If you are looking to recover from an addiction, a Tacoma, Washington, intensive outpatient program (IOP) can be a great place to start or continue treatment. What is IOP, and how can it help you maintain abstinence from drugs or alcohol? Knowing what this type of treatment program involves can help you get clear on your intensive outpatient program expectations and allow you to begin preparing for this new chapter of your life.

Overcoming drug and alcohol addiction can be challenging, especially if you do not have adequate support. Bayview Recovery is always here for you with a range of treatment programs, including our intensive outpatient program in Tacoma, Washington. To learn more about IOP expectations in our facility, call us today at 855.478.3650.

What Is IOP?

Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) are an excellent outpatient treatment option for people who have completed inpatient treatment and are ready to continue their recovery. They require fewer visits and shorter sessions than a partial hospitalization program (PHP) but more of a commitment than a traditional outpatient program.

However, you do not have to attend a residential program before enrolling in an IOP. Each facility’s intensive outpatient program expectations may be slightly different, but most do not require that you have completed a more intensive treatment program before participating in an IOP. The most important determinant for whether IOP is right for you depends on the severity of your addiction and the level of support and structure you need to recover.

Intensive Outpatient Program Expectations

Knowing what to expect in IOP is important before beginning your treatment. Intensive outpatient programs may look somewhat like this:

• You may attend sessions three days a week.
• Each visit usually lasts about three hours.
• You may have a choice of day or evening sessions.
• You will receive individual counseling, group therapy, and medical check-ins to monitor medications.
• The program may last approximately eight to twelve weeks, depending on your needs.

These are general IOP expectations. Depending on your treatment center, you may have additional options, such as gender-specific treatment. Holistic therapies like yoga or mindfulness meditation may also be offered as part of your intensive outpatient program.

Post-IOP Expectations

You may wonder what happens after you complete an intensive outpatient program. Are you left on your own to maintain your recovery? Will there be anyone to support you when you struggle with cravings or triggers?

Your treatment team will not expect you to go it alone once you finish IOP. Lifelong recovery requires a commitment to doing whatever it takes to abstain from drugs or alcohol. This can be a tremendous feat, and it is not realistic to think you can do this by yourself. The best way to stay on course is to transition to a less intensive treatment program after you go through an IOP.

For many people, the next step is a traditional outpatient program that meets only once a week for an hour or two. Some treatment facilities also offer aftercare or alumni programs designed for long-term support. They may meet less frequently but are often combined with support groups outside the treatment center so that you will always have access to help when needed.

Bayview Recovery: Your Reliable Intensive Outpatient Program in Tacoma, Washington

If you are ready for drug and alcohol addiction treatment that combines a blend of intensiveness and flexibility, reach out to Bayview Recovery. Our intensive outpatient program in Tacoma, Washington, allows you to continue treatment while attending to your home and work responsibilities. Call us today at 855.478.3650 or contact us online to learn how our IOP schedule can fit easily into your lifestyle and provide the ongoing support you need for abstinence.