Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
An Intensive Outpatient Program offers flexible, effective care for individuals working to overcome drug or alcohol addiction. They help people who need structured treatment but don’t have to have 24/7 supervision.
Understanding IOP Programs
IOP stands for Intensive Outpatient Program. It’s a structured treatment option that allows people to live at home or in sober housing while they attend therapy sessions several times a week. IOPs are ideal for those who have completed a residential program or who have mild to moderate substance use issues.
IOPs fall between partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) and standard outpatient care. While they are less intense than PHPs, they still provide group therapy, individual counseling, and other services to help clients build healthy coping skills. IOPs focus on balancing treatment with daily responsibilities like work, school, or family.
IOP programs typically last 2 to 3 months, but this timeline depends on your individual needs. During this time, you attend treatment for about 15 hours each week, with the exact schedule tailored to your situation.
To complete an intensive outpatient program, clients must:
- Attend all scheduled group and individual sessions
- Complete treatment goals set with their therapist
- Maintain consistent progress throughout the program
- Participate in family education and therapy sessions
- Follow drug screening requirements as needed
Completing this checklist ensures that you are ready to graduate from the IOP program and move on to the next phase of your recovery.
The Benefits of Our Intensive Outpatient Treatment Program
Our IOP Rehab for Drug and Alcohol Addiction in Maine
At Liberty Bay Recovery Center in Portland, Maine, we provide a trusted IOP program for adults. Our intensive outpatient program focuses on helping you rebuild your life while maintaining balance. We offer flexible scheduling, professional support, and proven therapies to guide people on their recovery journey.
We understand that each person’s path to healing is unique. That’s why we design personalized treatment plans to address your needs. Whether you’re stepping down from a PHP or starting IOP care, our program provides the tools, skills, and community support to achieve lasting recovery.
IOP Treatment Offerings
Our IOP provides a mix of therapies to support your recovery. You’ll take part in group therapy to connect with others, as well as individual therapy for one-on-one support. We also offer family therapy to help improve relationships and build stronger support at home.
Our program includes the 12-step approach to guide you through recovery and teaches tools for long-term success. To help with overall well-being, we include yoga and meditation, along with medication support when needed to keep you comfortable and safe.
What Is PHP Therapy vs. IOP? Understanding the Difference
Feature
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Intensity
5–6 days a week, 6+ hours daily
3–5 days a week, 3–4 hours daily
Living Situation
Full-time treatment; clients return home
Clients live at home or in sober housing
Focus
Acute care for severe addiction
Balance treatment with daily life
Best For
Individuals leaving inpatient rehab
Step down from PHP or mild addiction
Both programs offer effective care, but PHP is more intensive, while IOP allows you to have greater flexibility and independence.
Discover Healing Through the IOP Program at Liberty Bay
Recovery is a lifelong journey, and the IOP program at Liberty Bay Recovery Center is here to help you take the next step. Our evidence-based therapies, experienced team, and compassionate support give you the tools to heal and build a brighter future.
Call Liberty Bay Recovery Center today to learn more about our intensive outpatient program and start your journey to recovery.
Contact Us
Frequently Asked Questions About IOPs
What is an IOP and why is it used?
An IOP is a treatment program that provides therapy while clients live at home. It’s used to treat mild to moderate addiction.
How to start an intensive outpatient program?
Contact a treatment center like Liberty Bay to schedule an assessment and discuss your needs.
What is the difference between intensive outpatient and outpatient?
IOP involves more therapy hours and structure, while standard outpatient care offers fewer sessions per week.
What are the goals of an intensive outpatient program?
The goals of an IOP are to build coping skills, maintain sobriety, and prepare for long-term recovery.
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