Many treatment options are available for people recovering from substance use disorder (SUD), including intensive outpatient programs (IOPs). Some people might feel overwhelmed when deciding which treatment program to choose. However, the dedicated care team at Pathways Recovery Center uses comprehensive assessments and collaboration with clients to help them choose the best treatment for their needs. An IOP offers an ideal balance of personal freedom and structured care for many people in recovery.
What Is an IOP Program?
IOP programs are similar to residential treatment programs. However, instead of staying at a facility, clients return home after treatment each day. In most cases, the schedules are flexible, allowing clients to work or care for loved ones at home. Also, intensive outpatient programs generally only have sessions during weekdays.
IOP programs are tailored to the individual needs of the client and generally provide the following:
- Individual and group therapy
- Case management
- Personalized care plans
- Alternative holistic therapies
- Medication management
- Aftercare and alumni services
IOPs allow people to benefit from comprehensive support services, including behavioral modification and cognitive therapy, without limiting their freedom. According to the journal Psychiatrist Services, “Substance abuse intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) are direct services for people with substance use disorders or co-occurring mental and substance use disorders who do not require medical detoxification or 24-hour supervision.” Intensive programs are a step down from inpatient care and ensure people can access the tools and resources they need to maintain long-term sobriety.
Does an IOP Program Provide the Right Level of Care?
IOP is flexible, and treatment plans at Pathways Recovery Center are often adjusted to meet each client’s unique needs. People in recovery take the lead in informing their care team what level of support they need and want during treatment. Some people in recovery know what level of support and structure they need to successfully achieve and maintain sobriety. The clinicians collaborate with clients to ensure they have access to the services they need to feel comfortable making necessary lifestyle changes to support ongoing sobriety.
IOPs are ideal for individuals who have the following:
- A safe and consistent home environment
- Loved ones willing to support their recovery
- Mild symptoms
- Limited co-occurring issues
Some clients transition from inpatient to outpatient care, while others begin recovery using outpatient services. Both provide essential treatments for people at different stages of recovery. Studies have shown “[C]lients benefit from both levels of care and that comparing inpatient with outpatient treatment is potentially counterproductive because the important question is not which level of care is better but, rather, which level of care is more appropriate at a given time for each client.” The level of care a person needs to feel confident in their recovery may fluctuate over time. IOP programs are highly adaptable to each person’s needs. Clinicians easily adjust therapy sessions and treatment options to meet clients where they are today.
How Will Attending Intensive Outpatient Treatment Affect Personal Responsibilities?
People in recovery may worry about continuing to meet personal and professional goals while in treatment for SUD. IOP programs allow people to attend school, work, or take care of responsibilities at home while undergoing intensive recovery treatment. Personalized IOP care makes it easier for parents, students, and career professionals to get the help they need without falling behind on their everyday responsibilities. Often, people in treatment use their personal and professional goals to help motivate them during early recovery.
Some common motivations people focus on include:
- Repairing relationships and creating deeper family bonds
- Achieving academic success
- Meeting workplace goals
Attending outpatient treatment for substance misuse lowers stress by providing a solid support system and essential tools for coping with challenges during early recovery. Outpatient treatment also makes it easier for families to become involved in their loved one’s healing. Clients spend more time at home and in an environment where they can practice the coping skills they learn in therapy.
What to Expect From an IOP Program at Pathways Recovery Center
Intensive treatment programs provide accountability, a supportive community, essential recovery services, and access to recovery professionals. People participating in IOP programs can expect to receive compassionate, ethical, practical, relevant, and personalized care.
Some additional benefits of participating in IOP include:
- More comprehensive services
- Decreased risk to relapse due to increased frequency of treatment sessions
- Increased self-confidence and self-efficacy
Everyone deserves access to flexible, affordable, and high-quality treatment for SUD. IOP programs give people in recovery the structure and accountability they need to establish and maintain healthy lifestyle changes. Pathways Recovery Center offers other outpatient programs, including a sober living community. Every client has a unique recovery journey, and the clinicians meet them where they are today. The care team collaborates closely with clients to ensure they receive the best treatment and transition smoothly between different levels of care.
Intensive outpatient programs offer people in recovery a healthy balance between structured care and independence. The program takes place in a controlled and structured environment. However, clients spend nights and weekends at home, practicing the skills learned in treatment. Pathways Recovery Center collaborates with clients and allows them to take the lead on their treatment planning and recovery. Individuals with solid support systems, the motivation to make essential changes, and mild symptoms benefit most from IOP programs. The clinicians tailor intensive outpatient care to the needs of each person. To learn more about our programs and services, call us today at (888) 771-0966. We can help you heal and build a sober life.
