IOP provides structured, part-time treatment while allowing individuals to return to work, school, or home life
Time Commitment: 9-19 hours per week (typically 3-5 days a week, 3-hour sessions)
What Is Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)?
IOP is a structured, part-time treatment program that blends clinical care with personal accountability. At Elite Recovery, IOP includes group therapy, individual sessions, education groups, and coordinated support from a multidisciplinary team. Services are tailored to each client’s treatment goals, progress, and personal circumstances.
Whether entering IOP directly or stepping down from a higher level of care, clients benefit from expert guidance and a supportive community, without the disruption of leaving their home or daily routine.
Who Is IOP For?
IOP is appropriate for individuals who:
- Require more structure than traditional outpatient therapy but don’t need full-time programming
- Are stepping down from PHP or residential treatment
- Need continued support for relapse prevention and mental health management
- Are re-engaging in treatment after a period of instability
- Are balancing treatment with work, school, or caregiving responsibilities
IOP Program Tracks at Elite Recovery
All clients begin with the full program schedule (5 days/week for Day IOP, 4 days/week for Evening IOP). Step-down options to 4-day and 3-day schedules are available based on clinical progress and staff recommendation.
Day IOP
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–12:45 PM
Hours per Week: 20 hours
Notes: Structured morning program ideal for those needing high support. Step-down to 4 or 3 days per week is available after meeting clinical benchmarks.
Evening IOP
Schedule: Monday–Thursday, 5:00 PM–7:45 PM
Hours per Week: 12 hours
Notes: Designed for individuals balancing work, school, or caregiving. Step-down to 3 days per week is available, but all clients begin at 4 days/week.
Virtual IOP
Schedule: Day and evening virtual tracks available
Hours per Week: 9–15 hours
Notes: Telehealth program replicating in-person IOP services with HIPAA-compliant technology. Supports clients across Minnesota.
LGBTQ+ Affirming IOP
Schedule: Day and evening tracks available (see program page for details)
Hours per Week: 12–20 hours
Notes: Dedicated track with identity-affirming care, LGBTQ+ trained clinicians, and specialized curriculum.
Men’s & Women’s IOP
Schedule: Day and evening tracks available
Hours per Week: 12–20 hours
Notes: Gender-specific programming focused on connection, peer support, and trauma-informed group work.
Key Features of IOP at Elite Recovery:
- Group Therapy (3-5 days a week): Ongoing support in a therapeutic setting focused on relapse prevention, life skills, and emotional regulation.
- Individual Therapy: Clients continue working one-on-one with their licensed clinician.
- Peer Recovery Support Services: Certified Peer Recovery Specialists offer lived-experience support, goal planning, and recovery mentorship.
- Flexible Scheduling: Daytime and evening options available.
- Mental Health & Trauma Support: Mental Health Clinicians (LPCCs, LICSWs, LMFTs and Clinical Trainees) provide specialized therapy for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other co-occurring disorders.
- Virtual Treatment Options: Secure telehealth platform available for remote sessions.
What to Expect Each Week:
- 3 to 5 days of group therapy (each session approximately 3 hours)
- One bi-weekly individual therapy session
- Optional medication management, nutrition consults, or case coordination
- Flexibility to schedule around personal obligations
- A supportive community focused on connection, accountability, and healing
Step-Down from IOP: Clients who complete IOP may transition to Extended Outpatient Programming (EOP), which is available only to male-identifying clients at this time, and/or they may continue with individual therapy for ongoing support. This gradual step-down ensures stability while promoting independence and long-term recovery success.
Sample Schedule:
