Among Americans aged 12 years and older, 47.7 million were current illegal drug users (used within the last 30 days) as of 2023.

16.8% of Americans 12 and over used drugs in the last month, a 1.9% increase year-over-year (YoY).

An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is a structured, non-residential treatment program for mental health or substance use disorders that provides a middle ground between inpatient care and traditional, weekly therapy. It allows individuals to live at home while attending 9–19 hours of therapy, typically including group sessions, individual counseling, and skill-building workshops, 3–5 days a week.
Verywell Mind
Verywell Mind
 +4
Key Aspects of Intensive Outpatient Programs:
Structure: Offers high-level, focused care (often 3-4 hours per day) without requiring overnight stays.
Target Population: Suitable for those who do not need 24/7 detoxification or supervision, but require more support than standard, once-a-week therapy.
Components: Primarily group-based therapy, supplemented by individual therapy, family counseling, and, in some cases, medication management.
Flexibility: Designed for individuals to continue working or attending school while receiving treatment, with programs available in the morning or evening.
Goal: Provides support to manage conditions like anxiety, depression, or addiction while practicing skills in real-world scenarios.
Verywell Mind
Verywell Mind
 +8
IOP vs. Other Levels of Care:
Inpatient/Residential: 24/7 care.
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): More intense than IOP, typically 6+ hours/day.
IOP: 3–5 days a week for a few hours.
Traditional Outpatient: 1–2 hours per week.

What is an Intensive Outpatient Program

Finding mental health and substance abuse treatment can be difficult to navigate on your own. There are several different options, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks.

One such option is the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). This treatment approach strikes a balance between inpatient and standard outpatient programs.

IOPs offer structured therapy while allowing patients to live at home. They are designed for people with moderate levels of addiction or mental health issues.

What Are Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs)?
An Intensive Outpatient Program, or IOP, offers a middle-of-the-road solution for treatment. It allows people to receive intensive care without full-time residency.

Patients typically participate in therapy sessions multiple times a week. This frequency provides structure while maintaining flexibility.

In IOPs, treatment sessions generally total nine or more hours per week. The duration can last from several weeks to a few months.

Here are some components often found in IOPs:

Group therapy sessions
Individual counseling
Family therapy
Educational workshops
Relapse prevention programs
This setup aims to provide comprehensive support. The program helps clients build life skills and coping strategies essential for recovery.

The environment of an IOP fosters community and peer support. Participants gain encouragement and learn from shared experiences, offering a strong support network. This collective journey can be instrumental in sustained recovery. IOPs cater particularly to those who need structured care yet remain in their community.

The Structure of IOPs
IOPs are designed to balance treatment with daily responsibilities. Sessions often occur three to five times per week, usually lasting a few hours each time.

This schedule enables participants to attend to personal, work or school commitments. It provides crucial therapeutic interaction without demanding full-time residency.

Programs typically run for about six to twelve weeks. However, the length may vary based on individual progress. Flexibility in duration helps tailor care to each patient’s unique needs and recovery goals. This personalized approach ensures the support aligns with each participant’s situation.

Services Offered in IOPs
Intensive Outpatient Programs provide a wide range of services. Each is crafted to meet the diverse needs of participants.

IOPs often include group therapy sessions, which foster peer support and shared experiences. Group settings help participants learn from one another while building a sense of community.

Individual therapy is another critical component. This allows for personalized attention to address specific challenges and goals. Therapists employ evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

Moreover, family therapy can be offered in these programs. Involving family members in the process strengthens the support system at home. This enhances understanding and facilitates lasting recovery.

A typical IOP might offer:

Group therapy sessions
Individual counseling
Family therapy
Educational workshops
Medication management
Medical consultations may also form part of the treatment plan. These help to ensure that any needed medication is correctly prescribed and monitored. The comprehensive nature of these services aims to address both mental health and substance use disorders effectively.

Who Can Benefit from IOPs?
Intensive Outpatient Programs are well-suited for people facing moderate addiction or mental health challenges. Those who do not require round-the-clock supervision may find IOPs beneficial.

Patients with stable home environments often experience better outcomes in these programs. A supportive and understanding family can enhance the recovery process significantly.

IOPs also serve as a good fit for those transitioning from inpatient care. People who have completed residential treatment may use IOPs as a step-down approach. This can help maintain progress while encouraging reintegration into daily life and responsibilities.

Comparing IOPs with Other Treatment Options
Intensive Outpatient Programs differ significantly from other treatment options. Their flexibility stands out as they allow individuals to live at home. This contrasts with inpatient programs that require patients to reside within the facility.

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) are another alternative. PHPs offer more intensive daily treatment than IOPs but still permit patients to live at home. The choice between IOPs and PHPs often depends on the severity of the condition and individual needs.

Standard outpatient programs provide the lowest level of treatment. They involve fewer hours and less frequent sessions compared to IOPs. This approach suits those with milder issues or those who have completed intensive treatment levels.

In summary, the main differences between these programs include:

Inpatient Care: Full-time residence and care.
PHP: More intensive than IOP, part-time residence.
IOP: Allows living at home, moderate schedule.
Outpatient Programs: Minimal hours, suitable for stable patients.
The Role of Family in IOPs
Family involvement in Intensive Outpatient Programs is crucial for success. Support from loved ones enhances recovery and improves outcomes significantly. Families provide encouragement and help reinforce strategies learned during therapy.

Moreover, IOPs often include family therapy sessions. These sessions educate families about addiction or mental health issues, fostering a better understanding. They help resolve conflicts and build healthier communication patterns.

Insurance and Cost Considerations
Insurance often covers Intensive Outpatient Programs, making them more accessible. However, it’s important to verify coverage specifics with your provider. Different plans may offer varying levels of support for intensive outpatient mental health programs.

Additionally, IOPs are typically more cost-effective than inpatient treatments. Their flexibility allows patients to maintain work or school commitments. This affordability plays a significant role in decision-making for many families seeking effective treatment options.

Success Rates and Outcomes of IOPs
The success rates of Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) are generally encouraging. Many patients report significant improvements in both mental health and substance use disorders. This improvement is often due to the structured support and comprehensive care provided by IOPs.

Success in an IOP largely depends on individual commitment and the quality of the program. Factors such as a stable home environment and a strong support network can greatly enhance outcomes. Continuous engagement and tailored treatment plans also play a crucial role in achieving long-term recovery.

Outcomes in IOPs are measured by the patient’s ability to sustain progress. This includes maintaining sobriety or mental wellness after completing the program. The incorporation of coping strategies and ongoing therapy boosts the potential for sustained success and helps in preventing relapses.

What’s the Benefits of an Evening IOP Program?

When seeking help for mental health or substance use issues, finding a program that fits into your life is critical. Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) are a popular option for those who need significant support but want to maintain their daily responsibilities. Among the various formats available, evening IOP programs have emerged as particularly beneficial for many individuals. You may wonder, What are the benefits of an evening IOP program?, Do evening IOP programs work?, and what makes them a preferable option compared to other treatment schedules. This blog post will explore these questions and shed light on why evening IOP programs can be an effective pathway to recovery.

Flexibility and Convenience
The benefits of evening IOP programs start with their flexibility. Many individuals seeking treatment are juggling multiple responsibilities, such as work, school, or family obligations. An evening schedule allows them to attend therapy sessions after regular business hours, ensuring they do not have to compromise on their daily duties. This flexibility can make the difference between participating in a program consistently and struggling to find the time, ultimately leading to more successful outcomes.

Work-Life Balance
One of the immediate advantages of an evening IOP program is the ability to maintain a work-life balance. Keeping a job while undergoing treatment provides financial stability and a sense of normalcy, which can be crucial during the recovery process. Many people find that they can be more present and engaged in their therapy when they don’t have to worry about missing work or losing income.

Academic Continuity
For students, attending an evening IOP means they do not have to take a break from their studies. Maintaining academic progress can reduce stress and help them stay on track with their educational goals. The ability to participate in both treatment and academic life concurrently ensures that their education does not become another casualty in their battle for mental health.

Comprehensive Care Outside of Traditional Hours
Access to Specialized Therapists
Evening IOP programs often employ therapists and counselors who specialize in working with individuals who have similar schedules. This specialization ensures that participants receive tailored, high-quality care that addresses their unique needs.

Community and Peer Support
Another significant benefit of evening IOP programs is the opportunity to connect with peers who are also managing similar schedules and responsibilities. Building relationships with others who understand the challenges of balancing work or school with treatment can provide a robust support network. These connections often extend beyond the program, fostering long-term friendships that support ongoing recovery.

Structured and Effective Treatment
Do evening IOP programs work? The answer is a resounding yes. The structure is similar to daytime IOP programs, ensuring that participants receive the same level of care and support. Here’s how:

Evidence-Based Therapies
Evening IOP programs employ evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and group therapy. These therapies have been proven effective in treating various mental health and substance use issues.

Holistic Approaches
Many evening IOP programs incorporate holistic approaches, such as mindfulness practices, meditation, and exercise. These activities promote overall well-being and complement traditional therapeutic techniques, helping participants manage stress and improve their quality of life.

Skill Development
Participants in evening IOP programs develop vital skills for managing their mental health or substance use issues. These skills include coping mechanisms, communication techniques, and relapse prevention strategies, all designed to support long-term recovery.

Reduced Stigma and Privacy
A significant barrier to seeking treatment for many individuals is the stigma associated with mental health and substance use disorders. Evening IOP programs offer an additional layer of privacy and discretion. Attending therapy outside of traditional hours means fewer people are aware of your treatment, reducing the fear of judgment from colleagues, classmates, or acquaintances.

Confidentiality
Evening programs often place a heightened emphasis on confidentiality, ensuring that participants feel safe and secure in their decision to seek help. This emphasis on privacy can encourage more individuals to take the critical step toward recovery.

Enhanced Motivation and Commitment
Personal Investment
Choosing an evening IOP program requires a personal commitment to recovery. The decision to attend therapy after a long day of work or school demonstrates a significant level of dedication and motivation. This personal investment often translates into more engaged participation and better outcomes.

Continual Progress
Evening IOP programs allow for continual progress without significant breaks from everyday responsibilities. This seamless integration of therapy into daily life helps maintain momentum in recovery, as participants learn to apply therapeutic techniques in real-world settings immediately.

What to Expect from an Evening IOP Program at Resilience Behavioral Health
At Resilience Behavioral Health in Atlanta, our evening IOP program is designed to provide comprehensive, flexible, and effective care that fits into your busy life. We understand the unique challenges faced by those balancing work, school, and family responsibilities, and we are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.

Customized Care Plans
Our team of experienced professionals will work with you to create a customized care plan that addresses your specific needs and goals. We utilize evidence-based therapies and holistic approaches to ensure a well-rounded treatment experience.

Supportive Community
Join a supportive community of peers who understand the challenges you face. Our group therapy sessions foster a sense of belonging and offer invaluable insights into your recovery journey.

Ready to take the next step? Discover the benefits of our evening IOP program

Should You Choose an Evening Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)?

For some people, practicality has no part to play in the decision of whether or not to go to rehab. They’re struggling to get through the day and have either lost their job or place in school, or are on the verge of it.

But what if you’re barely making it through the work or school day but can’t take a month (or longer) off without derailing everything? Do you simply keep going until you can no longer manage?

Fortunately, there are alternatives to residential rehab. One is the typical outpatient program, which people with mild to moderate addictions can choose. Another is the intensive outpatient program (IOP), which offers the option to get the help you need without disconnecting from your normal life.

Many people who attend IOPs spend their entire day at the rehab center. The program is intensive, after all, and requires focus. However, there is an option for those who need to continue working full time: evening IOPs.

What exactly is an IOP and how does an evening IOP work? Is it as effective as inpatient rehab?

Here’s what you need to know.

What Are IOPs?
IOPs are structured treatment programs that offer comprehensive care for individuals battling addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions. These programs typically include multiple therapy sessions each week, providing a blend of individual counseling, group therapy, and educational workshops. The primary goal of an IOP is to help participants develop coping strategies, improve their mental health, and support their journey toward sobriety and stability.

How IOPs Differ from Inpatient and Outpatient Programs
How does an IOP differ from other types of treatment programs? Let’s take a look at the main types of rehab:

Inpatient Programs: In inpatient or residential treatment, individuals live at the facility for the duration of their program, which can range from 28 days to several months. Inpatient care provides round-the-clock supervision and support, making it ideal for those with severe addictions or co-occurring disorders that require constant monitoring.
Outpatient Programs: A typical outpatient program is less intensive than an IOP, involving fewer hours of therapy per week. Outpatient programs are suitable for individuals with mild to moderate addiction who have strong support systems and can manage their recovery while continuing with daily life activities.
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs): IOPs offer a middle ground, providing a higher level of care than standard outpatient programs but with more flexibility than inpatient treatment.
How Does an IOP Work?
An IOP combines various kinds of therapies to help patients recover from addiction. A typical IOP may include:

Individual Therapy: One-on-one sessions with a licensed therapist to address personal issues, set recovery goals, and develop individualized treatment plans.
Group Therapy: Facilitated by trained counselors, group therapy sessions allow participants to share experiences, gain support from peers, and develop social skills crucial for recovery.
Educational Workshops: These sessions provide valuable information on addiction, mental health, coping strategies, and relapse prevention techniques.
Family Therapy: Involving family members in the treatment process helps repair relationships, improve communication, and create a supportive home environment for recovery.
Holistic Therapies: Many IOPs incorporate holistic approaches such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and art therapy to address the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of recovery.
As you can see, an IOP is a versatile and effective option for individuals seeking to overcome addiction while staying at home. However, this does not mean that it is part time. Is it really possible to commit to an IOP without taking time off work or school?

Let’s Talk about Seasons Malibu’s Evening IOP

How do Evening IOPs Work?
Evening IOPs are, in essence, the same as daytime IOPs. However, there are differences that are necessary to accommodate for the reality that participants have already spent much of their day working.

An evening IOP starts in the late afternoon or early evening. Considering that each day’s program takes three to four hours, the earlier the start, the better.

In order to accommodate for the transition from a workday to the treatment program, evening IOPs may begin with holistic therapies such as mindfulness and meditation. This gives the person a chance to leave the stress of work behind them before individual or group therapy sessions which can be tough.

For most people, working more than eight hours a day is draining. As such, evening IOPs need to be approached strategically. Just because you can do an evening IOP without changing your schedule at all doesn’t mean you should.

Here are some strategies that may benefit those looking for a sustainable balance during their recovery.

Strategies for Balancing Evening IOPs with Full-Time Work
Assess Your Schedule and Responsibilities
Evaluate Work Hours: Theoretically, you can leave work at the usual time and go straight to your evening IOP. However, you do need to factor in travel time and the difficulty you may have if you don’t take a bit of a break. See if you can lower your work hours. Look for ways to take some extra time out during the day so as not to drain your battery before the evening.
Make Space for Recovery: You’ll be attending the IOP in the evening, but that is not where all the work happens. You’ll also need to do ‘homework’, taking time to internalize the process and put new skills into practice. It might help to take ten minutes out of every other hour to do this rather than trying to find an extended period of time which may not be available.
Communicate with Your Employer
Flexible Work Arrangements: Discuss the possibility of flexible work hours or remote work options with your employer. Some employers may be willing to adjust your schedule to support your treatment. Emphasize the fact that it will help ensure that you are more effective and productive while you recover – and that your recovery will lead to long-term benefits.
Use Leave Wisely: If necessary, plan to use vacation days or personal leave for particularly demanding periods or to give yourself a break when necessary.
Prioritize Self-Care
Rest and Recovery: Ensure you get adequate sleep and rest. It can be tiring to balance work and IOP sessions. Without enough rest, you are at risk of burnout.
Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy diet, exercise when possible, and engage in activities that help you relax and de-stress.
Turn to Your Support Systems
Family and Friends: Seek support from family and friends who can help with household responsibilities or provide emotional support during your treatment.
Mentors and Work Confidantes: If you have mentors or colleagues who you trust, they can be a great outlet and support while you’re going through the working day.
Time Off Work May Become Necessary
In an ideal world, you’ll find the perfect balance between work and your evening IOP. However, you’ll need to assess how you are managing as the process continues, and at some point it might become worthwhile to take time off work.

You can do so strategically, dedicating your time off to certain critical periods. Here’s when you might consider taking time off:

Initial Adjustment Period: During the first few weeks of the IOP, you may need time to adjust to the new routine and the demands of intensive therapy.
High-Stress Periods: If your work becomes particularly stressful or demanding, a short break can help you focus on your treatment and recovery.
Physical and Mental Health: Listen to your body and mind. If you start feeling overwhelmed or exhausted, taking time off work can help you recover and maintain your well-being.
How to Decide if You Should Choose an Evening IOP
Each type of recovery program works… but effectiveness can depend on your personal circumstances. As such, while an evening IOP may work for one person, it may not be sustainable for another.

Here are some considerations for how to decide to choose an evening IOP.

Work Intensity
Evening IOPs can work for people with high-stress jobs. However, if your workday tends to be particularly intense, it may leave you without the energy to commit to an evening IOP.

Consider how you feel when you leave work and what you do when you get home. If you struggle to find the motivation to do anything after a typical workday, you may have to consider taking time off for a daytime IOP or residential program.

Motivation
Motivation is another important consideration. Chances are that you are choosing treatment because you are motivated to get better. But how motivated are you to put in the work?

In a residential or daytime program, you have the emotional resources to work towards finding the necessary motivation. However, if you’re starting an evening IOP and are coming straight from work, you may struggle to commit to the program once your resources are already drained.

We Can Help You With Evening IOPs. Contact Now!

Conclusion
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for addiction. Different people have different circumstances and needs, which is why you have a variety of rehab options to choose from. Make sure that you find the treatment that is most likely to work for you.

What to Expect from an Evening Mental Health IOP
Balancing mental health treatment with life’s daily demands can be challenging. Whether you’re working a full-time job, managing family responsibilities, or attending school, traditional daytime therapy may not fit into your schedule. That’s where an Evening mental health IOP can make a difference. At Garden Springs Wellness Center, we offer flexible evening IOP services designed to support your mental health without disrupting your daily life.

If you’re considering an evening IOP but aren’t sure what to expect, this guide will walk you through the basics—what the program involves, how it can help, and how we create an environment of growth and support in the evening hours.

What Is an Evening Mental Health IOP?
An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides structured therapy and support for individuals managing mental health conditions, without requiring an overnight stay. These programs typically include individual counseling, group therapy, skill-building sessions, and psychiatric care. The “intensive” part refers to the frequency and depth of treatment, usually involving several hours of therapy multiple days a week.

An evening IOP offers these same therapeutic benefits but in a more accessible format for people with daytime obligations. Sessions are typically held in the late afternoon or evening, allowing participants to receive high-quality care after work, school, or caregiving duties.

Evening IOP Schedule and Structure
At Garden Springs Wellness Center, our evening IOP generally meets three to five evenings per week, with sessions lasting about three hours. This condensed, consistent schedule allows you to make meaningful progress while maintaining your everyday routine.

Here’s what a typical evening IOP session might include:

Check-ins and goal setting: Each session begins with a brief check-in where participants share updates and identify focus areas for the day.
Group therapy: Guided by licensed clinicians, group sessions explore topics like emotional regulation, relationship dynamics, and coping strategies.
Skills training: Sessions may focus on practical skills from evidence-based approaches like CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), or mindfulness-based therapies.
Individual therapy (scheduled weekly): You’ll also meet with a therapist one-on-one outside of group times to address deeper personal issues and tailor your treatment plan.
Medication management (if needed): Our psychiatric team provides ongoing support and adjustments to medications for those who need it.
We structure each evening with intention—to ensure every hour contributes to healing, insight, and emotional growth.

Who Benefits from Evening IOP?
Evening IOP is ideal for individuals who need structured support but do not require 24-hour care. Many people entering evening IOP are:

Experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or mood disorders
Stepping down from a higher level of care, like inpatient or partial hospitalization
Seeking more than just weekly therapy, but can’t commit to a full-day program
Balancing recovery with work, family, or school responsibilities
The flexibility of an evening program doesn’t mean it’s any less effective—it simply meets people where they are in life and provides a realistic path to stability and wellness.

What Makes Garden Springs Wellness Center’s Evening IOP Unique?
At Garden Springs Wellness Center, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all treatment. Our evening IOP is designed to be person-centered, trauma-informed, and deeply supportive. We tailor each care plan to your specific goals, diagnoses, and individual needs.

What sets our program apart:

Flexible scheduling for those who work or study full-time
Licensed, compassionate staff with extensive experience in mental health and dual diagnosis treatment
Evidence-based practices like CBT, DBT, EMDR, and trauma-informed group work
Comfortable, modern facility that promotes healing and connection
Holistic approaches such as art therapy, meditation, and wellness planning
We’ve created a safe space where healing is accessible—even after hours.

Building Community in the Evening
One of the most unexpected benefits of an evening IOP is the unique community it fosters. Everyone in the program is juggling life outside of treatment—jobs, families, or school—and that shared experience creates a strong sense of empathy and connection.

Group therapy in the evening often brings a different kind of openness and engagement. People feel more relaxed, more present, and more supported knowing that others truly understand their day-to-day pressures.

These connections often lead to lasting peer support that continues long after the program ends.

How to Know If an Evening Mental Health IOP Is Right for You
If you’ve been struggling with your mental health but can’t afford to press pause on your responsibilities, an evening IOP could be the answer. This level of care strikes a balance between structure and independence, allowing you space to heal while remaining connected to your daily life.

You might benefit from evening IOP if:

You’ve tried weekly therapy but need more support
You’re stepping down from a higher level of care
You need flexible options for treatment due to work or family demands
You want to avoid hospitalization but still need intensive support
Still unsure? Our team at Garden Springs Wellness Center can help you determine the right level of care for your needs.

3 Benefits of Evening IOP
Addiction treatment programs such as intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) in the evening can help those with busy schedules to recover from substance abuse issues. These programs can range from intensive outpatient programs that provide medical supervision and flexibility to residential programs that house those in recovery for a prolonged period.

Higher levels of care can offer patients more direct supervision, treatment, and community support for individuals who display more medical necessity for this level of treatment. However, other individuals suffering from addiction may not be able to sacrifice daytime hours for these recovery programs. Evening IOPs can offer individuals significant benefits, including more freedom, community involvement, and even a more affordable price.

If you have commitments during the day that prevent you from engaging in treatment within a typical IOP schedule, reach out to our team at Master Center today at 804.332.5950 to learn more about your IOP options in Virginia.

What Is an Evening IOP?
An evening IOP program is essentially the same as a regular outpatient program, except it caters to those who can only make it to treatment in the evening. These programs are designed to offer the medical-assisted therapy, treatments, guidance, and community of a normal IOP but adapted to a different type of schedule.

Individuals who struggle with addiction in these roles can often have the hardest time with their addictions in the evenings after their stressful day winds down. In these situations, they can feel isolated and depleted, making them very vulnerable to the pull of their addictive tendencies. These feelings are not a personal fault; it is simply a habit that becomes hardwired in the brain after prolonged use. Evening IOPs can help individuals in these difficult and seemingly hopeless situations get the help they need to take steps in a positive direction amidst a hectic schedule.

3 Benefits of Evening IOP
1. Maintain Employment
Most treatment programs only offer services during normal working hours. Unfortunately, most people cannot sacrifice their work to make it to those programs. This unavailability results in a lack of faith in the treatment and the ability to recover. Thankfully, IOP programs that operate in the evening give everyday people who struggle with the very real issue of addiction a realistic avenue to seeking professional, medically-guided treatment.

2. Family Time
Maintaining a healthy connection with family can empower individuals struggling with addiction to stick to treatment and make progress in a positive direction. Residential treatment programs are often not an option for people who have small children or who act as a caretaker. Evening IOP programs provide sound treatment and guidance that can be powerful modes of healing when combined with support from the family. Additionally, realizing the improved capabilities of being there for your loved ones as you conquer your addictive tendencies can serve as an important reinforcement to stay on the path.

3. Affordability
One of the biggest benefits of IOP in the evening is its lower price tag compared to residential programs. Residential programs cost more because they offer lodging and around-the-clock care services to the individuals they house. While the needs for this type of treatment vary, the reduced cost of treatment for IOP in the evening makes it much more realistic for individuals who have a family to support or bills for which they are responsible.