June 24, 2024

Virtual Intensive Outpatient for Neurodivergent People

Learn how a virtual program can help neurodivergent individuals develop connection, coping skills, and resilience. Here's what you need to know.

Virtual intensive outpatient for neurodivergent

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Susana Spiegel

Recovery Writer and Advocate

Last Update on July 1, 2024

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Virtual IOP (VIOP) is an excellent option for those who struggle with neurodivergence.
The overwhelming feelings of being different and watching others go on about their lives without the same struggles can feel very isolating. 

An online program can bring much-needed connection and growth. Here’s how people can benefit from Virtual IOP. 

What Does it Mean to be Neurodivergent?

Neurodivergence is when your brain functions differ from what is considered “neurotypical.” Neurodivergent individuals have a unique way of processing information, thinking and interacting with the world around them. Neurodivergence is a spectrum that includes:

 

Neurodivergent is not a deficiency or disorder but rather a natural difference in human brain wiring. People who are neurodivergent have unique skills and attention to detail.1

They may also face challenges in areas such as sensory processing, social interaction, and executive functioning. Virtual intensive outpatient programs (VIOP) can help you learn how to cope with being neurodivergent. 

Unique Mental Health Needs of Neurodiverse Individuals

Neurodivergent individuals are often faced with specific challenges that can impact their mental health. Challenges may include difficulties with sensory processing, social interaction,  societal expectations, and decision-making. People who have neurodivergence have a higher chance of developing co-occurring mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, caused by the unique stressors they encounter in their daily lives.2
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Understanding Online Programs

Virtual Intensive Outpatient Programs are treatment programs that provide comprehensive mental health support through online platforms.
These programs usually involve multiple weekly sessions, offering a higher level of care than traditional outpatient programs.

They offer a higher level of care while also allowing you to stay at home.
Virtual intensive outpatient programs incorporate a range of therapeutic styles like one-on-one therapy sessions, skill-building workshops, and group therapy to help address the diverse needs of participants.

The frequency of sessions allows more of a focused treatment experience. Virtual IOPs also eliminate the need for travel and provide more accessibility for people who can’t or feel uncomfortable making the drive to any facility.

For neurodivergent individuals, Virtual intensive outpatient programs offer the unique benefits of being able to get the help you need in the comfort of your home, which reduces being overstimulated and the opportunity to bond with a community of people who share similar challenges in life3.

How do Virtual IOP's help Neurodiverse people?

Virtual IOP provides flexible, accessible support tailored to your unique needs as a neurodivergent person. You’ll develop coping skills, self-awareness, and a supportive network, all from the comfort of your home.

Why online programs are essential for Neurodivergent Individuals

Virtual outpatient offers many benefits, including the accessibility provided on online platforms. Neurodivergent individuals can engage in treatment from your own home.

So, there is no need to travel to a facility, which may be challenging for some. Online programs allow for a more personalized and intensive level of support tailored to the personal needs of each individual.

Telehealth programs can help with sensory overload in new environments that some neurodiverse people would encounter in traditional treatment settings.

Participating in your own home, makes it tend to be comfortable to open up and get to the root of issues.

These programs foster uninterrupted care and a supportive network of peers and professionals, creating a sense of community and understanding that is important for progress.3

A professional can diagnose specific neurodivergent conditions like ADHD/ADD or autism. If you feel as if your brain functions differently than what’s considered “typical,” you may be neurodivergent.
Neurodivergent means that your brain functions differently in one or many ways than what is considered “neurotypical.”  It can include autism, ADHD,c ADD, dyslexia, and other neurological differences.
Coping skills for neurodivergent people include therapy, skill-building, accommodations, as well as connecting with other people who are also neurodivergent. Developing self-advocacy, self-awareness, and a strong support system is important when trying to cope.

How a Virtual IOP Can Help You Cope

Virtual IOPs provide a safe space for you to explore your unique needs, strengths, and weaknesses. Engaging in self-discovery and embracing your neurodivergence, you can have a better understanding of yourself and how to communicate your needs efficiently.

This process involves identifying personal strengths, acknowledging areas of difficulty, and seeking support to develop adaptive strategies. Celebrating strengths while being honest about your weaknesses allows you to find solutions and how to navigate life more effectively.

Online programs offer professional guidance from therapists, occupational therapists, and counselors specializing in neurodivergence. Professionals come together with you to develop personalized coping skills, like communication strategies, problem-solving skills, and self-regulation techniques. They provide evidence-based interventions and support tailored to your specific needs.

It’s important to leverage technology because you can get constant support, virtual support groups, and tele-therapy sessions. This solidifies that you have access to the help that you need whenever and wherever you need it.

Navigating the Enrollment Process

When beginning your journey to join a digital mental health program is a straightforward process that involves researching options, enrollment, and preparing for the sessions:

  1. Start by researching available options through your insurance provider
  2. Contact programs to learn about the cost and enrollment process. Many offer free consultations.
  3. Select a program and undergo an assessment to evaluate symptoms, goals, and treatment history.
  4. Ask questions! Keep an open mind and commitment to actively engage in therapy.

By dedicating yourself to the process, you can maximize the benefits.

Please keep in mind that consistency and active participation are important for successful outcomes in virtual treatment.

Key Takeaways

How Cornerstone Healing Center Can Help You

Virtual intensive outpatient programs for neurodivergent offer effective and unique solutions for individuals seeking mental health support.

These programs can help you build coping strategies, develop self-awareness, and receive support from professionals who specialize.

Virtual IOPs provide accessibility and flexibility that traditional outpatient services could lack.

If you or a loved one is neurodivergent and is in need of mental support, we encourage you to explore online options.

At Cornerstone Healing Center, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for those struggling with symptoms that are affecting their daily lives.

Our online program offers evidence-based therapies, a supportive community, and experienced professionals who specialize in neurodivergence to help you achieve your mental health goals.

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Author & Reviewers

susana spiegel recovery writer and SEO expert
RECOVERY WRITER & ADVOCATE

Susana is a recovery writer and advocate with over 8 years in addiction recovery. She is passionate about sharing accurate and helpful information about mental health, addiction, and recovery. She holds a Bachelor’s in Christian Studies from Grand Canyon University and has over 7 years of working in the addiction field. 

lionel estrada lisac clinical director
CLINICAL DIRECTOR & REVIEWER

Lionel is the Clinical Director of Cornerstone’s Scottsdale treatment facilities. He has had over 4 years at Cornerstone. He is personally in recovery and passionate about helping others overcome substance abuse and mental health challenges; he is trained as an EMDR, adopting a trauma-informed approach to treat the underlying issues.

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