Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for Mental Health in Tamarac, Florida

Last reviewed by Linda Dolin, MD 2026-02-18

The Sylvia Brafman Mental Health Center offers an Intensive Outpatient Program in Tamarac, Florida, near Fort Lauderdale. Our IOP is built for adults who want real support without putting life on pause, so you can keep up with work, school, or family while receiving intensive outpatient treatment for mental health conditions, co-occurring disorders, or both. You’ll learn practical skills like emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and healthier relationships. If you are wondering whether this level of mental health care fits your needs, you can schedule a free mental health assessment to talk through next steps.

What Makes Our Intensive Outpatient Program Different?

At The Sylvia Brafman Mental Health Center, we provide structured, comprehensive intensive outpatient treatment that supports those living with various mental health and/or co-occurring substance abuse issues. We set ourselves apart by addressing the whole person: mind, body, and spirit.

Our holistic treatment options focus on the underlying factors contributing to your mental health symptoms. You can participate in vocational support, genetic testing, Reiki, meditation, and nutritional counseling. The primary goal of our intensive outpatient program is to equip you with the essential skills, resources, and support needed to manage symptoms and enhance overall mental well-being effectively.

Our program can be used as a step-down level of care for those who’ve completed a more intensive form of treatment like inpatient care or a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP). Our IOP can also support those who require more structured care than traditional outpatient treatment. Our IOP includes 3 hours of group therapy per session, offered 3 to 5 days per week depending on your treatment plan, with sessions held in the evenings so you can maintain your work or school schedule during the day. Each week also includes one individual therapy session and one family therapy session through our Thursday Family Night program. Modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), along with medication management, psychoeducation, and aftercare planning. A hybrid format is available for those who need flexibility.

Detailed Guide on structure of IOP, PHP, and Outpatient mental health programs at SBMHC.

Talk With a Patient Advocate About IOP

At The Sylvia Brafman Mental Health Center, our team of dedicated patient advocates is ready to guide you. Learn more about our evidence-backed Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) near Fort Lauderdale, Florida and a variety of specialized treatments, each uniquely designed to meet your needs. Either give us a call or fill our our form to request a callback.

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Is Our Intensive Outpatient Program at Sylvia Brafman Right for You?

At The Sylvia Brafman Mental Health Center, you’ll quickly realize the depth of our treatment programs. We have carefully designed our IOP to address 5 lanes of your life through specialized care. This includes clinical treatment, psychiatric services, medical treatment, spiritual guidance, and vocational support. Our IOP near Fort Lauderdale, Florida is ideal if you’re looking to embark on a transformative journey towards improved mental wellbeing.

We have thoughtfully created a supportive and encouraging therapeutic environment. Our expert clinical team can provide you with industry-leading behavioral health treatment. This includes dual diagnosis care for those experiencing co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.

The beauty of our mental health IOP in Florida lies in its flexibility. While it offers a high level of care, it allows you to continue living at home and maintain your your everyday responsibilities. This balance fosters real-world application of the therapy techniques you learn, reinforcing their effectiveness.

Furthermore, the supportive community within our IOP can help you realize you’re not alone, creating a sense of belonging and camaraderie. You can leave our program empowered, armed with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate your mental health journey confidently, something reflected in the many reviews of Sylvia Brafman.

What Is Treated at Our Mental Health IOP Near Fort Lauderdale?

The intensive outpatient programs for mental health at SBMHC treat a wide range of mental health conditions. This continuum of care is both comprehensive and accommodating, providing more support than traditional outpatient care, without requiring an overnight stay.

Below, we’ll explore the various disorders commonly treated within the framework of an IOP for mental health at Sylvia Brafman, though this isn’t an exhaustive list.

IOP For Depression Treatment

IOP For Depression Treatment

IOP treatment for depression at SBMHC focuses on addressing specific symptoms, such as persistent sadness and disinterest in daily life, with the use of tailored care. We commonly combine therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Group sessions can provide a supportive space to share experiences and learn coping skills, while individual therapy delves into underlying issues contributing to depression. Medication management may be included as needed.

Our structured IOP for depression equips you with skills and support for effective symptom management and improved mental well-being.

IOP For Anxiety Disorder

IOP For Anxiety Disorder

SBMHC’s intensive outpatient program for anxiety near Fort Lauderdale incorporates evidence-based therapies like CBT and ACT to treat symptoms like excessive worry and fear. These therapies can be used in both group and individual settings. Medication management may also be included when appropriate. Our IOP for anxiety provides structured support to manage symptoms and improve your overall psychological well-being.

IOP for Bipolar Disorder Treatment

IOP for Bipolar Disorder Treatment

Our intensive outpatient programs are an essential treatment option for bipolar disorder, a condition marked by severe mood swings. IOP at Sylvia Brafman can provide you with tailored psychiatric care using evidence-based therapies like CBT and DBT. These therapeutic modalities are used to manage mood fluctuations and replace adverse thoughts and behaviors with positive, productive ones. Group therapy fosters a supportive community, while individual therapy addresses specific challenges. Medication management is often a critical component of bipolar disorder treatment.

IOP treatment at SBMHC can provide the structured approach needed to develop the skills to manage your bipolar disorder symptoms effectively, improving your overall quality of life.

IOP for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Treatment

IOP for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Treatment

IOP treatment at SBMHC is a valuable resource for treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a condition characterized by distressing symptoms triggered by a traumatic event. Our intensive outpatient program for trauma uses evidence-based therapies like CBT and trauma-informed modalities to help you process and manage traumatic memories and reactions.

Furthermore, our IOP treatment often includes psychoeducation to help you understand your condition(s) better. Group therapy and medication management may also be part of your treatment plan, depending on your needs. At SBMHC, you can access a structured, comprehensive IOP, providing the necessary skills and support to effectively treat PTSD and improve your mental wellness.

IOP for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Treatment

IOP for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Treatment

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a complex condition characterized by intense emotional experience, unhealthy relationships, and impulsive behaviors. You can access specialized care at The Sylvia Brafman Mental Health Center. We customize a treatment plan to your unique needs in our BPD-focused IOP, often incorporating evidence-based therapies like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which can help you develop emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills.

IOP treatment at SBMHC can help you identify and understand specific challenges related to BPD to better manage your symptoms. Psychoeducation can help you develop an in-depth understanding of the condition. Our IOP in Florida provides the necessary skills and support for you to learn how to to effectively manage borderline personality disorder and improve your overall psychological health.

IOP for Schizophrenia and Other Psychotic Disorders

IOP for Schizophrenia and Other Psychotic Disorders

Intensive outpatient programs serve as crucial resources for treating schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.  Our IOP focuses on addressing specific symptoms and the whole person. In the psychosis-focused IOP at SBMHC, you or your loved one may engage in specialized care that incorporates evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for psychosis (CBTp). This approach focuses on learning to manage your symptoms, improve insight, and develop needed coping skills.

Group therapy sessions are often included in the treatment schedule because they can create a supportive environment for you to share your experiences, gain insight, and develop strategies for managing symptoms and daily challenges. Individual therapy allows for personalized support and in-depth exploration of issues related to your symptoms. Psychoeducation and medication management are also crucial components of treatment that can help you better manage your symptoms.

Group therapy during intensive outpatient treatment at SBMHC

Does Insurance Cover Intensive Outpatient Programs at SBMHC?

Insurance plans often cover intensive outpatient programming at The Sylvia Brafman Mental Health Center. Insurance providers we often accept include Aetna IOP coverage, Florida Blue IOP coverage, NYSHIP IOP coverage, and Magellan IOP coverage. Insurance coverage for IOP is typically a component of mental and behavioral health benefits. The extent of your coverage can vary depending on your insurer, specific insurance policy, and treatment details, among other factors.

Reviewing your insurance policy, understanding its details, including copayments or deductibles, and verifying which intensive outpatient programs are in-network is crucial for making informed decisions about IOP treatment. You can contact your insurance provider directly to clarify coverage and access any necessary prior authorization, or you can also call The Sylvia Brafman Mental Health Center to verify your insurance coverage. Simply use our confidential and convenient verification form below.

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Our Intensive Outpatient Program’s Location in Tamarac, Florida

Located in Tamarac, just minutes from Fort Lauderdale, our premier Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is thoughtfully designed for when you need structured support without full-time residential care. Our IOP serves as a crucial step between standard outpatient therapy and more intensive levels of treatment like PHP.

This flexible yet powerful option empowers you to continue daily responsibilities while engaging in multiple therapy sessions each week. As a result, our intensive outpatient program in Florida delivers both stability and progress, tailored to your unique mental health journey.

For more information, contact us or visit our physical location listed below:

map-sylvia-brafman-mental-health-center-south-florida

What Is the Intensive Outpatient Program Admissions Process at SBMHC?

The admissions process for our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) can feel thorough because we are trying to ensure that you receive the mental health treatment you need to improve your overall wellbeing. While the details of the process may vary based on your symptoms and other personal details, below is a general summary of what to expect:

  • Initial Contact: The admissions process typically begins with you or a loved one contacting the facility. During this phase, a basic overview of our IOP options and an initial assessment of your needs are discussed.
  • Assessment and Evaluation: Following initial contact, a comprehensive assessment and evaluation are conducted to learn more about your mental health challenges, treatment history, and any psychiatric comorbidity. This assessment helps determine treatment options and goals you’re working towards.
  • Insurance Verification and Coverage: Our admissions coordinators work with you to verify insurance coverage and understand the financial aspects of treatment. They navigate insurance policies, explain coverage limitations, and discuss potential out-of-pocket costs that you may have with SBMHC IOP treatment.
  • Treatment Plan Development: A personalized treatment plan is developed in collaboration with you based on the information gathered during your assessment. This plan outlines specific goals, therapies, and interventions customized to address your unique needs and challenges.
  • Admissions Coordination: Admissions coordinators guide you through the enrollment process, helping with paperwork, coordinating any necessary referrals, and scheduling and logistical details to ensure a smooth transition into IOP treatment.
  • Orientation and Program Introduction: You’ll receive an orientation and program introduction upon admission. This can help you understand our IOP’s structure, rules, expectations, and include an introduction to the treatment team and fellow participants.
  • Active Participation in Treatment: Throughout IOP treatment, you’re expected to actively engage by attending therapy sessions, group meetings, and other activities as outlined in your treatment plan. Active participation is crucial for achieving therapeutic goals.
  • Progress Monitoring and Adjustments: Our clinical team will monitor your progress closely and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. Regular assessments and feedback are used to ensure that your treatment plan remains effective and aligned with your goals.

What Can I Expect From the IOP at The Sylvia Brafman Mental Health Center?

The intensive outpatient program at The Sylvia Brafman Mental Health Center is designed to complement earlier mental health treatment, helping to build upon previous progress. For at least ten hours of therapy per week, you can discuss your real-world experiences and gain new perspectives that enable you to view mental wellness and growth as practical and achievable.

Through our core mental health program, which features clinical, medical, and psychiatric care, we offer case management, career or educational studies, and additional wellness practices. Our Tamarac-based IOP in South Florida also empowers you with the knowledge to manage your condition effectively and improve your everyday life. Mental health intensive outpatient programs that use evidence-based treatment approaches have been substantiated as effective options in clinical research and literature.

A few therapeutic components you can expect in our intensive outpatient program include, but are not limited to, the following:

Therapeutic Components You Can Expect

  • Group therapy
  • Individual therapy
  • Family dynamics
  • Overcoming obstacles
  • Medication management
  • Specialist referrals
  • Psychiatric evaluation
  • Assessment and treatment planning
  • Aftercare
  • Physical fitness
  • Yoga
  • Vocational support

FAQs About IOP Treatment for Mental Health

How Much Does an Intensive Outpatient Program Cost?

How Much Does an Intensive Outpatient Program Cost?

The cost of IOPs can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the location, the specific program, what type of condition is being treated, and whether a public or private facility provides the treatment. On average, an intensive outpatient program can cost between $500 and $650 a day in a private care facility.

We encourage you to contact SBMHC directly to review financial considerations while exploring your treatment options. Our team can determine how you can pay for an intensive outpatient program.

Does the Intensive Outpatient Program at Sylvia Brafman Offer Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

Does the Intensive Outpatient Program at Sylvia Brafman Offer Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

Sylvia Brafman’s intensive outpatient program in Tamarac does provide a dual diagnosis treatment option. This is the standard treatment option for co-occurring disorders, which refers to the simultaneous presence of a mental health and substance use disorder. Co-occurring disorders are complex conditions and often benefit from IOP treatment at SBMHC.

The dual diagnosis IOP at Sylvia Brafman offers a combination of mental health and substance use services, such as individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management. These services provide education, relapse prevention strategies, and mental wellbeing support. The goal of our IOP for co-occurring disorders is to provide integrated treatment and care that addresses all conditions at the same time, recognizing that these issues often intersect and influence each other.

What is Treated in the Dual Diagnosis IOP at Sylvia Brafman?

What Is Treated in the Dual Diagnosis IOP at Sylvia Brafman?

Our IOP for dual diagnosis conditions provides specialized, integrated treatment addressing the complex needs of co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. In this unique treatment program, the focus extends beyond addressing just one aspect of your mental health; instead, it simultaneously targets both mental health and addiction issues, recognizing the influence between these interconnected challenges.

Sample Weekly Schedule at Sylvia Brafman

Time
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
8 - 10 AM
Vitals & Medication
Meditation Group
Vitals & Medication
Meditation Group
Vitals & Medication
Meditation Group
Vitals & Medication
Meditation Group
Vitals & Medication
Meditation Group
Vitals & Medication
Meditation Group
Vitals & Medication
Meditation Group
10 AM - 12 PM
Weekend Process Group
Caseload
Recognizing Anxiety
What is Acceptance?
Caseload
Recognizing Codependency
What is Relapse?
Anger and it's Manifestations
12 - 2 PM
Psychoeducation
Spiritual Workshop
Gender Specific Groups
Name Your Beast
Relapse Prevention
Medication Management
Recognizing Depression
Triggers & Coping Mechanisms
Healthy Boundaries
All Day Activity (Beach, Mini-Golf, etc.)
2 - 3:30 PM
Sound Therapy & Breathwork
Individual TMS Therapy
Fitness & Mental Wellness
Individual TMS Therapy
Nutrition
Individual TMS Therapy
Art Therapy
Individual Trauma Therapy
Case Management
Individual EMDR Therapy
Hidden Figures: Doing the Impossible
3:30 - 4:30 PM
Daily Recap Group
Daily Recap Group
Daily Recap Group
Daily Recap Group
Daily Recap Group
Gym
Gym
5:30 - 7 PM
Gym
Gym
Gym
Family Night
Gym
Dinner & Movies
Family Style Potluck Dinner
7 - 10 PM
12-Step Meeting
NAMI Meeting
Big Book Study In-House
NAMI Meeting
12-Step Meeting
NAMI Meeting
Gym
12-Step Meeting
NAMI Meeting
Big Book Study In-House
NAMI Meeting
12-Step Meeting
Relax & Unwind
Monday
8 - 10 AM
Vitals & Medication
Meditation Group
10 AM - 12 PM
Weekend Process Group
12 - 2 PM
Psychoeducation
Spiritual Workshop
2 - 3:30 PM
Sound Therapy & Breathwork
Individual TMS Therapy
3:30 - 4:30 PM
Daily Recap Group
5:30 - 7 PM
Gym
5:30 - 7 PM
12-Step Meeting
NAMI Meeting
8 - 10 AM
Vitals & Medication
Meditation Group
10 AM - 12 PM
Caseload
12 - 2 PM
Gender Specific Groups
2 - 3:30 PM
Fitness & Mental Wellness
Individual TMS Therapy
3:30 - 4:30 PM
Daily Recap Group
5:30 - 7 PM
Gym
5:30 - 7 PM
Big Book Study-in-House
NAMI Meeting
8 - 10 AM
Vitals & Medication
Meditation Group
10 AM - 12 PM
Recognizing Anxiety
What is Acceptance?
12 - 2 PM
Name Your Beast
Relapse Prevention
2 - 3:30 PM
Nutrition
Individual TMS Therapy
3:30 - 4:30 PM
Daily Recap Group
5:30 - 7 PM
Gym
5:30 - 7 PM
12-Step Meeting
NAMI Meeting
8 - 10 AM
Vitals & Medication
Meditation Group
10 AM - 12 PM
Caseload
12 - 2 PM
Medication Management
2 - 3:30 PM
Art Therapy
Individual Trauma Therapy
3:30 - 4:30 PM
Daily Recap Group
5:30 - 7 PM
Family Night
5:30 - 7 PM
Gym
8 - 10 AM
Vitals & Medication
Meditation Group
10 AM - 12 PM
Recognizing Codependency
What is a Relapse?
12 - 2 PM
Recognizing Depression
Triggers & Coping Mechanisms
2 - 3:30 PM
Case Management
Individual EMDR Therapy
3:30 - 4:30 PM
Daily Recap Group
5:30 - 7 PM
Gym
5:30 - 7 PM
12-Step Meeting
NAMI Meeting
8 - 10 AM
Vitals & Medication
Meditation Group
10 AM - 12 PM
Anger and it's Manifestations
12 - 2 PM
Healthy Boundaries
2 - 3:30 PM
Hidden Figures: Doing the Impossible
3:30 - 4:30 PM
Gym
5:30 - 7 PM
Dinner & Movies
5:30 - 7 PM
Big Book Study-in-House
NAMI Meeting
8 - 10 AM
Vitals & Medication
Meditation Group
10 AM - 3:30 PM
All Day Activity (Beach, Mini Golf, etc.)
3:30 - 4:30 PM
Gym
5:30 - 7 PM
Family Style Potluck Dinner
5:30 - 7 PM
12-Step Meeting
Relax & Unwind
Statistics & Sources Related to Intensive Outpatient Programs in Florida

Statistics & Sources Related to Intensive Outpatient Programs

In 2020, mental health treatment facilities in the United States most commonly offered specialized treatment programs, like IOP, for individuals with co-occurring mental and substance use disorders (53%).

The annual census of U.S. specialty addiction treatment facilities has consistently found intensive outpatient programs to be the second most common option for alcohol and drug use disorders, after standard outpatient treatment.

According to the American Psychological Association, Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) allow private practice groups to partner with larger care systems while delivering clinically effective, consumer-friendly, and safe treatment for acute patients in standard outpatient settings.

A study in Cognitive and Behavioral Practice found that self-reported substance use, PTSD, and depression symptoms dropped significantly after treatment, while satisfaction with social role participation rose. These preliminary effectiveness findings suggest that a 2-week intensive outpatient program can successfully treat comorbid SUD and mental health disorders.

Findings published in the European Journal of Psychotraumatology indicate that an intensive outpatient trauma treatment program, combining two evidence-based trauma-focused therapies, exercise, and psychoeducation, is effective for patients with PTSD stemming from multiple traumas.