Deciding to seek mental health services can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re experiencing complex emotions like anxiety, uncertainty, or depression. Whether you’re exploring options for yourself or someone you care about, it’s common to feel unsure about where to start or which level of care is the best fit. It can be confusing, but you’re not alone in navigating these decisions. Seeking help is a courageous first step, and understanding your options is an important part of the journey.
Understanding the range of options can make a significant difference in your journey to wellness. Some people begin with outpatient therapy and make great strides, while others may need more intensive support like intensive outpatient programs to address challenges like emotional instability, recurring crises, or relationship conflicts. Each level of care offers unique benefits designed to meet different needs. It’s okay to feel unsure—many people do. By exploring your options, you can make informed decisions about the care that feels right for you. Wherever you are in your process, remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. There’s always a path forward. By breaking it down, we hope to make the process clearer and help you feel more confident in finding the right support for your specific situation.
Levels of Mental Health Treatment
- Traditional Outpatient Therapy (The Starting Point)
This is what most people think of when they imagine going to therapy. It’s typically a weekly or bi-weekly session with a therapist. If you are in a DBT, you would have a weekly skills group as well as your weekly individual appointment. You might work on specific goals, explore emotions, and build coping skills. It’s flexible and works well if your symptoms are manageable and you’re functioning in your day-to-day life.
This option is the least disruptive of your everyday life and the least expensive. If you can function well and have some joy in your life, this is your best option.
- Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)
The next level of intensity of treatment is where the Intensive Outpatient Programs come in. Think of it as the next step up from outpatient therapy. You’re still living at home, working, or going to school, but you’re dedicating more time to your mental health—usually 3-5 days a week, a few hours per day. You’re likely to also have homework to complete as well. You could still work and care for a family, but keep in mind that IOP takes significant time and energy.
IOPs are structured and goal-oriented. They’re especially helpful if you’re struggling with issues such as emotional regulation, conflicted relationships, or patterns of behavior that feel hard to break. You’ll attend therapy groups, learn new skills (like DBT if you’re joining our program!), and often meet one-on-one with a therapist to keep track of your progress.
IOP is more intensive than outpatient and less intensive than partial hospitalization programs. It’s also more costly. If you are struggling to function, you may need this more intensive treatment and the support you get from this program.
- Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs)
This is a step more intensive than IOP. PHPs involve a full day of treatment, often 5-6 days a week. It’s a bit like going to school for mental health. You get a lot of support but still return home at night. This level is often recommended if you’re struggling to function in daily life but don’t need 24/7 care. Partial hospitalization programs are typically in a hospital setting.
- Inpatient Hospitalization (24/7 Care)
This is when safety becomes the priority. If someone is experiencing a crisis, such as severe depression with suicidal thoughts, they may need inpatient care. It provides a safe environment with round-the-clock support to stabilize and get back on track.
- Residential Treatment
Think of this as a longer-term option for more intensive healing. You live on-site at the facility and follow a structured program with therapy, group work, and activities. It’s less about immediate crisis stabilization and more about deep recovery.
So, Where Does Adult Intensive Outpatient Programs Fit?
IOPs are that sweet spot when outpatient therapy isn’t quite enough but you don’t need full-day or 24/7 care. It’s a way to dive deeper into healing while still staying connected to your daily life.
In our DBT-based IOP, for example, our team focuses on teaching skills to help you manage emotions, build healthier relationships, and create a life you feel good about. You’ll benefit from structured support and a collaborative environment where you can practice new skills. And because you’re dedicating a few days a week to this work, you’ll likely see progress faster than in traditional therapy.
If you’re not sure what level of care is right for you, let’s talk! Houston DBT Center is here to help you figure out the best path forward and ensure you receive the care you need.
Find Support With an Adult Intensive Outpatient Program in Houston, TX
An intensive outpatient program can provide the extra support you need when weekly therapy isn’t enough, but full-time care isn’t necessary. At Houston DBT Center, our DBT-based adult Intensive Outpatient Program helps you build real-life skills to manage emotions, strengthen relationships, and create lasting change. With a few days a week dedicated to focused healing, you can make meaningful progress while staying connected to your daily life. Follow these three simple steps to get started:
- Call 713-973-2800 or email administration@houstondbtcenter.com today for a free consultation.
- Meet with a skilled DBT therapist for the first session to evaluate your needs and goals.
- Start creating a life you feel good about.
Other Services Offered By Houston DBT Center
At Houston DBT Center, we provide more than just Adult IOP. Our services include trauma treatment (such as DBT PE, CPT, and EMDR), Radically Open DBT, Teen IOP, parent coaching, and play therapy. With a team of over 15 skilled therapists, we collaborate to support individuals and families facing various challenges.