Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) in Whitefish, MT
Trailhead Addiction Treatment & Counseling Center (formerly Big Sky Recovery) offers a compassionate Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) in Whitefish, MT for individuals seeking recovery while maintaining family, work, and school responsibilities. Our licensed counselors provide a structured balance of group therapy, individual counseling, and holistic practices designed to foster long-term sobriety and mental health stability.
What is Intensive Outpatient Services?
An
IOP program bridges the gap between standard outpatient counseling and inpatient rehab. Clients attend multiple weekly therapy sessions-usually three group sessions and one individual session-totaling about 10 hours per week. This structure provides accountability while allowing clients to live at home, continue working, and remain connected to their families. IOP is a proven model for addiction treatment that supports recovery without requiring residential care.
Who is IOP For?
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Intensive Outpatient Program is designed for people who need more support than weekly therapy but who don’t require 24/7 inpatient care. It’s ideal for individuals in early recovery, those transitioning from residential treatment, or clients balancing recovery with work and family obligations. Our IOP also helps individuals whose substance abuse is interfering with daily life but who still have a stable home environment. Family members benefit, too, as IOP often integrates family therapy and education into the process.
Challenges IOP Helps Address
Addiction recovery is rarely straightforward. Many clients face cravings, emotional instability, unresolved trauma, or strained family relationships. Some struggle to manage stress without substances, while others fear relapse during times of transition. Our IOP specifically addresses these challenges by combining evidence-based therapy, peer support, and relapse-prevention planning. This makes IOP especially effective for clients who need structured accountability while reintegrating into everyday life.
Key Benefits of Outpatient Treatment
Clients who participate in IOP gain advantages such as:
Small, Private Group Programming
Groups capped at 8–10 participants ensure personalized attention and deeper trust.
High Therapist-to-Client Ratio
A 4:1 staff-to-client ratio means every client receives individualized support.
Holistic Recovery Approach
Treatment integrates therapy with mindfulness, wellness, and coping strategies for balanced healing.
Community Support in Recovery
IOP fosters meaningful peer connections that strengthen long-term sobriety.
Evidence-Based Treatment Modalities
Our IOP integrates proven approaches such as:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- 12-Step Integration
- Psychoeducation
- The Feelings Board
- Mindfulness Practices
- Trauma-Informed Care.
These methods address not only substance use, but also co-occurring issues such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD-helping clients heal both emotionally and physically.
How to Enroll in the Program
Getting started is simple. Call Trailhead today to schedule your intake for our Intensive Outpatient Program in Whitefish, MT. During the intake, you’ll complete an assessment, meet with a licensed counselor, and receive a personalized treatment plan. Call (406) 404-6096 or use our secure online form to begin your recovery journey.
Step-by-Step Intake Process
01. Call to schedule your first appointment.
02. Provide initial information and complete a consent form.
03. Meet for an intake session to build rapport and set expectations.
04. Begin structured group and individual counseling sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is IOP different from regular counseling?
Unlike weekly therapy, IOP provides several sessions each week with a mix of group and individual counseling. It offers more structure and accountability while still allowing you to live at home.
Do I have to stop working or going to school to attend?
Not necessarily. Many clients are able to balance IOP with work, school, or family commitments. We’ll work with you to create a schedule that fits your life.
What kinds of issues does IOP address?
IOP is especially effective for substance use recovery, relapse prevention, and building healthier coping skills. It can also support mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Will my progress be monitored?
Yes. Throughout the program, we’ll check in regularly on your progress, adjust your treatment plan as needed, and provide support every step of the way.