a friendly smiling doctor talks to a patient in an intensive outpatient programNo matter the type or extent of your substance problems, there’s a recovery option that fits your needs. Some of these options make use of inpatient treatment, while others provide outpatient services. For many people, the right outpatient recovery setting is an intensive outpatient program (IOP). An IOP provides you with more weekly treatment than a standard outpatient program. As a result, it can help you recover from more serious forms of addiction or substance abuse. You may need this relatively advanced care to support your return to sobriety. 

At The Right Step, we specialize in intensive outpatient services. Every day, we customize these services to meet the needs of people recovering from all manner of substance problems. With our help, you can take full advantage of what the IOP model offers.  

IOPs and the Continuum of Care  

Like all recovery services, IOPs are part of what’s known by experts as the continuum of care. This term refers to the interlocking sequence of treatment programs used in modern rehab facilities. Each program provides services best suited for a particular group of people in recovery. Things that determine which group you belong to include the following: 

  • Seriousness of your substance problems 
  • Relative stability of your household environment 
  • Degree to which you’re affected by other mental or physical health issues 

IOPs form the middle tier of outpatient services on the continuum of care. Below them on the continuum are standard outpatient programs. Above them are partial hospitalization programs (PHPs).  

The Operating Principles of an Intensive Outpatient Program  

All outpatient programs allow you to live at home while receiving drug or alcohol recovery services. What distinguishes an IOP from a standard outpatient program or a PHP? A key difference is the amount of time you participate each week.  

The lower threshold of IOP participation is nine hours a week. The upper threshold is 19 hours per week. The actual amount of time you spend in treatment can fall anywhere within these upper and lower limits.  

IOP Enrollment Criteria 

This level of weekly treatment makes IOPs suitable for people with moderate or moderate-to-severe substance problems. There are also additional enrollment criteria. For example, you must have a home life stable enough to support you between treatment sessions. You must also be free of any physical or mental health issues that make inpatient care a better option.   

Types of Services in an IOP 

A range of methods may be used to help you make progress in an IOP. Examples of the available services include: 

  • Psychotherapy or counseling 
  • Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) 
  • Psychoeducation services that help you better understand addiction and recovery 
  • Recreational and occupational therapy 

Counseling and therapy often take place in a group setting. You may also take part in one-on-one sessions with your therapist.  

Customizing Your Care 

Customization is essential for all rehab services. Your IOP will be designed specifically for you. For this reason, your recovery plan may differ from those provided for other participants. That’s true even if you’re affected by the same kinds of substance problems. 

Turn to The Right Step for a Premier Intensive Outpatient Program 

In the right circumstances, an IOP may be crucial to your effective progress toward sobriety. Want to know if this kind of program is right for you or your loved one? Consult the experts at The Right Step.  

The Right Step is a leading provider of IOP services. You can use these services to support your return to stable substance abstinence. You can also use them to recover from additional mental health issues. Just call us today at 17135283709 for enrollment details to get started. You can also reach out to us online.  

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