If you’re wondering whether IOP may be right for you, below are answers to the most common questions we receive. Don’t see your question? Just call our office at 314-388-2225, and we’re happy to give you the information you need.

What is IOP?

IOP is a short-term, intensive treatment designed to get results fast – no matter whether you’re struggling with treatment-resistant depression, severe anxiety, PTSD, or other major mental health challenges.

The focal point of treatment is group therapy. These sessions are led by a licensed therapist. And they’re designed to provide foundational mental health skills and to help you work through the specific challenges you’re facing right now in your life.

When we’re at our most difficult points, it’s OK to seek out the support of others. Being a part of a supportive group can provide you strength, courage, and insight no matter what challenges you’re going through.

How does IOP compare to traditional therapy?

Intensive outpatient treatment is not like traditional psychotherapy or regular med management with a psychiatrist, which can go on for years. That kind of treatment is more about “maintenance” – keeping someone on the move forward instead of backward. Instead, IOP is a clear-cut intervention. The goal is marked improvement in as short a time as possible.

How short? The exact amount of time varies person to person depending on their needs/progress. But typically, people can expect to be in the program (and see results) over 5-12 weeks.

How does the IOP process work?

Once you’ve determined that IOP may be right for you, we start by having you establish goals that you want to meet. We take those “stated goals” to the treatment team. This team is comprised of a therapist, psychiatrist, care coordinator, and any other relevant staff. The team takes your goals and develops a specific treatment plan with organized steps and interventions. Your progress is monitored by the team on a bi-weekly basis.

Most of your treatment will take place in a group setting. This includes 3 sessions per week; each 3 hours in length. You’ll also meet one-one-one with a psychiatrist for bi-weekly or monthly evaluation and possibly the therapist, as needed.

Reach out today to get more information.

What areas can IOP help with?

Here are some common challenges that people seek out help with in IOP therapy:

How soon can I get started?

As soon as possible! When you call our office, we’ll ask a few questions to see if IOP might be a good fit for your situation. Then we’ll try to get your psychiatric evaluation scheduled in as few as 1-2 business days. This evaluation is used to to help create your custom treatment plan. And it allows us to get authorization from your insurance for IOP – so you can get into the group sessions right away.

Do I need to take off work to do IOP?

Not necessarily. Some people find it helpful to take time off work to attend IOP. And sometimes you may need a full break from the stresses and challenges of your job (or school).

However, IOP is different than being in a hospital or residential program. And you’re able to still live at home and continue your day-to-day routines while getting treatment. Since most of the group sessions take place in the evening, some people do choose to keep working while going through IOP.

What does the service cost?

IOP is covered by most major private insurance plans. We can take both in-network and out-of-network plans. We also have self-payment options for those without insurance. Contact our office today for more information.

Is IOP is right for me?

IOP provides focused treatment to those facing serious mental health challenges. And it’s not for everyone. However, if you’re at all curious about how it may help you – or if you just want to get a bit more information – please call us today for a free consultation.

We’ll spend some time getting to know you and your situation. And we’ll help you determine what mental health care is best for you.