Things You Should Know About Intensive Outpatient Programs

Intensive outpatient program (IOP) is often the best option for those who have a severe addiction. This is a commonly used method to treat substance abuse and mental health disorders on a part-time basis. IOPs are designed to deliver inpatient intensity and focus, while still letting client maintain their life in an outpatient setting.

The fact that substance abuse recovery appears to be daunting for many in the early stages is indisputable. This makes it very important to choose the right treatment plan to ensure patients have the best tools at their disposal to help them along the road to sobriety. Plenty of options exist, with one of the key program options available being intensive outpatient program, New York City, which is recommended only after a full medical assessment and clinical evaluation is done.

When it comes to deciding between an inpatient or outpatient program, there are tremendous benefits to the former that involves physically staying in a facility during the early stages of recovery, which is what makes an inpatient program not a feasible option for those who can’t meet the commitment required (might be due to their job, family responsibilities, or other commitments). On the contrary, an intensive outpatient program is recommended for those who may not need a true medical detox program, but need a high level of support, and program participants continue to reside in their private residences. IOPs allow patients to maintain much of their normal routine during the later stages of their recovery while providing them with the continued support they need.

Some of the benefits of intensive outpatient programs for patients:

One of the major reasons behind the popularity of IOPs is it removes some of the fear from addiction treatment, including costs or just people’s hesitation to consider programs that have a residential component because they don’t feel they can simply walk away from home. Other benefits include

1.           Maintain your routine (keep your presence at school or work)
2.           Get help from friends and family
3.           Maintain the ability to support your family
4.           Very cost-effective in comparison to traditional residential treatment (inpatient treatment)
5.           More accessible to individuals who need it but cannot afford to leave home
6.           Build community with others in recovery in your area
7.           More intense and structured than outpatient care

Types of Treatment in IOP:

For substance abuse, IOP involves many types of services, including medication management, individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, addiction support groups, and addiction aftercare plans.

IOP is recommended for those who have a strong network at home to support their efforts, individuals with a lower risk level of relapsing, those who have a stable home life, individuals who have no issues with opening up in front of a group of people, and individuals who are no longer using drugs. IOPs include at least nine hours of services each week through at least three sessions, with each session lasting three hours. General topics that are covered in most IOPs include relapse prevention, health and wellness, role of spirituality in recovery, coping skills for managing triggers and cravings, understanding the underlying causes of substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health concerns, and goal setting.