If you or your loved one is struggling with substance use disorder, it can be daunting trying to research treatment centers in New Jersey or figure out the differences between levels of care. At Harmony, we’re here to help.
Our intensive outpatient programs offer a convenient and affordable option for those struggling with drug or alcohol addiction. This unique level of care provides rigorous support and mental health care services while allowing individuals to return home at night to sleep. For some, this level of care is critical for long-term sobriety.
What is an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)?
Intensive Outpatient Programs are part of the addiction recovery process and are meant to provide a structured treatment program for those who still wish to return home at the end of each treatment. These programs are typically best for those with less severe addictions who don’t need around-the-clock monitoring but still benefit from regular guidance from support groups, mental health professionals, and addiction specialists.
Intensive outpatient programs generally require patients to attend treatment at a facility for a certain number of hours each week, but patients are still able to work, take care of family, or fulfill other obligations. The benefit of attending an IOP as opposed to a more intensive rehab program is that patients are able to live at home, which gives them more freedom and flexibility.
How Does an IOP Program Differ from Regular Outpatient Care?
Outpatient treatment programs are designed to provide part-time care while allowing the patient to return home and go about their daily life before and after attending their treatment program for the day. Outpatient treatment typically requires less time than IOP, which averages 3-5 days a week for between 4-6 hours for each treatment session.
An IOP is more structured and serves as a bridge between inpatient treatment programs and outpatient treatment.
Who Are Intensive Outpatient Programs for?
Intensive Outpatient Programs are ideal for those who require a higher level of care yet still wish to return home after receiving treatment. If an individual has completed substance abuse treatment in an inpatient program and is ready to return home, an IOP program may be the next best step.
Because intensive outpatient programs do not require patients to live at a residential facility, these programs can be more affordable and convenient options for those with less severe addiction issues and for those without co-occurring disorders, such as mental health issues. Intensive outpatient programs can be a more sensible treatment option for patients with a strong support system, including a supportive home environment, and for those who are new to recovery and less prone to relapse. Be sure to consider all these factors as you decide whether an intensive outpatient program is a right choice for you.
What to Expect from an Intensive Outpatient Treatment Program in New Jersey
IOP programs in NJ include a variety of therapeutic techniques and practices as well as mental health services to aid in the recovery process. At Harmony Outpatient Center, we understand that healing and addiction recovery are not linear and require supportive connections and holistic approaches. As such, your individualized treatment will likely include some combination of the following addiction treatment practices:
- Group therapy and individual therapy sessions
- Psychiatric treatment and mental health treatment
- Educational opportunities
- Intensive therapy for co-occurring disorders
- 24-hour crisis management
- Possible integration of medication-assisted treatment with an IOP
As you progress through your recovery, you might find that certain treatment practices become more or less helpful, so be aware that your own treatment plan may evolve and change as well.
Why Choose an Intensive Outpatient Treatment Program?
Due to the intensive nature of an IOP, you can expect to get to know others who are on a similar recovery journey as yourself. Through our support group meetings and personalized treatment plan, you can build friendships and accountability partners who provide a necessary support system for challenging days. You can also expect to be given the resources to avoid relapse, find support for mental health issues, and develop coping skills for a life of sobriety and freedom.
For people suffering from drug or alcohol addiction and seeking treatment that allows them to return home to their support system at the end of each day of treatment, reach out to us today at Harmony Healing Center to learn more about our intensive outpatient treatment program.
