Mental health conditions affect millions of people in the United States. Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other conditions can impact a person’s daily functioning and quality of life.
Mental health conditions typically respond to treatment. The sooner someone gets help, the better their outcomes are likely to be. Since people have very different needs during treatment, there are many types of treatment and levels of care available.
This article will explore intensive outpatient programs (IOP). You will learn:
- What to expect in a mental health IOP program in Florida
- Who may benefit from the support an IOP offers
- Where to find mental health services in Florida
If you or a loved one requires treatment for a mental health condition, you are not alone. Find supportive outpatient therapy and treatment programs at Agape Behavioral Healthcare. Contact our intake team to learn more about our outpatient treatment services or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is an IOP?
An intensive outpatient program (IOP) is a type of mental health treatment. People with mental health disorders like anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and bipolar disorder receive intensive treatment to manage their symptoms.
An IOP provides supervision, structure, and intensive support. People follow individualized treatment plans that include medication management services, individual and group therapy sessions, education, and coping skills. These evidence-based therapies can help people explore and treat the roots of their mental health condition.
Some IOPs offer treatment for substance abuse and mental health conditions at the same time. These dual diagnosis programs provide tailored treatment for people with SUD and mental health disorders, as well as aftercare planning and recovery support.
Intensive outpatient programs typically require people to attend several sessions per week. IOP treatment schedules may be flexible, or people may attend evening treatment sessions. Flexible scheduling and outpatient care may allow people to attend school, work, or care for family members while getting the help they need.
What to Expect in a Mental Health Intensive Outpatient Program?
Mental health IOP programs in Florida offer a combination of evidence-based treatments. Here is an overview of what to expect in a mental health IOP.
Medication management
People may attend medication management sessions as part of an IOP treatment plan. This allows people to work directly with a healthcare provider to find medications to manage their symptoms.
Individual therapy sessions
Individual therapy is a critical aspect of a mental health IOP. People work with a licensed mental health provider to process experiences, express emotions, and learn new coping skills. Many IOP therapists use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help people explore the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Support groups
Support groups and group therapy can give IOP participants new coping skills and improve communication. Attending group therapy can reduce isolation, guilt, and shame. People make new connections and support one another as they learn to manage their mental health symptoms.
Family therapy
Research shows that family involvement can be beneficial to people with mental health conditions. An IOP may include family therapy, education, and support when appropriate.
Education
An IOP may include education about mental health conditions and symptom management. People can learn effective ways to manage symptoms and practical coping skills to help them live healthier lifestyles.
Holistic therapies
An IOP may offer holistic therapies to calm the mind and body during treatment. Some examples of holistic therapies include:
- Yoga
- Exercise
- Nutrition counseling
- Mindfulness
- Nature therapy or outdoor recreation
- Creative therapies like journaling, music, or art
These therapies can help people express themselves or process emotions in new ways. They also provide a healthy way to reduce stress and improve a person’s overall well-being.
Aftercare planning
In most cases, people need to continue managing a mental health condition after completing an IOP. During the program, people will create an aftercare plan with their treatment teams. An aftercare plan might include:
- Support groups
- Relapse prevention groups (Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), other 12-step groups, outpatient addiction treatment services, etc.)
- Regular mental health care
- Medical care
- Group home or sober living
- Social work referrals
Contact the Agape Behavioral Healthcare specialists to learn about our intensive outpatient programs or to explore other treatment options.
Agape Behavioral Accepts Private Insurance Plans 
Who May Benefit from an IOP?
A mental health IOP is an intensive level of treatment. People who require consistent, intensive support but do not require inpatient care may benefit from an IOP.
Many people attend an IOP after finishing residential treatment or a partial hospitalization program (PHP). Finding the right level of care to meet your needs is important.
Contact the Agape Behavioral Healthcare specialists to determine which type of treatment or level of care is best for your unique needs.
Find Mental Health Treatment
If you or someone you love lives with a mental health condition, you are not alone. Contact the intake specialist at Agape Behavioral Healthcare to learn about our comprehensive mental health treatment programs. You may reach out with questions, to verify your insurance, or to schedule an appointment.
