Intensive Outpatient (IOP) Treatment Program

   Dec. 7, 2014
   1 minute read
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Last Edited: June 19, 2025

Author
Patricia Howard, LMFT, CADC

Clinically Reviewed
Mark Frey, LPCC, LICDC, NCC

All of the information on this page has been reviewed and certified by an addiction professional.

There are a variety of treatment methods offered to treat the disease of addiction. One of the popular choices is intensive outpatient treatment, or IOP.

IOP is an intensive program that offers therapy and treatment by licensed addiction therapist. These programs are often favored by those who are unable to commit to the time or financial requirements of inpatient treatment. IOP allows program participants the ability to continue with school or work while still committing a significant amount of time and energy into the treatment of the disease of addiction.

Other components of IOP include individual therapy, group therapy, addiction education and possibly family therapy. These therapeutic options are engaged in on a regular basis. Some programs meet every day of the week, while others meet only a few days a week. Most programs are offered during the evening, so that clients can also work or attend to other responsibilities during the day.

People who attend an impatient program also often follow their stay in treatment with IOP. This ensures that the individual slowly adjust to his or her new sober life while maintaining a strong support system.

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