Intensive Outpatient Therapy

We are very grateful our son’s ability to participate in the program. He gained a better understanding of himself and was given valuable tools that will help him manage day-to-day.” 
– Parents of a recent program graduate

Intensive Outpatient Therapy (IOP) provides psychological services adolescents ages 13-17 with general depression/anxiety who need a level of treatment less complex than hospitalization but more intense than traditional outpatient therapy. In IOP, patients will meet virtually for six weeks with a team of clinicians and a psychiatrist. During that period, they will meet three times a week for three hours. Key benefits of IOP include:

• IOP is virtual, so patients are able to receive therapy at home while maintaining a work or school schedule. 
• Treatments follow a schedule and routine, so patients know what to expect. 
• Patients can practice skills at home that they are learning in treatment. 
• Since patients live at home, they are encouraged to strengthen their network of friends and family members who will support them as they recover. 

Ask your doctor if Intensive Outpatient Therapy is appropriate for you. All participants should be referred by their community providers. Reach out to Program Director, Helga LeMaster with questions at helga_lemaster@med.unc.edu

The Intensive Outpatient Therapy program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), an independent, nonprofit accreditor of health and human services, including behavioral medicine. IOP has passed an in-depth review and meets rigorous CARF internationally-recognized guidelines for service and quality, and is focused on delivering the most favorable results for the clients we serves.