When it comes time to choose an addiction treatment program, you may have many levels of care to choose from. Treatment centers offer multiple levels of care in order to ensure treatment services can be tailored to the evolving needs of clients as they make progress in their recovery.
This article discusses intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) and regular outpatient programs (OPs). You will learn:
- About the different types of outpatient addiction treatment
- What intensive outpatient programs are
- The differences between IOP and OP
- Which treatment program is right for you
For immediate assistance or addiction help, please call our team at First Step Behavioral Health today.
Types of Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient treatment for substance use disorders involves receiving therapy, counseling, or medical care without staying overnight in a hospital or treatment facility. During outpatient rehab, clients attend regular group and individual therapy sessions but can live at home or in sober living as well as continue working, going to school, or caring for their families.
There are several types of outpatient treatment, each designed to meet different levels of care needs:
Standard Outpatient Programs (OP)
Standard outpatient programs typically involve regular therapy sessions, either individual or group, usually conducted two to three days a week. This type of treatment is suitable for individuals with mild to moderate issues who need ongoing support but can maintain daily responsibilities like work or school.
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)
IOPs offer more structured and frequent sessions than standard outpatient programs. Patients usually attend treatment 3-5 days a week for several hours daily. IOPs are designed for individuals who need more support than standard outpatient care but do not require inpatient treatment.
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)
PHPs, sometimes called day treatment, are more intensive than IOPs and involve attending treatment for most of the day, typically five days a week. Patients participate in various therapies and medical management while returning home at night. PHPs are ideal for those transitioning from inpatient care or who need a high level of support for substance abuse and mental health issues.
Understanding IOP
IOPs provide a higher level of care than standard outpatient programs but are less intensive than inpatient or residential treatment. They allow individuals to receive comprehensive therapy while maintaining their daily routines, such as work, school, or family responsibilities.
IOP treatment requires participants to attend treatment sessions 3-5 days a week for several hours each day, often totaling 9-20 hours per week. The duration of an IOP can vary depending on the individual’s needs, but programs generally last 8-12 weeks. However, some may extend longer if necessary.
During treatment, clients participate in individual, family, and group therapy sessions to address personal challenges and develop healthy coping skills. They work closely with a counselor to develop plans for aftercare and relapse prevention. IOP is often used as a stepping stone to help individuals transition from a higher level of care, such as inpatient rehab or PHP, to a standard outpatient program (OP).
The Differences Between IOP and OP
Both IOP and OP addiction treatment options offer flexibility and allow individuals to continue their daily activities, but they differ in intensity and structure.
Schedule
IOPs typically meet 3-5 times a week while OPs may only meet 2-3 times. As a result, outpatient treatment programs are less intensive, and this level of care is designed for people with milder symptoms or those who have already completed IOP.
Intensity of Treatment
With more frequent treatment sessions, IOPs are more rigorous and structured. OPs, on the other hand, are more flexible, allowing clients to more easily attend sessions that fit their personal schedules. This makes it easier to balance treatment with work, school, or family responsibilities.
Cost
IOPs are more expensive than OPs due to the higher frequency of sessions and the intensity of care provided. However, they are still more affordable than inpatient treatment.
Both IOPs and OPs are covered by insurance, but coverage levels may vary. Some insurance providers may be more likely to fully cover outpatient treatment.
Is IOP or OP the Right Choice for You?
IOP is ideal for individuals with moderate to severe mental health issues or substance use disorders who need a structured environment but do not require 24/7 supervision. It is also appropriate for those transitioning from inpatient care who still need substantial support.
Outpatient programs are best suited for individuals with mild symptoms, those in the maintenance phase of recovery, or those who have completed an IOP or inpatient program and require ongoing, less frequent support.
Many people participate in both IOP and OP as part of their continuum of care. As they make progress in recovery, they can step down to lower levels of care.
Find The Right Addiction Treatment Program
The best way to decide which treatment program is best for you is to get an assessment. At First Step Behavioral Health, our team of admissions counselors is available around the clock to evaluate your situation, verify your insurance, and recommend the right level of care for you.
To learn more about our treatment programs or get started with a confidential, risk-free assessment, please contact us today.
