Addiction Treatment IOP is an intensive outpatient program that helps people with addiction issues develop the skills they need to manage their recovery. These programs typically include group and individual therapy sessions, psychoeducational courses and relapse prevention sessions. Clients are often provided with a written relapse prevention plan and may receive helpful tools, like worksheets and planners. In addition, many IOP programs will recommend that clients attend support groups and some offer these meetings on site for convenience.
Most IOP programs are designed to be flexible enough to accommodate the needs of a range of people with different lifestyles and situations. Typically, the program can be held during the day or evening to fit in with a person’s work schedule and other responsibilities. Some programs are also available online to make it easier for people with busy schedules to access care.
Some IOPs use alternative therapies to complement the traditional offerings of the program. These may include art therapy, music therapy or adventure therapy. The programs also usually encourage the participation of people in peer support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. These sessions are sometimes held on the premises of the IOPs and can help clients build their support networks.
Many people choose to take part in an IOP because they have family or work commitments that prevent them from undergoing fulltime residential or PHP treatment. IOPs provide a valuable step-down from these more intensive levels of care while offering the support and structure that many people need to begin recovery.
People who require IOP therapy should generally have completed medically supervised detox before starting the program. They should also have a strong support network at home and be willing to dedicate a lot of time to their recovery. They must be able to remain abstinent from drugs or alcohol while attending treatment and should be prepared to deal with triggers that can cause relapse.
IOP programs vary in their length, though most last around eight to 12 weeks. During this time, clients will attend group and individual therapy sessions on a weekly basis. The amount of time that a person will spend in each session is determined by their current level of functioning. During these sessions, therapists will evaluate a person’s progress and determine the next steps in their treatment.
Some IOPs will offer specialized groups, such as those for men or women, LGBTQ individuals or veterans. These groups can be helpful for people who struggle with specific types of addictions and may be a great way to develop a supportive community in recovery. Some IOPs will also provide one-to-one therapy for those who do not feel comfortable in a group setting.
Those who are looking for an IOP program in their area should try to get a recommendation from someone they trust, such as a therapist or a family member. They can also find a list of programs by state on the website for the United States Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA). If they do not have a personal recommendation, it is best to contact a few different centers to discuss what they can offer.
