Home » Treatment Programs » Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) in Wilmington, DE

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) in Wilmington, DE

Q: How is IOP different from regular outpatient therapy?

IOP provides more hours per week (typically 9–12+) and a structured curriculum. It’s a step-down from residential/PHP or a step-up from weekly therapy.

Q: How long does IOP last?

Length varies by goals and progress—many complete 6–12 weeks, then step down to OP with continuing care.

IOP Offers Structure for Recovery & Flexibility for Real Life

Our Wilmington IOP blends frequent therapy, relapse-prevention skills, and community support—so you can heal while working, studying, and caring for family.

What Is an Intensive Outpatient Program and Who Is It For?

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is a mid-level of care that provides multiple therapy sessions per week without overnight stays. It’s ideal if you’re stepping down from residential/PHP—or if you need more support than weekly outpatient but still want to live at home. Research shows IOPs are a vital part of the treatment continuum and can achieve outcomes comparable to inpatient/residential care for many people when appropriately matched.

Why Choose Lotus for IOP in Wilmington

Evidence-based care. We use approaches like CBT, relapse-prevention, motivational interventions, and peer support—modalities recommended in federal guidance for IOP.
Integrated with medication when needed. If MOUD (methadone, buprenorphine, naltrexone) is part of your plan, we coordinate dosing and therapy to maximize stability.
Accessible & affordable. Medicaid, Medicare, and most private insurance accepted.
Compassionate team, practical help. Case management for transportation, work scheduling, childcare resources, and more.

What to Expect (Step by Step)

1. Same-Day Assessment (When Available)
  We review your history, goals, and safety needs to confirm IOP is the right fit and design your plan.
2. Orientation & Weekly Schedule
  Most people attend 3–5 days per week with a mix of group and individual sessions. Evening options may be available.
3. Core Therapeutic Services
  - Group therapy focused on skills (triggers, coping, communication)
  - Individual counseling and recovery planning
  - Medication coordination (when applicable) with our medical team
  - Peer recovery support and community connections
4. Measured Progress & Step-Down
  We review goals regularly and step down to Outpatient (OP) when you’re ready—keeping support in place to protect momentum. Federal guidance emphasizes right-sizing intensity and using continuing care to maintain gains.

Why Intensive Outpatient Programs Matter

IOP is an effective alternative/step-down to inpatient/residential for many people when matched to need—supporting reductions in substance use with strong retention.

Weisner, Constance, et al. “Intensive Outpatient Programs for Substance Use Disorder: Assessing the Evidence.” Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, vol. 141, Aug. 2022, 108843. Elsevier, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1077722922001122

Pairing psychosocial treatment with medications for OUD further improves outcomes and reduces mortality—one reason we integrate therapy with MOUD when appropriate.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 12 Aug. 2024, https://www.cdc.gov/overdose-prevention/treatment/opioid-use-disorder.html

Locally, Delaware continues to prioritize overdose prevention; staying engaged in structured care like IOP is a key protective factor as the state works to reduce deaths.

Delaware Department of Health and Social Services. “Drug Overdose Deaths – State Overview.” My Healthy Community, Delaware Health and Social Services, https://myhealthycommunity.dhss.delaware.gov/topics/drug-overdose-deaths/overview/state

Care can be accessible.

We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and most private insurance. Our Wilmington team can help you enroll in IOP—often same-day or next-day—and verify your insurance.

IOP Near Me (Wilmington, DE)

Choosing a nearby program makes it easier to stick with care. Our Wilmington IOP is convenient to I-95 and Route 13 and serves New Castle County neighborhoods like Elsmere, Newport, Greenville, and Claymont. DART bus routes serve the corridor—plan your trip via Google Maps or DART’s route tools.

Lotus Recovery Centers – Wilmington, DE
1812 Newport Gap Pike, Wilmington, DE 19808

FAQs: IOP at Lotus Recovery Centers

How is IOP different from regular outpatient therapy?

IOP provides more hours per week (typically 9–12+) and a structured curriculum. It’s a step-down from residential/PHP or a step-up from weekly therapy.

Can I work or go to school while in IOP?

Yes. Schedules are designed to support daily responsibilities while providing consistent treatment.

Do I have to stop medication if I enter IOP?

No. If you’re on methadone, buprenorphine/Suboxone, or naltrexone, we coordinate therapy with your medication plan to support stability.

How long does IOP last?

Length varies by goals and progress—many complete 6–12 weeks, then step down to OP with continuing care.

Do you offer evening groups or telehealth options?

Evening availability may be offered; limited telehealth options can be discussed at intake per current guidelines.

Voices from Recovery

“IOP gave me structure without putting my life on hold. The groups, skills, and accountability helped me stay on track.” – Former patient

Ready to Build Momentum?

Our Wilmington team can help you enroll in IOP—often same-day or next-day—and verify your insurance.