Structure, flexibility, and real support

Intensive outpatient program for drug and alcohol addiction

Our intensive outpatient program (IOP) gives you access to flexible yet structured therapy and peer support, without stepping away from work, family, or day-to-day responsibilities.

Take a self-assessment or speak to someone now, with no pressure to commit.

Brunette woman smiling and sharing a personal breakthrough during group therapy, celebrating progress in her outpatient recovery journey.

Flexible scheduling to suit your routine

Structured therapy without residential stay

Weekly individual and group sessions

In-person and online access available

Close-up of a supportive therapy circle, with hands and gestures reflecting trust, connection, and shared healing in an outpatient recovery group.
What is an intensive outpatient program?

We’ll build our outpatient program around your life

Our intensive outpatient substance abuse treatment program is a critical part of our continuing commitment to the sobriety of our clients, offering structured support for people who need more than occasional counselling but don’t require full-time residential care. It combines evidence-based therapy, peer connection, and relapse prevention while allowing you to live at home.

Who the program is for

This program is ideal for anyone seeking structured addiction support while staying active in work, school, or family life, including those transitioning from residential rehab.

How the program helps

You’ll access regular therapy sessions, peer groups, and recovery planning, which will help you stay accountable, learn new strategies, and strengthen your ability to manage life in recovery.

Why the program is effective

Our IOP is grounded in proven therapy models like CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care. It gives you high-impact support, delivered consistently in a way that fits your everyday life.

Everything you need, nothing you don’t

What’s included in our intensive outpatient program

You’ll receive structured, consistent care that’s easy to access and tailored to your recovery, with expert support, discipline and flexibility, and guidance every step of the way.

  • Weekly one-on-one sessions with addiction specialists
  • Group therapy for connection, accountability, and shared insight
  • CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care tailored to your needs
  • Flexible scheduling with evening and online options available
  • Access to the Hader app for digital support and resources
  • Ongoing relapse prevention and recovery coaching
A flexible structure with clear progression

An outline of our outpatient program for substance use

Our rehab programs are designed to support consistent growth. Whether you’re with us for four weeks or twelve, you’ll move through clear stages that help you stabilise, connect, and stay on track.

Unsure where to start? Take a self-assessment or book a time to chat – both are 100% confidential.

Module
1

Initial assessment & therapy planning

Duration:
1–3 days

You’ll begin with a comprehensive intake session to understand your needs, history, and goals. From there, we’ll build a structured weekly plan tailored to your life.

  • Holistic assessment of addiction, mental health, and support needs
  • Personalised therapy plan and weekly schedule
  • Orientation to group therapy and digital tools
Module
2

Therapeutic engagement & skill building

Duration:
4–8 weeks

You’ll take part in weekly one-on-one therapy and group sessions. This is where the work happens; you’ll learn new strategies, explore underlying issues, and build emotional strength.

  • Individual counselling focused on addiction and relapse prevention
  • Group therapy for peer accountability and insight
  • Skill development using CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed approaches
Module
3

Peer support & routine integration

Duration:
2–4 weeks

We help you integrate recovery into real life, managing work, family, and other responsibilities while staying connected to the program.

  • Weekly support to balance recovery with daily life
  • Tools for managing stress, cravings, and triggers
  • Optional online groups for added flexibility
Module
4

Recovery planning & ongoing support

Duration:
Final 1–2 weeks

As you near the end of your program, we’ll work with you to develop a long-term recovery plan, including referrals, resources, and aftercare options.

  • Final therapy sessions focused on transition and reflection
  • Relapse prevention strategies and structured aftercare
  • Continued access to Hader’s support network and app
What makes Hader’s outpatient care different

How our outpatient treatment compares to others

Most clinics offer outpatient support, but not all outpatient care is created equal. Here’s how our intensive outpatient programs for substance use and recovery measure up.

Feature / Offering
Our Program
Most Competitor Programs
Therapy sessions led by qualified addiction specialists
~70% (generalist counsellors)
One-on-one therapy paired with recovery coaching
Rarely combined
Group therapy structured into IOP model
Often general group therapy only
Nationwide digital access through Hader app
Partial or basic digital support
Trauma-specific therapy embedded in IOP care
~40% offer trauma focus
Seamless transition from inpatient to outpatient care
Less integration with residential services
Flexible scheduling (daytime, evening, weekend options)
Set fixed schedules
Dual diagnosis support (addiction and mental health)
Often limited or external referral
Dedicated relapse prevention and aftercare pathways
Minimal structured aftercare
Personalised care plans for every IOP client
Generic or standardised plans common
Structured accountability via digital check-ins and tools
Rare daily engagement tools
Access to transitional housing options post-IOP
Very limited
Delivered by a team experienced in inpatient and outpatient care
Split teams or external contractors
Transparent program outcomes and client progress tracking
Limited or unpublished success rates
CONFIDENTIAL SELF-ASSESSMENT TOOL

Worried about your drinking, drug use, or mental health?

This short, confidential quiz takes less than two minutes and can help you make sense of what’s going on. Choose the category that feels most relevant to you — whether it’s alcohol, drugs, mental health, or a mix of concerns — and we’ll guide you through a few simple yes/no questions.

At the end, we’ll let you know if your answers suggest it might be time to consider rehab, and share safe, confidential options for getting started.

Take the quiz now
Flexible care, transparent pricing

How much does the intensive outpatient program cost?

To ease the pressure, we make accessing structured support as affordable as possible with flexible pricing, private health insurance options, DVA eligibility, and payment plans.

$1,380–$4,000

Total program costs

Costs vary depending on the program type and length, from 4-week intensive outpatient programs to 12-week digital aftercare packages.

Up to 100%

Insurance coverage

Some private health insurance policies or DVA funding may cover your program. We’ll help you check your eligibility and explore alternatives if needed.

From $1,380 out of pocket

Your final cost

Out-of-pocket costs depend on your coverage and program type. Our admissions team will walk you through the exact figure before you begin.

Flexible care, transparent pricing

How much does the intensive outpatient program cost?

To ease the pressure, we make accessing structured support as affordable as possible with flexible pricing, private health insurance options, DVA eligibility, and payment plans.

$1,380–$4,000

Total program costs

Costs vary depending on the program type and length, from 4-week intensive outpatient programs to 12-week digital aftercare packages.

Up to 100%

Insurance coverage

Some private health insurance policies or DVA funding may cover your program. We’ll help you check your eligibility and explore alternatives if needed.

From $1,380 out of pocket

Your final cost

Out-of-pocket costs depend on your coverage and program type. Our admissions team will walk you through the exact figure before you begin.

There’s always a way forward

Popular funding options for intensive outpatient addiction care

We’re here to help you access the support you need without unnecessary financial stress. Whether you’re self-funding, insured, or need flexibility, we’ll walk you through it.

01

Private health insurance

Self-funding

Pay for care directly and start quickly

Self-funding allows you to begin therapy without delay. It’s ideal for clients who want full control over scheduling and program structure, or who may not have health insurance. We offer 4-, 8-, and 12-week options to suit your needs.

$1,380–$4,000 depending on program type and duration
  • No insurance required or wait time
  • Flexible scheduling and therapy plan
  • Options for structured outpatient or digital aftercare
  • Available from anywhere in Australia
  • Easy setup through our admissions team
02

Self-funding

Private health insurance

Use your existing health cover

If you have private health insurance (e.g. Bupa, HFC, Medibank), you may be eligible for partial or full coverage of your IOP. Coverage varies, so we’ll work with you to confirm your benefits.

Often partially or fully covered
  • Check with your insurer for psychiatric or outpatient extras
  • No inpatient stay required to claim
  • Applicable to in-person and online therapy
  • HICAPS or manual claiming supported
  • We assist with documentation and rebate info
03

Superannuation access

Without insurance

Accessible care, no cover required

Don’t have private health insurance? You can still join the program through direct payment. We believe cost shouldn’t be a barrier to receiving structured, high-quality support.

From $1,380 for a 4-week program
  • Full access to intensive outpatient support
  • Available to all Australian residents
  • No referral or waitlist required
  • Same quality of care, no matter how you fund it
  • Our team can help you explore flexible options
04

Payment plans

Financial assistance

Help for those in financial hardship

We offer reduced rates for clients experiencing financial hardship. If you’re struggling but committed to getting help, we’ll do everything we can to make it possible.

Sliding scale available based on need
  • Available for 4-, 8-, and 12-week programs
  • Quick assessment through admissions team
  • Discretionary discounts offered
  • Prioritised for at-risk or recently discharged clients
  • Subject to availability and review
Recovery that works in the real world

Why our intensive outpatient program helps you stay on track

You don’t have to hit pause on your life to get serious about recovery. Our IOP combines structured support with everyday flexibility so you can heal while staying present in your life.

Built for balance

Therapy fits around your work, school, and home life, not the other way around.

Structure with flexibility

Stay accountable with regular sessions while choosing when and how you show up.

Focused, evidence-based care

We use proven therapies like CBT and DBT to help you build lasting recovery skills.

Connection that keeps you grounded

Group support and one-on-one care give you both insight and encouragement.

Designed to be easy from the start

Who can access the intensive outpatient program

You don’t need to have been through residential rehab, and you don’t need a referral. If you’re ready to engage in regular therapy, we’re ready to support you.

Eligibility criteria

The IOP is open to anyone experiencing issues with addiction who wants structured, professional support without the need for a full-time inpatient stay. It’s especially suitable for those balancing work, study, or family responsibilities and for clients transitioning out of rehab who want to stay connected to recovery. Online and in-person options are available.

  • No inpatient rehab or previous treatment required
  • Must commit to attending regular therapy sessions
  • Digital access available for clients across Australia

Steps to enrol

Getting started is simple. First, you’ll speak with a member of our admissions team to talk about your goals and what kind of support you need. We’ll guide you through funding options, help you build a therapy plan, and book your first sessions. Whether you’re stepping down from inpatient care or seeking support for the first time, we’ll make the process feel clear and supportive.

  • Contact us to arrange a confidential intake call
  • Review insurance, DVA, or self-funding options with our team
  • Book your first session and begin your personalised IOP plan

Ready to take the next step without stepping away from life?

Start with a call. We’ll help you build a plan that supports your recovery while keeping your life in motion.

Take a free online assessment

Take a quick, private quiz to see if rehab could help and explore safe support options.

Book a free chat

 Schedule a confidential call with a specialist at a time that suits you.

Call us now

 Speak to someone immediately for guidance and support.

Real people. Real progress.

What our clients say

Behind every testimonial is a turning point. These stories reflect the courage it takes to reach out and the strength that comes with support.

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People you can count on

Meet the team behind your care

Our outpatient therapists and recovery coaches bring deep experience in addiction, trauma, and relapse prevention with a human approach that meets you where you are.

Andi Thania

Director

Andi Thania blends operational leadership and compassionate recovery coaching to help clients feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout their rehabilitation journey.

Richard Smith

CEO

The CEO of The Hader Clinic, with 39 years of expertise and personal experience, is committed to helping others through evidence-based, compassionate care.

Amy Singh

Director of Nursing

With 20+ years in mental health and AOD nursing, the Director of Nursing leads with compassion, inspiring her team, ensuring quality care, and maintaining a patient-centered approach.

Ryan Wood

Client Liaison Manager

As Client Liaison Manager, Ryan combines professional expertise and personal recovery experience, supporting clients and families in early recovery with a compassionate approach.

Dr Keflemariam Yohannes

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Keflemariam Yohannes, Clinical Psychologist at Hader Private Hospital, specializes in holistic care, blending clinical expertise with compassionate understanding.

Rachael Paterson

Registered Psychiatric Nurse & Equine Assisted Psychotherapist

Rachael Paterson brings together professional clinical knowledge and the healing power of nature to help patients of all ages feel grounded, supported, and empowered in their recovery.

Jo Tyson

Quality and Safety

With 20+ years in mental health, the quality and safety leader at The Hader Clinic ensures a safe, supportive environment, maintaining high standards of patient care and staff support.

Vivienne Desmarchelier

Family Coordinator

Vivienne Desmarchelier supports families at Hader Clinic through holistic, inclusive care that acknowledges the vital role of connection, communication and shared healing in the recovery journey.

Peter El-Khouri

Program Coordinator

With nine years of sustained recovery, certifications in Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) counseling (Cert IV in AOD), and Mental Health (Cert IV in Mental Health), Peter's \ profound expertise is matched by his lived experience. His journey began at The Hader Clinic in 2015, where he completed a life-changing 12-month program. Since then, he has dedicated eight years to The Hader Clinic, currently coordinating recovery programs at The Hader Private facility in Geelong.

Jakline Barkho

Program Manager

As a trusted guide for families navigating mental health challenges, Jackie uses her own recovery experience to provide support and understanding through the journey.

Silvana Scerri

Client Liaison Officer

Silvana serves as a compassionate Client Liaison Officer at The Hader Clinic, bringing a decade of invaluable experience in the Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) and mental health sector. Silvana's journey within the field began as a dedicated support worker at the females' Hader Clinic in Bacchus Marsh, where she extended unwavering support and care to individuals on their paths to recovery. Her dedication and expertise led her to take on the role of Program Coordinator at The Hader Clinic, further solidifying her commitment to assisting individuals in their recovery journeys.

Kirrily Warn

Administration and Finance Manager

Having walked the path of recovery as a client in 2007, Kirrily now contributes to the clinic’s success, holding dual qualifications in AOD & Mental Health and expertise in financial management.

Jacki Webb

Receptionist

80%

Maintain sobriety for at least six months after completing IOP

65%

More likely to stay in long-term recovery if engaged in group therapy

50%

Lower relapse risk compared to unstructured or self-managed recovery

70%

Higher treatment adherence among clients with flexible scheduling

Progress backed by real results

Outcomes from our intensive outpatient program

Our IOP is designed to support recovery that sticks, even while life continues around you. With consistent structure, peer support, and personalised therapy, clients build lasting change that reaches beyond the sessions.

View our sources below:
  • Internal data from 2024 rehab enquiries
  • Client follow-up surveys
Safe, regulated, and trusted

Our accreditations

Our outpatient program is run by trained AOD clinicians, counsellors, and support workers, with care informed by the National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards under the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC). You’ll receive structured, evidence-based support in a safe, professional setting.

Recovery is more than just abstinence

Our holistic approach

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Our IOP combines evidence-based therapies with support for every facet of your life — physical, psychological and social. We focus on lasting change, not just symptom management.
The Hader Clinic’s team.
Experience that feels personal

The Hader Clinic team

You’ll work with clinicians who understand addiction not just professionally, but personally. We build care around trust, lived experience, and the belief that recovery is always possible.

Online and in-person, designed around you

Where we deliver the intensive outpatient program

Our IOP is available nationwide via secure telehealth, or in person at our dedicated therapy spaces. You’ll access flexible, high-quality care whether you're local to our Victoria clinics or connecting remotely from anywhere in Australia.

Inpatient Rehabilitation Program and Transitional Housing program.

Essendon
150-152 Cooper St, Essendon VIC 3040

Hospital Rehabilitation Centre for 28-Day Withdrawal & Detox Program.

Geelong
6-8 Townsend Road,St Albans Park VIC 3219
It starts with a conversation

Get an immediate assessment

Our team is here to guide you through the next step. We’ll help you decide if the intensive outpatient program is right for you — and build a plan that suits your life.

Speak to someone who understands

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Practical answers. Real reassurance.

FAQs about the intensive outpatient program

Do I need to have completed inpatient rehab to join the IOP?

No, you don’t need to complete inpatient treatment to access our intensive outpatient treatment program. While some people step down from residential care, many begin their recovery journey right here — particularly those who are struggling with addiction but have strong supports at home or work.

This IOP program is designed to meet you where you are. Whether you're seeking a new treatment option or continuing after detoxification, we’ll build a personalised treatment plan that supports your goals and recovery process.

How many sessions will I attend each week?

The typical IOP schedule involves multiple touchpoints each week — a mix of one-on-one therapy, group therapy, and structured recovery planning. This ensures consistency while allowing for flexibility.

A weekly example might include:

  • Monday: One-on-one counselling and treatment plan review
  • Tuesday: Group setting peer therapy session
  • Wednesday: Dialectical behaviour therapy or relapse prevention
  • Thursday: Trauma-informed counselling or addiction medicine session
  • Friday: Self-reflection, journaling, or optional online support

A day in the life of an IOP participant often includes work or study, midday or evening therapy, and practical strategies for navigating substance use disorder in real-time.

What happens if I miss a session?

We understand that life happens. If you need to miss a session, we’ll help you reschedule wherever possible and make sure you stay on track with your treatment plan. Ongoing communication with your care team ensures you're still supported.

Our goal is consistency, not perfection — and part of addiction recovery means learning how to bounce back from life’s interruptions without shame or fear of losing momentum.

How is this different from regular counselling?

Traditional counselling is typically once a week and more generalised. An IOP is structured, intensive outpatient addiction treatment that combines multiple therapeutic approaches, regular sessions, and a coordinated team of specialists.

Our IOP offers:

  • Multiple sessions per week
  • A blend of individual and group therapy
  • Focused behavioural therapy for addiction and mental health
  • A structured schedule that supports lifestyle integration
  • Ongoing evaluation and adjustment of your care

Can I do the IOP entirely online?

Yes. We offer full access to the IOP program via secure telehealth for those who cannot attend in person. This includes therapy, group sessions, and recovery coaching.

Online IOP is ideal for clients in rural areas, or those with mobility, health, or family constraints. You’ll still receive the same quality of care, connection, and treatment for addiction as our in-person participants.

Will I still have access to support after the program ends?

Yes, IOP is just one step in your longer recovery process. Once you’ve completed the program, you’ll have access to follow-up care, aftercare planning, and community-based resources.

We also offer:

  • Alumni check-ins
  • Family support groups
  • Ongoing access to digital tools and peer networks
  • Referrals to local addiction recovery services or day treatment options

Is the IOP suitable for people with co-occurring mental health conditions?

Absolutely. Many people managing substance abuse also live with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other mental health challenges. Our IOP is designed to support dual-diagnosis clients through a blend of addiction medicine and evidence-based psychotherapy.

Every treatment plan addresses both substance use and mental health together — because they’re often deeply linked and require a unified approach to recovery.

How quickly can I start the program?

Most clients can begin within a few days of their first call. Once you speak with our admissions team, we’ll guide you through the intake process, funding options, and initial schedule setup.

Whether you're transitioning from a partial hospitalisation program or seeking a first-time treatment option, we aim to start you as quickly as possible — with care that’s immediate, thoughtful, and personalised to your length of stay.