How IOP Can Provide Support and Accountability

For those suffering from a substance abuse disorder, the thought of getting treatment can be overwhelming. Inpatient programs seem particularly daunting because they mean a break from life, including work or school, family, and other obligations. However, intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) may be an option for some, offering flexibility while still addressing the needs of the individual and providing intensive support on the road to recovery.

What Is an IOP?

An IOP is a treatment option that’s less intensive than an inpatient or partial hospitalization program (PHP), but more intensive than weekly therapy. Treatment occurs for three to five hours per day, three to five days per week. It generally lasts for around eight weeks, but could be shorter or longer depending on the patient’s needs.

Therapy in an IOP may include both individual and group therapy. Participants share experiences and emotions with both therapists and peers, and they learn skills to overcome and cope with life’s challenges and underlying mental health conditions.

When Is an IOP a Good Option?

An IOP is an option in several scenarios.

• When the person cannot pause their work or school activities to attend inpatient treatment or PHP, an IOP provides the support and flexibility that they need.
• If weekly therapy is not effective enough, an IOP offers more intensive help.
• Often, an IOP is a next step after inpatient treatment and/or PHP. It’s a stepping stone to receive additional care while transitioning back to “normal” life. For some, an IOP may be used while in a sober living facility after inpatient treatment. Many care providers offer a full program of inpatient treatment, PHP, and IOP which sometimes allows patients to continue treatment with other patients involved in the program. This consistent peer support can be invaluable, building more trust and stronger relationships.

An IOP is not a good option if the person needs a period of medically supervised detoxification or if they are at risk of hurting themselves or others. In those cases, inpatient care is best. Additionally, an IOP does not generally address medication therapy that may be needed, so additional treatment from a medical professional may be necessary during IOP.

Benefits of an IOP

An IOP provides a host of benefits for those suffering from a substance abuse disorder.

Intensive Support

In IOP, patients receive intensive support from both therapists and from their peers. This support is the most crucial element of any substance abuse therapy so that patients are not alone on their path to recovery. The therapies provided in an IOP are very similar to those received in inpatient treatment, just on a smaller scale.

Flexibility

An IOP allows patients to continue their daily work or school activities. Often, they have the option to choose an IOP that fits their schedule, such as one with evening hours. They also can still interact with family and friends, who can provide another invaluable level of support.

Skills Education

A large part of an IOP is education in skills such as communication, coping, and relapse prevention. Patients can also share with each other the coping and relapse prevention strategies that work for them,

Continued Care

For those who have gone through inpatient care or PHP, IOP is a continuation of the care they’ve been receiving so that they are not just thrust back into the real world without support.

Family Therapy

Some IOP programs include family therapy intended to help family members to understand the patient’s struggles with addiction and to learn how to provide support.

Privacy

Since an IOP is an outpatient therapy, it’s more discreet than inpatient therapy which involves a prolonged absence. This is desirable to patients due to the stigmas often associated with substance abuse and its treatment.

Cost Effectiveness

Since it involves accommodations, inpatient therapy is quite expensive if not covered by insurance. Thus, an IOP is a more cost-effective option. Many insurance carriers, however, will cover substance abuse treatment at all levels, including an IOP.

Accountability in an IOP

When a person is participating in an IOP, they have freedom, which for a recovering addict can be a dangerous thing, offering temptation. An IOP has a structured schedule that the person must adhere to, so they are accountable for putting in that time. This accountability is important for the patient to learn to take responsibility for their own treatment and recovery.

Learning accountability and responsibility are also important for the patient to be able to take control of their lives in general, not just as it relates to recovery.

Often, outpatient treatment in an IOP requires regular check ins with the therapist, and if they are missed, or if a treatment session is missed, the therapist will attempt to reach the patient to hold them accountable. Peers can also hold the patient accountable. For example, if the patient misses a session and then returns, they will have to explain to their peers what happened. Peers will provide support and encouragement for the patient to continue treatment.

Support at All Levels

An IOP is unique in that it provides support for the patient at all levels. They have the support of professionals, who help to educate patients on the nature of addiction and recovery, as well as teaching coping skills and strategies.

They also have the support of peers who understand their struggles on a deeper level. Peers in treatment form mutually beneficial relationships, and can share stories of struggles and successes, and offer input on strategies for coping and relapse prevention.

Patients also retain access to their family and friends in an IOP. They can share their treatment experiences with this circle of support, fostering a greater understanding from family and friends which can deepen their relationships. This is what is often missing in inpatient treatment.

Help Is Available

If you’re struggling with substance abuse, the most important thing to know is that help is available. You have options. If you can’t do inpatient treatment for any reason, an IOP is an option that can provide the therapy, support, accountability, and other elements that you need without fully disrupting your life. IOPs are available through many treatment providers, so you can find a program that works for your life and your schedule.

Don’t be afraid to seek help because you’re afraid of not being able to live up to your responsibilities, whether they are work, school, or family related. By getting treatment and following the road to recovery, you’ll be better able to handle those responsibilities and lead a more fulfilling life.