Intensive Outpatient

Our IOP provides a comprehensive and flexible treatment option for individuals struggling with addiction and mental health issues. We designed this program for individuals who require a level of care more intensive than what traditional outpatient services offer.

Our IOP is based on evidence-based therapies. This includes cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), group therapy, and individual counseling. We tailor each program to meet the specific needs of each patient. Our goal is to provide patients with the tools and support they need to achieve long-term recovery and maintain a fulfilling, healthy life. Read on to learn more about our IOP and how it can help you or your loved one overcome addiction.

Understanding an Intensive Outpatient Program

IOP stands for “intensive outpatient program.” These programs treat substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health disorders. IOP provides group therapy and life skills classes for those with substance abuse issues. An IOP aims to help patients learn to cope with their problems and stay sober or in treatment.

IOPs are often used as a step between inpatient or residential care and outpatient programs. They allow patients to attend treatment during the day or after work while maintaining independence and providing the opportunity to take care of outside obligations.

An intensive outpatient program has shorter hours than a partial hospitalization program or PHP. But what is PHP? It’s similar to an IOP, but IOPs are usually four-hour sessions, whereas PHP is usually a six-hour session, interspersed with breaks.

The time spent in the program will depend on the patient’s needs. In the beginning, the time commitment of our IOP is usually ten or more hours per week of group therapy, individual behavioral therapy, and support. Our team solidifies, expands, and puts into practice the tools and skills required for overall recovery, health, and well-being through traditional and recreational therapies. 

The IOP Difference

An intensive outpatient program for substance use disorder, alcohol use disorder, or mental health issues usually lasts several weeks. The exact amount of time will depend on the patient. Most IOP programs begin with daily sessions. Over time, they gradually taper down to a few days a week. Eventually, they reduce to one day a week before we discharge the patient.

Group therapy tends to serve as the core of most IOPs. Some studies show group participation is as effective as individual therapy in treating addiction. There are also opportunities for individual behavioral therapy and psychiatry. Our program includes medication-assisted therapy, or MAT, which uses prescription drugs to reduce withdrawal symptoms.

The success of IOPs is cited as being between 40% to 60%, partly because of the personalized level of care. This allows patients to set goals and progress naturally without being rushed.

It is important to note that those living with others who drink or use drugs will find it difficult to maintain an effective IOP treatment while preserving their living situation. The perfect home situation is family and friends who love the individual and want them to succeed in their recovery and support them in their new sobriety. Sober living houses are also an excellent alternative for people undergoing intensive outpatient treatment.

Massachusetts Addiction Center Daytime IOP Program

Intensive Outpatient Programs at Massachusetts Addiction Center are 3.5-hour programs that occur 3 to 5 days a week. This program is part of the step-down process. We designed this program for individuals who are juggling job and family duties while recovering. These sessions happen in the morning for those working evening jobs or needing to care for their families after their obligations, such as school.

We created the program to assist individuals transitioning from our PHP. It also serves those who, having reached a certain point in their recovery, do not wish to commit to full-time treatment. It will reinforce your work thus far and provide accountability as you reintegrate into your new life in recovery.

Intensive Outpatient Treatment Schedule

Our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) offers a flexible and comprehensive treatment approach designed to meet the specific needs of each patient. Here’s a general idea of what a morning might look like in our IOP:

Please note that this schedule may vary based on individual circumstances and needs. Our highly trained staff works with each patient to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and recovery goals. Our IOP is typically a 3.5-hour program that occurs 3 to 5 days a week, but we can tailor the length of the program to meet each patient’s needs, making it an ideal solution for those who require more assistance while fully engaged in their daily responsibilities.

The IOP Evening Program at Massachusetts Center for Addiction

We designed our evening IOP program to help you lay a firm foundation for your recovery. This program is genuine and multifaceted, with evidence-based methods, psychiatric services, and complete workshops on recovery skills and wellness programming. Evening programs are attended three to five days a week. This schedule offers time to attend work or school daily to build a healthy routine.

We tailor the length of our IOP programs to meet each patient’s needs. It is ideal for those who require more assistance while fully engaged in their daily responsibilities.

How to Get the Individualized Help You Need