Finding the right addiction treatment can be difficult and even feel overwhelming. When determining what type of addiction treatment program is right for you, it’s important to consider your level of substance use and the kind of support you need. Some programs offer inpatient treatments with intensive 24-hour care and a medically supervised detoxification, while others offer outpatient services that may include group or individual therapy.
You should also take into account your budget, any co-occurring mental health issues you may have, and other lifestyle factors such as work or family commitments. It’s important to work with a licensed professional who can assess your needs and recommend the best type of treatment program for you.
Intensive outpatient programs are great options for treatment if you’re looking for a structured protocol that also allows you to continue with your regular responsibilities. To find out if you or a loved one can benefit from this form of care, continue to learn more about IOPs and how they can help individuals overcome addiction and other behavioral health issues.
What is an Intensive Outpatient Program?
An intensive outpatient program (IOP) is a form of intensive treatment for substance abuse that offers comprehensive therapeutic services. This type of program requires a commitment of three to five days per week for two to four hours each day, or two days per week for six hours each day. The goal of an intensive outpatient program is to identify the root cause of your addicting behaviors and provide you with the tools necessary to help you achieve sobriety.
During an intensive outpatient program, you will receive individual counseling, group support therapy sessions, 12-step meetings, and relapse prevention strategies from trained professionals who understand addiction and can help you develop healthier habits. You will also have access to medical care if needed.
What are the Benefits of an IOP?
The intensive outpatient program for substance abuse can be beneficial in several ways:
- It provides intensive addiction treatment services in a safe, supportive, and structured environment
- The program is under the supervision of trained professionals who understand the complexities of addiction.
- Individuals have an opportunity to identify triggers, gain insight into their behaviors and develop positive coping strategies.
- Intensive outpatient programs usually cost less than inpatient treatment since they require fewer resources.
- Since IOPs are typically offered during daytime hours or evenings and weekends, you don’t need to take time off work or school to attend.
Overall, intensive outpatient programs for substance abuse offer much of the same support as inpatient rehab but with greater flexibility and convenience. By providing intensive support from experienced counselors, individuals have an opportunity to identify triggers, gain insight into their behaviors and develop positive coping strategies to help them stay on track with their recovery.
With this combination of intensive therapy and structure, intensive outpatient programs can be the perfect fit for individuals seeking a more intensive approach to their recovery.
What Can I Expect in an IOP?
All intensive outpatient programs for substance abuse should offer:
- Supervised monitoring of medication or other treatments.
- Regular individual, group, and family counseling sessions.
- Education about the disease of addiction and relapse prevention strategies.
- Assistance in developing a plan for maintaining recovery.
- Close monitoring of progress and regular reassessment of goals.
- Access to resources and support within the community.
Intensive outpatient programs typically involve more intensive treatment than traditional outpatient rehab. Participants may also have access to relapse prevention groups or 12-step meetings for continued support during their recovery journey. Programs usually last anywhere from three to nine months, depending on the individual’s needs and goals.
Participants in intensive outpatient programs for substance abuse should also expect to participate in regular drug screenings and meetings with their counselors or therapists. These meetings are an important part of the process as it helps keep participants on track with their goals and ensure that they remain accountable during their recovery journey.
It is important that individuals considering intensive outpatient programs for substance abuse find the right program for them. A quality IOP should provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals can learn how to successfully manage their addiction and work towards achieving lasting sobriety.
How Long Does an Intensive Outpatient Program Last?
The length of intensive outpatient programs for substance abuse can vary depending on the individual but typically range from 8-12 weeks. During that time, participants will be expected to attend intensive treatment sessions several times a week and may also need to take part in aftercare activities or support groups.
At the end of an intensive outpatient program, individuals should have a better understanding of their addiction and be equipped with the tools needed for long-term sobriety. It is important to note that recovery does not end when treatment does, as individuals must continue to practice healthy habits and stay accountable for their actions if they want to maintain sobriety in the long term.
Who Should Attend an IOP?
Intensive outpatient programs are typically reserved for individuals who have already completed inpatient treatment for substance abuse, or those who do not require the intensive support of an inpatient setting. It is important that participants be committed to their recovery and willing to take part in all activities associated with the program.
Typically, intensive outpatient programs require that participants abstain from using any substance during treatment and make a commitment to sobriety. Participants should also be open to trying new coping strategies and therapies as they work toward achieving their goals.
If you’re considering an intensive outpatient program for yourself or someone you care about, it’s important to understand all the details involved before committing. Researching different IOPs can help you find the best fit for your needs.
What Types of Therapy is Available in an IOP?
The intensive nature of these programs allows for flexibility in terms of scheduling while still providing in-depth therapeutic sessions. Participants receive intensive therapy during scheduled times throughout the week while being able to return home each night.
Individual Therapy
Individual therapy is a form of counseling or psychotherapy that focuses on helping the individual by addressing their personal issues, emotions, and behaviors. It can take many forms including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), psychoanalysis, and others.
Individual therapy focuses on identifying the source of any emotional distress or other problems the individual may have and then working to find solutions. The therapist will often provide guidance and support while helping the individual gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. CBT helps individuals learn to identify and change negative thought patterns and behavior patterns in order to reduce stress and improve overall well-being. It is used to treat a variety of psychological issues, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and more.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a form of psychotherapy that combines cognitive behavioral techniques with mindfulness and acceptance strategies. DBT focuses on helping individuals identify and regulate emotions, manage interpersonal relationships, and learn to adaptively cope with stress. It has been found to be effective in treating depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, substance abuse, eating disorders, and other mental health issues.
Group Therapy
Group therapy is a form of psychotherapy in which several individuals meet with a trained therapist to discuss their feelings and experiences. Group therapy allows for emotional support and the sharing of ideas and perspectives from multiple points of view. It can be used to treat depression, anxiety, substance abuse, relationship issues, and many other mental health conditions.
Family Therapy
Family therapy is a type of psychotherapy that involves the entire family unit. It focuses on resolving conflicts, developing empathy, and improving communication and problem-solving skills among family members. Family therapy can help with issues such as depression, substance abuse, behavioral problems, marital conflict, and more. It is especially beneficial for families with children but can be beneficial for all types of family structures.
Holistic Therapy
Holistic therapy is a system of healing that takes into account the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of a person. It is based on the belief that all these components are interconnected and work together to create an overall sense of well-being. Holistic therapies may include massage, yoga, mindfulness meditation, art therapy, and herbal remedies. The goal of holistic therapy is to provide relief from physical and mental suffering by restoring balance to all aspects of the individual’s life.
Where is IOP in the Continuum of Care?
Intensive outpatient programs generally follow a partial hospitalization program or inpatient treatment. However, it’s not uncommon for someone to attend an IOP as their first step in addiction treatment. An addiction treatment specialist can help you determine if your individual needs qualify you for an intensive outpatient program.
It’s important to also remember that if you are suffering from drug dependency and need detox assistance you will need to first go through a detox program prior to enrolling into an IOP. IOPs do not offer detox services for drug or alcohol withdrawal.
What is the Next Step After an IOP?
Once an intensive outpatient program for substance abuse has been completed, the next step will depend on individual needs. For some individuals, continuing with intensive outpatient care may be necessary in order to maintain sobriety. Other people may transition into a less intensive level of treatment such as regular outpatient counseling or therapy. For those who need more intensive support and structure, sober living facilities are available that provide 24-hour support in a safe environment.
No matter what the best course of action is for any given person, it’s important to have a plan in place for long-term recovery and continued success after completing an intensive outpatient program for substance abuse. Beyond just completing a treatment program, it’s also essential to find ways to cope with urges and triggers, and remain socially connected with sober peers. Participating in self-care activities such as yoga, and meditation, and attending 12-step meetings can help keep individuals on the path to recovery.
Will My Insurance Cover IOP? Will I Pay Any Out of Pocket Costs?
Yes, it is likely that your insurance will cover intensive outpatient programs for substance abuse, depending on your specific plan. It is important to understand what your plan covers and if there are any out-of-pocket expenses associated with the program. Many intensive outpatient programs include a sliding scale fee based on income which can help make them more accessible and affordable to those in need of care. To learn more about coverage and potential costs, you should contact the facility directly to discuss these details further.
Contact Westwind Recovery® to Begin Your Recovery Journey Today!
An intensive outpatient program (IOP) for substance abuse is a form of treatment that helps individuals in their recovery, while still allowing them to maintain some level of freedom and be involved in work or school. The intensive model provides participants with the tools they need to achieve sobriety and maintain it over time.
To learn more about the intensive outpatient program at Westwind Recovery® Center, contact us today!
Dr. Deena is the Chief Clinical Officer of Westwind Recovery®, an award-winning outpatient treatment center in Los Angeles where she oversees the clinical and administrative program and treatment methods. Dr. Deena is a doctor of psychology and licensed clinical social worker since 1993. LCSW #20628. Originally from the East Coast, Dr. Deena has worked running treatment centers, worked as a therapist in psychiatric hospitals as well as school settings and currently has a thriving private practice in the LA area. Dr. Deena has appeared regularly on the Dr. Phil Show as an expert since 2003. She has also been featured on many other TV shows, podcasts and has contributed to written publications as well as podcasts.
