At ETHOS, we know that Substance Use Disorder (SUD) recovery isn’t linear. Many people use individual therapy to help them maintain their sobriety — but sometimes, weekly sessions just aren’t enough to maintain progress. If you or a loved one is feeling stuck, struggling with relapse, or needing more structure, it may be time to consider stepping up to an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP).
What Is an IOP?
An Intensive Outpatient Program offers more structure and support than traditional therapy, while still allowing you to live at home and maintain key parts of your daily life. At ETHOS, our IOP typically includes:
- Three or four sessions per week, each lasting several hours
- Ongoing individual counseling
- Access to psychiatric and medication support
- A supportive community of peers also committed to recovery
“People tend to think that intensive outpatient is all-consuming,” says Troy Jackson, MSS, LSW. “But you can still work in some instances, still be with your family, still attend your usual 12-step meetings. It offers structure without pulling you entirely away from your life.”
IOP vs. Inpatient Treatment: What’s the Difference?
Understanding the levels of care can help you choose the right one:
IOP
- Live at home
- Flexible scheduling (often evenings)
- Maintain work, school, family life
- 9–12 hours of treatment per week
Inpatient / Residential Treatment
- Live at the treatment facility
- 24/7 supervision and structure
- Time away from daily responsibilities
- 24-hour treatment and support
IOP is often a step-up when outpatient therapy isn’t enough—or a step-down after inpatient care, providing continued support during the transition back to everyday life.
Signs You Might Need an IOP
- You’ve had a recent relapse or return to use
- Cravings or emotional distress feel unmanageable
- Weekly therapy hasn’t created lasting change
- You’re stuck in a cycle of progress and setbacks
- You’re transitioning from inpatient care and need continued support
An IOP can also be helpful for individuals in long-term recovery who feel stalled. “Maybe you’re telling me you have this great, fantastic support system,” Jackson says. “But if you’re sitting here struggling, is it working as effectively as it could? Maybe your support system needs to expand — and IOP can help with that.”
How ETHOS Can Help
At ETHOS, our IOPs are trauma-informed, evidence-based, and deeply personalized. Whether you’re recovering from relapse, seeking more structure, or stepping down from inpatient treatment, our clinical team meets you with compassion and clarity.
“There’s a lot of power in group therapy,” Jackson explains. “It’s not just about cravings and triggers. It’s about communication, coping skills, and addressing co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety or depression. IOPs give you that broader exposure.”
What If You’re Not Sure You’re “There Yet”?
Some people hesitate to seek more intensive care, especially if they’re not actively in crisis. That’s okay, says Jackson.
“If someone is at the very early stages of a possible SUD — maybe they’re drinking more than they used to, but they’re not dependent — then yes, individual therapy can help. But there should be an agreement: if we don’t make progress in a certain timeframe, we reassess and consider IOP.”
Jackson also stresses the importance of safety, especially when certain substances are involved. “If someone is using fentanyl or driving intoxicated repeatedly, we may need to move more quickly to a higher level of care. It’s about protecting their life.”
Trust the Process—And Ask Questions
Seeking more help is not a failure. It’s a sign of strength.
“Change is hard because change is a loss,” Jackson says. “You’re not just losing the substance — you’re losing a way of life. But you’re also gaining a new direction.”
He encourages people to stay engaged and ask questions about their care. “You should feel empowered in treatment. Ask: ‘How is this going to help me? What are the goals?’ The best clinicians want to work with you, not just treat you.”
You Deserve the Right Level of Care
Seeking more help is never a sign of weakness. It’s a sign that you’re serious about your health and your future.
Reach out to ETHOS today to learn whether our Intensive Outpatient Program is the right next step for you or a loved one.
Call us at 267-669-0300 or https://www.ethostreatment.com/contact to schedule a confidential assessment.
About Ethos Treatment
Ethos Treatment LLC is a behavioral healthcare provider accredited by The Joint Commission to treat mental health conditions and substance use disorders. Licensed clinicians lead Intensive Outpatient Programs in Pennsylvania via telehealth and at seven locations: Broomall, Collegeville, Jenkintown, Philadelphia, Plymouth Meeting, West Chester, and Wyomissing. Ethos accepts most insurance.
