IOP stands for “intensive outpatient program.” IOP programs treat mental health disorders and offer group therapy and life skills classes for those with mental health conditions.
- IOP is intensive due to the schedule of treatment. You will meet with clinicians and support groups for at least 12 hours per week.
- “Outpatient” means that at IOP, patients go home each night.
- IOPs are structured programs that follow a schedule and routine. The program helps you build skills. IOP is like after-school for mental health and similar disorders.
IOP often consists of several treatment components, including:
- group therapy
- psychiatric care
- medication management
- education about a person’s condition and its management
- Individual therapy as needed
- complementary therapies, such as yoga or art therapy
IOP may be beneficial for people who:
- do not require detoxification
- do not pose any danger to themselves or others
- have a supportive home life
- want or need to continue attending work, school, or other obligations during their treatment
Some reasons a doctor or mental health professional may recommend IOP include:
- trying to prevent the need for a higher level of care or 24-hour supervision
- decreasing the risk of further deterioration in mental health or subsequent substance misuse
- helping the person transition out of inpatient therapy
- helping the person learn to recognize and manage early stage relapse
- helping the person develop coping strategies
- addressing ongoing issues related to emotional, social, and psychological well-being
IOP may not be the right option for a person who is at immediate risk of harming themselves or others. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), people who may benefit from this type of program include those who are:
- able to verbally express their thoughts and feelings
- motivated to participate in the program
- motivated to work toward recovery
- comfortable in group therapy settings
- able to learn and apply skills learned in therapy
- not in need of detox
- not in need of 24-hour supervision for their condition
If you or a loved one are considering IOP, contact us at 407-851-5121 to get the help you need today.