Intensive Outpatient Programs: When Weekly Therapy Isn’t Enough
Intensive outpatient programs provide structured mental health treatment requiring 9-20 hours weekly for individuals who need more support than traditional weekly therapy but don't require residential care, using evidence-based therapies like CBT and DBT while maintaining daily responsibilities.
Are you feeling stuck between weekly therapy sessions, wondering if once a week is enough support for what you're going through? Intensive outpatient programs offer a middle ground - more structure than traditional therapy, but flexibility to maintain your daily life.
In this Article
What is an intensive outpatient program (IOP)?
An intensive outpatient program (IOP) is a structured mental health treatment option that sits between traditional weekly therapy and more intensive levels of care like residential treatment or hospitalization. If you’ve ever felt like one therapy session per week isn’t quite enough support, but you don’t need to step away from your daily life completely, an IOP might be what you’re looking for.
IOPs typically require 9 to 20 hours of treatment per week, spread across three to five days. You’ll attend scheduled sessions at a treatment facility or clinic, but you live at home and can continue working, going to school, or managing your household responsibilities. This setup allows you to apply what you’re learning in treatment directly to your real-world environment, which can make the skills feel more practical and relevant.
The structure of an IOP usually includes several core components working together. Group therapy forms the foundation, where you’ll meet with others facing similar challenges and learn from shared experiences. You’ll also have individual therapy sessions with a clinician who can address your specific needs and goals. Psychoeducation helps you understand your mental health condition, symptoms, and triggers. Skills training teaches you concrete coping strategies you can use when you’re struggling.
Most IOPs last between 6 and 12 weeks, though the exact duration depends on your progress and individual needs. Some people step down from a higher level of care into an IOP as they stabilize. Others step up from weekly therapy when they need more intensive support during a difficult period. The flexibility makes IOPs useful for people at different points in their mental health experience.
The goal of an IOP is to provide enough structure and support to help you make meaningful progress without requiring you to put your entire life on hold. You get more frequent check-ins, more skill-building opportunities, and more connection with both professionals and peers than traditional outpatient therapy offers, while maintaining the independence and routines that keep you grounded in everyday life.
IOP vs. Other Treatment Levels: Where It Fits on the Care Continuum
Mental health and addiction treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) created a continuum of care framework that organizes treatment into levels based on how much support someone needs. Think of it as a ladder: you want to be on the rung that gives you enough support without being more restrictive than necessary.
Standard Outpatient Therapy vs. IOP
Standard outpatient therapy, classified as Level 1 in the ASAM framework, typically involves one to two hours per week with a therapist or counselor. This level works well for people experiencing mild to moderate symptoms who have strong coping skills and stable support systems.
IOP operates at Level 2.1 and requires nine to 19 hours of treatment per week, usually spread across three to five days. This level is designed for people who need more structure and support than weekly therapy provides but don’t require 24-hour supervision. You might attend group therapy sessions, individual counseling, and skill-building workshops while still sleeping at home and maintaining work or school commitments.
The cost difference reflects the intensity: standard outpatient therapy might run $100 to $250 per session with insurance copays of $20 to $50, while IOP typically costs $250 to $400 per day with insurance coverage often reducing out-of-pocket expenses to $50 to $150 per day. Many people transition to IOP when weekly therapy isn’t providing enough support, or step down to standard outpatient care as they stabilize.
IOP vs. Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)
Partial hospitalization programs, or PHP, sit at Level 2.5 and provide 20 or more hours of treatment per week, typically five to seven days. PHP offers a hospital-like treatment environment during the day, with participants returning home each evening. This level serves people with more severe symptoms who need intensive daily monitoring but have a safe living environment.
The main difference between IOP and PHP is intensity and medical oversight. PHP typically includes more frequent psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and nursing staff availability throughout the day. People with substance use disorders experiencing significant withdrawal symptoms might start in PHP before stepping down to IOP. PHP costs generally range from $350 to $600 per day, while IOP allows for greater flexibility to maintain employment, attend school, or care for family members.
When Residential or Inpatient Care Is Needed Instead
Residential treatment (Level 3) and inpatient hospitalization (Level 4) provide 24-hour care in a structured environment. These levels become necessary when someone is at risk of harming themselves or others, experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms, or unable to function safely in their home environment.
Inpatient psychiatric hospitalization addresses immediate crisis situations like active suicidal ideation, psychotic episodes, or medical complications requiring constant monitoring. Stays typically last three to 10 days and focus on stabilization. Residential treatment offers longer-term care, usually 30 to 90 days, for people who need extended support to develop coping skills in a protected setting.
Costs for these higher levels of care are significantly greater: inpatient hospitalization can run $1,000 to $2,500 per day, while residential treatment ranges from $500 to $1,500 per day. Many people step down from residential or inpatient care to PHP or IOP as they stabilize, creating a gradual transition back to independent living.
Who Should Consider IOP: Conditions and Circumstances
Intensive outpatient programs serve people who need more than weekly therapy but don’t require 24-hour care. If you’re finding it hard to function at work or school, struggling with daily tasks, or noticing that your symptoms are getting worse despite regular therapy, IOP might be the right level of support.
Mental Health Conditions Commonly Treated in IOP
IOPs treat a wide range of mental health conditions. People experiencing depression often benefit from the intensive support, especially when symptoms like persistent sadness, loss of interest, or difficulty concentrating interfere with daily life. Anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety, panic disorder, and social anxiety, respond well to the focused skill-building that IOPs provide.
PTSD treatment in IOP settings allows for trauma processing in a structured environment with immediate support. People with bipolar disorder may attend IOP during mood episodes or while adjusting to medication changes. Substance use disorders are frequently addressed in IOP, particularly for those stepping down from residential treatment or needing more support than weekly sessions offer. Eating disorders also benefit from the consistent monitoring and therapeutic intensity of these programs.
Many people enter IOP after a hospital discharge or residential stay. Stepping down gradually helps you maintain progress while reintegrating into daily life. Others step up to IOP when weekly therapy isn’t providing enough support to manage worsening symptoms or life stressors.
IOP for Adolescents vs. Adults: Key Differences
Adolescent and adult IOPs differ significantly in their approach and structure. Teen programs typically involve more family participation, recognizing that parents and caregivers play a central role in recovery. Schools often coordinate with adolescent IOPs to ensure academic progress continues during treatment.
Adult programs focus more on workplace functioning, relationship dynamics, and independent living skills. Adults in IOP usually have more autonomy in their treatment decisions, while adolescent programs require parental involvement in goal-setting and treatment planning.
Both age groups need certain practical supports to succeed in IOP: a stable living environment, reliable transportation to attend multiple sessions per week, and the ability to maintain basic safety outside of program hours. If you’re in immediate crisis or unable to care for yourself, a higher level of care like inpatient treatment would be more appropriate first.
The IOP Decision Framework: How to Know If You Need More Than Weekly Therapy
Deciding whether you need an intensive outpatient program isn’t always straightforward. You might feel stuck between knowing weekly therapy isn’t quite enough and wondering if you’re “sick enough” for more intensive care. The following framework can help you assess whether IOP might be the right level of support for where you are right now.
Assessing Your Symptom Severity and Functional Impairment
Start by looking at three dimensions of your symptoms: frequency, intensity, and duration. Are you experiencing symptoms most days of the week rather than occasionally? When symptoms appear, do they feel overwhelming or difficult to manage even with coping skills? Have they persisted for weeks or months despite your best efforts?
Functional impairment often reveals more than symptoms alone. Consider how you’re managing in four key areas: work or school performance, relationships with people who matter to you, basic self-care like eating and hygiene, and routine daily activities. If you’re struggling significantly in two or more of these areas, that’s a meaningful indicator that you might benefit from more structured support.
Safety considerations deserve honest evaluation. Passive thoughts about not wanting to be here differ from active planning or self-harm behaviors. If you’re experiencing urges to hurt yourself, engaging in risky behaviors you wouldn’t normally consider, or noticing that your safety feels increasingly precarious, these are clear signals that weekly therapy may not provide sufficient support.
Previous treatment response matters too. Has your progress in weekly therapy plateaued after an initial improvement? Do you find yourself in crisis between sessions without enough support to bridge those gaps? Sometimes therapy works well until life circumstances intensify, and what was once sufficient no longer matches your current needs.
Evaluating Your Support System and Practical Readiness
Your home environment and support network play a significant role in determining the right treatment level. A stable living situation with supportive family or friends can make IOP more effective, while high conflict at home or significant isolation might mean you need either more intensive support or help building that foundation first.
If you’re uncertain whether your current support is enough, speaking with a licensed therapist can help clarify your options. You can start with a free assessment at ReachLink to discuss your situation at your own pace.
Motivation and readiness are equally important as symptom severity. IOP requires commitment to attending multiple sessions weekly, often totaling nine to fifteen hours. Are you willing to participate in group therapy, which forms the backbone of most IOP programs? Can you engage actively in treatment even when it feels uncomfortable? Readiness doesn’t mean feeling enthusiastic, but it does mean being willing to show up consistently.
Practical feasibility matters as well. Do you have schedule flexibility for daytime or evening sessions several times weekly? Can you arrange reliable transportation to and from the program? If you have childcare responsibilities, can you secure coverage during treatment hours? These aren’t barriers that should prevent you from seeking help, but they’re factors to problem-solve before starting.
Case Scenarios: Borderline Decisions Explained
Sarah has been in weekly therapy for depression for six months with some improvement, but recently lost her job and now spends most days in bed, rarely leaving her apartment. Her therapist still helps, but once a week isn’t enough to interrupt the cycle. Sarah would likely benefit from IOP’s structured daily routine and multiple touchpoints of support each week.
Marcus experiences panic attacks two to three times weekly that have caused him to miss work occasionally. He has a supportive partner and practices coping skills from therapy, but feels his progress has stalled. Marcus sits in the borderline zone. He might try increasing weekly therapy to twice weekly first, or move to IOP if he needs more intensive skill-building and group support.
Jenna struggles with binge eating and purging behaviors that have intensified to daily occurrences. She feels ashamed discussing this in her current therapy and hasn’t been fully honest about the frequency. Her physical health is starting to suffer, and she knows she needs more help than her weekly session provides. Jenna’s symptom frequency, health risks, and need for specialized treatment make IOP a strong fit, particularly one with eating disorder expertise.
When IOP Is Not Recommended: Safety Considerations and Contraindications
Intensive outpatient programs offer substantial support, but they’re not designed for every situation. Certain mental health crises and medical conditions require more intensive care than IOP can safely provide.
When You Need Immediate or Higher-Level Care
If you’re experiencing active suicidal thoughts with a specific plan or intent to act on them, IOP isn’t sufficient. This level of crisis requires immediate intervention through emergency services, a crisis hotline, or inpatient hospitalization where you can receive 24/7 monitoring and safety planning.
Severe substance withdrawal also falls outside IOP’s scope. Withdrawal from alcohol, benzodiazepines, or opioids can cause life-threatening medical complications like seizures or dangerous changes in heart rate and blood pressure. These situations need medical detoxification in a hospital or residential setting where healthcare providers can monitor vital signs and provide medication if needed.
Acute psychosis or severe mania requires stabilization before you can meaningfully participate in IOP programming. When someone is experiencing hallucinations, delusions, or extreme mood elevation that impairs judgment, a more controlled environment is needed where psychiatrists can adjust medications and monitor the response closely.
Medical instability presents another contraindication. If you have uncontrolled diabetes, severe cardiovascular issues, or other conditions requiring frequent medical monitoring, you need a setting that can address both physical and mental health needs simultaneously. Unstable living situations, including homelessness or active domestic violence, also make IOP inappropriate until immediate safety and housing support are in place.
Recognizing When to Step Up During Treatment
Even if you start IOP successfully, certain warning signs indicate you need a higher level of care: worsening suicidal thoughts, increasing substance use despite treatment, inability to maintain safety between sessions, or deteriorating functioning at work or home. Your treatment team should regularly assess your progress and safety. If they recommend stepping up to partial hospitalization or inpatient care, this isn’t a failure. It means you’re getting the appropriate level of support for where you are right now.
What to Expect in an IOP: Structure, Therapies, and Daily Experience
Knowing what happens during an IOP can make the idea of starting treatment feel less overwhelming. While each program has its own approach, most IOPs follow a similar structure designed to provide intensive support while respecting your other commitments.
Most IOPs meet three to five days per week for three to four hours per session. You might attend morning sessions from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., afternoon sessions from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., or evening sessions from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., depending on what works with your schedule. A typical session includes group therapy, psychoeducation workshops, and brief individual check-ins with your treatment team, along with scheduled breaks to decompress between activities.
Group therapy forms the core of most IOP programming. You’ll meet with the same small group of people, usually 8 to 12 participants, throughout your time in the program, which helps build trust and connection. Many people worry about sharing personal struggles with strangers, but confidentiality rules are strict and most participants find that hearing others’ experiences reduces feelings of isolation. The group setting also lets you practice new communication skills and receive feedback from peers who truly understand what you’re going through.
Evidence-Based Therapies Used in IOP
IOPs use therapeutic approaches backed by research to address a range of mental health concerns. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps you identify and change thought patterns that contribute to distress or unhealthy behaviors. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) teaches skills for managing intense emotions, tolerating distress, and improving relationships.
Many programs incorporate trauma-focused approaches for people working through past experiences that affect current functioning. Motivational interviewing helps you explore ambivalence about change and strengthen your commitment to treatment goals. Your program might also include mindfulness practices, art or music therapy, or family therapy sessions depending on your needs.
Psychoeducation workshops teach practical skills you can use immediately, including coping strategies for managing anxiety or depression, techniques for preventing relapse, and ways to handle stress without returning to old patterns.
Your First Day at IOP: A Complete Walkthrough
Your first day typically starts with paperwork and an orientation session. Bring your insurance information, a list of current medications, and any previous treatment records if you have them. A staff member will review program rules, confidentiality policies, and what to expect during your time in treatment.
You’ll likely feel nervous, and that’s completely normal. Many programs start with introductions where each person shares only what they’re comfortable with. You’re not expected to dive into deep personal issues on day one. After orientation, you’ll join your first group session. The facilitator will help you feel included without putting you on the spot. By the end of your first day, you’ll have a clearer sense of how the program works and what your weeks ahead will look like.
Benefits of Intensive Outpatient Programs
IOPs offer a unique combination of intensive clinical support and real-world flexibility that sets them apart from other treatment levels.
You Can Practice New Skills in Real Time
One of the most powerful aspects of IOPs is that you attend treatment while still living at home and managing your regular responsibilities. This means you can learn a coping skill in a morning session and actually use it that same afternoon when stress hits at work or conflict arises at home. You’re actively testing and refining strategies in the environments where you’ll need them most, with therapists available to help you troubleshoot what works and what doesn’t.
Peer Support Reduces Isolation
Most IOPs include group therapy components where you connect with others facing similar mental health challenges. This shared experience can be incredibly validating, especially if you’ve felt alone in your struggles. Hearing how others cope with comparable situations often sparks insights you might not discover in individual therapy alone, and these connections can create a support network that understands what you’re going through.
Treatment Fits Around Your Life
Unlike residential programs that require you to leave work, school, or family for weeks or months, IOPs typically meet during specific hours several days per week. Many programs offer evening sessions so you can maintain employment or attend classes. You sleep in your own bed, care for your children, and keep important routines intact. This flexibility makes treatment accessible for people who cannot step away from their responsibilities but still need more support than weekly therapy provides.
IOPs Adapt as Your Needs Change
Treatment intensity should match where you are in your care. IOPs can serve as a step down from inpatient care when you’re stable enough to return home but not quite ready for minimal support. They can also function as a step up when outpatient therapy isn’t providing enough structure. This adaptability means your care level can shift responsively rather than forcing you into an all-or-nothing choice.
How to Choose a Quality IOP: Red Flags and Green Flags
Not all intensive outpatient programs are created equal. The quality of care can vary significantly between programs, and knowing what to look for can help you identify programs that will truly support your recovery.
Quality Indicators and Questions to Ask
High-quality IOPs share several important characteristics. Look for programs staffed by licensed clinical professionals, including licensed therapists, counselors, and program directors with relevant credentials. Evidence-based treatment approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, or motivational interviewing should form the foundation of the program. Every participant should receive an individualized treatment plan based on a thorough assessment.
Accreditation matters when evaluating programs. Check whether the program is accredited by recognized organizations like The Joint Commission or the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). Ask about staff-to-patient ratios during group sessions. Smaller groups, typically 8 to 12 participants, allow for more individualized attention and meaningful interaction.
During your intake conversation, ask specific questions about the program structure:
- What therapeutic modalities does the program use?
- What are the credentials of the therapists leading your sessions?
- How does the program measure progress and track outcomes?
- How often will your treatment plan be reviewed and adjusted?
Specialization can significantly impact your experience. If you’re seeking treatment for a specific condition like an eating disorder, trauma, or substance use disorder, look for programs with demonstrated expertise in that area.
Warning Signs of Problematic Programs
Certain red flags should prompt you to look elsewhere. Be wary of programs that use high-pressure sales tactics or create artificial urgency to get you to enroll immediately. Quality programs understand that choosing treatment is a significant decision and will give you time to consider your options.
Vague or evasive answers about treatment methods are concerning. If a program can’t clearly explain its therapeutic approach, that’s a warning sign. Similarly, programs that skip comprehensive assessments and immediately place everyone in the same track aren’t providing truly individualized care.
Cost and insurance transparency matters. Reputable programs provide clear, written estimates of costs and explain exactly what your insurance will cover before you commit. Ask for a detailed breakdown of costs, including any fees for assessments, materials, or additional services. Understanding the financial commitment upfront helps you avoid unexpected bills and make an informed decision about your care.
IOP Cost and Insurance Coverage
The financial side of treatment matters, especially when you’re already dealing with the stress of a mental health challenge. Understanding what you might pay for an IOP can help you make informed decisions about your care.
What Does IOP Typically Cost?
Without insurance, IOP programs generally cost between $250 and $500 per day. Since most programs run for six to twelve weeks with multiple sessions per week, the total cost for a full program typically ranges from $5,000 to $15,000. These costs usually cover therapy sessions, group programming, and any assessments or materials needed during treatment. Program length, hours per week, facility location, and specific services included all affect the final cost.
How Insurance Coverage Works for IOP
Most insurance plans cover IOP treatment thanks to the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act. This federal law requires insurers to cover mental health and substance use services at levels comparable to medical and surgical care. Your out-of-pocket costs depend largely on whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network provider. In-network programs have negotiated rates with your insurance company, which typically means lower copays and deductibles. Out-of-network care often requires you to pay a larger portion of the cost, sometimes 30% to 50% of the total.
Most insurance companies require prior authorization before you start IOP. The treatment program typically handles this process for you: their admissions team will contact your insurance company, verify your benefits, and get the necessary approvals before you begin.
Other Payment Options to Consider
Many IOP programs offer sliding scale fees based on income or payment plans that let you spread costs over time. Some facilities also have financial assistance programs or can connect you with grants or community resources. Before committing to a program, call your insurance company with these specific questions:
- What are my coverage limits for IOP?
- What will my copay or coinsurance be for each session?
- What’s my out-of-pocket maximum for the year?
- Do I need a referral from my primary care doctor?
Taking the Next Step: How to Access IOP or Explore Your Options
Knowing what an intensive outpatient program offers is one thing. Actually taking steps to access one can feel like another challenge entirely. There are clear pathways forward, whether you’re ready to commit to IOP or still figuring out what level of support makes sense for you.
If You’re Ready to Pursue IOP
Start by calling your insurance company to ask about in-network intensive outpatient programs in your area. Ask specifically about mental health coverage for IOP, what your copay or coinsurance will be, and whether you need a referral or prior authorization. Once you have a list of covered programs, schedule intake assessments at two or three different facilities. This gives you options and helps you find a program that feels like the right fit.
If You’re Uncertain Whether IOP Is Right for You
Talk with your current therapist or primary care provider about what you’ve been experiencing. They can help you evaluate whether IOP is appropriate or whether another level of care might be a better match. If you don’t currently have a therapist, many IOP programs offer free initial assessments where a clinician will evaluate your needs and recommend the most appropriate treatment level. This assessment is not a commitment to enroll.
If Cost Is a Barrier
Community mental health centers often provide IOP services on a sliding scale based on income. State-funded programs and nonprofit organizations may offer reduced-cost or free intensive outpatient treatment. Contact your local mental health authority or call 211 to learn about publicly funded options in your area.
If You’re in Crisis Right Now
IOP is not designed for immediate crisis intervention. If you’re having thoughts of suicide, experiencing a mental health emergency, or feeling unsafe, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, text HOME to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line, or go to your nearest emergency room. Once you’re stabilized, IOP may be an appropriate next step as you transition out of crisis care.
What to Have Ready When You Call
Having certain information prepared makes the intake process smoother. You’ll likely need your insurance information, a brief description of your current symptoms and how long you’ve been experiencing them, any current medications, and the names of other providers you’re seeing. Programs will also ask about previous mental health treatment, including any hospitalizations or prior therapy. The intake staff are trained to guide you through these questions.
If you’re not sure whether you need IOP or want to start by talking through your situation with a professional, connect with a licensed therapist through ReachLink. It’s free to get started and there’s no commitment required.
Finding the Right Level of Support for Where You Are
Intensive outpatient programs fill a critical gap in mental health care for people who need more than weekly therapy but don’t require round-the-clock supervision. Whether you’re stepping down from a higher level of care or stepping up because your symptoms have intensified, IOP offers structured support while you maintain your daily responsibilities. The decision to pursue more intensive treatment takes courage, and it’s a sign of strength to recognize when you need additional help.
If you’re unsure whether IOP is right for your situation or want to talk through your options with a professional first, ReachLink’s free assessment can help you understand your symptoms and explore what level of support makes sense for you. There’s no commitment required, and you can take the process at your own pace.
FAQ
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How do I know if I need more than regular weekly therapy?
You might benefit from more intensive support if weekly therapy isn't providing enough structure to manage daily symptoms, if you're experiencing frequent crises between sessions, or if you need more comprehensive coping skills training. Signs include feeling overwhelmed most days, struggling to implement therapy techniques on your own, or having thoughts of self-harm. Intensive outpatient programs bridge the gap between standard therapy and residential treatment by offering multiple therapy sessions per week plus group support. If you're questioning whether weekly therapy is enough, it's worth discussing more intensive options with a mental health professional.
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Do intensive outpatient programs actually work better than regular therapy?
Intensive outpatient programs can be more effective than weekly therapy for people who need additional structure and support, but they're not necessarily better for everyone. IOPs typically involve 9-20 hours of treatment per week, including individual therapy, group sessions, and skills training, which provides more opportunities to practice coping strategies and receive feedback. Research shows IOPs are particularly effective for people with severe depression, anxiety, eating disorders, or those stepping down from residential care. The key is matching the intensity of treatment to your specific needs - more isn't always better, but for some people, the additional support makes a crucial difference in recovery.
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What's the difference between intensive outpatient programs and going to rehab?
The main difference is that intensive outpatient programs allow you to live at home and maintain some of your daily routine, while residential rehab requires staying at a treatment facility 24/7. IOPs typically involve 3-5 days per week of structured therapy for several hours each day, letting you continue working or attending school with modifications. Residential treatment provides round-the-clock care and is better suited for people who need medical supervision, have severe symptoms that require constant support, or lack a stable home environment. IOPs work well for people who have some stability in their lives but need more intensive therapeutic support than weekly sessions can provide.
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I think I need more intensive therapy support - how do I find the right program?
Start by getting a professional assessment to determine what level of care would be most beneficial for your specific situation and goals. Many people benefit from working with a care coordinator who can evaluate your needs and help match you with appropriate resources and therapists. ReachLink connects you with licensed therapists through human care coordinators rather than algorithms, and offers a free assessment to help determine the best therapeutic approach for your needs. The key is finding therapists who specialize in your specific concerns and can provide the evidence-based treatments most likely to help you, whether that's through individual intensive work or referral to a structured IOP.
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Can I do an intensive outpatient program while still working full time?
Many IOPs are designed to accommodate work schedules, with evening or weekend options available, though you may need to adjust your work hours temporarily. Some programs offer flexible scheduling or allow you to attend certain sessions virtually, making it easier to balance treatment with employment. However, the time commitment is significant - typically 9-20 hours per week - so you'll likely need to discuss accommodations with your employer or consider reducing your hours initially. Many people find that taking time for intensive treatment actually improves their work performance in the long run by giving them better coping skills and emotional stability.
