Outpatient programs (OP) and intensive outpatient programs (IOP) are recovery-based treatment programs sponsored by a hospital or rehabilitation center. A majority of treatment facilities offer both OP and IOP programs to their clientele. 

An overarching similarity between these substance-use treatment programs is that participants aren’t confined to the premises. Overnight stays aren’t mandated, and the patient is free to leave the facility following morning and/or afternoon treatment sessions.

If you or someone you know is seeking substance addiction treatment, understanding the difference between the two programs is essential. Once you familiarize yourself with the guidelines, procedures, and expectations of each program, you’ll be better equipped to decide which type of treatment fulfills your specific set of needs. 

Read on to uncover the varying ambitions of both outpatient and intensive outpatient programs. 

Outpatient programs (OP)

If you or a loved one has been admitted into an inpatient treatment program before, you’re likely aware of the program’s stipulations, i.e., all patients must stay overnight at a designated treatment facility for their prescribed period of time. 

The opposite is true in terms of outpatient treatment programs. An outpatient program allows you to be within arm’s reach of your support system while you conquer your substance-use disorder from the comfort of your home. 

Some of these programs have a set schedule where patients are expected to attend group therapy. Other programs offer individual-based therapy to address underlying issues and target the root psychological and physical distresses that inflame addictive behaviors. 

One of the core benefits of an OP program is that a client/patient can maintain a sense of normalcy during their treatment program. Attendees can work their regular shifts, tend to their children, or engage in social activities in between treatment sessions. 

When you enroll in an outpatient program, you won’t need to abandon your responsibilities to deal with your substance-use challenges, which make it an excellent fit for working adults or busy parents. Yet another benefit of outpatient programs is the ability to receive care without facing stigma associated with an inpatient program. An OP program can be an affordable alternative, as it eliminates the cost of room and board. 

Who uses outpatient programs?

Typically, outpatient care is considered a less critical substance-use treatment program. Individuals attending OP don’t require around-the-clock monitoring, as these patients aren’t usually high risk. For this reason, this program is usually recommended for people who:

  • Have undergone inpatient treatment and need occasional check-ins
  • Have a sponsor or family member to assist them in the event of an emergency
  • Benefit from stable mental health, aside from their substance use disorder
  • Are facing early-onset addictions with habits that are not fixed

Patients who fall into these categories will still require directed substance-use treatment, though they might not need overnight supervision or care. This subset of program attendees can recover with less rigorous treatment and are eligible to participate in a mix of light group therapy and one-on-one counseling to help them recover from their substance-use disorders. 

Intensive outpatient programs (IOP)

Having fully grasped the outpatient program and its benefits, you should also familiarize yourself with the IOP program and its unique pros and cons to guarantee you make the right decision regarding your care or the care of your loved one. While IOP/OP addiction treatment offers a sense of independence and freedom, IOP, in specific, features comprehensive treatment programs with more frequent therapy sessions, as compared to its outpatient counterpart.

What’s included in an IOP?

People seeking addiction treatment should insist on individualized care. Luckily, no two IOP programs look the same. However, most intensive outpatient programs include:

Individual counseling plans: these sessions involve one-on-one meetings with counselors and physiologists to help you develop coping techniques, identify triggers, and prevent relapses.

Medication management: Based on your diagnosis, medication management is broken down into two phases: prescription (a doctor will prescribe a medication best suited to your substance-use disorder and co-occurring mental health disorders) and medication supervision and monitoring (physicians will track your progress to ensure you’re on the right medication).

Group therapy: Most outpatient programs are characterized by group therapy sessions. These are foundational groups offer a supportive and friendly environment to build empathy, encourage problem-solving, and facilitate interpersonal relationships.

Education: This program guides substance-use disorder suffers through essential life skills such as anger management strategies, relaxation, personal hygiene, and general health practices. 

Why you should choose an intensive outpatient program

An intensive outpatient program can be an ideal solution for those patients who are transitioning out of an inpatient plan into a more independent recovery program. Unfortunately, this treatment option may not be fit for every recovering substance-use survivor. 

This treatment route can garner success if you have a close network of family and friends who are willing to guide you through your recovery process. As long as you don’t pose any danger to yourself or the people around you, an intensive outpatient program can be life-changing. Additionally, this program will render the best results if you aren’t dependent on detoxification or if you can escape pressing responsibilities such as school, work, and other obligations to focus on your treatment plan.

Takeaways

For some people, seeking substance-use treatment may not be optional. If you’re looking to enroll in a rehabilitation facility but are worried about abandoning your responsibilities and loved ones, outpatient and intensive outpatient programs can adapt to your busy schedule. Both IOP and OP programs give you the freedom and independence you’ll need to confront your substance-use disorder, as you manage your personal life.