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How Long is an Intensive Outpatient Program?

two guys hugging in intensive outpatient program

If you are considering addiction treatment but you cannot attend an inpatient program, you may be interested in an intensive outpatient program in Youngstown. These programs provide the higher-level support that many people need early in recovery without requiring an on-site stay. 

At Midwest Center at Youngstown, we understand that our patients have different recovery needs. We strive to offer a full continuum of care so that you are sure to find a program that aligns with your needs. Give us a call today at 844.544.0502 to learn more about our highly effective intensive outpatient program in Youngstown.

What Is an Intensive Outpatient Program?

As the name suggests, an intensive outpatient program (IOP) provides one of the highest levels of care in addiction treatment facilities. However, the commitment required is less than that of a residential treatment program. An IOP can be used as a starting point. It can also serve as a transition phase for someone who has completed an inpatient program. Some of the key features of an IOP are:

  • A high level of support through frequent visits to the treatment center
  • Flexibility to maintain work and home obligations, although to a lesser degree than pre-treatment
  • Ability to live at home during treatment

Many people who choose intensive outpatient programs enjoy the freedom and flexibility of living at home. By doing so, they experience less disruption to their work schedule and household responsibilities. While this makes IOPs highly desirable, these programs are not ideal for everyone. If you have a severe addiction or a home environment that includes drug or alcohol usage, you may need the additional security of a residential program to help you avoid triggers early in recovery.

How Long Is an IOP?

While an intensive outpatient program provides more convenience than residential treatment, it still requires a considerable level of commitment. Before you enroll in an IOP, it is best to learn more about how these programs work and how they may fit into your life. Here are a few questions to help you get a better idea of what to expect from an IOP:

How long is an intensive outpatient program?

The length of an IOP will differ for each patient. Generally, you can expect to spend a minimum of 30 to 90 days in these programs, but you may need up to a year before you are ready to move on to a less intensive program.

How often do you need to attend sessions at the treatment facility?

Each center runs its IOP a bit differently, but you can expect to attend sessions most days of the week, possibly for a large portion of the day. As you progress in recovery, your time commitment at the center will decrease.

How will you be able to work while receiving treatment if you have a day job?

Keeping up with a full-time job while receiving addiction treatment can be challenging, especially early in your recovery. Since you will continue living at home during an IOP, it will be easier to continue working. Most IOP sessions occur during the weekdays, but some also offer evening and weekend hours to help accommodate those who cannot adjust their work schedules as easily.

How will you stay sober if you are not staying at the treatment center around the clock?

You may wonder how an IOP can be effective if some people require residential treatment to get clean. IOPs are designed for people who have a supportive home environment where they will not be tempted by drugs or alcohol, and they have others rooting for them the whole way through. Since you attend frequent sessions, you will be getting regular reinforcement of your recovery goals. If you do not feel that this will be adequate to help you fight cravings, you may wish to consider residential treatment.

Midwest Center at Youngstown: Your Trusted Intensive Outpatient Program in Youngstown

If you or someone you love needs an IOP in the Youngstown area, look no further than Midwest Center at Youngstown. Our intensive outpatient program will provide you with the higher level of support you need to kick off your sobriety while allowing you the convenience of living at home and continuing to work and care for your family. Call us today at 844.544.0502 to learn more about how our IOP may be the right fit for your lasting recovery.