Psychiatry and Psychology in Minnesota

Intensive Outpatient Psychiatric Program for Mood and Anxiety Disorders

The Intensive Outpatient Psychiatric (IOP) program is a group-based treatment option with individualized treatment planning for patients who need more than once-a-week therapy or who may need a transition from a more intensive setting. The program provides sessions on coping strategies and has a strong cognitive-behavioral focus.

Who may benefit from the IOP?
The IOP is intended for people 18 or older who have a primary Axis I psychiatric diagnosis of a mood or anxiety disorder. Appropriate candidates for the program have some impairment in their day-to-day functioning, yet still are motivated to change and able to make a commitment to treatment. They should not be an acute danger to themselves or others, actively abusing substances, or have a cognitive impairment that would prevent active participation in the program. IOP patients are capable of independent functioning, and most work during the hours they are not in the program.

Program Details

• The program operates from 8 to 11 a.m. on Monday and Wednesday and from 8 a.m. to noon on Friday in the Generose Building on the Saint Marys Hospital campus.
• The IOP begins with a formal comprehensive assessment addressing medical, emotional, behavioral, social, recreational, vocational and nutritional needs; resources; spirituality; and legal history. The assessment includes review of the patient's clinical psychiatric history, presenting symptoms, results of mental status exam, physical health screening and a diagnostic impression. Members of Mayo's multidisciplinary staff complete the assessment. Additional assessments may be requested depending on patient's needs.
• Two groups of approximately 1.5 hours are offered on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. An additional one-hour group meets on Friday.
• The program emphasizes self-management and goal setting to help reduce symptoms and return to work and normal daily function.