When pursuing treatment for substance use disorder, it’s inevitable that the terms “outpatient program” and “intensive outpatient program” will be part of the discussion. Upon the first reading, the two can seem interchangeable, but the I in IOP denotes some major distinctions that can make all the difference in treatment. Learning the pros and cons of choosing an outpatient program vs. IOP is essential for anyone seeking to overcome their substance use disorder.
At Clear Steps Recovery, we offer both outpatient programs and IOPs to better adapt to the needs of our patients and their families. Speak with us to help come to a conclusion about which program suits you best, and our team of specialists will be along every step of the way. Call us at 603.769.8981 or reach out online today to learn more about our outpatient or intensive outpatient program in Ayer, Massachusetts.
What Are IOPs and How Do They Differ From Outpatient Programs?
Outpatient programs and IOPs are, true to their name, similar approaches to treatment. In contrast to inpatient programs, which involve lengthy stays at hospitals or other treatment centers, both outpatient and intensive outpatient programs allow patients to spend the majority of their time at home. Whereas inpatient care is typically reserved for cases of substance use disorder that require constant medical supervision, the outpatient approach is for less severe instances.
As for the differences between outpatient and intensive outpatient programs, it’s best described as an interval of care that suits some patients more than others. The gap between outpatient and inpatient can be pretty wide, especially for people that have a mix of qualifiers for either approach. For example, patients who need more medical attention than can be provided in 12-15 hours a week but can’t afford to spend time away from work and/or domestic responsibilities find IOPs to be an ideal middle ground.
Comparing an IOP vs. Outpatient Program
There are several ways you and your care provider can determine whether an IOP or an outpatient program will be more appropriate for your situation. Some of the factors involved in making the decision of an outpatient program vs. IOP include:
- The severity of addiction
- Amount of medical supervision required
- Scheduling availability
- Work/other responsibilities
- Intake assessment results
Sometimes, patients can take advantage of the descending intensity of these programs to transition back into normal life. Outpatient programs make for a less rigorous way of treating substance use disorder while allowing for more freedom in scheduling than either IOPs or inpatient programs. Patients run a serious risk of relapse when entering back into life as usual post-rehab, especially when they’ve gone extended periods of time away from their normal living environment. As a result, it may be advised to move down to an outpatient program from a more intense plan.
Find an Intensive Outpatient Program in New Hampshire at Clear Steps Recovery
Ultimately, determining whether an outpatient program vs. IOP is right for you is down to your individual specifics. Working with a treatment specialist to understand your situation, receive a proper diagnosis, and select a treatment plan based on the assessment.
At Clear Steps Recovery, we offer a wide variety of therapy styles to allow each patient to determine which will be of the most help to them in achieving their sobriety goals. Everybody is on different parts of the road to recovery, but the destination is something each of us has in common. Take the first step by calling 603.769.8981 or by reaching out to us online, and learn how choosing an outpatient or intensive outpatient program can make a clear difference in your life.
