities while participating in the addiction treatment program.
Who is a Candidate for IOP?
IOP isn’t always the ideal fit for everyone. Sometimes individuals need around-the-clock care, especially if their addiction is severe and/or they have life-threatening conditions and mental health disorders.
If you or a loved one experience any of the below, you might be a good candidate for IOP:
Have Moderate Addiction Symptoms
IOP is typically recommended for those with mild to moderate substance abuse issues. These types of individuals need to attend therapy sessions most days per week but are not at risk of harming themselves and do not need around-the-clock care and supervision.
Have Completed a Higher Level of Care
Some individuals have already completed an inpatient program or Partial Hospitalization Program and are ready to transition to an outpatient rehab facility. If this is the case, an IOP can be the program they need to still have a set routine of consistent therapy sessions but with more flexibility.
Have Daily Responsibilities You Cannot Step Away From
Responsibilities such as a professional career, caring for children, or going to school can make it difficult to receive addiction treatment. An IOP makes it possible for individuals to get the help they need without neglecting their current responsibilities.
Need for Structure
IOPs offer a structured addiction treatment plan that involves meeting several days each week, providing a set routine for the individuals participating. This type of structure can be very helpful for those in the early weeks and months of addiction recovery.
Have Mental Health Conditions
It’s common for individuals to experience a co-occurring mental health condition in addition to their drug addiction. An IOP provides the necessary treatment to address both of these things so individuals can get all the help they need to maintain sobriety.
Have a Stable Living Environment
IOP candidates need to have a stable living environment (and a strong support system) where drugs and alcohol are not present. This is because, during an IOP, individuals will return to their homes each evening after therapy sessions are completed. By living in a safe, drug-free home, individuals can more actively participate in treatment and the recovery process while reducing stress and reducing their chance of relapse.
Are Motivated
Successful participation in an IOP requires commitment and motivation. Individuals need to actively engage in therapy sessions and be willing to show up and participate in treatment.
Has Reliable Transportation
Individuals will need reliable transportation to participate in Intensive Outpatient Treatment since they meet 3 to 5 days per week.
For those who are the right fit for an IOP, this type of program can be highly effective at treating addiction and providing dual diagnosis treatment.
Benefits of an Intensive Outpatient Program IOP
There are many benefits of an IOP, which include the ability to:
- Maintain work or school commitments
- Have a degree of flexibility with your schedule
- Be present in your children’s lives (if applicable)
- Remain close to your support system (family and friends)
- Access effective addiction treatment therapies and treatment sessions (including individual therapy, group therapy, and family therapy)
- Receive support for any co-occurring mental health disorders (including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and others)
- Learn to identify triggers that contribute to the use of drugs or alcohol
- Lower out-of-pocket expenses compared to inpatient treatment programs
Is Insurance Accepted?
Yes. Most major insurance providers cover some of the costs of drug rehab, including Intensive Outpatient Programs. These providers include (but are not limited to) Aetna, Cigna, ComPscyh, and many others. To find out which services your insurance policy covers, verify your insurance here.
Get Addiction Treatment Today
At JC Treatment Center, our programs are designed to address the symptoms of a mental health disorder and substance use disorder. As a result, patients often receive improved outcomes, faster recovery times, and a lesser chance of relapsing. Our team at JC Treatment Center in Pasadena, CA, strives to provide you with the addiction treatment and mental health solutions you need and deserve to get your life back.
Through compassionate care, expert staff, and innovative substance abuse solutions (including medical detox services), we give you practical tools to help you stay sober and live a healthy life.
