Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Structured support that fits around your life — not the other way around.
About Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is a structured level of mental health or substance use treatment that provides significantly more support than traditional weekly therapy without requiring overnight stays.
Aurora's IOP meets multiple days per week for several hours each day. Sessions include group therapy, individual therapy, psychoeducation, and skills training.
The IOP is designed as either a primary level of care for individuals who are not clinically stable enough for weekly outpatient, or as a step-down from inpatient or residential treatment to help people transition back to daily life.
Who We Can Help
- Individuals recently discharged from inpatient psychiatric care who need continued structure
- People experiencing a mental health crisis who can remain safely in the community
- Those with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders
- Individuals whose symptoms are not well-controlled with weekly outpatient therapy alone
What to Expect
Aurora's IOP runs for approximately 4–8 weeks. Clients attend 3–5 days per week for 3–5 hours per session.
Each day includes group therapy (the core of IOP), individual check-ins with a counselor, and structured skill-building activities.
A treatment team including a psychiatrist, social worker, and case manager monitors your progress weekly.
As you stabilize, you will step down to a lower level of care (standard outpatient) — the program is designed with this transition built in.
Is This Right for Me?
You may benefit from this service if:
- You need more support than one therapy appointment per week
- You are stepping down from inpatient or residential treatment
- You are experiencing a significant mental health crisis but do not need 24-hour care
- Your mental health symptoms are affecting your ability to work, maintain relationships, or care for yourself
- You are stable enough to live at home and travel to our clinic several days per week
Your Treatment Journey
Clinical Assessment
A comprehensive evaluation determines whether IOP is the appropriate level of care for you.
Admission & Orientation
Meet your treatment team, get your personalized treatment plan, and understand what to expect from the program.
Active Participation
Attend sessions 3–5 days per week. Group therapy, individual sessions, and skills groups work together.
Step Down to Outpatient
As you stabilize, you transition to standard outpatient care with your ongoing therapist and psychiatric provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
You Don't Have to Face This Alone.
Our compassionate team is ready to help you take the first step toward lasting wellness.