Addiction affects everyone differently. And it is important for a person making the immensely important choice for recovery to be aware of the options available and the different types of treatment. Once an addiction is identified, often the assumed next step is the patient’s admission to an inpatient recovery (long-term) program where they will start the detox then begin a 30-to-60 day program. For many addicts, this is certainly true. But not for everyone.
An Intensive Outpatient Program (also known as an IOP) is serious treatment program without staying full time at a recovery center. The IOP meetings are often scheduled at the beginning of the client’s day or the end in order to allow involvement in work, school, or the family commitments part of real life. There are usually group sessions in addition to individual ones, plus recovery and addiction education, psychotherapy, and more depending on the treatment center. Most often, this regimen is recommended for a person who does not need to detox from alcohol or drugs.
Who Benefits?
This level of care is perfect for professional, student, or parent that cannot completely stop working for one reason or another and need to find a way to fit their treatment program into their schedule. IOP programs allow people to continue to work during the day and attend sessions at night or vice-versa and in doing so receive the benefits of addiction treatment without sacrificing finances, work, or family commitments.
Choosing IOP over Inpatient (staying full time at a recovery treatment center) does, however, come with its own set of challenges. A person who selects this route will not be removed from their environment during their early recovery. They will go home to the same house where their addiction was rampant and they gave in to the many urges to drink or use drugs. As well, more often than not, they will be around the same people that influenced their lives during active addiction.
Of course, these alone do not mean that recovery in this circumstance is not possible. It only means they will have to learn to navigate these murky waters in real time and will not have the added luxury of complete separation from the past decisions and patterns. Fortunately, IOPs specialize in helping people learn to cope with daily life.
On the Other Side
Conversely, some addicts have a strong support system of family and friends surrounding them in their living situation. This kind of encouragement is pivotal in a recovering addict’s life and success. The love of family, the connection to their church (or other religious organization), the commitment of friends to support sobriety, there is no substitute for this kind of backing in a person’s life looking to break free from the chaos of addiction.
What is required?
People choosing the outpatient option will typically need the following:
- Transportation
- 10-15 hours a week
- 3-5 meeting sessions per week
- Ability to take part in morning and/or evening meetings
- A place to live
Talk to a Professional
While some people thrive in outpatient therapy, it is not a perfect fit for everyone. The most important part of deciding if this is your best option is to have a conversation with a recovery professional. Together you can make an informed decision on the best approach to your unique treatment program.
Do you want to know more about IOPs and how they work? Call us today. We are ready to help you or your loved one find the best recovery solution: 1-844-489-0836.
Clients attending First Steps Recovery Intensive Outpatient Program will receive access to all of the therapies and amenities that their Inpatient Program counterparts receive, but at the end of the day, they will go home to their families and friends. For many who attend our program, this is a necessity and we understand that getting free from drugs and alcohol does not have to mean neglecting your previous responsibilities.
