Who it suits
Adults with mild-to-moderate dependence, stable housing, family or peer support, and no need for medical detox. Not appropriate for anyone who needs 24-hour supervision to stay safe or interrupt access.
Time commitment
Intensive outpatient programs (IOP) typically run 9–12 hours per week over 8–12 weeks — often evening sessions to fit around work. Standard outpatient care is 2–4 hours per week for a longer period.
What good outpatient looks like
Individual therapist (weekly), group therapy (weekly), psychiatric follow-up (as needed), and family sessions on a regular cadence. Random or scheduled urine screening is standard — as a support tool, not a punishment.