An intensive outpatient program (IOP) treats individuals with substance use disorders and coexisting mental health conditions and is ideal for people who are transitioning from a residential treatment facility or need a schedule that accommodates work, school, or family life. Their purpose is to establish psychosocial support and produce relapse management and coping strategies to sustain sobriety in recovery.
IOP provides a specified number of hours per week of structured individual, group, and/or family therapy as well as psycho education about substance use and mental disorders. IOP is perfect for a person who is transitioning from residential treatment and needs a part-time intensive schedule to accommodate work, school, and family life. Clients often participate in the program three to four hours per day, three to five days per week. The objective is to establish a solid base for clients as they switch to less intensive treatment.
Most IOP programs place clients in several different types of groups during the course of treatment. These include psychoeducational, skills-development, support, and interpersonal process groups, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information.
Groups and therapies commonly conducted in IOP include:
- Psychoeducational groups. These teach clients about substance dependence and its consequences. They feature a low-key, less emotionally charged environment and present problem solving methods to alter dysfunctional beliefs and thoughts. Clients learn forms of relapse prevention strategies.
- Individual therapy. Meet with a therapist on a weekly basis to work through any underlying problems and to strengthen emotional coping skills.
- Group therapy. There are a variety of groups to choose from that a client can attend on a daily basis. Some include 12-step groups, health and wellness, and life skill training.
- Family therapy. Family members are encouraged to attend family therapy to support their loved one’s recovery progress.
- Group outings. Some groups go on hikes, to the beach, rock climbing, and other fun activities.
- Nutrition and fitness counseling. There are groups that teach clients how to properly care for their body.
- Spiritual counseling: Clients can build self-worth and gratitude while exploring life’s purpose.
- Aftercare services: The aftercare service continues when a client leaves treatment and ensures the client’s progress in sobriety.
IOP is essential to the transition into a new, sober lifestyle by implementing all the therapies and views learned in treatment. IOP programs can vary considerably in the anticipated length of stay or expected duration of active treatment.
If you or a loved one struggle with addiction, get help now. Nexus Recovery Services specializes in addiction treatment and encompasses holistic therapy for the mind, body, and soul with a focus on staying active and connected to nature. Our mission is to provide tools and support for every client’s seamless transition into a meaningful and fulfilling life of sobriety. We offer a free and confidential consultation. Call us to get started: 310-881-9151