Intensive outpatient treatment, or "IOP", is a form of recovery from a substance abuse problem that is significantly more involved and comprehensive than a normal outpatient program. Intensive outpatient treatment is an essential aspect of recovery for clients in Art who have just finished residential or inpatient rehabilitation, and still require moderate support and encouragement while they transition to a sober and ethical lifestyle. IOP's involve treatment which occurs much more frequently than conventional outpatient, where clients will participate in the treatment usually once or twice a week unless otherwise adjudicated.
Intensive outpatient treatment normally involves individual and group counseling and therapy meetings to continue to work on the person's addiction. Individual sessions will occur at least once a week, and group sessions can provide the peer support that is vital for long term recovery. While in intensive outpatient treatment, clients work on improving relapse prevention skills, managing every day challenges and triggers, and how to manage any lingering withdrawal symptoms and drug cravings. Some intensive outpatient treatment centers offer family and couples/marriage counseling into the treatment process, which may be beneficial for people who need to rebuild their lives with their loved ones and family members.