2. Center for Interventional Psychiatry
  3. Levels of Care
  4. Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

The Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) at the UTHealth Houston Center for Interventional Psychiatry provides structured, time-limited treatment for individuals with moderate to severe psychiatric symptoms who require a higher level of support than standard outpatient care but do not need full-day or inpatient hospitalization.

IOP is designed to promote symptom stabilization, functional improvement, and continuity of care while allowing patients to remain at home and maintain selected daily activities.

Who Is Appropriate for IOP

The Intensive Outpatient Program may be appropriate for patients who:

  • Have persistent or worsening symptoms despite outpatient treatment
  • Require more frequent clinical contact and structured therapy
  • Are transitioning from inpatient or partial hospitalization care
  • Need intensive support while remaining medically and psychiatrically stable
  • Are experiencing significant functional impairment but can engage reliably in treatment

Program Structure and Services

IOP typically includes multiple treatment sessions per week and may involve:

  • Structured group therapy, focused on symptom management, coping strategies, and relapse prevention
  • Individual psychiatric care, including medication management and treatment planning
  • Evidence-based psychotherapeutic interventions, tailored to diagnosis and symptom profile
  • Interventional psychiatry services, when clinically indicated, such as:
    • Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
    • Intranasal Esketamine Therapy (SPRAVATO®)
    • Intravenous Ketamine Therapy
    • Other advanced treatments coordinated with the clinical team

A multidisciplinary team delivers care and is closely coordinated with outpatient providers to ensure continuity of care.

Monitoring and Transitions of Care

Patients in IOP are monitored regularly for symptom response, safety, and functional progress using measurement-based tools. Level-of-care decisions are reassessed throughout treatment.

Based on clinical response, patients may:

  • Transition to partial hospitalization if greater intensity is required
  • Step down to outpatient care as symptoms stabilize
  • Continue interventional treatments as part of a longitudinal care plan

Through the Intensive Outpatient Program, the Center aims to provide effective, structured care that supports stabilization, recovery, and sustained engagement in treatment.