Drug and alcohol addiction can affect every aspect of your life and ability to function. Living with substance abuse or addiction can result in strained relationships and harm to your mental and physical health. Addiction can be life-threatening and requires timely, comprehensive treatment.
No two people have the exact same needs during addiction treatment and recovery. There are many types of programs and levels of care to meet a wide range of needs. Understanding what to expect from each level of care can help you make informed decisions and prepare for treatment.
This article will explore the differences between two levels of care: intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) and outpatient programs (OPs). You will learn:
- What to expect from an IOP and OP
- The difference between an IOP and an OP
- How to find the right level of care to meet your needs
- Where to find comprehensive addiction treatment programs
If you or someone you love struggles with addiction or need support in recovery, you are not alone. Contact the specialists at The Best Treatment to explore our holistic treatment and support programs.
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP): What to Expect
An intensive outpatient program (IOP) is an intensive level of outpatient addiction treatment. People with severe addictions or co-occurring mental health conditions may benefit from the support of an IOP.
An IOP is an outpatient treatment approach, meaning people return home after therapy sessions. IOP treatment provides intensive support, with sessions occurring several days per week. In total, people in an IOP may spend up to 20 hours engaging in therapy, education, and other types of treatment.
Each person in an IOP follows a tailored treatment plan. However, a general IOP treatment plan may include:
- Assessments and screenings
- A medically-supported detox program
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- Behavioral therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Relapse prevention education
- Coping skills
- Exercise, nutrition counseling, music therapy, mindfulness, and other holistic therapies
- Aftercare planning and support
After completing an IOP, people must find ways to stay active in their recovery. An aftercare plan might include:
- Other types of addiction treatment
- Spending time in a sober living home or community
- Therapy
- Mental health and medical care
- 12-step meetings
People may participate in an IOP (intensive outpatient program) after completing an inpatient level of care. People may also benefit from attending IOP programs to develop a support system at any stage of recovery.
Outpatient Programs (OP): What to Expect
An outpatient treatment program is a treatment option for people living with substance use disorder. This level of care provides consistent support on an outpatient basis. People may attend an OP in a treatment center, clinic, community center, or other locations.
Outpatient programs offer flexibility that allows people to balance treatment and other responsibilities. Depending on their individualized treatment plan, people in an OP may attend treatment services one or more days per week. Some OPs offer evening treatment sessions to accommodate people’s work schedules.
During treatment, people may engage in a combination of treatments, including:
- Relapse prevention education
- Individual counseling
- Group therapy
- Coping skills
- Life skills training
People with mild addiction or moderate needs may benefit from the support of an outpatient program. People who have completed a higher level of care in a treatment facility may transition into an OP as their recovery needs change.
IOP vs. OP: What are the Differences?
Each person has their own needs and goals during recovery. There are several levels of care in addiction treatment, and each provides a unique type of support. So, what are the differences between an IOP and OP? Here is a quick overview.
Time commitment
Generally, an intensive outpatient program (IOP) is a more intensive treatment program than an outpatient program. Intensive outpatient programs typically meet several days per week, and each treatment session may last several hours. People may spend up to 20 hours a week engaging in these therapies. An outpatient program (OP) may only meet once a week, making it a much smaller time commitment.
Intensity
As the name implies, an intensive outpatient program is a more intensive level of treatment. Participants receive tailored, high-quality treatment that includes therapy, mental health care, and education.
An outpatient program provides valuable structure and support for people who do not require more intensive treatment. Participants may engage in education, therapy, and group support.
It is critical to get the right level of care and support to meet your needs. Before starting a treatment program, you must undergo a substance abuse evaluation to determine which level of care is appropriate.
Find Treatment Now
If you or a loved one struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Reach out to The Best Treatment specialists to explore our holistic addiction treatment and support programs. Our intake staff are happy to verify your insurance details, answer questions, or help you schedule an appointment.
