An intensive outpatient program (IOP) is a structured non-residential psychological treatment program that addresses mental health disorders and substance use disorders. It is a type of mental healthcare that is considered one step up from traditional outpatient therapy. IOPs are used to address addictions, depression, eating disorders, or other dependencies that do not require detoxification or round-the-clock supervision. The typical IOP program offers group therapy and generally facilitates 6-30 hours a week of programming for addiction treatment. IOP allows the individual to participate in their daily affairs, such as work, and then participate in treatment at an appropriate facility in the morning or at the end of the day. With an IOP, classes, sessions, meetings, and workshops are scheduled throughout the day, and individuals are expected to adhere to the strict structure of the program. The care received via an intensive outpatient program will vary from facility to facility and from provider to provider, but it generally consists of 10-12 hours of group and individual therapy each week, plus encouraged participation in a 12-step program. IOPs can be more effective than individual therapy for chemical dependency. IOPs are sometimes used in conjunction with inpatient programs as a way of transitioning patients back to their normal lives. The ideal candidates for intensive outpatient treatment have a safe home environment and encouraging family members and friends who are ready to support their loved one in their recovery efforts. An IOP typically lasts 8 to 12 weeks, and IOP programs might run three to five days per week, with sessions lasting about two to five hours per day.