Flexible, After-School IOPs for Teens in Menlo Park

An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is a structured mental health program designed to help teens address challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use. Unlike inpatient care, IOP allows teens to live at home while attending therapy several times a week. At Guide Behavioral Health, our IOP runs after school, providing 12 hours of therapy weekly in a supportive environment that fits seamlessly into a teen's daily routine.

IOP provides a higher level of care than traditional outpatient therapy. While outpatient therapy typically involves a single session per week, IOP includes multiple therapy sessions each week, combining individual, group, and family therapy. This structured approach ensures teens receive the intensive support they need while continuing to live at home and attend school.

IOP and PHP both offer intensive therapy but differ in the level of care and time commitment. An IOP program runs three to four days a week, with sessions lasting three hours each day, typically after school. PHP, or Partial Hospitalization Program, is a more intensive option, with sessions lasting five to six hours daily, often during school hours. PHP is ideal for teens who need more robust care than IOP but do not require residential treatment.

Teens who experience persistent anxiety, depression, trauma, or risky behaviors like self-harm may benefit from IOP. It is also an excellent option for teens transitioning from inpatient or residential treatment, as well as those who need more support than weekly outpatient therapy can provide.

Our IOP is tailored to address a wide range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and substance abuse and addiction. Teens struggling with other behavioral or emotional challenges may also benefit from our program. To learn more about how we treat specific conditions, visit our treatment pages for anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use.

The duration of our IOP program typically ranges from four to six weeks, depending on the teen's progress and needs. For some teens, the program may be extended to ensure they receive the full benefit of therapy.

Our IOP incorporates evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps teens identify and change harmful thought patterns, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which focuses on emotional regulation and building coping skills. Group therapy fosters peer support, while family therapy strengthens communication and relationships at home. Additionally, mindfulness practices are included to promote emotional resilience and stress management.

Teens attend our IOP program after school, with sessions running from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, three to four days per week. Each week includes 12 hours of therapy, balancing individual, group, and family sessions. This schedule allows teens to continue attending school and participating in their usual activities while receiving the support they need.

Many insurance plans cover IOP as a medically necessary treatment for mental health conditions. At Guide Behavioral Health, we provide free insurance verification to help families understand their coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses. For more information, visit our insurance verification page.

Guide Behavioral Health’s IOP is specifically designed for teens, combining flexible scheduling, evidence-based therapies, and a compassionate, family-centered approach. Located in Menlo Park, our program is accessible to families in Palo Alto, San Mateo, and surrounding areas. With a focus on holistic care, including mindfulness practices, we ensure each teen receives the personalized support they need to thrive.

Getting started is simple. Contact us or complete our Get Started form, and one of our admissions specialists will guide you through the process, including insurance verification and scheduling an initial assessment. Our team is here to support your teen and family every step of the way.