As a clinician working in one of our Intensive Outpatient Programs here at Hopewell Health Solutions, I’ve sat with many parents who feel overwhelmed by their child’s struggles. I’ve heard their stories of sleepless nights, anxious phone calls from school, and the sinking feeling that things are out of control. One of the most common and difficult questions I hear is, “What do we do next?” I remember working with a family whose child was facing severe anxiety and emotional outbursts. They knew their child needed more than weekly therapy, but the idea of
sending them to an inpatient hospital was daunting.
After exploring their options, they chose our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), and the change was remarkable. I watched this child walk into our program feeling anxious and scared,but each week they grew more confident. Through the support of structured therapy, skill-building, and the chance to connect with peers, they learned to manage their emotions and face life’s challenges. They went home each day, practicing what they’d learned, and the family was able to be actively involved in their healing process. This is why I believe in the power of IOPs—they provide the intensive support kids need while keeping them connected to their daily lives and the people who matter most.
Recognizing the Signs: When Is More Help Needed?
Recognizing that your child needs more support than traditional therapy can provide is an incredibly brave step. If your child is struggling with severe anxiety, depression, self-harm, or has become unable to function in daily life, it might be time to consider additional care. Both inpatient and intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) offer structured therapeutic environments, but they cater to different needs depending on the severity of your child’s symptoms. Inpatient Programs are typically reserved for children experiencing immediate crises, such as
severe self-harm, suicidal thoughts, or behaviors that require 24-hour supervision. These programs provide medical stabilization and a controlled environment focused on safety and immediate intervention.
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs), like those at Hopewell Health Solutions, provide a significant level of care without the need for constant supervision. IOPs are ideal for children who need more than traditional therapy but can safely remain at home. This approach allows children to receive intensive therapeutic support during the day or evening and return home, keeping them grounded in their routines and connected to their family.
Immediate Steps: Determining the Right Fit
Choosing between inpatient care and an IOP can be a deeply personal decision, often influenced by your child’s immediate needs and safety concerns. Here are some factors to help guide you:
1. Severity of Symptoms: Inpatient care is necessary for severe, immediate crises, while IOPs are designed to manage moderate symptoms with structured support and ongoing risk assessment.
2. Safety Needs: If your child can be safely managed at home, an IOP can provide the therapeutic support they need without hospitalization, allowing for a more comfortable and less disruptive treatment experience.
3. Daily Functioning: IOPs enable children to stay engaged in their daily activities, such as attending school and spending time with family, which helps them apply new skills in their real-world environment.
4. Family Involvement: Our IOP at Hopewell integrates family therapy and education, helping you stay involved in your child’s recovery and equipping you with the tools to support them at home.
Communication: Talking to Your Child About Their Care
Discussing a higher level of care with your child can be challenging, and it’s important to approach this conversation with empathy. I’ve seen how scared kids can be about entering a more structured program, so it’s essential to validate their feelings and keep the focus on the positives of getting the help they need while staying connected to home. This approach can help them feel more at ease and supported.
Supporting Recovery: What to Expect from Intensive Outpatient Care
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) provide a structured, therapeutic setting where children can learn to manage their emotions, behaviors, and relationships through evidence-based therapies like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
At Hopewell Health Solutions, our IOP helps kids build distress tolerance, improve emotional regulation, and strengthen interpersonal skills. The group environment fosters connection, helping children feel less alone in their struggles. Unlike inpatient care, which focuses on immediate stabilization, IOPs provide ongoing support while allowing children to maintain their daily routines. This approach bridges the gap between crisis intervention and long-term recovery, equipping children with practical skills they can use in their everyday lives.
Prevention: Building Long-Term Support
Our goal with IOPs is not just immediate recovery but also setting a foundation for lifelong wellness. Through continued therapy, skill development, and family involvement, children can learn to manage their mental health independently. Regular participation in an IOP can prevent future crises and keep your child on a positive path.
Conclusion: We’re Here to Support Your Family
Choosing the right level of care for your child is a big decision, but you don’t have to do it alone. While Hopewell Health Solutions does not offer inpatient care, our intensive outpatient program provides the structure, support, and compassionate environment your child needs to thrive. We are committed to guiding your family through every step of this journey. If you’re considering an IOP for your child, reach out to us today to learn more about how we can help support your child’s path to recovery and wellness.
Kaitlyn Czapiga, IOP Clinician