Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for Teens

Intensive outpatient therapy is a treatment option for teenagers who are struggling with serious mental health conditions and need more support than weekly therapy sessions can provide. Teens and families may be referred to intensive outpatient treatment after being discharged from inpatient mental health treatment or by their outpatient mental health providers.

The intensive outpatient program (IOP) at The University of Kansas Health System’s Marillac Campus is an 8-week group therapy program designed to help teens manage their emotions, reduce unsafe behaviors and communicate their feelings more effectively. IOP offers a higher level of care than traditional outpatient therapy but is less intensive than hospitalization. It provides structured support while allowing teens to maintain their daily routines.

Our IOP is for teens ages 14 to17 who are motivated for treatment and are struggling with:

• Moderate to severe depression or anxiety
• Suicidal thoughts
• Self-harming behaviors, including cutting, burning and hair-pulling
• Difficulty managing intense emotions
• Significant family conflict

Our program may not be the right fit for teens who require more specialized care, such as those with primary substance use disorders eating disorders, psychosis, intellectual disability, conduct disorder, or significant aggressive behavior across multiple settings.

An intake assessment is required prior to starting the intensive outpatient program. The intake includes a discussion of what the program looks like, what needs can be addressed and whether the program is an appropriate fit.

In IOP, teens attend group therapy 3 days per week for 8 weeks. Our program incorporates evidence-based treatment modalities including dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

During group therapy, teens connect with peers facing similar challenges and build strategies for managing emotions.

Family involvement is an important part of supporting your teen’s progress and reinforcing the skills learned in group. A required family skills session is held on Tuesday evenings with up to 2 caregivers invited to attend. This time allows parents and teens to practice new strategies together.

Teens may also engage in individual and family therapy as recommended by their treatment team.

Teens and families who have participated in our program report improvements in:

• Coping skills — learning and using strategies to manage emotions
• Safety — engaging in fewer unsafe behaviors
• Mood — reduced anxiety and depression
• Relationships — stronger interpersonal skills
• Family life — improved communication and overall family functioning

The intensive outpatient program at The University of Kansas Health System offers flexible start dates with rolling admission. Sessions are scheduled after school hours to minimize disruptions to your teen's daily routine. Groups are limited to 8 participants to maintain a small, supportive setting that promotes connection and growth.

Our providers are experts in the field and provide evidence-based care using proven treatments that support lasting change. Our patients have meaningful reductions in depression and anxiety.

Our IOP is covered by most major insurance plans. We may be able to work with Medicaid policies on a case-by-case basis. Self-pay options are also available for families without coverage or those who prefer to pay directly.

If you believe our IOP may be a good fit for your teen, call 913-574-3864 for more information.