Psychiatry – Intensive Outpatient Programs

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What is an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)?

An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is a structured and supportive treatment program designed for individuals who need a higher level of care than traditional outpatient therapy but do not require 24-hour supervision. IOPs are commonly used to treat mental health conditions, substance use disorders, and dual diagnoses.

Key Features of an IOP

1. Structured Schedule: IOPs range from therapy sessions for several hours a day to multiple days a week. This allows participants to receive intensive treatment while still being able to maintain their daily responsibilities, such as work or school.
2. Group and Individual Therapy: Participants engage in both group therapy and individual therapy sessions. Group therapy provides a supportive environment where individuals can share their experiences and learn from others, while individual therapy offers personalized attention to address specific needs.
3. Skill Building: The program focuses on developing coping skills, relapse prevention strategies, and healthy lifestyle habits to support long-term recovery.
4. Family Involvement: Family therapy sessions may be included to help improve communication and support systems within the family unit.
5. Medication Management: For individuals who require medication as part of their treatment, IOPs often include medication management services to ensure proper use and monitoring.

Benefits of an IOP

• Flexibility: IOPs offer a flexible schedule that allows participants to continue with their daily activities while receiving intensive treatment.
• Supportive Environment: The group therapy component provides a sense of community and support, reducing feelings of isolation.
• Comprehensive Care: IOPs address various aspects of an individual’s life, including mental health, substance use, and social support, to promote holistic recovery.
• Transition Support: IOPs can serve as a step-down from inpatient treatment, helping individuals transition back to their regular lives with continued support.

Who Can Benefit from an IOP?

IOPs are suitable for individuals who:

• Need more support than traditional outpatient therapy can provide.
• Are transitioning from inpatient or residential treatment.
• Have stable living environments and support systems.
• Are motivated to participate in their recovery process.

Regain control: Griffin’s Various Intensive Outpatient Options

Adult Intensive Outpatient Programs

Each program provides a therapeutic approach that emphasizes the use of healthier thinking and behaviors in a safe structured community where individuals can engage in activities and interactions that promote positive change. This highly structured, assessment and treatment program can be an alternative to inpatient hospitalization or as a transition from a brief inpatient admission. Assessments and treatment plans are individualized to address the individual’s needs. Treatment involves a variety of group and individual methods along with the use of medications as indicated. A multidisciplinary team, the patient and the family collaborate to develop and then achieve focused, relevant goals. This program is offered during the daytime hours, Monday through Friday.

Dual Diagnosis Intensive Outpatient Program

Griffin Hospital’s Dual Diagnosis Intensive Outpatient Program is designed for adults dealing with substance use disorder who require more than outpatient therapy, but not 24-hour hospitalization. This service is also available to adults with associated psychiatric diagnosis (dual diagnosis).

With the goal of matching the intensity of the treatment to the severity of the illness, participants are continually assessed by a multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists and certified addiction counselors to determine when they can be moved down to a less intense level of care. The program includes diagnostic assessment, family involvement, wellness, self awareness and education.

Young Adult Intensive Outpatient Program

Our highly structured, intensive, therapeutic approach emphasizes the use of healthier thinking and behaviors in a safe structured community where individuals can engage in activities and interactions that promote positive change. assessment and treatment program for individuals between the ages of 18 and 26 with psychiatric disorders is available at the Shelton and Hamden locations only. Our Young Adult IOP includes group therapy, individual therapy, and medication evaluation and management.

Trauma Informed Women’s Intensive Outpatient Program

The Trauma Informed IOP track is a highly structured assessment and treatment program designed to treat and support women ages 18+ who have experienced traumatic events and require a more intensive approach to their healing while still maintaining an outpatient level of care. The 6–8-week program meets three days per week for three hours each day. Treatment includes diagnostic assessment, group therapy, individual therapy, and medication management. Our team of highly skilled therapists and medication prescribers provide trauma-informed treatment including components from various evidence-based treatment models