The Blanchard Institute’s intensive outpatient program (IOP) is designed to support individuals ready to take the next step in their recovery journey. Balancing rigorous treatment with the flexibility to engage in daily life, our IOP offers a structured path to independence while reinforcing the coping strategies and support systems essential for long-term wellness.
Everyone should feel comfortable as they are working to heal, which is why our outpatient treatment facilities are designed to be a warm and welcoming environment. From artwork to furniture and decor, we have thoughtfully curated every detail to evoke a sense of calmness and security for clients and families on their recovery journey.
EVEN MORE FLEXIBILITY
The Blanchard Institute is now offering an evening option at the Lake Norman facility in addition to the existing morning and afternoon IOPs. The new evening option builds on the success of the other programs. “Our modalities are highly successful because we use evidence-based treatment,” says Jennifer Harris, CADC, who manages the new evening IOP at Lake Norman. Harris has been with Blanchard since December 2020 and knows the specifics of the program well.
FAMILY FOCUS
As in everything Blanchard does, there is a strong focus on family involvement. “We’re a family-based program. That makes us different from a lot of other programs out there,” says Harris. “Families are right up front with family sessions and we offer family services to help them support their loved ones through the process, which is huge.”
There are biweekly sessions with the therapist of the client. The main aim is to educate families about the disease of addiction and what the recovery process is like. “We’re explaining what their loved one is going through and the science behind it,” says Harris. “How their brain is healing and how the brain has been impacted by use for so long.”
Clients and their family members learn appropriate communication skills. “How to be able to openly talk about cravings and triggers without having a response of ‘Oh, that means they’re gonna use again.’”
IOP clients are also encouraged to build a support community beyond their therapy sessions. “The clinical recommendation is to attend 3–4 sober support group meetings per week,” explains Harris. “That could be Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), SMART Recovery, or Recovery Dharma. We’re helping them to be part of that sober community because while they’re in the program they learn how to open up and share with people who have similar struggles. The goal is to establish those connections with outside groups while they’re in treatment at Blanchard.” By the time, clients complete the IOP they already have a strong support system to strengthen their recovery.
THE MOST IMPORTANT INGREDIENT
“The passion that Blanchard has for helping clients achieve recovery from addiction is immeasurable,” says Harris. “What Blanchard does for clients truly sets us apart. Just the other day a client shared how infectious the strength, motivation, and energy are that the staff bring to the table. She said that she is leaving in a better frame of mind and mood because she came to treatment at Blanchard and learned new tools to support herself and her loved ones.”
Our IOP is ideal for patients who:
- Require a structured treatment program but must also attend to daily responsibilities
- Seek to strengthen their recovery with a focus on independence and self-management
- Desire the support of a therapeutic community while transitioning out of treatment
- Are ready to begin their path to independence
We offer the flexibility, support, and comprehensive care essential for those navigating the complexities of recovery in the context of their everyday lives. If you or a loved one is looking for an intensive, community-focused outpatient program in the Charlotte or Lake Norman areas, we can provide the resources, guidance, and community to support your journey toward lasting recovery.
The Blanchard Institute cultivates a safe, comfortable environment for clients and their families across North Carolina. Our recovery management and alumni program support a life-long recovery. Your journey to recovery doesn’t end with day or outpatient treatment, once you’re with Blanchard, we’re always there for you.
Our admissions process is discrete, confidential, and non-invasive. For more information about our services and IOP schedules, call us at (704) 288-1097 —our experienced specialists will guide you through the process and treat you with the dignity and compassion you deserve.