Intensive outpatient program

Key takeaways

• The intensive outpatient program (IOP) provides structured mental health care for adults in Monterey County who need more support than weekly therapy
• You’ll participate in group-based treatment while continuing to live at home and stay connected to work, school, and family
• IOP is part of a continuum of care at Montage Health. It may be recommended after completing treatment in partial hospitalization.

Summary

Montage Health’s intensive outpatient program provides structured, group‑based mental health treatment for adults who need more support than weekly therapy while continuing to live at home.

When mental health symptoms start to interfere with daily life, it can be hard to know what kind of support will help most. The intensive outpatient program (IOP) offers a balance of structure and flexibility. You can receive focused treatment during the day, with the comfort of going home each evening.

IOP may be a next step after partial hospitalization or inpatient care, but it can also be an option when weekly therapy isn’t enough on its own. Our team will help you build a stable routine and stay on track in your recovery.

What is an intensive outpatient program for mental health?

An IOP is a structured level of mental health care that offers more support than weekly therapy, but without overnight stays. You’ll come in for treatment for three hours a day (9 a.m. to noon), several days a week. You’ll be able to return home afterward and continue your daily routines.

In IOP, you’ll work with a familiar care team that takes the time to get to know you. They’ll help you understand your symptoms and build practical coping tools. Your treatment may include:

• Therapist-led group sessions focused on skill-building and emotional support
• Regular check-ins with a psychiatric nurse practitioner to track progress and adjust your plan as needed
• Guidance and practice to apply what you learn to everyday life

Everyone’s needs are different. We’ll tailor your treatment to your symptoms, goals, and what feels manageable for you.

Who IOP is for?

When you come to us, we’ll start with an evaluation and a conversation about your symptoms and experiences. From there, we’ll help decide what level of structure and support you need right now. IOP may be a good fit if you:

• Are experiencing moderate symptoms from depression, anxiety, or another mental health condition
• Are transitioning from a higher level of care, such as inpatient treatment or a partial hospitalization program (PHP)
• Can live safely at home, but want more structure to help you stay steady
• Need more support than weekly therapy provides

If you’re dealing with substance use, our team works closely with the Recovery Center so your care stays connected.

Will insurance cover IOP costs?

Most insurance plans cover IOP. Before you begin treatment, our team will verify your benefits with your insurance provider and explain any associated costs. Please note that we do not accept Medicaid or Medi-Cal for this program at this time.

Find more information about billing, insurance, and financial assistance.

Do I need a referral?

Yes. Referrals can come from a therapist, psychiatrist, primary care provider, or another healthcare professional. You can also reach out on your own. Self-referrals begin with an intake assessment to ensure that IOP is right for you.

What to expect

As you near the end of your IOP, we’ll start planning next steps together. Your care team will review your progress and work with you on a plan to keep moving forward.

Many people transition to other forms of outpatient care, such as individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management. Because our services are integrated, you won’t have to navigate that change on your own. We’ll help schedule follow-up appointments, connect you with providers, and ensure you have the support you need when you need it.

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