What Is an Outpatient Program?
An Outpatient Program (OP) is a level of care that enables patients to have ongoing support as they continue to grow after an Intensive Outpatient Program. Many people view this as conventional “therapy.” In a sense, they are correct. Outpatient typically takes the form of 1-2 therapist visits per week. The relatively low time commitment makes this a good option for someone stepping down from IOP or experiencing moderate mental illness.
Outpatient treatment is a critical part of the full continuum of care. The lowest level of care in our treatment program for mental health and dual-diagnosis disorders, OP treatment provides a means for clients to stay connected to therapeutic resources while resuming daily life. At a high level, Outpatient can be described as:
- The continuation of work and/or educational endeavors
- A “step-down” from IOP
- 1-2 individual therapy and group sessions per week
- One family therapy session per week (Family Night)
