- Our Programs
Intensive Outpatient Program
Table of Contents
Medical Reviewer
Jasmine Miller, NP
Author
Monica Lewis, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Introduction to Intensive Outpatient Program
The Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) at St. Mary’s Wellness Center provides a dynamic and carefully structured treatment option designed for individuals who require in-depth therapeutic support while still managing their daily obligations such as work, academic pursuits, or family responsibilities. This program is particularly well-suited for those who are in the process of transitioning from more intensive inpatient care or for individuals whose mental health or substance use issues do not necessitate round-the-clock residential treatment.
Participants in our behavioral health IOP engage in a range of therapeutic activities, including individual counseling, group therapy, and skill-building sessions, all tailored to foster personal growth and resilience. The flexible scheduling options allow clients to attend sessions multiple times a week, making it easier to integrate treatment into their busy lifestyles. Our program emphasizes the development of coping strategies, emotional regulation, and relapse prevention, equipping clients with the tools they need to achieve lasting recovery while still fulfilling their daily commitments.
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What is the Intensive Outpatient Program?
Our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) delivers comprehensive mental health treatment through regularly scheduled therapy sessions that typically occur multiple times each week. Participants are generally expected to engage in this program three to four days a week, dedicating approximately three to four hours each day to their treatment.
This carefully structured program is designed with flexibility in mind, catering to the diverse needs of our patients. We understand the importance of balancing treatment with one’s personal and professional commitments, so we strive to create a supportive environment where individuals can seamlessly integrate their therapeutic journey into their daily lives. Our aim is to foster healing and recovery while allowing patients to maintain their routine responsibilities and activities.
Goals of the Program:
- To provide a supportive therapy environment that strengthens coping skills and fosters mental health stability.
- To prevent the escalation of mental health symptoms that could otherwise necessitate more intensive treatment settings.
- To support continued recovery and relapse prevention through structured, consistent therapeutic engagement.
Program Features
Patients engage in group therapy, individual counseling, and other therapeutic activities such as workshops on stress management, relapse prevention, and life skills. Therapy sessions are conducted during the day or in the evening to accommodate various schedules.
The IOP is facilitated by licensed mental health professionals including psychologists, clinical social workers, and licensed therapists who specialize in a variety of therapeutic techniques tailored to outpatient care.
St. Mary’s provides a welcoming and fully equipped facility designed to enhance therapeutic efficacy and comfort, ensuring an environment conducive to learning and personal growth.
Who Can Benefit?
This program is particularly advantageous for individuals who find themselves in need of continuous therapeutic intervention and emotional support after having undergone residential or partial hospitalization. It is designed for those who have made significant progress in their recovery journey and are now ready to transition back to a more independent living situation while still requiring regular guidance.
Additionally, this program is ideal for individuals who seek a structured and supportive treatment environment. These participants are stable enough to not necessitate around-the-clock supervision, allowing them the freedom to engage in daily activities such as work, education, or family responsibilities while still receiving the essential therapeutic support they need.
It serves those who want a treatment option that balances their recovery needs with their everyday lives, providing a comprehensive approach to managing both personal and professional commitments as they navigate their healing process.
Working with a diverse network of partners
We Work With Most Major Insurance Providers
Most major health insurance providers with out-of-network benefits will help cover the cost of our St. Marys treatment program. Call us or email us to find out your coverage options when seeking mental health treatment.
Mental Health Treatment Tailored to Your Needs
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“My life isn't perfect, but l'm certainly in a better place because of SLOW. Great facility, great showers, great beds, nice outdoor area, solid food, fantastic therapists and groups. Got to meet some nice friends, and get healthier.”
Timothy S.
“Southern Live Oak Wellness saved my life. The therapists genuinely care about the clients and helping them get better. Working on yourself is not easy, but the therapists help guide you and make you be able to work through whatever may be going on.”
Rachel
"Gorgeous facility with client focused care. They offer Brain Mapping, Med stabilization, Life Skills, Red Light Therapy & Nutrition plans! Locally owned. The only place I would send a loved one to."
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Treatment Approach
Our IOP focuses on delivering evidence-based therapies that are most effective for outpatient care settings, including:
To address patterns of thinking that negatively influence behavior and emotions.
Useful for clients who need help with emotional regulation.
To enhance motivation to change those behaviors that interfere with recovery.
To improve communication and support systems, which are vital for the recovery process.
Why Choose St. Mary’s Wellness Center?
Our IOP offers a unique blend of flexibility and intensive care that allows individuals to pursue recovery without stepping away from their daily lives. We provide expert care that is tailored to individual needs, helping each client move towards personal goals in a
supportive, structured environment.
Admission Process
Getting started with our IOP involves an initial assessment to determine the specific needs and suitability of potential participants. To learn more, please reach out to our admissions team or verify your insurance to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) generally spans a duration of 8 to 12 weeks. However, the exact length can vary significantly based on individual progress, personal circumstances, and specific treatment goals. We prioritize tailoring our approach to meet each client's unique needs, which means some individuals may require more or less time in the program.
IOP is characterized by its more frequent and intensive sessions compared to standard outpatient therapy, making it particularly effective for individuals requiring a higher level of support. In IOP, clients typically attend therapy several times a week, engaging in structured sessions that include individual therapy, group therapy, and skill-building activities. This approach fosters a supportive environment that allows participants to address their challenges more comprehensively and effectively.
Absolutely. Participation in any mental health treatment program, including our IOP, is strictly confidential. We adhere to all legal and ethical standards regarding privacy. This means that information about your involvement in the program will not be disclosed to employers—or anyone else—without your explicit consent. Your confidentiality is a top priority, allowing you to focus on your healing and personal growth without concerns about outside scrutiny.
Yes, many clients find it beneficial to transition to our IOP immediately following a residential or partial hospitalization program. This step-down approach helps maintain the momentum of recovery while providing a supportive environment that eases the transition to independent living. Our team works closely with individuals to ensure this transition is as smooth and effective as possible.
If you start to experience challenges during your time in IOP, rest assured that you are not alone. Our team is committed to your success and well-being. In such cases, we can collaboratively adjust your treatment plan to enhance support. This might include increasing the frequency of therapy sessions, introducing additional therapeutic techniques, or reassessing the level of care that best suits your needs. Open communication is key, and we encourage you to share any concerns with your treatment team so we can work together to navigate any struggles you face.
Recover Now.
St. Marys Wellness Center has caring representatives available 24/7 to help you or your loved one when dealing with mental health concerns. Request a 100% confidential callback now to get started.
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“My life isn't perfect, but l'm certainly in a better place because of SLOW. Great facility, great showers, great beds, nice outdoor area, solid food, fantastic therapists and groups. Got to meet some nice friends, and get healthier.”
Timothy S.