Residential treatment is not always the best choice for a variety of reasons. As expected, the right treatment options depend on the client’s circumstances. Most of the time, treatment center staff will try to prescribe the least intrusive treatment option possible.
If a person’s addiction profile indicates intensive outpatient substance abuse treatment would be best, that will be the most likely choice. Our intensive outpatient program helps patients develop the coping skills they need without making them choose between sobriety and commitment.
WHAT IS AN INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT PROGRAM?
IOPs typically involve the use of several evidence-based therapies per week. These may include individual counseling, group therapy, family therapy, and relapse prevention sessions. These programs focus on addressing the root causes of addiction, teaching coping strategies, and providing tools for long-term recovery. They are particularly valuable for individuals who do not require 24/7 supervision but still need a high level of support to overcome substance use disorder.
How Can an Intensive Outpatient Program Treat Mental Health Disorders?
Our IOP can be used for mental health treatment for the following conditions:
- Depressive disorders
- Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Anxiety disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
An intensive outpatient program can help manage other mental illnesses as well, but serious mental health conditions can require a higher level of care. For example, people with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia may need medication management and constant supervision at the start of treatment. This requires a more structured, supportive environment like what is found in residential treatment to adequately manage their symptoms.
However, an intensive outpatient program may be a suitable option after people complete residential treatment. IOPs can also help cope with other behavioral health issues, like anger and eating disorders. These types of programs can be highly effective against behavioral health issues that don’t require serious medication management.
By focusing on integrated, compassionate care, intensive outpatient programs provide the tools, support, and treatment necessary to overcome addiction and mental health challenges simultaneously. This comprehensive approach sets individuals on the path to lasting well-being and a healthier future.
INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT PROGRAM EXPECTATIONS
Regular attendance is a critical part of an IOP. Most programs require individuals to attend multiple therapy sessions each week, which typically last several hours. Consistency is key, as the structured schedule provides the support and accountability needed to make progress. By showing up regularly, participants ensure they are fully immersed in the treatment process.
IOPs place a strong emphasis on therapy, which includes individual therapy, group therapy, and sometimes family counseling. A typical IOP might require the client to submit to 6-8 hours of intensive therapy, 5-7 days a week. The exact numbers will depend on the depth of the client’s addiction.
Patients are expected to actively participate by engaging in discussions, exploring personal challenges, and practicing new skills introduced during these sessions. This involvement not only promotes self-awareness but also helps build a strong foundation for lasting change.
Successful recovery requires dedication beyond attending scheduled sessions. Participants are expected to work on their goals outside of the program, whether that means practicing coping skills, attending support group meetings, or reflecting on personal growth. Maintaining a positive and proactive attitude is essential.
Each individual has unique needs, which is why IOPs create customized treatment plans tailored to address specific challenges, including mental health concerns and co-occurring disorders. Participants are expected to follow their treatment plan by attending regular sessions and completing therapeutic assignments designed to support their long-term goals.
One of the benefits of an intensive outpatient program is the ability to continue with daily responsibilities, such as work, school, or family duties, while receiving treatment. However, this requires good time management and prioritization. Participants are encouraged to integrate strategies into their everyday routines, fostering resilience and preparing them for life after treatment.
Accountability is a core element of an intensive outpatient program. Patients are expected to remain honest about their struggles, progress, and any challenges they encounter during recovery. Open communication with therapists and peers helps create a supportive and collaborative environment, making the program more effective.
By fully committing to these expectations, individuals in an IOP can make meaningful strides toward recovery while maintaining a balanced and productive life. The program’s flexible structure allows participants to heal and grow without having to completely step away from their everyday responsibilities.
HOW LONG DOES AN INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT PROGRAM LAST?
What Types of Therapy Are Available in an Intensive Outpatient Program?
Individual therapy sessions play a crucial role in an IOP, providing a safe and private environment for participants to explore their challenges. A licensed therapist works closely with individuals to identify the root causes of their addiction, address co-occurring mental health disorders, and develop coping strategies.
Group therapy fosters a sense of community and shared understanding among participants. Facilitated by trained professionals, these sessions allow individuals to share their experiences, learn from others, and build social support networks. Group therapy often focuses on topics like relapse prevention, stress management, and developing healthy relationships.
Family therapy sessions are a vital component of many IOPs, as addiction often impacts loved ones. These sessions provide a space for families to heal together by addressing communication issues, rebuilding trust, and educating family members about addiction and the treatment process.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is an evidence-based approach widely used in IOPs to help participants identify and challenge negative thought patterns that may contribute to substance use. By replacing these patterns with healthier ways of thinking, individuals can develop better coping mechanisms. CBT also equips participants with practical tools to handle cravings, manage stress, and build resilience.
Dialectical behavior therapy is another evidence-based approach commonly available in IOPs, especially for individuals dealing with intense emotions or co-occurring mental health conditions like borderline personality disorder. DBT focuses on teaching skills in mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. These skills help participants manage overwhelming emotions and improve their relationships.
Many IOPs also incorporate trauma-informed care for individuals whose addiction is linked to past traumatic experiences. This approach emphasizes safety, empowerment, and understanding, ensuring participants feel supported as they process and heal from trauma. Therapies such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) or somatic experiencing may be integrated for this purpose.
To support overall well-being, some IOPs include holistic options like mindfulness meditation, yoga, or art therapy. These approaches complement traditional therapies by helping individuals reduce stress, improve self-awareness, and foster a sense of balance in their lives.
Insurance Coverage and IOPs
That doesn’t mean that they will provide enough coverage to help you pay for outpatient care. Our treatment center can help you verify your insurance to make sure that an IOP makes sense for your budget.
WHY CHOOSE INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT SUBSTANCE ABUSE OR MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT?
- Key personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs
- Compassionate and experienced staff
- Evidence-based approaches like CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care
The program also prioritizes dual diagnosis treatment, addressing both substance use and mental health challenges simultaneously. This flexible structure accommodates work and family life, and a supportive community that fosters growth.
There are also several reasons why clients prefer intensive outpatient treatment to other forms of care:
- They may have financial obligations that require the individual to keep working
- There are primary care responsibilities for a child or an elderly parent
- Overall affordability (less expensive than residential treatment)
- It offers a great follow-up to a residential treatment program
- Work or school responsibilities
Selecting the right treatment center is a critical step in your journey. Northern Illinois offers an intensive outpatient program that stands out for its comprehensive care, personalized approach, and supportive environment. Whether you’re seeking help for substance abuse, mental health conditions, or co-occurring disorders, Northern Illinois is committed to guiding you toward lasting recovery.
TYPES OF ADDICTIONS TREATED IN INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT PROGRAMS
Since over 5,000 people pass away from alcohol or drugs in Illinois, it’s better to get help than get none at all. Certain substances have a stronger presence in Northern Illinois, contributing to a large chunk of this statistic.
Despite overwhelming research that shows the dangers of drinking, people still develop alcohol use disorders. When people become addicted to alcohol, it makes it almost impossible to quit drinking without experiencing physical and mental withdrawal. After managing the physical withdrawal symptoms in detox, many clients attend alcohol IOP treatment.
Opioids are among the most addictive drugs in the United States. Illinois is no exception. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “nearly 80% of drug overdose deaths involved opioids in 2018”.
Many people start with prescription opioids and eventually succumb to using heroin. Because of how dangerous opioids are, it’s essential to get treatment quickly. After residential treatment, an IOP can act as a bridge between getting back to normal life and continuing treatment.
While opioids and alcohol present a deadly issue to those in Illinois, many people admit themselves to treatment for meth. Meth isn’t as deadly, but can still be difficult to quit without professional help from an addiction treatment facility.
Our intensive outpatient rehab program offers a solution for those without a severe meth addiction who can’t live on-site. Clients with severe addictions should seek more intensive treatment.
OFFERING COMPREHENSIVE INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT PROGRAMS FOR SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND DUAL DIAGNOSIS
This also allows our counselors and clinicians to choose and customize addiction treatment plans for each client. At the end of the day, our success depends on the ability of our clients to remain in recovery long-term. Here are some of our treatment programs and services:
- Outpatient programs
- Primary inpatient and extended (more than 90 days) inpatient programs
- Aftercare programs like sober living homes
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Partial hospitalization program (PHP)
If you’re struggling with addiction but can’t enroll in inpatient care, an intensive outpatient program might be the best choice for you. Addiction is a disease that claims victims every day, but we can help!
Our counselors and clinicians at Northern Illinois Recovery Center are ready to help you when you are. We encourage you to contact us for relevant information about our detox and addiction treatment services.
