About Intensive Outpatient Programming

Intensive outpatient programs are usually conducted in an outpatient setting, meaning that participants do not reside at the treatment facility.

Unlike traditional outpatient programs, IOPs require a significantly larger portion of time spent each week receiving services. These intensive outpatient programs can incorporate many types of treatment, including medication management, individual and group therapies, among others.

Benefits of Intensive Outpatient Treatment

There are benefits of intensive outpatient treatment. Intensive outpatient drug and alcohol treatment has been shown to be as effective as residential treatment for most people seeking care. Intensive outpatient programs for substance abuse allow participants to maintain relative stability when upholding other responsibilities, including working and spending time with their families.

For individuals who do not require medical detoxification services, IOP may be a good alternative to residential programs. However, individuals who would benefit from medical detoxification or time away from triggers can benefit from stepping down to IOP after completing a residential program.

IOP vs. Residential Rehab

IOP substance abuse programs are similar to residential rehabilitation programs in many ways. However, there are also some notable differences. Whether a person ultimately chooses an IOP or residential program depends on their unique circumstances and needs.

Differences

In a residential rehabilitation program, participants live at the treatment facility. To go to treatment, a person will often have to travel to get to the nearest facility. In some cases, this separation from the person’s normal environment is desirable. While in a residential program, there are significantly more rules and daily life is highly structured.

In an IOP program, clients may have the option to live on-site at a facility or they maintain many of their daily routines and activities while they receive treatment on a part-time basis. While a residential program may mean being away from work for weeks at a time, it is possible to continue working while participating in an IOP program. Often, treatment times can be adjusted so they work with a person’s work schedule and other obligations. However, this might not be possible for everyone, especially those who continue to live on-site during IOP treatment.

Pros and Cons

While similar in many ways, there are certainly some cases when it is advantageous to choose a residential program over IOP. If a person requires 24-hour supervision or medical care, a residential program may be a better fit for their needs. Some people may have attempted to stop using drugs or alcohol several times in the past and returned to use after each initial period of abstinence. These people may benefit more from a residential program due to the increased accountability and complete removal from environmental triggers.

However, in many cases, a person may not be able to miss long periods of work or may not require ongoing medical care. People who fit this category may be better served by an IOP program. This approach can also be considered for a person leaving residential treatment who is in need of ongoing clinical support. For these patients, IOP is a continuation of their treatment program, that provides continuity of care and more time to practice the skills they’ve learned in their previous program.

The right program for you is a personal decision but it’s important to know that IOP programs can be very effective and there’s evidence to demonstrate the benefits of these programs.