Intensive outpatient treatment, or "IOP", is a method of recovery from a substance abuse problem that is substantially more comprehensive and involved than a conventional outpatient program. Intensive outpatient treatment is an essential action for clients in Penn who have just completed residential or inpatient rehabilitation, and still require moderate support and encouragement while they progress to a sober and wholesome lifestyle. IOP's involve therapy which takes place more frequently than normal outpatient, where the person will take part in the treatment on a part time basis unless otherwise adjudicated.
Intensive outpatient treatment typically consists of individual and group counseling and therapy meetings to continue to treat the individual's addiction. Individual sessions often take place at least once a week, and group sessions can provide the peer support that is often crucial for long term recovery. In intensive outpatient treatment, focus is placed on refining relapse prevention skills, managing every day stresses and vulnerabilities, and how to manage any lingering withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Some intensive outpatient treatment programs incorporate family and couples/marriage counseling into the recovery process, which may be vital for people who need to repair their relationships with their loved ones and family members.