Youth Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
About the Program
The Youth Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) at Pillars of Wellness provides structured, evidence-based addiction recovery support for teens ages 14-17. Our program offers the clinical intensity of inpatient care while allowing participants to remain connected to their families, schools, and daily lives.
Combining individual and group therapy with relapse prevention, life skills training, and trauma-informed care, our IOP empowers young people to build sustainable recovery skills while addressing emotional, relational, and behavioral needs.
The Need for Effective Substance Use Treatment
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) 2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 48.8 million people—16.8% of the U.S. population aged 12 and older—experienced a substance use disorder in the past year.
Why Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) Work
Research shows that Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) are highly effective for many individuals, with outcomes comparable to inpatient treatment—while allowing participants to remain connected to their daily lives.
60–70% of individuals engaged in structured outpatient substance use treatment show meaningful reductions in substance use during and after treatment.
Clients who receive combined therapy, psychoeducation, and relapse-prevention planning demonstrate:
- Improved coping skills
- Better emotional regulation
- Increased treatment engagement
Mental Health & Substance Use
Substance use and mental health are closely connected. Over 50% of individuals with a substance use disorder also experience a co-occurring mental health condition, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma.
Integrated treatment that addresses both substance use and mental health leads to:
- Higher treatment retention
- Lower relapse rates
- Improved long-term recovery outcomes
Long-Term Outcomes of Evidence-Based Outpatient Treatment
Participation in evidence-based outpatient care is associated with:
- Improved emotional regulation and stress management
- Reduced risk of relapse
- Stronger family and social relationships
- Improved overall quality of life and well-being
Individuals who complete substance use treatment and continue using learned skills show up to a 50% reduction in relapse risk compared to those without ongoing support.
Impact at a Glance
- ✔ Evidence-based group and individual therapy
- ✔ Relapse prevention & coping skills development
- ✔ Trauma-informed, person-centered care
- ✔ Flexible scheduling that supports real-life responsibilities
Who This Program Supports
This program is ideal for teens ages 14-17 who:
- Are struggling with substance use
- Have completed detox or inpatient care and need step-down support
- Have a stable, supportive home environment
- Need flexible treatment while maintaining responsibilities at work, school, or home
Suitable for:
- Individuals
- Small groups (up to 8 participants)
- Staff and agency partners for referral coordination
What You Can Expect
Each client receives:
- Personalized treatment plans aligned with recovery goals
- Evidence-based therapy: CBT, DBT, and motivational enhancement
- Group sessions fostering connection, accountability, and skill-building
- Life skills training, relapse prevention, and emotional regulation tools
The program addresses the Five Pillars of Recovery:
Physical Wellness: Rebuild energy and strength through routines and education
Emotional Well-Being: Develop insight, emotional regulation, and healthy expression
Mental Clarity: Reduce brain fog and regain focus through mindfulness and reflection
Social Support: Build a peer network for connection and accountability
Spiritual Connection: Explore purpose and values at your own pace
All services are delivered in a culturally inclusive, trauma-informed, judgment-free environment.
Program Format
Delivery Method: In-person (Northwest Indiana)
Duration: 8-week structured program
Frequency: Weekly groups Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays 5pm-8pm
Staff Access: Collaboration with referral partners and care teams
Insurance: Most major insurances accepted; self-pay options available
Accepted Insurances Include:
Indiana Medicaid plans: CareSource, Anthem HIP, MHS, MDWise
Most private insurers: Aetna, Ambetter, Anthem BCBS, Cigna, United Healthcare/Optum
Self-pay options: Reduced-rate self-pay based on income
Meet Our Lead Clinician
Lead Clinician: Kaitlin Pilipovic, MS, LCAC
Our clinicians are licensed, trauma-informed, and trained in evidence-based practices to help clients build sustainable recovery skills while addressing emotional, relational, and behavioral needs.
Pillars of Wellness is a community-based mental health organization providing therapy, education, and specialty programs across Indiana and surrounding regions.
Partnership Information
IOP services would love to partner with you. The following are some examples of what we offer, but services are not limited to this:
- Easy referrals and coordinated care
- Weekly progress reporting (with consent)
- Coordination with previous or current care teams
- Holistic support for transitioning out of higher levels of care
Applicant Information
Interested in joining our IOP team?
Pillars of Wellness is seeking clinicians experienced in substance use, trauma recovery, and group facilitation.
We offer:
- Opportunities to deliver structured, evidence-based treatment
- Collaboration with a multidisciplinary team
- Clinical supervision and professional growth opportunities
Program-Related Continuing Education Courses
These courses are excellent resources for counselors hoping to advance their skillset in specific interest areas. Click here to view all our continuing education courses.
Recovery Starts Here
Recovery is possible, and you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you’re a teen seeking support or a parent looking for help for your child, our compassionate team is here to walk alongside you every step of the way. Together, we can build a path toward lasting wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age group does this program serve?
The Youth IOP serves teens ages 14-17.
How long is the program?
The program runs for 8 weeks with group sessions held three times per week (Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 5pm-8pm).
Is this program in-person or virtual?
The Youth IOP is delivered in-person at our Northwest Indiana location.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. We accept most major insurances including Indiana Medicaid plans (CareSource, Anthem HIP, MHS, MDWise) and most private insurers (Aetna, Ambetter, Anthem BCBS, Cigna, United Healthcare/Optum). We also offer reduced-rate self-pay options based on income.
Can my child attend school while in the program?
Yes. The IOP schedule is designed to allow teens to maintain their school, work, and family responsibilities while receiving intensive treatment.
What happens after the 8-week program ends?
Clinicians work with each client and their family to create a transition plan, which may include ongoing individual therapy, support groups, or step-down services as needed.