Not everyone struggling with addiction or other mental health conditions can leave their work or family responsibilities behind for several weeks to enter a residential or inpatient program. An intensive outpatient program (IOP) gives many people the opportunity to access life-saving treatment.
IOPs offer evidence-based care while still allowing personal flexibility. Call Northpoint Omaha at 888.687.8014 today if you or someone you love could benefit from an intensive outpatient program.
What Is IOP?
Intensive outpatient programs are short-term treatment programs. Patients who have been in residential treatment might choose an IOP as a step-down or transitional level of care. Others choose IOP if they are concerned about relapsing or need more support than low-intensity programs can offer. IOPs are ideal for those who:
- Have a safe, supportive home environment
- Have reliable transportation
- Qualify for inpatient care but cannot or do not want to live full-time in a residential center
- Can leave work or family responsibilities for many hours a day
- Need budget-friendly options for care
Patients may spend up to 40 hours a week in IOP treatment. Some programs offer flexible schedules with either morning or evening hours so that participants can maintain their work or family responsibilities.
Benefits of IOPs
Treatment in an IOP is not the answer for everyone. Those with severe or prolonged addictions or untreated co-occurring disorders may not find the level of care they need at an IOP. For individuals who do not need close supervision, the benefits of IOPs are numerous.
Community Access
An IOP provides access to a community of people facing similar challenges and struggles. Many patients meet lifelong sober friends in outpatient care—the people they will attend recovery meetings and events with for many years.
Building a community network is a vital part of recovery. You should not underestimate the value of sharing your own experiences and learning from the experiences of others.
Cost
Choosing an IOP over other options sometimes comes down to cost. Intensive outpatient programs cost less than residential programs and are usually covered by insurance. The ability to earn income while receiving treatment is an added benefit for many families.
Accountability
While they offer flexibility, IOPs are serious programs requiring patients to keep their commitments. You will be held accountable daily for maintaining your sobriety—not only by staff members and therapists but by yourself.
Smooth Reintegration
Transitioning from treatment to daily life can be difficult for many people. Facing triggers or explaining your situation to coworkers and family members is difficult.
With an IOP, there is little disruption to your regular schedule. You won’t have to explain long absences, and you can practice the new skills you are learning every day outside of the treatment environment.
Tips for Choosing an IOP
Choosing the IOP that is best for your needs is essential.
Consider the following questions before deciding which program will be the most effective for you:
- Are staff and treatment specialists qualified and experienced?
- Is there a mix of traditional and holistic therapies?
- Does the program provide aftercare support?
- Are the treatment hours flexible?
- Are the treatment plans individualized to meet every patient’s needs?
- Is there an opportunity to build a strong sober community?
- Is the environment welcoming and safe?
Remember that just because an IOP is a short-term treatment program, that doesn’t mean the results are short-term. You are still investing time, money, and commitment to better health. Ensure the IOP you choose provides all of the services you need for long-term recovery success.
IOP at Northpoint Omaha
If you’re still wondering if you could benefit from an intensive outpatient program, call Northpoint Omaha at 888.687.8014 to learn more. Our caring team is happy to answer your questions and help you choose the recovery program that meets your needs.