Week 3 of Intensive Outpatient (IOP) is when the work gets real—you’re no longer the “new person,” and you’ve probably started to notice changes in how you think, feel, or react. This week is all about integration, resistance, and deepening insight. Here’s what to expect in Week 3:
• By now, the structure feels more familiar—you know the group members, the flow of sessions, and the expectations. • Trust and safety in the group tend to deepen, which makes room for more honest conversations. Your treatment goals may be revisited or refined, based on what’s been coming up for you in group or individual sessions.
• It’s very common in Week 3 to start feeling internal resistance: ○ You might notice yourself wanting to skip group, shut down, or deflect during hard conversations. ○ Part of you might wonder, “Do I really need this?” or feel overwhelmed by the emotional intensity. This is normal and expected. It’s actually a sign that you’re hitting deeper emotional material, which is necessary for healing.
• You’re likely encouraged to practice what you’ve learned outside the program: ○ Using coping skills during emotional moments ○ Setting boundaries ○ Noticing triggers or thought patterns in your daily life • In group, you might report back on how things went—what worked, what didn’t, and where you struggled.
Group topics may start to get more focused on underlying issues, such as: • Trauma history or unresolved grief • Shame, guilt, or self-worth • Family dynamics and codependency • Identity, purpose, or rebuilding life in recovery You may not be required to share in detail, but being present for others’ stories can be deeply impactful.
• Your therapist may begin challenging unhelpful patterns more directly. • If medication is part of your plan, adjustments might be discussed based on how you're responding. You may also explore relational or behavioral themes (e.g., avoidance, people-pleasing, impulsivity, etc.)
• You and your team might look at: ○ Emotional stability (less mood swings, more insight) ○ Sobriety (if applicable) ○ Commitment to recovery or treatment goals ○ Use of tools like journaling, mindfulness, or support systems • If things aren’t improving, the team may adjust your plan or check in more closely.
• Emotionally drained but also more self-aware. • Hopeful one day, discouraged the next—this emotional swing is very common. • A growing sense that you’re not alone in what you’re facing. You may begin feeling the real possibility of change, which is both exciting and scary.