Being referred to an intensive outpatient program (IOP) can sound intimidating, but it does not mean you have failed or reached “rock bottom.” IOP provides additional structure, practical skills and support when traditional outpatient therapy may not be enough. We spoke with AllHealth Network Clinical Supervisor Mikaila Adams about what IOP involves, why it may be recommended, and what clients can expect.
What is an IOP?
IOP is an intensive outpatient program which means that it is a bit more ‘intensive’ than your traditional outpatient therapy and a step below a partial hospitalization program (PHP). Participation in IOP consists of nine hours of group therapy a week, plus a weekly 15-30 minute individual check-in session with the group facilitator scheduled outside of group time.
Why might a clinician recommend IOP to a client?
There may be a number of reasons a clinician may refer a client to IOP. For example: An IOP may be appropriate if a client has been participating in outpatient services for a while and symptoms are not appearing to shift; If a client’s symptoms start to escalate and require a higher level of care, a clinician may refer to IOP in order to avoid hospitalization; IOP can also be a step-down level of care after hospitalization or completion of PHP.
AllHealth Network uses assessments, conversations, and consultations with clients to determine if an IOP may be a beneficial next step.
What are some common myths/misconceptions about IOPs?
MYTH: Group members must sit and share their entire history of trauma or experiences with the group.
FACT: AllHealth Network’s IOP focuses mostly on building skills. While there may be time for processing and reflection, the group is built to support education, exploration, and skill building to help stabilize symptoms. You can share as much or as little as you would like!
MYTH: IOP takes too much time and doesn’t work with my schedule.
FACT: We understand that there are a number of factors contributing to a client’s engagement or lack thereof when it comes to IOP. To best help clients meet their treatment goals we offer morning and evening hybrid treatment options and we can provide support in completing paperwork for FAMLI or FMLA leave if necessary.
MYTH: IOP is only for severe cases or those who have hit “rock bottom.”
FACT: IOP is an early or intermediate intervention to help address symptoms from worsening.
MYTH: More therapy each week will just replicate my individual therapy.
FACT: IOP offers structured, skills-based, modality driven, and community-based support that cannot be recreated in an individual therapy session.
What does a typical day of IOP look like?
Each session begins with a meditation/mindfulness activity to help clients ground themselves in the moment to allow them to be more present in the sessions. Following this, the group completes a check-in where clients are asked about their highs and lows of the day and then answer a fun question picked by the facilitators.
Please know, you are always welcome to pass though we do love when you participate and feel that you get the most out of it when you do!
Following check-ins, our facilitators walk through a specific skill/activity and engage participants in discussion and reflection. Group will then take a 30-minute break and finish with a second activity/discussion. Facilitators end group with a check-out.
An integral part of IOP is group therapy. Why is group therapy so important in treatment?
Studies show a link between mental health healing and community building. IOP creates community by providing a safe space where clients can speak freely with peers experiencing similar struggles and fostering a support network to help guide participants through difficult periods. IOP provides insight into when our mental health symptoms may be shifting and delivers effective skills that can be utilized to aid in stabilization.
If a clinician recommends IOP, consider approaching it with an open mind and asking questions about how it could support your goals. With structured skill building, flexible treatment options and connection with others facing similar challenges, IOP can provide valuable support as you work toward greater stability and well-being. To find out if an IOP is right for you, speak with your clinician or reach out to our assessment and referrals team for more information.
