Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) in New Brunswick & Mt. Holly NJ

Four people sit in a group, talking and listening. Two sit on chairs and two on a red couch, with speech bubbles above their heads, suggesting discussion or a support group meeting. A plant is in the background.Our Substance Use Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides structured treatment for adults with substance use disorders who need more support than standard outpatient care while continuing to live at home, work, or attend school. The program supports recovery through structured counseling, education, relapse-prevention and recovery skills, care coordination, and support for co-occurring mental health needs. We use a trauma-informed, judgment-free, and culturally responsive approach so clients feel safe, respected, and involved in their care.

What is IOP? (ASAM Level 2.1)

IOP is a structured, non-residential level of substance use disorder treatment. ASAM Level 2.1 provides greater treatment intensity than standard outpatient substance use services while allowing clients to continue living in the community. Treatment may include group and individual counseling, substance use education, relapse-prevention and recovery planning, care coordination, and support for co-occurring mental health needs.

Who IOP is for

IOP may be a good fit if you:

  • Have a substance use disorder and need more structure and support than standard outpatient treatment.
  • Are able to participate in treatment while continuing to live at home and remain active in your community.
  • Are stepping up from a lower level of substance use treatment or transitioning from a higher level of substance use care.
  • Have co-occurring mental health needs that can be supported alongside substance use treatment.

If you’re in immediate crisis or thinking about suicide, call/text 988 or go to the nearest emergency room.

What to Expect

Schedule & structure

Typically 3–5 days/week, 3–4 hours/day (exact schedule varies by track and location) to meet ASAM Level 2.1 weekly hours. Day options are available; telehealth is offered for eligible services.

Therapeutic approach

Treatment includes individual and group counseling, psychoeducation, relapse-prevention strategies, recovery planning, coping skills, and support for co-occurring mental health needs when appropriate.

Care team

Clients receive care from qualified clinical staff, with care coordination and collaboration with medical, psychiatric, and other providers as appropriate to the individual’s treatment needs.

Step-up/step-down

IOP may serve as a step-up from standard outpatient substance use treatment or as a transition from a higher level of substance use care. Placement and transitions are based on each client’s individual clinical needs and assessment.

Benefits of IOP (What the Research Shows)

Structured Recovery Support

IOP provides increased structure and support while allowing clients to continue living in the community and maintaining work, school, and family responsibilities when possible.

Recovery Skills

Treatment helps clients identify substance use patterns and triggers, develop coping strategies, strengthen relapse-prevention skills, and build supports for continued recovery.

Appropriate Level of Care

ASAM Level 2.1 provides a greater level of structure than standard outpatient substance use treatment without requiring 24-hour residential care.

How IOP Helps you Get Better (Skills we Build Together)

Understand Triggers & Patterns

Identify substance use triggers, patterns, and high-risk situations that may affect recovery.

Manage Cravings & High-Risk Situations

Build practical coping strategies for managing cravings, stress, and situations that may increase the risk of returning to substance use.

Strengthen Relapse-Prevention Skills

Develop an individualized relapse-prevention plan and recognize early warning signs that additional support may be needed.

Build Healthy Coping Skills

Practice healthy ways to manage emotions, stress, and other challenges without relying on substances.

Strengthen Recovery Supports

Build communication, relationship, and support-system skills that can help sustain recovery.

Plan for Continued Recovery

Develop a continuing-care plan that supports progress after completion of IOP and connects clients with appropriate ongoing services and recovery resources.

How We Align with ASAM Level 2.1

  • Intensity: IOP is offered three days per week, with each session lasting approximately three hours, for a total of nine treatment hours per week. Program days and times vary by location.
  • Modalities: Group-based services supplemented by individual/family sessions and psychoeducation.
  • Placement & transitions: Appropriate as step-up or step-down care based on a multidimensional assessment (risk, needs, supports, etc.).

Getting Started (Simple & Fast)

  • Intake & assessment: We learn your goals, history, strengths, and supports to co-create your plan.
  • Orientation & start: We place you in the right track (day/evening; in-person or telehealth) and introduce your care team and group.
  • Insurance & payment: Most commercial plans, Medicare, and Medicaid plans cover IOP when medically necessary. We’ll verify your benefits and discuss any costs before you start. (Coverage details vary by plan)
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Locations & Access

New Brunswick

  • 320 Suydam Street
    New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901

Burlington/Mt. Holly

  • 605 High Street Mount
    Holly, New Jersey 08060

In-person and HIPAA-compliant telehealth options available (eligibility varies by service).

FAQs

Most people participate 4–8 weeks, adjusting based on progress, goals, and ASAM-guided reassessment.

No. Our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is currently available for adults.

 

No. Our IOP is a Substance Use Intensive Outpatient Program. While we can support co-occurring mental health needs as part of substance use treatment, we do not offer a separate mental health-only IOP at this time.