When researching treatment programs for substance use disorders, you will encounter multiple levels of care. An intake specialist can help you determine what level of care is best suited to your treatment needs. One popular option is an intensive outpatient program or IOP. When considering an IOP, one should consider the benefits and the potential limitations, and the level of commitment required.
The IOP at Spokane Falls Recovery Center provides structured part-time treatment for addiction disorders. Patients in the IOP have more flexibility and freedom than those in higher levels of care and have greater personal responsibility for managing their recovery. While patients need to meet minimum treatment requirements, they are not required to stay at the treatment center overnight. To learn more about IOP, contact our team at 844.962.2775.
A Look at How Intensive Outpatient Programs Work
Outpatient treatment programs provide a flexible and affordable treatment option for many. This allows people to maintain work, school, and family obligations. The main difference between an outpatient program (OP) and an intensive outpatient program (IOP) is the time and commitment required. Overall, an IOP provides more structure and guidance. At Spokane Falls Recovery center, patients in the IOP meet for a minimum of nine hours per week, typically three hours per day, three days per week.
During the intake process, patients work with treatment team members to identify their needs and goals for treatment to develop an individualized treatment plan. Educational programming, counseling, and therapeutic activities help patients develop a thorough understanding of their symptoms. We will then identify and address the causes and effects of their substance use and mental health disorders. Following is what to expect during an IOP:
- Weekly individual counselings
- Group therapy sessions
- Family therapy sessions
- Drug and alcohol screening, where required
- Life skills and relapse prevention skills training
- Yoga, meditation, and relaxation techniques
- Access to nutritional and medical care providers
Most patients can expect to participate in IOP for two to three months. However, your personal needs and progress in treatment may vary. Personal accountability is taken very seriously, and attendance and full engagement in programming is required.
What to Expect During an IOP for Treatment Options
Group therapy is an integral part of the IOP approach to treatment. This treatment option involves therapist-guided peer sessions that are process-driven and educational, offering members the opportunity to give and receive support while acquiring and learning to implement skills needed to maintain sobriety. Group therapy can provide a range of treatment options, including:
- Foster healthy socialization
- Develop communication skills
- Improve problem-solving skills
- Increase accountability
- Provide the foundation of a support system
Groups can also provide demographic specialization to meet specific needs, such as LGBTQ, veterans, sexual abuse survivors, or victims of domestic violence. Community-based support groups based on the 12-step model are another popular component of IOP.
A significant benefit to IOP treatment is that patients can practice newly learned skills and concepts and get feedback immediately from their regular daily lives, which can rapidly enhance behavioral change.
Can You Benefit from an Intensive Outpatient Program?
An IOP can benefit a wide range of treatment needs, from someone stepping down from residential treatment to someone who needs to step up from outpatient treatment. Patients most likely to benefit from IOP include those who:
- Are highly motivated and have a high level of self-discipline
- Have obligations that prevent them from attending residential care
- Do not require around-the-clock supervision
- Are not currently using drugs or alcohol
- Have a mild to moderate level of substance use that they want to prevent getting out of control
- Have a stable living situation and solid support network
- Are at lower risk for relapse
While highly beneficial to many, the risk of returning to an environment full of potential triggers and temptations each day rules out the option of IOP treatment for many others.
Contact Spokane Falls Recovery Center to Learn More
IOP is an ideal option for those who need the flexibility to balance treatment with life’s other responsibilities. However, it is not suitable for everyone. When you are ready to learn more about IOP and whether it is right for you, contact Spokane Falls Recovery Center. Use our online form or call 844.962.2775.
