The first week in an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is all about orientation, stabilization, and engagement. This week sets the tone for the rest of your treatment. Here's what typically happens:
• Paperwork & Assessments: You’ll fill out forms, complete clinical assessments, and meet with a therapist or case manager.
• Program Overview: Staff will explain what the program includes—group therapy schedules, rules, expectations, confidentiality, and goals.
*Individualized Treatment Plan: Based on your needs, you’ll start to set specific goals for your recovery.
• Psychoeducation: Early sessions often focus on understanding mental health, addiction, triggers, coping skills, and the recovery process.
• Skills Introduction: You’ll be introduced to techniques like grounding, mindfulness, or cognitive restructuring (depending on the program model—CBT, DBT, etc.).
*Learning the Group Flow: You’ll get used to sharing, listening, and engaging in structured group sessions.
• Establishing a Routine: IOP usually meets 3–5 days per week, 3–4 hours per session. The first week helps you get into this rhythm. • Getting to Know the Group: You’ll begin forming connections with peers—many of whom are also new. *Safe Space: Facilitators focus on making it a non-judgmental, supportive environment where you can begin to open up at your own pace.
• Individual Sessions: You might have your first 1:1 meeting with a therapist or counselor. • Urine Screens or Drug Testing (if part of your program): These may begin during week one, especially in substance use treatment. • Crisis Planning: If needed, safety plans are created (e.g., for self-harm, relapse prevention, etc.).
• Feeling nervous or uncertain is totally normal.
• You might not want to talk much at first—that’s okay.
Some people feel a sense of hope, others feel overwhelmed—it’s all part of starting something new.