7 FAQs About SouthLight’s Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

SouthLight’s Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is for adults in early recovery from substance use who are willing to do the work to change their behaviors.

There are many treatment options for anyone seeking recovery from drug addiction, alcohol addiction and/or substance use.  

Life often throws us challenges that we are not ready for and we feel overwhelmed and uncertain about moving through those challenges. Most successful substance use treatment is about having the right support at the right time; it is not about a never-ending cycle of added obligations and appointments. 

SouthLight’s Intensive Outpatient Program falls on the continuum of treatment options between outpatient counseling and higher or more intensive levels of care like a hospital or inpatient treatment setting.

7 Frequently Asked Questions About Our IOP Program

Below are some frequently asked questions regarding SouthLight’s IOP Program. Read on to learn if it is the right fit for you or someone you know who may be seeking treatment for substance use.

What is the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)? 

The Intensive Outpatient Program or IOP is a group-based program for folks in early recovery from substance use. Individual sessions and case management are available in addition to the group sessions. 

When and how often do the SouthLight IOP groups meet? 

• SouthLight’s Intensive Outpatient Program groups are held in person. Groups are three hours each and meet three times a week for up to 36 group meetings. Service can lasting between 2 and 12 weeks depending on your particular needs and readiness to integrate back into the meaningful and purposeful activities of YOUR life in recovery as you define it.
• We have morning and evening group options and groups on most days of the week to accommodate the various schedules of our participants. 

IOP is a group therapy approach to learning and developing the skills needed for substance use recovery, stability, independence, and flexibility. 

What can I expect at SouthLight’s Intensive Outpatient Program? 

• Your counselor will have a topic planned for the day which may include games, present moment awareness exercises, activities, handouts, or worksheets and will include lots of open discussions.  
• You can expect to learn new skills that you can put into action in order to help you move your feet in your chosen direction. You can expect some discomfort, as change is never easy, and you can expect to receive support from your counselor and from fellow IOP group members. 
• You will be supported in being as present as you are able in group given the importance of your full presence to yourself and group members.   
• Your first IOP group will be IOP Orientation, where you will be provided information about SouthLight’s Intensive Outpatient Program, more information about what you can expect, what we expect of you, scheduling options, and the evidence-based practice we use (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy). We want to ensure you know the risks and benefits of treatment.

Who is SouthLight’s Intensive Outpatient Program appropriate for? 

SouthLight’s IOP program is a good fit for:

• Adults 18+ in early recovery from substance use who are eager, willing, and motivated to do the work to learn new skills and to change their behaviors in order to change their lives
• People who are able to benefit from a group setting where mutual respect and aid are developed and sustained
• Those who are able and willing to be open and honest about their needs and experiences

What insurance carriers does SouthLight accept?  

SouthLight accepts Medicaid, IPRS, Uninsured, and Private insurances.

How do I get started with IOP? 

• If you are a current SouthLight client and would like to explore this as an option, please speak with your counselor or provider about your interest.  
• If you are not a current SouthLight client, the first step is to call and schedule an assessment. Learn more about our treatment approach. Please call 919-787-6131 x1135 to talk to our intake coordinator.  

Is housing available for clients in the SouthLight Intensive Outpatient Program?  

SouthLight’s Housing and Outpatient Treatment (HOT) Program works with community partners to combine housing and treatment at a critical time in an individual’s recovery process. Participants may be able to access safe and supportive living environments while receiving treatment. Our partnerships include a variety of placements that offer community support and accountability. This program is intended to address environmental barriers to treatment, not as a means to solve the larger challenge of housing instability.   

Learn more about SouthLight’s IOP program.