Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) offer a structured, comprehensive level of care for people seeking substance abuse or mental health treatment. This approach bridges the gap between inpatient care and traditional outpatient services, providing a more intensive treatment experience while allowing patients to maintain their daily responsibilities.
IOPs typically involve anywhere from 9-20 hours of weekly therapy spread across 3-5 days per week.[1] Both daytime and evening IOP programs at MARC include a mix of individual counseling, psychiatry, group therapy, medication management, family therapy and support, and psychoeducational components.
The flexible nature of IOP programs enables patients to apply newly learned skills in both real-world situations and in supportive living (such as sober living), strengthening their recovery journey. IOPs often incorporate evidence-basedpractices, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and relapse prevention strategies, to support long-term recovery and improved mental and behavioral health.
How (and Why) IOP Works at MARC
Intensive Outpatient Programs at MARC are designed to provide comprehensive, flexible care that supports lasting recovery. The program works by offering structured therapy sessions multiple times a week, allowing patients to receive intensive treatment while maintaining their daily responsibilities.
IOPs are effective because they take a multi-faceted approach that addresses the complex nature of addiction and mental health issues, helping patients develop coping skills, build support networks, and address the underlying causes of their struggles – all on an outpatient treatment basis.
At MARC, the IOP experience is enhanced by incorporating supportive sober living into our addiction treatment, when appropriate, for those patients in need of structured, supportive living. This unique feature ensures patients have a full spectrum of care and support. By providing a safe, substance-free living environment, MARC creates a seamless integration between treatment sessions and daily life. This comprehensive approach allows patients to practice newly learned skills in a supportive setting, reinforcing their recovery journey.
The combination of intensive therapy and supportive living at MARC helps you to create a strong foundation for long-term recovery.
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The Efficacy of IOP Programs
Intensive Outpatient Programs have proven to be a crucial component in the continuum of care for alcohol and drug use disorders (and dual diagnosis issues). Research consistently demonstrates that IOPs are as effective as inpatienttreatment for most people seeking care, offering a more flexible and often more accessible option for those in need of intensive support.[2]
Multiple randomized trials and analyses have compared IOPs with inpatient or residential care, revealing comparable outcomes across these treatment modalities.[3] These studies consistently report substantial reductions in alcohol and drug use from baseline to follow-up, underscoring the effectiveness of IOPs in promoting recovery.
A national study focusing on veterans with substance use disorders further highlights the benefits of IOP treatment: veterans who participated in IOP treatment following medically managed withdrawal (detox) showed increased engagement with and utilization of services, including community-based resources.[4] Importantly, these patients also experienced lower 2-year mortality rates, emphasizing the potential life-saving impact of IOP interventions.
What Our MARC IOP Alumni Are Saying
I am very fortunate and grateful I was able to be a patient at MARC for 9 months. It was a challenging program but it has helped me tremendously find footing in my early recovery. I have had multiple bouts of sobriety in the past but relapsed, I now feel very confident moving forward after experiencing the therapy I received at MARC. I would recommend this treatment facility to anybody who is willing to step outside of their comfort zone or has a window of willingness to change. It’s not an easy program to complete and I was challenged periodically but the professionals that I encountered pushed me to do the work on myself that was necessary. My family is just as grateful and that is a blessing.
MIKE H.
Recovering Patient
Without MARC, I would not have much of a life right now. Yes, this place is an addiction treatment center, and surely does intensive therapy for addiction and mental illness. But the residence/community living treatment program also teaches you invaluable life skills such as cleanliness, organization, work ethic, budgeting, communication, and interpersonal skills. Though some of these times for me were extremely difficult, and I hated being in treatment some of the time, I’m grateful to MARC for giving me a shot at an actual life. They don’t do the work for you, but they push you, and it’s up to you if you use the guidance/push to actually move forward.
THOMAS F.
Recovering Patient
I cannot recommend MARC enough. From the moment I arrived, I knew I was in the right place. The staff is incredibly caring and dedicated to helping patients overcome addiction. The treatment programs are top-notch and tailored to meet each individual's needs. The facility itself is clean, comfortable, and conducive to healing. I am grateful for the time I spent here and will forever be in debt to the staff for saving my life. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, this is the place to go. Five stars!
CASEY
Recovering Patient
Maryland addiction recovery center absolutely saved my life. Multiple times. I have been through several rehab facilities, and MARC was the only treatment center that showed a genuine care for my well-being. They continued to follow up with me afterwards, and 5 years after going through their program, they are still reaching out and extending their hand. I would highly recommend anyone to go through any of their programs.
DAVE D.
Recovering Patient
Marc’s therapeutic approach, mixed with AA/NA fellowships has saved my life ten times over. I came to Marc broken and scared. I had no idea how to live without the use of substances. Marc gives you the resources, and a community of people that show you, you can live a life beyond your wildest dreams. They offer a family program that allows you to improve on family dynamics, individual therapy, group therapy, rides to meetings, and a plethora of other services. It’s also important to note that even after completing Marc they still support me and my family. They genuinely care about their patients and I am forever grateful for the impact Marc continues to have on my life.
AUGUST J.
Recovering Patient
MARC’s Modalities for Intensive Outpatient
MARC provides a comprehensive, individualized approach to your recovery. Our Intensive Outpatient Program utilizes a diverse range of evidence-based therapies and support services to address the complex needs of our patients. By combining these various modalities, we create a holistic treatment experience that targets not only substance use issues but also underlying mental health concerns, trauma, and life skills development as well.
Each of these approaches plays a crucial role in the recovery journey of our patients, offering unique benefits and tools for lasting sobriety and improved well-being
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. This evidence-based approach helps patients develop coping strategies and problem-solving skills to manage cravings and prevent relapse.
This modality uses various art forms as a means of expression and healing. It allows patients to explore emotions, reduce stress, and increase self-awareness through creative activities.
This client-centered approach helps people resolve ambivalence about change. By exploring personal goals and values, it enhances motivation and commitment to recovery.
Psychoeducation provides patients with information about addiction, mental health, and recovery. It empowers people with knowledge to better understand their conditions and make informed decisions about their treatment.
This specialized therapy addresses underlying trauma that may contribute to substance use. It helps patients process traumatic experiences and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Vocational support assists patients in developing job skills, creating resumes, and exploring career options. It also helps individuals build a stable and fulfilling life in recovery.
MARC has three expansive suites on our clinical campus covering over 25,000 square feet, conveniently located just north of Baltimore’s central hub in Towson. In addition to the clinical and administrative suites, we also have our extended care Community Living campus apartment complex, owned, managed, and staffed 24/7 by MARC, as well as male and female sober living homes.
MARC recognizes that every person’s journey to recovery is unique. We firmly believe that effective treatment must be crafted to each person’s specific needs, experiences, and circumstances. Our approach to determining the appropriate level of care is thorough, collaborative, and based on established best practices.
The process begins with a comprehensive assessment of every potential client. This initial evaluation provides our treatment team with crucial information to make informed decisions about the most suitable level of care.
Once the pre-assessment is complete, we determine the appropriate level of care based on several key factors, including your needs and goals and the recommendations of our multidisciplinary team. This holistic approach ensures that we consider your insights and wishes into the recovery journey.
As you progress through treatment, we continually reassess your needs and adjust the level of care accordingly. When someone has achieved the goals outlined in their treatment plan or has demonstrated significant stability in their recovery, we may recommend transitioning to a less intensive level of care. This step-down approach allows for a gradual return to daily life while maintaining appropriate support.
MARC’s commitment is to provide the right level of care at the right time, ensuring that each client receives the support they need to achieve lasting recovery.
✦ Frequently Asked Questions ✦
About Intensive Outpatient Programs in Baltimore, Maryland
An Intensive Outpatient Program differs from inpatient or residential treatment primarily in the level of care and living arrangements. While inpatient and residential programs provide 24/7 care and require individuals to live at the facility, IOPs allow individuals to live at home and attend treatment sessions during the day or evening. IOPs offer a structured treatment environment but do not require the same level of constant supervision and medical care as inpatient programs.
People who can benefit from an IOP include those struggling with mental health issues, substance abuse problems, or co-occurring disorders who need more intensive support than traditional outpatient therapy can provide but do not require full-time hospitalization. IOPs are suitable for those who are stable enough to live at home but need frequent therapeutic intervention to manage their conditions effectively.
The staff in an IOP program typically includes licensed professionals such as therapists, counselors, psychologists, and social workers. These professionals are trained and experienced in treating the specific issues addressed by the program. Depending on the program, there may also be medical professionals, such as psychiatrists or nurse practitioners, involved in the treatment process to manage any medication needs or co-occurring health conditions.
Many insurance plans do cover Intensive Outpatient Program services, but coverage details can vary depending on the plan and provider. It’s important to verify your specific insurance benefits by contacting your insurance company and discussing the coverage for IOP services. Additionally, you should check with the IOP provider to confirm if they accept your insurance and what costs may be associated with your treatment.
Determining if an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is the right level of care involves a comprehensive assessment by a mental health professional. This assessment evaluates your current mental health status, the severity of your condition, and your treatment needs. If your symptoms are manageable with regular therapy and support but you need more than traditional outpatient care, an IOP might be appropriate. The professional will help you decide if IOP is suitable based on your individual circumstances and goals.
[1] Treatment, C. for S. A. (2006). Chapter 8. Intensive Outpatient Treatment Approaches. In www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (US). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64102/ on July 31, 2024
[2] Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. (2016). Chapter 3. Intensive Outpatient Treatment and the Continuum of Care. Nih.gov; Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (US). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64088/ on July 31, 2024
[3] McCarty, D., Braude, L., Lyman, D. R., Dougherty, R. H., Daniels, A. S., Ghose, S. S., & Delphin-Rittmon, M. E. (2014). Substance Abuse Intensive Outpatient Programs: Assessing the Evidence. Psychiatric Services, 65(6), 718–726. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4152944/ on July 31, 2024
