Intensive Outpatient Programme (IOP)
WHAT IS INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT TREATMENT?
The Intensive Outpatient Programme (IOP) at TLC bridges the gap between traditional outpatient therapy and day patient or inpatient care, offering a structured and flexible alternative for those needing more support than weekly sessions can provide, without the intensity or constraints of full-time treatment.
The programme provides up to five sessions per week, delivered via a hybrid model that includes clinic-based, remote, and community sessions. It’s ideal for individuals who are medically stable but struggling to make progress with standard outpatient therapy, or who are stepping down from more intensive settings.
The IOP typically includes:
Regular psychological therapy
Dietetic input
Functional or recovery-based support
Psychiatric oversight
Meal exposure sessions
Family support or family therapy, where appropriate
All treatment is highly individualised, one-to-one, and free from group work — allowing us to adapt the structure and focus based on each client’s specific goals, needs, and stage of recovery.
While traditional outpatient care is effective for many, it may fall short for individuals with more complex or entrenched difficulties. Similarly, day programmes — though beneficial for some — can feel overly structured, group-based, and logistically difficult for others.
TLC’s IOP offers a much-needed middle ground: a personalised, community-based approach to recovery that supports real-world change with expert multidisciplinary input.
Each IOP package is developed collaboratively during the assessment process and may include:
1–2 individual psychology or psychotherapy sessions per week
Weekly dietetic support
Occupational therapy or recovery-based support
Supported meals or snacks (up to 2 per week)
Family therapy or family support sessions (required for under-18s; optional for adults)
Regular MDT case reviews and goal setting
All treatment is evidence-based and aligned with NICE guidelines. Clients do not attend group sessions — all care is delivered individually and tailored to your needs.
HOW DOES THE INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT PROGRAMME WORK?
The IOP provides up to five sessions per week, delivered by our experienced multidisciplinary team. Treatment is tailored to each individual and reviewed regularly to ensure it remains focused, flexible, and clinically appropriate.
The programme runs in 6-week blocks, with the option to extend to 12 weeks. Each programme includes regular multidisciplinary team (MDT) check-ins and a formal review at Week 6 to decide on next steps. Treatment is delivered via a hybrid model — combining in-clinic, remote, and community-based sessions (e.g., cafés, shops, public spaces).
All clients will receive psychiatric and medical oversight from a Consultant Psychiatrist and are expected to maintain regular physical health monitoring via their GP.
WHO MIGHT THE INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT PROGRAMME SUIT?
The IOP is recommended for individuals who:
Feel stuck or plateaued in standard outpatient treatment
Require more support than one or two sessions per week can offer
Are stepping down from inpatient or day treatment
Are medically stable but require coordinated multidisciplinary input
Need intensive community-based care while continuing with work, education, or family life
You do not need a formal diagnosis to access the IOP. We welcome clients who are struggling with their relationship with food, eating, or body image, even if they haven’t received a diagnosis.
Referral & Assessment Process
We accept referrals from:
Self-referrals
GPs and medical professionals
Therapists and other mental health professionals
The assessment process includes:
Medical suitability assessment with our Consultant Psychiatrist, to ensure it is safe to begin intensive outpatient work. Medication may be reviewed and stabilised as part of this.
Orientation and treatment planning session with a senior IOP team member to introduce the programme, set goals, and create an initial treatment plan.
Specialist Team
The London Centre comprises specialist health professionals trained in evidence-based treatments for eating disorders. The team include:
Psychiatrists
Clinical Psychologists
Counselling Psychologists
Trainee Psychologists
Occupational Therapists
Dietitians
Family/Couple Therapists
Diverse Treatment Options
The clinic's specialist nature and the experience of its team also enable the offering of a wide variety of treatment approaches and therapies. The clinics offer both in-person and remote consultations.Personalised Care
At the London Centre, we believe it's important to align our patients with both the right clinician and the appropriate treatment. While we ensure the use of evidence-based therapies we also ensure taking the time to listen to client preferences. This approach enables us to find the therapist and approach that best suits your needs.Testimonials
How it works
Our team conducts a comprehensive evaluation, leveraging the expertise of multiple specialists, to ensure that our treatment is effective and tailored to your personal recovery.
Step 1
Contact Us
Before making an appointment you can contact us with any questions you might have via phone, email or by using our online contact form. Your first contact will more than likely be with Kerry, our wonderful PA.Step 2
Assessment
Before the initial session, clients are requested to complete a brief questionnaire regarding their current circumstances, preferences, and availability for appointments. While not mandatory, this information assists us in matching individuals with the most suitable clinician.Step 3
First Session
Following the assessment, clients will have a session to discuss their recommended treatment plan. A start date will be agreed upon, and arrangements will be made for an initial session.Featured
FAQs
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The fees do vary depending on, which clinician you see. For a full summary of our fees, what health insurance company policies we accept, and details about making payments please click the link. (https://www.thelondoncentre.co.uk/fees)
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Our Team PA, Kerry, is available to answer any questions you may have prior to booking an assessment. If you would like to discuss treatment options or have a general conversation prior to booking, you are able to schedule a call with Mini Jones, our Clinic Lead who is always happy to discuss any questions or concerns. For further information, or to request a call back, please click the link provided to get in touch via email, phone, or through our online contact form.(https://www.thelondoncentre.co.uk/book-an-appointment)
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It is important to note that we do have a 24 hour cancellation policy on all booked appointments. Any cancellations received within 24 hours remain fully charged.
We request payment for an initial assessment appointment in advance of your appointment, which you can make over the phone using a debit or credit card or via the secure payment link sent to you with your invoice. For any further treatment sessions, and unless covered by private health insurance, we will invoice you sessionally which is payable upon receipt, however, we offer a maximum 30-day period in order to receive payment.
All appointment reminders will be sent to you via our client management system ‘Cliniko’ - notifications@cliniko.com please do add this email address to your inbox contacts to ensure all communications are received promptly. -
Therapy is most effective when a series of appointments tailored to your individual requirements can be established. The NICE guidelines are between 20-40 appointments but we are guided by our clients depending on their needs, preference, and motivation to adopt change. We will always remain flexible to accommodate your preferences.