Intensive Outpatient Drug Rehab, or IOP for short, is one effective form of treatment for people affected by substance abuse. Unlike inpatient rehab, which requires the client to live in a treatment facility, IOP allows for flexible treatment where a patient can live at home while attending therapy sessions a few times a week.
It is important to understand the intuitive workings of the IOP so you will feel comfortable with the process.
What Happens in IOP?
Patients entering intensive outpatient drug rehab receive individualized treatment plans that address their specific recovery needs. Such programs generally include therapy sessions for both individuals and groups, plus forms of skills development. Here is a rundown of what to expect:
1. Group Therapy Type
Group therapy is one of the cornerstones of the IOP, providing patients with opportunities to air their concerns and laments and to offer and receive support from others who experience the same recovery journey. These sessions may include:
- Discussions about addiction and recovery
- Sharing personal experiences
- Teaching and learning coping skills
- Offering each other support from a peer perspective
Group therapy helps build community, which can be important in forming ties and minimizing feelings of isolation.
2. Individual Therapy Sessions
Besides group therapy, IOP provides therapy sessions with an individual therapist. The therapy here focuses on:
- Identifying personal triggers and emotional challenges,
- Traversing trauma that remains unresolved,
- Aiding in the development of a recovery plan that is tailored to the individual,
- Giving personalized advice under the guidance of a qualified therapist.
Individual therapy is for the treatment of problems that are, in a manner, specific to the addict and the process of recovery.
3. Skill-Building Activities
The IOP includes an emphasis on teaching clients the skills they need to confront triggers, cravings, and stress in life. Activities involved may include:
- Coping skills for anxiety and/or depression;
- Stress-management techniques;
- Time management and goal-setting skills.
These teach a skill that will help clients conquer the challenges they will face after leaving treatment and will augment long-term success.
What Awaits Patients Outside Sessions
Most patients, while still on IOP, regularly attend therapy sessions that form a major part of the treatment; however, it does not stop at leaving the facility. Outside the scheduled sessions, the patients are encouraged to:
- Visit support groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous.
- Practice self-coping, gained understanding during therapy, and before patience.
- Lead an overall balanced and proper lifestyle.
Conclusion
Intensive Outpatient Drug Rehab treatment structure comprises a casual but thorough treatment that allows people to continue their daily activities as usual. Knowing what to expect within the IOP structure would allow one to feel ready and empowered to begin the recovery process.
