If you or a loved one is seeking addiction treatment, learning about the various types of programs is crucial in finding the best fit for your needs. Outpatient addiction programs are great options for people who have recently completed an inpatient program or do not have the time or money to enter inpatient. The two most common outpatient treatment programs are basic services such as therapy and psychiatry and intensive outpatient. Both programs are highly effective, but choosing the right program increases success rates. Rockland Recovery offers day and evening intensive outpatient programs designed to fit our clients’ lifestyles. Learn more about our intensive outpatient program in Massachusetts today by contacting our care team at 855.732.4842.
Outpatient Program vs. IOP
Outpatient programs are non-residential and therapy-focused treatments for addiction, meaning the client attends scheduled sessions throughout the week but returns home afterward. These programs are ideal for people at a recovery stage where they do not need constant supervision and have outside commitments such as work or family. Most clients begin an outpatient program after completing an inpatient program or who cannot afford, whether it be time, money, or both, to commit to an inpatient program.
There are basic outpatient programs and intensive outpatient programs (IOP), and understanding the difference is essential to ensure you are getting the most effective treatment for your stage in addiction recovery. The main difference between these outpatient programs is the amount of time spent at the facility. Basic outpatient programs are typically formatted for people who have completed an IOP and are looking for continued care with less time commitment. For example, basic outpatient programs require clients to attend around two to three hours of treatment per week, whereas an IOP may require up to twenty hours a week.
Both types of outpatient programs are incredibly beneficial for people struggling with addiction but are each structured for people in different steps on their road to recovery. Researching the level of care of an IOP versus a basic outpatient program is helpful when deciding on the right level of care you need to succeed.
What Is an Outpatient Program?
Basic outpatient programs are typically meant for people who have completed either an inpatient or an intensive outpatient program and no longer require a higher level of intensity. These are ideal for clients looking for long-term support, less of a time commitment, and to continue building a sober community.
This type of program utilizes many of the same forms of therapy as any other addiction treatment program, such as individual and group therapy sessions and holistic therapies. Clients often spend a few hours a week at a facility where they attend therapy and other group activities. Basic outpatient programs are an excellent option for people who are confident in their ability to successfully reintegrate into their everyday lives while remaining sober but still require some level of support. It allows people to work, spend time with family, and do things they love, all while receiving continued treatment.
What Is an IOP?
An intensive outpatient program (IOP) is considered one step up from a basic outpatient program in the level of care. An IOP is often meant for people who recently completed an inpatient or partial hospitalization program (PHP) and are looking for continued treatment. Clients spend more time in a facility receiving treatment each week than in a basic outpatient program, but many of the components are the same. Clients are expected to spend up to twenty hours per week at the facility, where they attend many therapies and sessions.
IOPs utilize both individual and group therapy to guide clients toward a primary goal by developing productive thoughts and behaviors. Additionally, these programs offer various other treatments and holistic activities, such as:
- Art therapy
- Yoga
- Twelve-Step Program
- Meditation
- Nutrition counseling
- Fitness counseling
An IOP is an effective addiction treatment program where healthcare professionals teach essential life skills such as communication, objective thinking, and healthy lifestyle techniques. Combining these skills with a supportive community allows our clients to succeed and move towards leading a happy, healthy, and sober life.
Rockland Recovery for IOP in Massachusetts
Outpatient programs are an excellent option for people who have completed a higher level of addiction treatment, such as inpatient or PHP. At Rockland Recovery, we offer a day and an evening IOP in Massachusetts to support our client’s unique lifestyles and needs. We welcome all types of adults struggling with addiction and are committed to providing the highest level of individual and group care.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and believe an IOP is right for you, reach out to our addiction care team at 855.732.4842 to learn more about our programs.
